study abroad with Parkland College

Top Ten Reasons YOU Should Study Abroad!

  • You will have FUN!
  • Earn college credit while living in another country.
  • See the world in new ways—important in today’s society.
  • Go beyond being just a tourist.
  • Have an experience that can change your life.
  • Build confidence and independence.
  • Save money with Parkland’s lower-cost programs.
  • Meet new people and make lasting friendships.
  • Learn another language faster.
  • Impress future employers—study abroad looks great on a résumé.

Who Can Apply?

To join a study abroad program, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Have finished at least 12 college credit hours.
  • Pass English 101 (or the same class at another school) with a B or better.
  • Have at least a 2.5 GPA.

How to Pick a Program

Parkland offers semester-long and summer programs. When choosing, think about:

  • When you are available to travel.
  • Which country or culture interests you most.
  • What classes you still need for your degree.
  • The cost of the program.

How to Get Started

Try to begin planning a year before you want to go. Contact the Study Abroad Coordinator, Jody Littleton at 217/351-2532 or jlittleton@parkland.edu

Application Deadlines

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

Steps to Apply:

  1. Fill out the program application. You’ll need transcripts, a short essay, and two recommendations from teachers who know you well.
  2. Meet with your advisor to make sure classes fit your graduation plan.
  3. Plan how you will pay for the program. Check the Study Abroad Funding page and the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP) for scholarships.
  4. Get a passport.
  5. Go to the required orientation.
  6. Make travel plans.
  7. Head to the airport!

Learn More

Contact Jody Littleton in Room D175 at 217/351-2532 or jlittleton@parkland.edu for details.

Parkland College is a member of the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP), which helps make these opportunities possible.