University of Northern Iowa
University Information
The University of Northern Iowa's Study Abroad Center (SAC) offers academic opportunities in over 30 countries and administers over 20 faculty-led programs. SAC programs range in duration from 2 weeks to one year and allow students to earn UNI credit while studying abroad. Programs are designed to accommodate student’s program of study.
Important Dates and Deadlines
October 1 for Spring semester programs
October 15 for Winter Break programs
December 1 for Spring Break programs
February 15 for Summer programs
March 1 for Fall semester programs
"Other than academics, you learn a lot about different cultures and the contrast of new experiences and your home country. Well worth it!"
Jordan P University of Northern Iowa
"Yes, I learned that I really liked teaching and embracing cultures rather than learning about them in my home country. I learned how important it is to not be selfish when it comes to teaching. I never wanted to be a teacher, but I had fun creating lesson plans and learning along with the students and finally became a TESOL majo..."
Ashley W University of Northern Iowa
"I gained a lot of independence. I gained confidence in myself. I gained some new friends I will have for life. I learned how to handle myself in new and slightly scary situations. I learned how to overcome cultural barriers. "
Kali S University of Northern Iowa
"I learned a lot about myself as an individual. I consider myself to be very involved at my home university - music ensembles, soccer team, student organizations, etc. But while you are studying abroad you don't have all of that to fall back on and you are forced to make friends based on other and more real commonalities. I learn..."
A student University of Northern Iowa
"This experience was definitely worth the time and money. I experienced a substantial amount of information pertaining to my major even though the class was not for my major."
Kalli S University of Northern Iowa
"Yes. I learned a lot about climate change and the ways in which people in Spain are trying to adjust their lives so that their carbon footprints will be reduced. I had a great time, as well. I am far more aware of cultural differences and similarities throughout the world now. I intend to continue my studies in Sociology."
Jennifer M University of Northern Iowa
"I've decided I want to travel everywhere now. I've understood how a completely different culture lives and works together as a community. To be able to see thousands of years old buildings and think about what we have in America was priceless. It was definitely a culture shock realizing, oh, nobody speaks English. That was f..."
Jill T University of Northern Iowa
"It was totally worthwhile. I can say I gained a lot of independence and responsibility while being on the trip. You are so far away from home in countries that you have never been to and you have to be mindful of that. You cant just call up your mom or dad and ask for help when you need it! I also had to make sure I had enough m..."
Whitney B University of Northern Iowa
"Being abroad has given a whole new perspective on life, and everything that I have here at home. I think that sometimes we take for granted all that we have here. That being said, I think that there is a LOT that we can learn from other countries. It was nice to be in towns that were so simple and laid back, and the people weren..."
Alison H University of Northern Iowa
"DEfenitely worthwhile and would do it again regaurdless the cost"
William M University of Northern Iowa
"I learned a lot of contextual things, and yes it was worthwhile."
jbancroftsmithe University of Northern Iowa
"It was definitely worth while! I realized how little I know about the world and how much emphasis the United States puts on "being the best." In the U.S., we tend to think we have it all together, but really we don't. I realized that I am equal to all citizens of the world and to really get to know others, it is important to und..."
Roxane K University of Northern Iowa
"I learned a lot about the culture and importance of family. It was very worthwhile in every respect. "
A student University of Northern Iowa
"Life experience, adventure, and understanding"
A student University of Northern Iowa
"I gained so much that there is not even words to describe my experience. I loved my professors, host family, and everyday experience in Chile. I felt like I could live a normal life, and sometimes that I would forget that I was even abroad - I was meant to study abroad in Chile."
Carissa J University of Northern Iowa
"I got to see a lot of great sites and learn the history behind them. Very beneficial!!"
A student University of Northern Iowa
"I learned what it was like to be immersed into an unfamiliar culture for an extended period of time. It's a very different feeling than being at home as most people can imagine, but it is very refreshing at the same time. You begin to appreciate things that you normally take for granted. You also learn to live without all of ..."
A student University of Northern Iowa
"I loved learning on location and becoming more comfortable being by myself in a country with a different language."
A student University of Northern Iowa
"Too much to list"
Madison University of Northern Iowa
"So worthwhile. Had an amazing group which is a big part of it. Everybody had a blast and learned so much at the same time. Could not have asked for a better trip. "
Jill T University of Northern Iowa
"The opportunity to witness a new culture. It was very worthwhile."
A student University of Northern Iowa
"I learned about a different culture and way of life, and was definitely worthwhile, could have stayed there longer."
A student University of Northern Iowa
"I learned that despite the technological and economic differences between the U.S. and Nicaragua, both peoples strive for personal happiness in the same ways and for the same reasons, and that a more developed and technologic society doesn't necessarily correlate to more "happiness"."
laudickd University of Northern Iowa
"My experience abroad was most definitely worthwhile! Having Italy as my classroom was amazing! Interacting with Italy and the Italians was a very enjoyable and memorable way to study. I got a look at and feel for how another culture and it's society function. It helped me understand the basis for our American culture and soc..."
Amy G University of Northern Iowa
"It was worthwhile. I love the culture"
Erica R University of Northern Iowa