OIA Study Away Program

Your Passport to U.S. Culture Starts Here

The Office of International Affairs, Study Away Program is designed for students with limited domestic travel experience, providing short-term Faculty/Staff-Led opportunities to explore unique regions of the United States. This initiative aims to broaden students’ perspectives by immersing them in diverse cultural, historical, and social environments within the U.S., serving as a stepping stone toward future international experiences. 

Students

Passport to Global Citizenship: Cultural Immersion and Conversation (PGC) - October 2025

Program Overview
PGC is a new study away program designed to deepen students’ understanding of global cultures and international relations. Led by the Office of International Affairs, participants will explore diverse perspectives through curated museum and embassy tours, offering unique insights into cultural heritage and diplomacy.

The program includes attending the Howard University Symposium on Internationalization, where students will engage in thought-provoking discussions on global issues and international collaboration.

Project Component
As part of the experience, students will create a comprehensive presentation that critically examines how global engagement influences and enhances the Aggie experience. This project challenges students to synthesize insights gained from museum and embassy tours, symposium participation, and other program activities. They will analyze the importance of global citizenship within their academic journey, campus culture, and future professional roles.

Students will present their findings during International Education Week (November 17 - 21), hosted by the Office of International Affairs, contributing to a campus-wide conversation that highlights the value of international perspectives and encourages the Aggie community to embrace a globally connected mindset.

Program Outcome
By participating in this program, students will develop a deep understanding of global citizenship, the awareness, mindset, and responsibility that come with being an active member of a diverse, interconnected world.

Global citizenship involves recognizing and respecting cultural differences, engaging thoughtfully with international issues, and contributing positively to communities beyond one’s own borders. Through cultural immersion, critical dialogue, and reflective projects, students will cultivate skills such as empathy, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication that are essential for success in today’s global society.

Program Logistics

  • Duration: October 26, 2025 - October 28, 2025

  • Location: Washington, D.C.

  • Eligibility: 

    • Open to both domestic and international students.

    • Must be a freshman, sophomore, or junior.

    • Domestic students must be Pell Grant recipients and have never traveled abroad.

    • International students must have limited travel experience outside their home country as well as limited domestic travel experience in the U.S.

    • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.

    • No active disciplinary sanctions.

  • Cost: Students are solely responsible for their meals and incidentals. The OIA will cover program and travel expenses.

  • Application Dates: August 1, 2025 - September 20, 2025

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Discover D.C.: Culture, History & Global Pathways - May 2026 

Program Overview

Discover D.C. is an immersive program that offers students a deep exploration of Washington, D.C.’s rich cultural and international landscape. Led by the Office of International Affairs, it aligns with Passport D.C., a month-long celebration of global diversity, enabling students to engage with diplomats and cultural representatives through embassy visits, cultural festivals, and events.

Project Component

Students will create a multimedia project using images, videos, and written reflections. This project will explore how communication between cultures influences understanding and collaboration in our increasingly connected world. Students will present their findings during International Education Week (November 17 - 21), hosted by the Office of International Affairs, highlighting how storytelling can bridge cultures.

Program Outcome

Students develop a nuanced understanding of global citizenship by experiencing firsthand the importance of diplomacy, cultural diversity, and international collaboration. They build skills in cultural empathy, global awareness, and prepare for international careers or cross-cultural engagement.

Program Logistics

  • Duration: May 1 - May 4, 2026

  • Location: Washington, D.C.

  • Eligibility: 

    • Open to both domestic and international students.

    • Must be a freshman, sophomore, or junior.

    • Domestic students must be Pell Grant recipients and have never traveled abroad.

    • International students must have limited travel experience outside their home country as well as limited domestic travel experience in the U.S.

    • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.

    • No active disciplinary sanctions.

  • Cost: Students are solely responsible for their meals and incidentals. The OIA will cover program and travel expenses.

  • Application Dates: September 1, 2025 - October 30, 2025 

APPLY NOW