Strickler Office of International Programs
Marketing Your Study Abroad Experience: Inside the Minds of Recruiters
Blog post by Alessandra Auster, Marketing '20, who studied abroad in Seville, Spain in Spring 2019
Study Abroad
Smeal strongly encourages students to participate in education abroad and about one fourth of our graduates have this experience. Discover how study abroad will fit with your personal and academic goals. You may choose a summer or semester program and perhaps consider earning an International Business Minor. Start your journey now by navigating the timing and eligibility requirements and exploring the many diverse Penn State programs offered all around the world.
International Internships
International internship and service learning opportunities allow students to create meaning between their academic coursework, their future careers, and the world around them. Globalization is an increasingly important aspect of any business. Thus, many employers today are reported to value intercultural communication skills, global perspectives, and demonstrated adaptability that often are gained from an international work experience.
Faculty/Staff
Instructors interested in teaching a summer, Maymester or embedded study abroad program or those already scheduled to do so, may find relevant information here.
International Students
For students studying here at Penn State from another country, the International Student web page links you to many resources which may help you find answers to your questions about housing, academic concerns, jobs, or ways to meet other students. Explore the resources that can help you best take advantage of all that Penn State life has to offer.
Upcoming Events and Deadlines
| Details | Date / Time |
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SPRING 2025 |
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Smeal Semester Study Abroad Info Session Thinking about a Fall or Spring semester abroad? Whether you're a Sophomore planning for next year, or a first year just exploring, come join us! All students planning Smeal majors are welcome! We'll talk about types of programs, locations, courses, the International Business Minor, applications, and answer your questions! |
Thursday, February 13 5:15 PM 120 Business Building |
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Fall 2025 Application Deadline Applications must be submitted via LionsABROAD by 11:59 pm for all Fall 2025 study abroad programs! |
Monday, March 3 |
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National Study Abroad Day Hosted by Penn State Global The goal of National Study Abroad Day is to raise awareness for study abroad and the lasting impact it can have. While we often focus on how studying abroad benefits us personally, we can sometimes overlook how international experiences influence the global community. By connecting with different cultures and perspectives, education abroad has the potential to shape and transform our world around us. University Park students can join Penn State Global to:
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Monday, February 24 11:00AM-3:00PM HUB, Main Lounge |
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EXPLORE: Global Rep Panel Smeal Global Reps are current business students who have returned from Penn State study abroad and/or international internship programs and have a deep appreciation for their cross-cultural experiences. If YOU are interested in study abroad, we invite you to come to this panel to hear about their experiences! Hear about courses abroad, internships, housing, field trips, and more. |
Wednesday, February 26 5:15 PM 214 Business Building |
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EXPLORE: GET STARTED! Semester Study Abroad Info Session Thinking about a semester abroad? Whether you're a Sophomore or Junior planning for next year, or a first year just exploring, come join us! All students planning Smeal majors are welcome! We'll talk about types of programs, locations, courses, the International Business Minor, applications, and answer your questions! |
Monday, March 17 5:15 PM 120 Business Building |
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PLAN: Academic Planning for Study Abroad Now that you've explored the different study abroad options available to you, it's time to start planning! This session will go over what Smeal degree requirements can be satisfied abroad, how to find courses on your chosen program, which classes to save for abroad, how to earn the IB minor, and more. |
Tuesday, April 1 5:15 PM 120 Business Building |
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PLAN: Funding Semester Study Abroad- Scholarships & Budget TIPS There are many ways to reduce the cost of Study Abroad. This session will go over how to find the cost for your program, the different factors that go into the cost of study abroad, scholarships, maximizing the value of your study abroad experience, and budgeting tips from our Smeal Global Reps. |
Thursday, April 10 5:15 PM 120 Business Building |
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APPLY: Semester Study Abroad Application TIPS The Spring 2026 priority deadline is coming up! Make sure your application is the best it can be by attending this session, where we will go over the study abroad application process, the components of a good application, deadlines, what comes next after you apply, and more! |
Tuesday, April 22 5:15 PM 120 Business Building |
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Spring 2026 Priority Application Deadline Applications must be submitted via LionsABROAD by 11:59 pm for priority consideration for Spring 2026 study abroad programs! |
Thursday, May 15 |
- International Program Photos