How to Study English Literature Abroad
Many universities and colleges offer students the chance to pick up their books and take their studies nearly anywhere in the world. Study-abroad programs allow students of any major to transfer from their home universities to affiliated campuses for up to a year at a time. Popular destinations include Italy, France, China, Australia, Mexico and Costa Rica. If roaming the streets of Warwickshire, England, while reading Shakespeare sounds enticing, prepare yourself for time abroad.
Instructions
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Plan ahead. Decide which country you would like to study in, when you would like to depart and how long you would like to stay. Studying abroad is often limited to upperclassmen (college juniors and seniors), so start brainstorming early in your college career.
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Secure a passport if you do not have one. Studying in an overseas country requires a valid, government-granted passport. If you already have a passport, ensure its safe-keeping until your departure. If you do not have one, apply at least three months in advance of your departure date. An informative link for first time applicants can be found in the Resources section.
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Visit your English department's academic advisor and express your interest in studying abroad. Based on your individual course of study and academic progress to date, your advisor will determine your eligibility for going abroad. You will also discuss which courses you will be required to complete while abroad.
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Consult with an advisor from your school's study abroad program. Based on what country you wish to study in, your advisor will provide you with a list of English course offerings from various campuses within that country.
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Consider your options. Determine which campus will best suit your academic plan. Research the campus or speak with other students within the English major who have studied there. This will help you get an idea of what to expect while abroad.
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Look into the financial aspects of study abroad. Depending on which country you intend to visit, program costs fluctuate. If you receive financial aid or scholarships, visit a financial advisor to see if all or a portion of your study-abroad costs will be covered.
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Apply for the program of your choice. Most universities offer a convenient online application on the study abroad department's website.
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Tips & Warnings
Be aware of the study abroad department's deadlines. Most schools ask for applications at least six months in advance of the departure term.
Have back-up options in mind. Although you may be set on studying English literature in the United Kingdom, programs that suit your specific course of study may not be available at the time you wish to depart.
References
Resources
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