Iowa State will be hosting a Study Abroad Fair on Thursday to give students a chance to become acquainted with the university’s various international programs. The event will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Memorial Union’s Great Hall.

Studying abroad requires a good amount of planning and preparation, thus students who are interested in taking their education abroad should work hard to understand the options available to them.

Iowa State’s Study Abroad Center offers a plethora of choices to students interested in studying abroad. The center offers multiple types of programs, each with its own drawbacks and benefits. It is important for students to understand what type of program would fit best with their own academic schedule before deciding on a location they would like to visit.

For this reason, the Study Abroad Center is holding the Study Abroad Fair to give students a one-stop-shop for all the information needed to start planning a semester abroad. 

Students can peruse options offered by the international programs office and talk to people who have previously gone on the programs at hand. With accessibility to first hand experience within programs, students can build a much fuller understanding of given programs and come to a decision that fits their own desires. Also at the fair are opportunities to learn about some of the study abroad scholarships offered both on a national and international level. 

Students without an up to date passport can also apply for one at the fair. It is recommended to make an appointment with Natalie Welter at the U.S. Postal Service; however, walk ins will be accepted but are more likely to experience a wait time.

To apply for a passport at the fair applicants must: bring a completed application form, proof of citizenship, proof of identity and a 2” by 2” color photograph (which will be available at the fair for $15). Applicants also need to be prepared to pay the $130 application fee, an optional $60 fee to expedite the application process and finally a $35 execution fee. The passport applications will take place in Memorial Union’s Cardinal room.

To prepare for the Travel Abroad Fair, it is recommended that travel enthusiasts do some research before hand to build an understanding of what to look for at the fair. It’s also recommended to come to the fair with questions prepared to ensure a proper understanding of eligibility requirements, course offerings and cost of the trips. 

For more information on the Study Abroad Fair and how to best prepare for it please visit the Study Abroad Center’s website.