Education Abroad

Experience first-hand the Danish concept of hygge, an intangible sense of warmth and contentment.

An education abroad isn’t just a memorable part of your college experience. It is a chance to understand the world, your studies and yourself in a broader cultural context. Whether you travel to the East or head overseas to the Nordics, you’ll return to Bemidji State with a whole new perspective.

To help you consider your options and prepare for international travel, we’ve put together a few helpful resources:

BSU Around the World

Eligibility

  • Have at least a 2.5 GPA
  • Have completed at least 12 college credits at the time of the study abroad program departure
University Programs

The University-run EuroSpring program offers students the chance to spend five weeks in the spring studying in Oxford, England.

The University-run SinoSummer program offers students a unique and externally funded program in China studying Chinese Traditional Medicine and culture in the old Capital Nanjing, China.

Departmental Programs

Several departments offer study programs of varying lengths. Please see the department or ask your advisor for current information of their offerings.

Exchange Programs

We’ve partnered with schools around the world where you can study as an exchange student.

Independent Study

You may also participate in an independent study abroad program, either through a third party organization like the Council on International Education Exchange (CIEE) or another U.S. institution, or by enrolling directly at an accredited foreign institution.

Student Safety

Safety is vital for all of our students, especially those going abroad. All students going abroad are required to have insurance that covers them while away. Additionally, we are required to report all student hospitalizations and deaths during education abroad experiences. More information can be found here:

Minnesota Study Abroad Program Law
(Minnesota Statute chapter 312, article 1, section 5)

The “Minnesota Study Abroad Law” (August 2014) requires higher education institutions in Minnesota to report student hospitalizations and deaths abroad as well as ensure its study abroad programs comply with health and safety standards set by the Forum on Education Abroad. The Minnesota Office of Higher Education will then post the reported information in aggregate on its website annually, which institutions will provide a link to on its program information.

How to Study Abroad?

Step 1: Explore the different options and programs we offer, and Book an appointment with the International Program to discuss your plan. Meet with Financial Aid office if you will be using financial Aid to pay for the program.

Step 2: Meet with you academic advisor/department chair to determine how your study abroad credits will apply towards your degree at BSU. Fill out the Transfer Credit Form if you are going with a non-BSU program.

Step 3: All exchange program and provider program participants need to fill out the Study Away Agreement, which include the Transfer Credit From.

Step 3: If you plan to use Financial Aid, please schedule a meeting with the Office of Financial Aid. Complete the Budget sheet in the Study Away Agreement. and have it signed and approved by Financial Aid.

Step 4: Pay the $150 application process fee with Cashier, and fill out our online Beavers Abroad Application, you will also be prompted to upload your complete Study Away Agreement.

Step 5: Get nominated by BSU and apply with exchange partner or provider. (If applicable)

Step 6: As soon as you’ve been accepted to a program, start doing your work and research to prepare for international travel. Check out our Before You Travel guide for helpful information about applying for your visa, overcoming language barriers and making foreign purchases.

Application Deadlines

Please note the application deadlines (Beavers Abroad Application must be submitted by)

  • For Spring Program: October 1
  • For Summer Program: February 15
  • For Fall program: March 7