Boston College
University Information
At the Office of International Programs, our mission is to prepare students for citizenship, service, and leadership in a global society.
Almost 40 percent of BC undergraduates have an international experience by the time they graduate. We are proud of our comprehensive network of more than 60 academic partnerships in over 30 countries worldwide. Each year more than 1,000 students from all fields of study and with varied foreign language backgrounds participate in tailored programs during the academic year and in our faculty-lead summer programs abroad. Students can enroll in BC programs or approved external programs. Our staff is dedicated to helping each participant find the right program.
OIP also hosts over 150 international exchange students annually from our partner universities around the world.
If you are a student or a prospective student at BC and have initial questions about study abroad, we can show you how to begin the process. If you know already where you would like to study abroad, have a look at our programs.
For parents we have prepared answers to some frequently asked questions.
Important Dates and Deadlines
Go to Boston College Study Abroad to see future deadlines/advising periods.
"I think studying abroad gives students an independence. Having to fend for yourself, even if you are with friends, so far from your parents is challenging and exciting! I had to buy a cell phone plan, open a bank account, all things I had not yet done for myself in the US. "
Alice D Boston College
"Everything I've already said. It was expensive, but you have to live it out to the fullest while you're there. If you hold back and stay in a routine, it wont be as memorable."
Anthony L Boston College
"So worthwhile. I am now more independent than ever before and learned so much about myself, Italy, and all the countries I traveled to. "
A student Boston College
"It was a wonderful experience. The Czech Republic is definitely a lot different than studying somewhere like London, and the people are really different. But I loved learning about their history and exploring such a unique place."
Laura M Boston College
"My Chinese level skyrocketed thanks to the immersion program. Living with a host family was also a life-changing experience; I am so grateful to them for hosting me. They were so kind and welcoming, and I feel like I learned so much from them and their culture."
Cecelia M Boston College
"Absolutely. I loved studying abroad in Chile and can't wait to go back. "
Sarah P Boston College
"I learned so much about the Caribbean and the ocean and about myself from sailing with SEA, and I could not be happier with my experience."
Cara M Boston College
"I learned how important and exciting it is to interact with people from all over the world with different backgrounds and experiences. I learned how exhilarating it is to explore a new culture. Every day is a new adventure, and I gained that attitude when I came back to the States."
A student Boston College
"more cultured"
A student Boston College
"I think my semester at Georgetown was extremely worthwhile. As a student interested in the American political system, what can be better than living in DC surrounded by other college students who love politics, being taught by teachers who specialize in American politics and can introduce you to the stars of the political syste..."
Jen O Boston College
"I was able to meet new people and learn about new cultures. I was able to travel to watch a football match in London, ski the alps, skydive in Italy, cook local Viennese cuisine, and go to mass at Stephansdom Cathedral. I gained independence and confidence and loved my time abroad!"
A student Boston College
"My time in Vienna was an incredible experience. IES helped me find a balance between academics, exploration, and travel that made my time in Vienna exactly what I wanted. Unlike some other abroad programs, IES values a rigorous academic schedule that allows you to get the most out of the city by learning about it's past while yo..."
A student Boston College
"Going abroad enabled me to become a more independent person and enabled me to experience and immerse myself in a new culture. I am so happy that I studied abroad in Vienna because it was an amazing city and had many different cultural offerings. "
Alli P Boston College
"Aside from the module, it was great being able to explore a new city with people from all over the world!"
Annie Kim Boston College
"I gained so much confidence, the ability to be adaptable, and fantastic cultural awareness. It was definitely worthwhile. "
A student Boston College
"Extremely worthwhile. I gained an insight into one of the most amazing cultures in the world. I learned so much about their history, culture, tradition and value. I know I will definitely be back"
Thomas S Boston College
"Yes"
Daniel T Boston College
"Living in another country was a great experience. It is important to remember that there is a whole great world outside of the US"
Sam S Boston College
"My time in Greece was 100% worthwhile! It was an adventure, and I gained a new perspective on things. After completely emerging myself in a completely different culture from my own and being accepted with open arms, I learned the importance of understanding people on a deeper level and seeing how cultural differences affect how ..."
A student Boston College
"Yes, it was my first time abroad, and is an experience everyone should have. You become a stronger person by traveling and you see things you could never imagine."
James W Boston College
"I gained a new perspective and experienced a new culture. Definitely worth it"
Nick P Boston College
"I gained so much from the academic portion from hands on learning to in the classroom lectures. I can honestly say I retained more from my trip abroad then I do in a normal school year. It was so practical and hands on the learning felt natural. Other than academics, I learned how to carry myself while with peers and in a new cu..."
A student Boston College
"I learned alot about other culture from going to this program"
Alex Boston College
"Educational experience was lacking, but was worth it to be in another country for a semester. Travel and friendship experiences are some of the best I've ever had"
Mike S Boston College
"Learned how to integrate quickly and think on the go. "
Benjamin M Boston College
