Education abroad is affordable!

Most students find that the cost of education abroad can be surprisingly affordable, especially considering how much is included. In addition to regular tuition, you will pay an education abroad program fee that covers accommodations, health and emergency evacuation insurance, and pre-departure and on-site orientations. Certain programs even cover additional costs like meals, a public transportation pass, or excursions. You do not pay for the on-campus housing, meal plan, or student activities fee while abroad.

Finances

Scholarships
Students are strongly encouraged to apply for scholarships to help fund the costs of education abroad. The key to receiving a Catholic University or national scholarship is to begin researching options early, as the most prestigious and lucrative scholarships can have application deadlines a year or more in advance. Fall semester programs, non-traditional locations, and diverse student populations have better chances of obtaining funding.

Students interested in participating in the Rome Program during the fall semester have a unique opportunity to save. The program fee is reduced, making a semester in Rome cost less than a semester in D.C.!

Budgeting

Before departure, parents and students should discuss the budget that the student will need to live within. Below are some of the most common expenses that students encounter while studying abroad.

General Costs

  • Application Fee
  • CUA tuition & Education Abroad Program Fee
  • Instructional materials & books
  • Extra field trips

Pre-departure Costs

  • Passport fee
  • Visa (if required)
  • International Student Identity Card (optional)
  • Luggage
  • Medical exams
  • Medicines & vaccines

Travel Costs

  • International airfare
  • Transportation from the airport to the program site
  • Personal travel independent of the program

Living Expenses

  • Additional meals
  • Residence permit (if required)
  • Local transportation
  • Laundry, house cleaning, etc.

Credit Cards & Exchanging Money Abroad

ATM debit cards can be one of the most convenient ways of obtaining foreign currency. Students and parents should be mindful, however, that there are often considerable fees for using a foreign ATM or making purchases with an American debit card. Before departure, students should contact their bank in order to inform them of their planned trip and to understand the fees associated with using their debit/credit card abroad.

Cancellation & Withdrawal

Sometimes unforeseen circumstances make it necessary for a student to withdraw from a program after the non-refundable deposit has been paid and the intent to participate has been confirmed. If this happens, accepted applicants in education abroad programs administered by or affiliated with CUAbroad must follow the cancellation and withdrawal policies and guidelines posted below. These guidelines apply to both CUA and non-CUA participants as well as all programs, regardless of length.