8/10/25

The World is Your Campus: An Insider's Guide to BYU Study Abroad

So, you’re thinking about studying abroad. It’s a pretty common thought for a college student, right? But let me tell you, if you’re at Brigham Young University, the idea of studying abroad isn't just about getting a few credits in a cool location. It’s about something MUCH bigger. It's about personal growth, spiritual development, & truly understanding your place in the world. Honestly, it’s a game-changer.
I’ve seen so many students come back from these programs completely transformed. They have a new light in their eyes, a deeper understanding of the world, & a stronger sense of purpose. It’s not just about the amazing food in Italy or the historical sites in London (though those are pretty awesome too). It’s about the experiences that you can’t get in a classroom. It’s about seeing the world through a different lens & realizing that we are all children of God, no matter where we come from.
In this guide, I’m going to break down everything you need to know about BYU’s study abroad programs. We’ll talk about the different types of programs, the application process, the costs, & what you can expect to gain from the experience. So, grab a drink, get comfortable, & let’s talk about how you can make the world your campus.

The David M. Kennedy Center for International Studies: Your Gateway to the World

First things first, you need to know about the David M. Kennedy Center for International Studies. This is the heart & soul of BYU’s international programs. They’re the ones who make all of this possible. The Kennedy Center is more than just an administrative office; it's a hub of global learning & engagement. They offer a TON of programs in countries all over the world, from Europe to Asia to Africa.
The Kennedy Center is your go-to resource for everything related to studying abroad. They have a "Find Your Program" tool on their website that lets you explore all the different options. You can filter by location, program type, & semester to find the perfect fit for you. They also have a ton of information on their website about how to apply, how to get financial aid, & what to expect when you’re abroad.
One of the coolest things about the Kennedy Center is their mission. They’re not just trying to send students to other countries to have a good time. They’re trying to create global citizens who are prepared to make a difference in the world. They want you to come back with a deeper understanding of other cultures, a greater appreciation for the gospel, & a desire to serve others.

What Kind of Adventure Are You Looking For?

BYU offers a few different types of international programs, so you can choose the one that’s right for you. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main categories:

Study Abroad Programs

These are the classic study abroad experiences that you’re probably thinking of. You’ll go to another country with a group of BYU students & a faculty director. You’ll take classes, go on excursions, & immerse yourself in the local culture. These programs are a great way to earn academic credit while having an unforgettable experience.
Some of the most popular study abroad programs include the London Theatre program, where you’ll get to see some of the best plays in the world, & the Spain Study Abroad program, where you can perfect your Spanish & soak up the sun. There are also programs that focus on things like art history in Italy, business in Asia, & even marine biology in the Caribbean. The options are pretty much endless.

Internships

If you’re looking for a more professional experience, an international internship might be the perfect fit. These programs allow you to work in your field of study in another country. You’ll get real-world experience, build your resume, & make valuable connections.
The Kennedy Center has connections with companies & organizations all over the world, so you can find an internship that’s tailored to your career goals. Whether you’re interested in business, law, healthcare, or anything in between, there’s an internship out there for you. Just keep in mind that these internships are generally only available to BYU students.

Direct Enrollment

Direct enrollment is a more independent option for students who are ready to fully immerse themselves in another culture. With this type of program, you’ll enroll directly in a foreign university & take classes with local students. This is a great way to challenge yourself, improve your language skills, & experience life as a true local.
Direct enrollment programs are also limited to BYU students, & they’re a bit more challenging than the other options. You’ll need to be self-motivated & adaptable to succeed. But if you’re up for the challenge, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

Field School

Field schools are intensive, hands-on learning experiences that are focused on a specific academic discipline. These programs are often led by a faculty member who is an expert in their field, & they’ll take you to a location where you can study your subject in depth. For example, you might go on an archaeological dig in Mexico or study tropical ecology in Costa Rica. These programs are a great way to get out of the classroom & apply what you’ve learned in the real world.

The Nitty-Gritty: How to Apply

Okay, so you’re convinced that you need to study abroad. Now what? Here’s what you need to know about the application process.

For BYU Students

If you’re a BYU student, the application process is pretty straightforward. You’ll need to:
  1. Find your program. Use the Kennedy Center’s "Find Your Program" tool to explore your options & find the perfect fit.
  2. Start your application. You’ll need to create a BYU Net ID if you don’t already have one.
  3. Write a letter of intent. This is your chance to tell the selection committee why you want to participate in the program & what you hope to gain from the experience.
  4. Provide academic references. You’ll need to list 2-3 professors, counselors, or employers who can speak to your academic abilities & character.
  5. Submit your application & pay the fee. The application fee is non-refundable, so make sure you’re serious about the program before you apply.

For Non-BYU Students

Here's some good news: most of BYU's study abroad programs are open to non-BYU students! The application process is a little different, though. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
  1. Create a BYU Net ID. You’ll need this to access the application portal.
  2. Get an ecclesiastical endorsement. You’ll need to be endorsed by both your bishop & your stake president.
  3. Submit your transcript. The Kennedy Center will need to see your academic record to make sure you’re a good fit for the program.
  4. Complete the rest of the application. The application will be similar to the one for BYU students, including the letter of intent.
It's important to know that if you're accepted as a non-BYU student, you'll be classified as a non-degree-seeking, continuing education student. This just means you can only register for the courses associated with your specific program.

The Money Talk: Costs & Financial Aid

Let’s be real, studying abroad can be expensive. But don’t let that discourage you! BYU is committed to making these experiences accessible to as many students as possible. Here’s what you need to know about the costs & financial aid.

Program Costs

The cost of each program varies depending on the location, duration, & activities included. You can find the estimated cost for each program on the Kennedy Center’s website. The program fee typically includes:
  • Tuition
  • Accommodation
  • Coursework
  • Excursions
  • Travel between program locations
What’s not included?
  • Airfare to & from the program location
  • Meals
  • Local transportation
  • Personal expenses
It's SUPER important to budget for these additional costs so you don't find yourself in a tight spot financially.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

The good news is that there are a TON of scholarships & other funding opportunities available to help you pay for your study abroad program. The Kennedy Center has a whole page on their website dedicated to scholarships, so that’s a great place to start. You can also check with your college or department to see if they offer any scholarships for experiential learning.
Non-BYU students aren't eligible for ISP discounts, but they can still apply for some types of financial aid. You’ll need to have a current FAFSA on file with the BYU Financial Aid Office to be considered.

More Than Just a Trip: The Academic & Spiritual Experience

A BYU study abroad is not your average vacation. It’s a carefully designed program that’s meant to help you grow academically, spiritually, & personally.

Academics

You’ll be earning academic credit while you’re abroad, so you’ll need to take your classes seriously. The courses are taught by BYU professors or by faculty at a partner university. The classes are often designed to take advantage of the local environment, so you might find yourself studying art history in a museum or learning about international business from a local entrepreneur.
One of the best parts about a BYU study abroad is that you’ll be learning alongside other BYU students. This creates a really unique learning environment where you can discuss what you’re learning from a shared perspective.

Spiritual Growth

This is where a BYU study abroad REALLY shines. These programs are designed to help you grow spiritually & strengthen your testimony. You’ll have opportunities to attend church services in other countries, visit temples, & learn about the history of the Church in different parts of the world.
You’ll also have the chance to interact with members of the Church from other cultures, which can be a really powerful experience. It’s a great reminder that the gospel of Jesus Christ is for everyone, no matter where they live or what language they speak.

Preparing for the Adventure of a Lifetime

Once you’ve been accepted into a program, the real fun begins! Here are a few things you’ll need to do to get ready for your trip:
  • Book your flight. The program will give you a window of time when you need to arrive, so you’ll need to book your flight accordingly.
  • Get your passport & visa. Make sure your passport is up-to-date & that you have all the necessary visas for the countries you’ll be visiting.
  • Pack your bags. This can be a daunting task, especially if you’re going to be gone for a whole semester. Make sure you pack for the climate & the activities you’ll be doing.
  • Figure out your storage situation. If you’re going to be gone for a while, you’ll need to figure out what to do with all your stuff. This is where a service like Prked can be a lifesaver. You can rent out someone’s garage, attic, or basement to store your things while you’re away. It’s a super convenient & affordable option, & it’s a lot easier than trying to cram everything into your parents’ garage.

Stories from the Road

Don’t just take my word for it. Here are a few stories from students who have participated in BYU’s study abroad programs:
One student who went on the British Literary Tour said that the experience helped them to "think outside of the box" & "improve their writing skills." They also said that they felt "totally safe" the whole time, even though they were staying in hostels.
Another student who went to Mexico to teach health & hygiene said that the experience was "humbly grateful." They were touched by the kindness of the local people & the strength of their faith.
And a student who went on a recreation-management study abroad in Europe said that attending church services in different countries was "like nothing I had ever experienced before." It testified to them that "the gospel of Jesus Christ is for everyone, regardless of nationality, background, or language."

The Takeaway

I hope this guide has been helpful. A BYU study abroad is more than just a trip; it’s an investment in your future. It’s an opportunity to learn, grow, & see the world in a whole new way. It will challenge you, inspire you, & change you for the better.
So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring your options today. The world is waiting for you. Let me know what you think
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