UMD Study Abroad 2026: Earn Credits While Exploring the World

Want to know how UMD study abroad programs work for 2026? This guide covers everything from deadlines to costs and scholarships. You’ll get steps to apply, pros and cons, and tips to save money. Always confirm prices and policies on the official site.

Thousands of University of Maryland students go abroad each year. These programs fit your major, boost your resume, and count toward graduation. Ready to plan your adventure?

Quick Answer (Read This First)

Here are the top takeaways on UMD study abroad:

• Applications for Summer/Fall 2026 opened November 10, 2025.
• Deadlines: Summer by February 17, Fall/Year by March 3.
• Costs match or beat on-campus tuition for many programs.
• Options include semester exchanges, faculty-led trips, and internships.
• Earn UMD credits; financial aid applies.
• Popular spots: France, Spain, Australia, Argentina.
• Scholarships available via MyEA portal.
• Start at the official study abroad page.

What Is UMD Study Abroad and What Does It Do?

UMD study abroad lets students take classes overseas while earning credits toward their degree. Run by the Education Abroad office under Maryland Global, it offers programs in 50+ countries. You live like locals, join clubs, or intern abroad.

These trips help you gain global skills employers want. A semester in Spain might cover your gen eds. Short summer programs fit busy schedules. Past students rave about new friends and career boosts, much like testimonials from agencies helping with UK unis.

It handles logistics so you focus on learning. Faculty-led options include site visits. Exchanges mean paying UMD tuition at partner schools.

Key Features of UMD Study Abroad

• Credit Transfer: All courses count as UMD resident credit; check the course database.
• Program Types: Semester/year, exchanges, short-term winter/summer.
• Support On-Site: Staff or faculty guide you; safety first.
• Financial Perks: Aid transfers; $1,000 exchange waiver for most.
• Diversity: 500+ programs; internships in Australia or counterterrorism in Malaysia.
• Flexibility: Mix with UMD terms; prereqs for some like language.
• Pre-Departure Prep: Sessions on visas, packing, culture.

Step-by-Step: How to Use UMD Study Abroad

Follow these steps to apply for 2026.

1. Attend Study Abroad 101 session or watch online.
2. Search programs in MyEA; filter by major, term, country. See semester options here.
3. Review course database for credit fit.
4. Create MyEA account; start app with essays, recs.
5. Submit by deadline (e.g., Feb 17 for summer).
6. Get decision quick (days after deadline).
7. Commit, pay deposit; apply for scholarships.
8. Finish pre-departure: passport, insurance, orientation.

Before you pay checklist:

• Confirm credits with advisor.
• Check passport validity.
• Review full costs in brochure.
• Secure aid/scholarships.
• Talk to past participants.

Pricing, Fees, and What “Cheap” Really Means

Expect total costs like on-campus: $17k-$25k per semester, including flights, housing, insurance. Exchanges: just UMD tuition ($16k in-state, $31k out) plus waiver.

Short-term: $3k-$10k. Add meals, extras. Aid covers much; compare to staying home.

Example (Spring semester Nice, France): $22,000 total (tuition $16k, housing $4k, flights/insurance $2k). Beats out-of-state by $9k.

See deadlines and costs for details.

Pros and Cons

Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

• Miss deadlines: Mark calendar now; apps open Nov 2025.
• Ignore credits: Use database early; meet advisor.
• Skip scholarships: Apply post-acceptance in MyEA.
• Forget passport: Renew 6 months ahead.
• Pick wrong fit: Filter by interests, not just location.
• Overpack: Attend orientation for tips.
• No budget buffer: Save for souvenirs/meals.
• Delay pre-dep: Finish by commit date.

Is UMD Study Abroad Legit and Safe?

Yes, it’s UMD’s official program. Vetted partners, 24/7 safety line, insurance included. Check issuer (UMD), clear refund policy, contact educationabroad@umd.edu.

Reviews from students mirror success stories elsewhere: smooth visas, great support. Track record: thousands return yearly.

Tips to Get Better Deals

• Apply early for rolling spots/scholarships.
• Choose exchanges for tuition savings.
• Use course database for gen ed fits.
• Stack aid: federal, state, EA funds.
• Go short-term first (winter break).
• Share rooms; eat local.
• Seek department grants (e.g., engineering shorts).
• Negotiate? No, but waivers auto-apply.
• Group programs with friends.
• Off-peak terms like fall.
• Check explore page for deals.
• Talk counselors for hidden gems.

FAQs

When do UMD study abroad apps close for 2026?
Summer: Feb 17; Fall/Year: March 3.

Does financial aid cover UMD study abroad?
Yes, most types transfer; apply as usual.

How much does a semester cost?
$17k-$25k total, often less than campus for out-of-state.

Can I get internships abroad?
Yes, in programs like Australia; credits apply.

What if I need language courses?
Many options; prereqs listed.

How safe are these programs?
High; UMD monitors, provides insurance.

Do credits transfer to my major?
Yes, via database approval.

What’s the refund policy?
Varies; check brochure post-acceptance.

Can freshmen apply?
Usually after first year; check GPA.

How to contact support?
Email educationabroad@umd.edu or MyEA chat.

Conclusion

UMD study abroad offers real value: credits, skills, fun at campus-like costs. Weigh program fit, deadlines, budget.

Start today in MyEA. Your global edge awaits. What’s your dream destination?