An Insider's Guide to Georgetown University Study Abroad
Hey everyone! So, you're thinking about studying abroad at Georgetown. Let me just say, you are on the brink of one of the most incredible experiences of your college career. Seriously. When I first got to campus, everyone was talking about it. Tour guides mentioned it, older students raved about it, & it just seemed like a core part of the Georgetown DNA. Turns out, they were all right.
Studying abroad is more than just a semester away; it's a chance to dive headfirst into a new culture, challenge yourself in ways you never expected, & see the world from a completely different perspective. It's about getting lost in a new city, trying food you can't pronounce, & making friends from all corners of the globe. At a place like Georgetown, which is all about global perspectives & service, going abroad isn't just a fun trip—it's practically a rite of passage.
But let's be real, the whole process can seem a little daunting at first. Where do you even begin? That's where the Office of Global Education (OGE) comes in. These are the folks who will be your guides, your support system, & your go-to resource for everything study abroad. They help around 1,000 students go abroad every year to over 45 countries, so they know what they're doing.
This guide is meant to be your comprehensive, no-fluff resource for navigating the entire process, from that first spark of an idea to stepping off the plane back on the Hilltop. We're going to cover everything—the different types of programs, the insane number of places you can go, how to actually apply without losing your mind, & what it's really like to live & learn in another country.
Hope this helps you get started on your own adventure!
Why Go Abroad? The Real-Deal Benefits
Okay, so why should you pack your bags & leave the comfort of the Hilltop? The reasons are pretty much endless, but let's break down some of the big ones.
First up, the personal growth is INSANE. You're going to be pushed out of your comfort zone in the best way possible. One student, Zehra, who studied in Seville, Spain, talked about the "rollercoaster experience" of it all. She mentioned the initial awkwardness of culture shock, like learning to greet people with "dos besos" (two kisses) instead of a handshake, or getting used to the city shutting down for a few hours in the afternoon for a siesta. It’s these little things that challenge you to adapt & become more open-minded. You learn a new level of independence when you're navigating a new city, maybe even in a new language, without your usual support system right there. It’s daunting, for sure, but you come back with a whole new sense of confidence.
Then there's the academic side of things. This isn't just a vacation. You're taking classes that count towards your Georgetown degree. You can dive deep into subjects that are specific to your host country. Imagine studying Renaissance art in Italy, or international politics in the heart of Europe. These aren't just abstract concepts in a textbook anymore; you're living them. For example, students at Georgetown's Villa Le Balze in Florence can take classes like the "Machiavelli Seminar" or "Cultures of Italian Migration." How cool is that?
And for my fellow School of Foreign Service (SFS) students, this is pretty much a must. Many SFS undergrads spend at least a semester or a summer abroad. It's a chance to really live out the "international affairs" part of your degree. One student, Harrison, who is in the SFS, said his time in Madrid was a "life-changing experience" & that language requirements for certain programs can really push you to become proficient. Living with a host family in Madrid, for instance, forced him to practice his Spanish constantly, which was one of the best parts of his experience.
It’s about connecting what you learn in the classroom with the real world. You'll see global issues from a new perspective, understand different cultural values, & come back with a much richer, more nuanced view of the world. It’s an experience that will stick with you long after you've unpacked your suitcase.
A World of Options: Program Types & Destinations
One of the best things about Georgetown's study abroad program is the sheer number of options. Seriously, there's something for everyone. Whether you want to be gone for a full year or just a few weeks in the summer, you've got choices.
Program Types
Let's break down the main types of programs you can choose from:
Semester/Full-Year Programs: These are the most common & offer the deepest level of immersion. A semester program gives you a solid chunk of time to settle in, get a feel for the culture, & really explore your host country. A full-year program takes that even further, allowing you to experience different seasons, build strong relationships, & maybe even become fluent in the local language. You're not just a visitor at that point; you're truly living there.
Faculty-Led Programs: These are super unique opportunities to study abroad with Georgetown faculty. For example, there's a summer program in Segovia, Spain, led by a Georgetown Spanish professor. In this program, students immerse themselves in Spanish language & culture, live with host families, & take classes like Business Spanish. The cool thing about these programs is that you have a built-in support system with your professor & fellow Georgetown students.
Summer Programs: If a full semester or year feels like too much of a commitment, or if you have a packed academic schedule, summer programs are a fantastic option. They're shorter & more condensed, but you still get a powerful cross-cultural experience. The application timeline is usually a bit different, so keep an eye out for emails about these in the spring semester.
Specialized Programs: Georgetown also offers programs with specific focuses, like internships, research, or community engagement. The Villa Le Balze in Italy is a great example of a unique living-learning community. And for those interested in research, there are programs like the EuroScholars Research Abroad program. These specialized options are perfect if you have a specific career or academic goal in mind.
Where in the World Can You Go?
Honestly, the question is more like, where can't you go? Georgetown has programs in 57 countries & offers a staggering 213 programs for undergraduates. The list is HUGE, but here's a little taste of the possibilities:
Europe: If you're dreaming of cobblestone streets & historic cities, you have tons of options. Think about studying in Bath, England; Seville or Barcelona in Spain; Bologna or Florence in Italy; or Cardiff in the United Kingdom. The list goes on & on, with programs in almost every European country you can imagine.
Asia: For those looking to explore a completely different part of the world, you could find yourself in Shanghai, China; Seoul, South Korea; or Singapore. There are also programs in Japan & even opportunities to study in places like Kathmandu, Nepal.
Latin America: Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of Latin America with programs in Buenos Aires, Argentina; Havana, Cuba; or with the McCourt School's program in Costa Rica. Many students have incredible experiences living with host families & perfecting their Spanish or Portuguese.
Other Corners of the Globe: The options don't stop there. You can study in Australia at places like the Australian National University or the University of Melbourne. Or, you could head to Africa, with programs at the University of Botswana or the University of Ghana. There are even programs in the Middle East, like in Amman, Jordan.
And of course, for SFS students, there are the Georgetown campuses in Doha, Qatar, & a new facility in Jakarta, Indonesia. These offer a truly unique opportunity to study international affairs from within those regions.
The point is, no matter what you're interested in or where you want to go, there's a good chance Georgetown has a program for you. The best place to start exploring is the myGUABROAD portal, where you can search for programs by country, city, or area of study.
The Application Journey: A Step-by-Step Guide
Alright, so you're sold. You've browsed the programs & have a few dream destinations in mind. Now what? The application process can seem like a lot, but if you break it down into steps, it's totally manageable. Here’s a walkthrough of the journey.
Step 1: Explore & Do Your Homework
This is the fun part! The OGE recommends a seven-step process, & the first is to simply explore. Dive into the myGUABROAD portal & see what's out there. Think about what you want to get out of the experience. Are you trying to become fluent in a language? Do you want to take classes in a specific major? Are you looking for a big city experience or something more off the beaten path?
One thing to keep in mind is language requirements. As Harrison mentioned in his blog, many programs, especially in the SFS, have language prerequisites. So if you're dreaming of a semester in Japan, you'll likely need to have some Japanese under your belt. Be realistic about your language skills & plan accordingly.
Step 2: Meet with the Experts at OGE
Once you have a general idea of what you're looking for, the next step is to connect with the Office of Global Education. They host "Study Abroad 101" sessions that give you a great overview of the process. I HIGHLY recommend going to one of these. You'll also be assigned an OGE advisor who can help you with personalized planning. These advisors are amazing resources, so don't be shy about reaching out to them with questions.
Step 3: The Application Itself
This is where you'll get down to the nitty-gritty. You'll submit your application through the myGUABROAD portal. Here's what you can generally expect to include:
- Electronic Submissions: This includes things like an alumni network questionnaire, a copy of your passport (get on this early if you don't have one!), a digital photo, & your emergency contact information.
- Statement of Academic Intent: This is a 500-word essay where you'll explain why you want to study abroad & how your chosen program fits into your academic goals. Take this seriously! It's your chance to show the selection committee that you've thought deeply about your choice.
- Unofficial Transcript & Study Proposal: You'll need to submit your transcript & a proposal of the courses you plan to take abroad.
- Faculty Recommendation(s): Some programs require one or two recommendations from Georgetown professors. Choose professors who know you well & can speak to your academic abilities & your goals for studying abroad. Give them plenty of notice!
- Language Assessment: If your program has a language requirement, you'll likely need a language assessment from a professor.
Eligibility Requirements
There are a few key eligibility requirements to keep in mind. First, you need to be in good academic & disciplinary standing at Georgetown. This means maintaining a strong GPA & having a good conduct record. While some programs have a GPA minimum of 2.5, many of the more competitive programs require a 3.0 or higher.
You also need to have declared your major before you apply. This is important for making sure the credits you earn abroad will transfer back & count towards your degree.
The Logistics of Leaving
Once you get that acceptance letter (congrats!), the planning phase kicks into high gear. You'll be booking flights, figuring out your living situation, & of course, packing. One thing that often gets overlooked is what to do with your stuff, especially if you have a car on campus. You can't just leave it in a student lot for a whole semester. This is where a service like Prked can be a lifesaver. It’s a pretty cool platform that connects you with homeowners in the Georgetown area who are renting out their empty driveways or garages. You can find a safe, affordable spot to park your car for the entire time you're away. It’s SO much easier & more reliable than trying to find long-term street parking, which is basically impossible in DC.
What's It Really Like? A Glimpse into Student Life Abroad
So, what happens when you actually land in your new home for the semester? This is where the real adventure begins. Every experience is unique, but here are a few common themes that pop up in student blogs & reviews.
Your New Home: Homestays & Dorms
Your living situation can have a huge impact on your experience. Many programs offer the option of a homestay, where you live with a local family. Students who choose this option often rave about it. Zehra, in Seville, said her homestay was an "extremely formative experience" because her host family didn't speak English, which pushed her to improve her Spanish FAST. Harrison had a similar experience in Madrid, saying his host family was incredibly supportive & helped him assimilate into the culture.
Other programs might have you living in dorms with other international & local students. Josh, who studied at Georgetown from King's College, lived in a dorm on campus. He mentioned that while you have everything you need right there—dining halls, supermarkets, coffee shops—the best part is being just a few minutes' walk from your classes. He also noted that if you're only there for the spring semester, it can sometimes be a bit harder to make friends with full-time students in your dorm, so it's something to be aware of.
The Classroom Experience
Taking classes in another country is a unique academic experience. The teaching style might be different from what you're used to at Georgetown. Josh described his classes as a mix of lecture & seminar, with professors encouraging participation even in larger classes. The workload can still be rigorous, so don't expect it to be a total breeze!
You’ll also be taking classes with students from all over the world, which adds another layer of learning. You'll hear different perspectives on global issues & get to see your own culture through the eyes of others.
Social Life & Cultural Immersion
This is where you'll make some of your best memories. You'll likely have a built-in community of other study abroad students, & it's easy to bond over your shared experiences. But don't be afraid to branch out & make friends with local students too!
Embrace the local culture. Go to festivals, try new foods, & explore your city on foot. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you start to feel at home. Weekends are a great time to travel to nearby cities or even other countries. That's one of the huge perks of studying in Europe—everything is so close! One student blog mentioned weekend trips to Girona, Spain, inspired by a love of Game of Thrones. These little adventures are often the highlights of the experience.
Coming Home & The Reverse Logistics
Believe me, you will come back a different person, & probably with a lot more stuff than you left with! All those souvenirs, new clothes, & mementos have to go somewhere. If you're moving into a smaller dorm or apartment after your semester abroad, you might be wondering where you'll put everything. Instead of getting rid of your treasures, you could use Prked for storage. It’s not just for cars; people also rent out their empty attics, basements, closets, & garages for storage. It's often way more affordable than a traditional storage unit & you can find a spot right in your neighborhood. It's a pretty smart solution for dealing with the overflow when you get back from your amazing adventure.
Ready to Go?
Studying abroad at Georgetown is an opportunity you don't want to miss. It's a chance to grow, to learn, & to see the world in a way that will change you forever. The university offers an incredible array of programs, & the aOffice of Global Education is there to support you every step of the way. The process takes some planning & effort, but as any student who has done it will tell you, it is 100% worth it.
I hope this guide was a helpful starting point for planning your own study abroad journey. It’s a big decision, but it’s one that will pay off in countless ways. Let me know what you think, & good luck with your application! You’ve got this.
