Getting Started | Office of International Affairs

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Getting Started

Your Path to Going Global

Navigating your study abroad journey is an exciting process, and the TSU Office of International Programs and Academic Global Engagement is here to guide you every step of the way. We offer various advising options tailored to your program interest and timeline.

We highly recommend connecting with our team early in your planning to ensure a smooth and successful experience.

Steps to Get Started

1. Plan early and think about your goals.

Think about what you want from your global experience:

Do you prefer a specific country or region?
Do you need certain courses for your major or minor?
Are you looking for language immersion? Research? Service learning?
Do you want to travel with a TSU group or go independently?
Do you prefer a dorm, apartment, or homestay experience?

2. Meet with an IEGL Advisor

We recommend meeting with IEGL 6–12 months before you plan to go abroad.
(For semester-long programs, begin planning 9+ months in advance.)

During advising we will help you:

Understand program options
Learn how financial aid and scholarships apply
Make a planning timeline
Prepare your application

3. Talk with your academic advisor

Your academic advisor will help you:

Choose the best semester to go abroad
Identify courses that fit your degree plan
Discuss internship, service-learning, or research options

4. Make a financial plan

Study abroad is possible for everyone — with planning.

Review program costs early
Ask about payment timelines
Apply for scholarships (TSU + national awards)
Speak with Financial Aid to confirm what your package covers

5. Choose your program & apply

Once you know your goals, finances, and timeline:

Complete the program application (TSU + partner if applicable)
Upload required documents

6. Prepare for departure

Once accepted:

Confirm passport & visa requirements
Attend mandatory pre-departure orientation
Complete required forms & travel registration
Prepare for an amazing experience!

Plan early! While not every major has a dedicated study abroad track at TSU, most students can apply programs toward electives or general education. TSU offers three types of education abroad programs:

TSU Faculty-led Programs
Consortium (TBR Global Studies)
Third-Party Vendors
- Please note: If you enroll in a third-party provider program, you must complete both the provider’s and TSU’s application. If you are not pre-approved by TSU, you may be ineligible for academic credit and/or financial aid.

Attend TSU’s Study Abroad Fair and our Education Abroad 101 sessions each fall and spring to get the big picture and compare options. You’ll learn how TSU programs work, what funding exists, and how to stay on track for graduation. You can also explore opportunities at any time by reviewing TSU’s faculty-led, consortium, and vendor-partner programs on our site and booking an advising appointment with International Education & Global Learning (IEGL).

Apply early. Passport and visa timelines can slip. Build in a buffer so your travel isn’t at risk. You’ll need a valid passport in hand before you can apply for any visa.

Who needs a passport?

A valid U.S. passport is required for all international travel, including Canada and Mexico.

When should I apply?

Apply as soon as you decide to pursue a program—ideally 3–6 months before travel (earlier if a visa is required). Visa processing varies by country; you cannot start most visa applications until your passport is issued.

First-time Passport

You must apply in person at a Passport Acceptance Facility (e.g., many post offices, county clerk offices) or a Passport Agency (for urgent travel). However, TSU has its own passport acceptance facility.

Important: If you fill out the online application (DS-11), do not sign until instructed by the acceptance agent.

Your Next Steps

Contact Passport Services to book your passport appointment.
Check current processing times, fees, and forms on the U.S. Department of State website.
Apply no later than three (3) months before departure.
Consider expedited service if you’re inside a tight window.

Students interested in participating in a TSU-affiliated study abroad program are required to schedule a study abroad advising session to better understand the program’s requirements and available funding opportunities.

Explore the U.S. Department of State’s Students Abroad site at studentsabroad.state.gov to research the country or countries you’re considering. Reviewing safety guidance, entry/visa requirements, health advisories, and cultural norms will help you choose a program that fits your goals.

Ready to Get Started?

Complete the Study Abroad Interest Form – Fill out form

Location: Office of International Programs and Academic Global Engagement (IPAGE), Avon William Downtown Campus, Suite A400

Email: studyabroad@tnstate.edu

Phone: (615) 963-6273