Students who enroll in a study abroad program that has been approved for credit by WWU can be considered for financial aid in most cases.
Participation in a Education Abroad program offers students a valuable academic and cross-cultural experience. A successful experience requires careful and thorough planning.
Start the planning process by contacting the WWU Center for International Studies, Education Abroad.
Submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for federal and state financial aid (if you are a resident).
Review the Financial Aid Checklist to ensure you have completed important steps necessary for general financial aid eligibility.
Visit the Financial Aid Services Center after working with Education Abroad to discuss your eligibility or if you have additional questions.
Often, programs will allow payments to be deferred if you are using financial aid to fund your program. Contact our office to assist you with completing required paperwork.
As a regular Western student enrolled in an approved education abroad program, your financial aid offer will be reviewed for eligibility. Your cost of attendance will be increased or decreased depending on the approved study abroad cost of attendance. Your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) will not change; therefore, if the approved program costs are greater than the standard cost of attendance, your financial need increases. Similarly, if the approved program costs are lower than the standard cost of attendance, your financial need will be reduced. Your actual financial aid offer will depend on your aid eligibility and availability of funds. Many of the aid types available to you as a regular Western student are also eligible to fund your approved study abroad program.
If you plan on studying abroad during summer term, you may use the Summer Education Abroad Financial Aid Estimator to calculate your potential eligibility. Additional important information is also available regarding summer financial aid.
Best wishes for a wonderful study abroad experience!