Explanation of Program Sponsors and Types

Types of Programs

What types of programs can you choose from?

• Direct Enroll

  • Become a student at a host university
  • Choose from a variety of courses offered while still earning ISU credit
  • Programs typically offer both semester and summer options
  • A great option for those looking to be immersed in the local culture
  • Some of these programs offer exchange placements. Search for 'Exchange' programs in the My Study Abroad application portal

• Faculty-Led

  • ISU faculty member(s) lead a group of ISU students for a short term program abroad
  • Programs are usually during the summer semester
  • Students take the assigned course(s) the program offers or occasionally choose from a short list
  • Typically departmentally focused (e.g. Education, Nursing, History, etc)
  • Search for 'Faculty-Led' programs in the My Study Abroad application portal

• Internships & Service Learning

  • Students are able to participate in an international internship or service learning experience for credit
  • Opportunities are available through ISU partner institutions and Affiliate providers
  • May be combined with course work or as a stand alone program
  • Learn more information regarding Intern and Service Learning

• Student Teaching & Observation

  • Students focusing on Education are able to complete part of their student teaching requirement abroad for credit
  • Opportunities for non-credit bearing observation hours are available at several ISU partner institutions, as well as through Affiliate providers
  • Learn more information regarding Student Teaching and Observation

Program Sponsor Definitions

What are the differences between program sponsors?

• Office of International Engagement

  • The Study Abroad Office partners with a host institution to administer a program through ISU
  • Programs are offered for semester and summer terms
  • Students choose classes from the host institutions course offerings, many course equivalencies have already approved for each location
  • Programs tend to be multidisciplinary and open to all majors

• Departmental

  • Many colleges at ISU have departmentally run programs that are facilitated through a faculty member in the associated college
  • These programs tend to be major focused and offer classes that fit into the major plan of study
  • Programs can be either a Faculty Led or Direct Enroll type and will offer a range of departmental courses to choose from
  • For program specific details, it is best to speak directly to the Faculty Advisor or Director listed on the program page

• Affiliate Programs

  • Third party providers that have been approved by OIE for ISU credit
  • Similar to OIE programs except they are not administered through ISU but through that specific company
  • Programs give students additional locations and subjects to choose from, as well as internships and service learning
  • Students must apply through ISU, as well as the Affiliate company

• Independent

  • If students have an interest in a location or program not offered by ISU or the Affiliate programs, it may be possible to arrange an Independent program
  • This is a highly individualized process and students must work with the Study Abroad Office to arrange this opportunity
  • All proposed programs must receive a transcript upon completion in order to be eligible for consideration
  • Please contact the Study Abroad Office for more information