First Gen Abroad students in Seville

Studying abroad is a big decision, and we know you probably have questions. The toolkit and FAQs on this page are designed to help you learn more about First Gen Abroad and whether it’s right for you. If you have questions or need more information, attend one of our info sessions or contact a program advisor.

 

FAQs

 

  • Why should I study abroad?

    Studying abroad is a unique experience that allows you to grow and learn in ways not possible in a standard classroom. You will gain new perspectives while learning how to navigate different cultures and work with diverse peers. Whatever your major, study abroad will help you advance your critical thinking skills, make you more marketable, and transform you into a responsible, engaged global citizen.

  • Why First Gen Abroad?

    This program is designed for Cougs like you – students who are the first in their families to attend college. Our five-week summer programs are affordable, relevant, and fun, and they make studying abroad accessible for students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to travel. 

     

    First Gen Abroad staff assist you throughout the entire study abroad process, from application to in-country experiences to the return home, so you’ll feel supported every step of the way. And because your fellow travelers are also first-gen students, you’ll be able to share this unique experience with like-minded Cougs.

  • Am I eligible to study abroad?

    To participate in First Gen Abroad, you must: 

    • Be a first-generation college student 
    • Have a minimum cumulative GPA is a 2.0 
    • Be a WSU student from any academic major, any campus, and any class standing 

    If you are not a first-gen student but believe this type of program would be beneficial to you and your academic success, please contact us at firstgen.abroad@wsu.edu.

    DACA Students
    We don't recommend participation in First Gen Abroad for DACA students at this time. The California-Mexico Studies Center is an alternative option.

    Permanent Residents
    If you are a permanent resident who needs a visa to travel, we do not advise participating in Frist Gen Abroad at this time.

    • Getting a visa is a time-intensive and costly process that requires travel to San Francisco to apply for and pick up your visa, and pay a processing fee.
    • The National Student Exchange is a good alternative option.

  • How can I prepare for my study abroad experience?

    Studying abroad is an incredible experience! But you may understandably be a little nervous, especially if you haven’t traveled internationally before. To get ready to go abroad, we recommend you: 

    • Check out books, websites, and videos on your host country. Many students find that it’s helpful to get an idea of what the country is like and what the cultural norms are before arriving. 
    • Check over your required paperwork and travel arrangements for accuracy, and ask your family/support system to check them as well.  
    • Make a communications plan with your family, friends, and support network for the time you’ll be in country. 
    • Contact a First Gen Abroad program advisor with questions or concerns. 

  • How much does First Gen Abroad cost and how can I pay for it?

    The cost of First Gen Abroad varies based on the number of students participating and your personal expenses. Visit the Costs and Financial Aid page to learn more about program costs and how you can fund your trip.

  • What's the best way to keep in touch with my family and friends while I'm abroad?

    If you have a reliable internet connection, you can use Skype, Zoom, Google Talk, FaceTime, Snapchat, Facebook Messenger, and other internet-based calling platforms to make free calls to both landlines and mobile phones. TimeAndDate.com is a useful website for calculating time differences, international calling codes, and other travel information.  

    Some phone service providers have affordable temporary international plans; check with your provider for options. Some students purchase a cell phone or interchangeable SIM card while abroad, which provides an easy way to stay in touch with friends at home and in your host country.

  • What courses will I be taking and how are they graded?

    In 2024, CEA will teach the following courses through the University of New Haven:  

      

    COM 340: Communication & Global Competence (3 credits)

    • Fulfills WSU DIVR UCORE (upper-division elective) 

    CUL 340: Food & Culture in Spain (3 credits) 

    • Fulfills WSU HUM UCORE or HBM 496 (upper-division elective) 

     

    For more information, visit The Experience page. You will receive a letter grade for your study abroad courses.

  • How will studying abroad affect my GPA?

    As non-WSU courses, First Gen Abroad courses/grades: 

    • Will not calculate into your cumulative WSU GPA, but will factor into major and minor GPAs. 
    • Will appear on your MyWSU and WSU transcript. 
    • Provide a non-WSU transcript. Transcripts will take two to four months to arrive at WSU from the University of New Haven.

  • Do I need a passport or visa?
    • If you are a U.S. citizen, you will need a passport but not a visa. 
    • If you are a permanent resident and hold a passport from another country, you will want to check if you need a visa for travel at travel.state.gov.   
    • If you don’t have a passport, you will want to start the process of getting on ASAP. If your passport expires on or before December 31, 2024, we recommend you renew it before leaving.

  • I'm in! How do I sign up?

    We’re excited that you want to join us for this extraordinary experience! To apply for First Gen Abroad: 

  • Where can I find the course pre-approval form?

    All WSU Students must complete the course pre-approval form as part of their Education Abroad application process.

     

    The form for 2024 is not available yet; please check back. We will fill in the classes that you will be taking and the UCORE equivalents.