study abroad with Parkland College

1. You will have FUN!
2. Earn college credit while studying abroad.
3. Cultivate a world view—essential in today’s society.
4. Be more than a tourist abroad.
5. Have a life-changing experience.
6. Gain independence and self-confidence.
7. Take advantage of Parkland's lower cost for study abroad.
8. Meet new people and make life-long friends
9. Learn a language faster.
10. Impress future employers - Study abroad looks great on your résumé.

See what students did last summer! The Japanese National Tourism Organization (JNTO) has published a case study report on our group's visit with secondary school in Tokyo and a report based on interviews with a Parkland student and faculty. 

• JNTO Case Study
• JNTO Experience Report and Interview

Are You Eligible?

All of our study abroad programs require the following be completed by time of departure: 

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Completed a minimum of 12 college credit hours.
• Completed ENG 101 or equivalent with a B or higher.
• Have a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.5.

How to Choose a Program

Parkland offers full semester and summer opportunities. Before selecting a destination consider:

• Your availability—when and how much time you can commit
• Personal interest /cultural affinity to the destination (family background, etc.)
• Courses you may need for your academic studies
• Cost of the study abroad program

How to Get Started

Ideally, 12 months before your chosen study abroad program begins, select your destination and contact the study abroad coordinator, Jody Littleton, at 217/351-2532 or jlittleton@parkland.edu.

• Application deadlines for Summer: usually mid-February to mid-March
• Application deadlines for Fall: usually mid-April to mid-May
• Application deadlines for Spring: mid-October

  Jody will help guide you through the application and travel preparation process. You will need to:

• Submit the program application.   
• Applications require transcripts, a personal essay, and at least two recommendations from faculty members who know you as a person as well as a student.
• Meet with your academic advisor regarding course selection in order to stay on schedule for graduation and/or transfer.
• Make arrangements to pay for the program. Check our Study Abroad funding page for tips and  visit Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP) for scholarship and funding ideas.
• Get your passport.
• Attend the program orientation (required).
• Make travel arrangements.
• Head to the airport!

Take advantage of these educational and travel opportunities

Contact Jody Littleton, Room D175,  at 217/351-2532 or  jlittleton@parkland.edu for more information!

Parkland College is a member of the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP).  These programs would not be possible without the assistance of the ICISP.