The first step in paying for your study abroad is to find out if you can use any of the aid you’ve already received. Federal aid, state need-based aid, merit scholarships, and institutional aid all can be used for study abroad. In order for your current aid to transfer, you will have to meet the following requirements:

• Your program must be approved for credit by your school.
• Your coursework must advance you toward your degree.
• Your course load has to at least qualify you as a half-time student.
• You must meet the usual eligibility requirements for financial aid.

Check with your school's financial aid office to learn about any special requirements it may have for students using aid while studying abroad.

On top of using your existing financial aid, consider securing additional aid from sources outside your school. Start your search with these online resources:
•    College Board's Big Future scholarship search: Use this free online scholarship database to search for “study abroad” listings.
•    The Institute of International Education: This website offers a directory of hundreds of study abroad scholarships, fellowships, grants, and paid internships for U.S. undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students, and professionals.

There are a lot of options out there to investigate to see if any may help cover your costs for studying abroad. Make sure to do your research, and you soon could be on your way to an exciting educational opportunity.