Embarking on a semester abroad is a transformative experience, broadening horizons and enriching academic journeys. At Penn State, we are dedicated to ensuring these global opportunities are accessible to all students. In line with this commitment to inclusivity and affordability, we proudly present a curated list of semester-long education abroad programs (fall or spring) designed to be financially comparable to, or even less expensive than, the cost of attending University Park as an in-state student. For students concerned about the financial feasibility of studying abroad, these programs offer a remarkable pathway to international education without significantly exceeding your anticipated on-campus expenses.
Our assessment is grounded in the comprehensive estimated cost of attendance published on the Penn State Undergraduate Admissions website. This total cost encapsulates tuition, housing, and meals for in-state students at the University Park campus for a single semester. Utilizing this benchmark, we have identified over 30 exceptional education abroad programs that align closely with, or fall below, the price point of a semester at University Park for in-state residents. This initiative aims to demystify the perceived high costs associated with international study, demonstrating that a global education is within reach for students mindful of budget considerations.
As you explore the diverse range of education abroad programs detailed on this page, it’s important to note that certain ancillary expenses are not incorporated into our Comparable Cost calculations. These typically include personal expenses, textbooks, course materials, supplies, equipment, passports, airfare, and student visas. To gain a detailed understanding of the estimated costs for each program, we encourage you to visit the program website and navigate to the “Costs and Funding” section, where you will find specific breakdowns and financial information.
Should you have any specific inquiries or require further clarification regarding the nuances of any of the programs featured below, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. You can contact the Education Abroad team directly at EducationAbroad@psu.edu or connect with the dedicated Penn State education abroad adviser assigned to your program of interest. We are here to support you in navigating your options and making informed decisions about your global education journey.
Disclaimer:
Penn State Education Abroad provides this list of programs that have received Penn State approval, ensuring academic quality and alignment with university standards. It’s important to note that no preferential treatment has been extended to any specific program listed. The programs included in this compilation were selected based on statistical data reflecting overall program prices relative to in-state tuition rates at the time of assessment, representing those with the most comparable and competitive program costs. Program costs are subject to variation depending on the nature and extent of services provided. We encourage students to review program details thoroughly to understand the full scope of what is included.
ON-CAMPUS COST COMPARABLE EDUCATION ABROAD PROGRAMS FOR FALL, SPRING, & ACADEMIC YEAR TERMS
Below, you will find a comprehensive list of education abroad programs, meticulously organized first by regional location and then alphabetically by program name. Each program offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture and advance your academic goals while maintaining a comparable cost to your on-campus semester.
| Education Abroad Program Name | Region | Country | Terms Available | Brief Program Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CIEE: Open Campus | Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, Oceania | Multi-country | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | For students seeking unparalleled flexibility and global exposure at a comparable cost, the CIEE Open Campus program stands out. This distinctive program empowers you to study in up to three different locations around the world within a single semester. With location changes possible every six weeks, students from virtually every major can discover courses that directly contribute to their degree progress. This program makes global exploration surprisingly cost-comparable to a semester at University Park, offering exceptional value for the globally minded student. |
| Chinese University of Hong Kong | Asia | Hong Kong | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Immerse yourself in the dynamic metropolis of Hong Kong through this esteemed exchange program at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Known for its academic rigor and diverse course offerings, this program presents a comparable cost pathway to study in Asia. With hundreds of courses spanning a wide spectrum of disciplines, it’s an ideal choice for students across nearly all majors. Explore a vibrant culture and world-class academics without a significant cost increase compared to staying on campus. |
| Hong Kong Polytechnic University | Asia | Hong Kong | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Ranked among the world’s leading universities for Hotel and Tourism Management, Hong Kong Polytechnic University provides a robust academic environment and a gateway to explore Hong Kong’s energetic urban landscape. While particularly advantageous for Hospitality Management students, this comparable cost program welcomes applications from all majors. Benefit from high-quality education and international experience without a prohibitive financial burden. |
| Monash University Malaysia | Asia | Malaysia | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Study at Monash University Malaysia, a globally recognized institution consistently ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide, conveniently located near Kuala Lumpur. This program offers a diverse range of courses suitable for nearly all academic disciplines, ensuring a comparable cost study abroad experience in Southeast Asia. Adding to its appeal, a guaranteed $3000 scholarship is available for all participants in Spring 2024, Fall 2024, and Spring 2025, further enhancing its affordability and making it an even more cost-comparable option. |
| National University of Singapore | Asia | Singapore | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | The National University of Singapore, a prestigious institution in a thriving global hub, offers a competitive exchange program with a comparable cost structure. Choose from courses spanning social sciences, engineering, design, and more. This program provides an unparalleled opportunity to study at a leading university and immerse yourself in Singapore’s rich cultural tapestry without a significant financial divergence from on-campus expenses. |
| Sogang University | Asia | South Korea | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea, Sogang University is a respected, smaller university offering a diverse array of academic subjects. Known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and natural sciences, as well as a broad selection of liberal arts courses, Sogang University offers a comparable cost study abroad option in East Asia. Experience Korean culture and academics without a hefty price tag. |
| Sungkyunkwan University | Asia | South Korea | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Sungkyunkwan University, with multiple campuses including humanities and social science classes in Seoul and STEM fields in Suwon, welcomes students from all majors to participate in its exchange program. With hundreds of courses available, this program maintains a comparable cost profile, making study in South Korea accessible. Explore a wide range of academic interests in a dynamic cultural setting, all at a financially reasonable level. |
| Center for European Studies: Maastricht, Maastricht University | Europe | Netherlands | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Maastricht University in the Netherlands, renowned for its innovative problem-based learning system, offers courses for students in nearly every major. Located in the charming city of Maastricht, a short bike ride from Belgium and Germany, this program provides a comparable cost entry point to European study. Experience a unique educational approach and explore central Europe without exceeding your on-campus budget. |
| CzechMates: Brno | Europe | Czech Republic | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | CzechMates, in partnership with Masaryk University in Brno, Czech Republic, offers a specialized study abroad experience with a comparable cost advantage. Particularly suited for students in communications and international studies, courses focus on globalization, religion and culture, and Czech language. Study in Brno and delve into Central European culture and academics while maintaining a budget similar to your on-campus semester. |
| Florence University of the Arts | Europe | Italy | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Spend a semester in the heart of Italy at the Florence University of the Arts. This program offers a comparable cost opportunity to study art history, hospitality management, history, and Italian language in a city steeped in Renaissance history. While Hospitality Management majors receive priority, all students except those in the Smeal College of Business are encouraged to apply, making Italian study surprisingly affordable. |
| IES: Granada, Study in Granada | Europe | Spain | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Granada, Spain, a beautiful and historically rich cultural hub, is the setting for this IES program. Offering courses applicable to a wide range of majors and taught in both Spanish and English, this program provides a comparable cost pathway to study in Spain. With a Spanish language requirement of 2-4 semesters of college level Spanish, it’s an excellent option for those seeking immersive language and cultural experiences without breaking the bank. |
| IES: Salamanca, Study in Salamanca | Europe | Spain | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | The historic university town of Salamanca, Spain, offers an ideal environment for semester-long study. Requiring at least two semesters of college Spanish, this IES program offers a comparable cost study abroad experience in Spain. Students can enroll in courses in both English and Spanish at local universities and the IES Abroad center, enjoying a rich academic and cultural immersion at a reasonable price. |
| IES: Siena, Business & Economics of Italian Food & Wine | Europe | Italy | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | For students in business, economics, agribusiness, environmental studies, political science, and agricultural economics, the IES Siena program offers a unique and comparable cost learning experience. Using Tuscany as its extended classroom, this program delves into the Italian food industry through site visits to cheese producers, wineries, and more. Explore Italian business and culture in a hands-on, affordable way. |
| IFE: Field Study in Brussels, Paris, and Strasbourg | Europe | Belgium and France | Fall, Spring | Conducted exclusively in French, the IFE program in Brussels, Paris, and Strasbourg provides a unique opportunity for French language immersion and field study at a comparable cost. Students can choose to enroll in courses, undertake internships, or gain field experience. Located in major European centers, this program offers valuable international experience without a significant financial premium. |
| International Studies Institute (ISI) at Palazzo Rucellai | Europe | Italy | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | The ISI Florence program, located at Palazzo Rucellai, offers a wide array of courses from architecture to education, sociology, music, and even a specific track for biology majors. Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, provides an inspiring and engaging backdrop for a semester abroad at a comparable cost. Immerse yourself in Italian culture and academics without exceeding your budget. |
| ISA: EuroScholars | Europe | Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Engage in international research through the ISA: EuroScholars program, offering a comparable cost research experience at leading European universities. Located at Leiden University (Netherlands), University of Geneva (Switzerland), or KU Leuven University (Belgium), students from nearly every major can participate in research projects under the guidance of host institution professors. Gain invaluable research experience abroad without a prohibitive price tag. |
| Jonkoping University, Engineering | Europe | Sweden | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Jonkoping University, a top engineering institution in Sweden with a strong international focus, offers a comparable cost study abroad opportunity for engineering and computer science students. Study at a leading research university in Scandinavia without a major financial impact compared to your on-campus expenses. |
| Philipps University, Intensive German Studies Program | Europe | Germany | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Explore German history, culture, and language at Philipps University in Marburg, Germany, through the Intensive German Studies Program. Requiring at least one semester of college-level German, this program offers a comparable cost immersion in German language and culture. Study in Germany and enhance your language skills without a significant financial burden. |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | Europe | Croatia | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Spend a semester in Dubrovnik, Croatia, at a global campus of the Rochester Institute of Technology. With courses specifically for IST and Hospitality students, and general education options for all majors, this program provides a comparable cost study abroad experience in Southeastern Europe. Discover Croatia and advance your studies without exceeding your budget. |
| Tecnun University of Navarra, Engineering | Europe | Spain | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Specifically designed for College of Engineering students, Tecnun University of Navarra in San Sebastian, Spain, offers a comparable cost opportunity to study engineering in the Basque region. Enroll in a variety of engineering courses at one of Spain’s oldest engineering universities, located on the beautiful northern coast, while maintaining a financially reasonable study abroad experience. |
| Temple University in Rome | Europe | Italy | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Temple University’s Rome campus, located in the heart of the city, offers a semester-long program with a wide selection of courses for students from diverse majors. This program provides a comparable cost gateway to studying in Rome, allowing you to immerse yourself in Italian culture and history without a significant financial strain. |
| Umbra Institute | Europe | Italy | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Located in the historic and beautiful city of Perugia, Italy, the Umbra Institute offers courses in art history, communications, education, food sciences, history, international business, Italian, music, psychology, sociology, and visual arts. This program provides a comparable cost study abroad option in central Italy, offering a rich academic and cultural experience at a reasonable price. |
| University of Freiburg | Europe | Germany | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Study at the University of Freiburg, a top-ranked university in southern Germany, offering courses for nearly every major in German. Requiring at least five semesters of German, this program provides a comparable cost opportunity to study in Germany. Adding to its affordability, a guaranteed $3000 scholarship is available for all participants in Spring 2024, Fall 2024, and Spring 2025, making it an even more cost-comparable choice for German language and cultural immersion. |
| University of Leeds | Europe | United Kingdom | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Enroll at the University of Leeds, located in Northern England, for a semester abroad. With courses available for nearly all majors, from engineering to business to sociology, this program offers a comparable cost study abroad experience in the UK. Study in the UK without a substantial financial difference compared to your on-campus semester. |
| University of Limerick | Europe | Ireland | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | The University of Limerick in Ireland welcomes students from nearly every major to enroll in relevant courses alongside local degree-seeking students. This program offers a comparable cost study abroad experience in Ireland, providing an excellent base for exploring western and southwestern Ireland. Experience Irish culture and academics without a significant financial burden. |
| University of Sussex | Europe | United Kingdom | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Located in Brighton, often called “London-by-the-Sea,” the University of Sussex is a renowned institution offering a wide range of courses from economics to media studies to biology. This program provides a comparable cost study abroad option in the UK, allowing you to experience British university life and culture without a major financial difference. |
| CIEE: Santiago, Dominican Republic, Liberal Arts | Latin America | Dominican Republic | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Immerse yourself in the Dominican Republic and enhance your Spanish skills through courses taught exclusively in Spanish at the CIEE Santiago center and the Pontificia Universidad Catolica Madre y Maestra. This program offers a comparable cost study abroad experience in Latin America, making Spanish language immersion accessible and affordable. |
| IES: Buenos Aires, Advanced Spanish Immersion | Latin America | Argentina | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Buenos Aires, Argentina, a vibrant capital city, is the setting for this IES Advanced Spanish Immersion program. Offering a comparable cost study abroad experience in South America, this program allows students to immerse themselves in Argentinean culture and Spanish language through courses at local universities taught exclusively in Spanish. |
| IES: Buenos Aires, Latin American Societies and Cultures | Latin America | Argentina | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Improve your Spanish skills while studying business, humanities, and social sciences in Buenos Aires through this IES program. With courses in both English and Spanish and no prior language requirement, this program provides a comparable cost entry point to Latin American study. Explore Argentinean culture and academics without a significant financial barrier. |
| University of Minnesota LAC: Ecuador, Studies in International Development | Latin America | Ecuador | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | The University of Minnesota LAC program in Ecuador offers an immersive, hands-on semester studying international development. Targeted towards Liberal Arts students and requiring four semesters of Spanish, this program provides a comparable cost study abroad experience in the Andean region. Gain practical experience and enhance your Spanish skills in Ecuador without exceeding your budget. |
| University of Haifa | Middle East | Israel | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Study at the University of Haifa, located in Israel’s third largest city, for a semester or academic year. Offering a wide range of liberal arts courses, internship opportunities, and an Intensive Hebrew Ulpan, this program provides a comparable cost study abroad option in the Middle East. Explore Israeli culture and academics while maintaining a financially reasonable semester abroad. |
| Bond University | Oceania | Australia | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Exclusively for Penn State Hospitality Management majors, Bond University on the Gold Coast of Australia offers a comparable cost study abroad experience in Oceania. Enroll in major-specific and general education courses at Bond University, located in Australia’s sixth largest city, and experience Australian culture without a significant financial premium. |
| Lincoln University | Oceania | New Zealand | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Located in the Canterbury Plains of New Zealand near Christchurch, Lincoln University specializes in subjects like agriculture, conservation, ecology, environmental management, tourism, and landscape architecture. This program offers a comparable cost study abroad option in New Zealand, particularly appealing to students in related fields. Study in New Zealand and explore its unique environment without a major financial burden. |
| University of Waikato | Oceania | New Zealand | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | The University of Waikato, situated in the vibrant city of Hamilton, New Zealand, offers courses applicable to nearly all majors. This internationally recognized institution provides a comparable cost study abroad experience in New Zealand, making global education accessible to a wide range of students. |
| Victoria University of Wellington | Oceania | New Zealand | Fall, Spring, Academic Year | Explore Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, while studying at Victoria University of Wellington. With a wide range of courses across eight faculties, including Architecture and Design, Business, Education, Law, and more, this program offers a comparable cost study abroad option in New Zealand’s capital. Experience New Zealand’s urban and academic life without a significant financial difference from your on-campus semester. |
Conclusion:
These comparable cost education abroad programs represent just a selection of the many opportunities available to Penn State students seeking global experiences. By carefully planning and exploring these financially accessible options, a semester abroad can be both academically enriching and surprisingly affordable. We encourage you to delve deeper into the program details, explore the linked websites, and contact the Education Abroad team to discover how you can make your international education dreams a reality without exceeding the comparable cost of your on-campus semester at University Park. Your global adventure awaits, and it’s more financially attainable than you might think.
