The University of Central Florida Study Abroad

At the University of Central Florida, Study Abroad global learning isn’t just encouraged—it’s built into the student experience. Through UCF Abroad, part of the Division of Student Learning and Academic Success, students have the chance to immerse themselves in international cultures while earning academic credit toward their degrees.

Whether you’re dreaming of a short-term faculty-led trip or a full semester exchange, UCF offers programs in over 17 countries, tailored to a wide range of academic disciplines. From engineering to business to the arts, there’s something for everyone.

In this 2025 guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about UCF’s study abroad opportunities—including costs, eligibility requirements, scholarships, and specific tips for international, engineering, and business students. If you’re ready to take your education global, this is your starting point.

UCF Study Abroad Program Overview

UCF’s study abroad program enhances students’ academic, professional, and personal growth by offering opportunities to study, research, and intern in global settings. Over 500 students participate annually in programs designed to develop cultural competency, adaptability, and global awareness—skills highly valued by employers. UCF collaborates with international universities, third-party providers (e.g., API, CIS Abroad, TEAN), and its faculty to offer tailored experiences in more than 17 countries, including Italy, Spain, Japan, and Australia.

Types of Programs

1. Faculty-Led Programs (2–10 weeks): Guided by UCF professors, these programs combine coursework with cultural immersion. Examples include:

   • Italy: Italian Studies in Florence, exploring language and culture with visits to Rome.

   • England/Ireland: Education majors participate in a 2–3 week Internship II extension (ESE 4942), teaching in international classrooms.

   • Malta: A 10-day program with a global education conference and teacher training.

2. Exchange Programs (semester/year): Students study at partner universities while paying UCF tuition. Notable partners include:

   • University of Sydney (Australia) via TEAN.

   • Kaunas University of Technology (Lithuania) via Erasmus+.

   • Universidad Pablo de Olavide (Spain) in Seville.

3. Partner Programs: Third-party providers offer comprehensive support. Examples include:

   • Barcelona Center (Spain): A summer program with UCF faculty.

   • J.F. Oberlin University (Japan): Focuses on Japanese culture in a suburban Tokyo setting.

4. Internships/Research: Opportunities like CIEE internships or Seoul Metropolitan Government programs offer hands-on experience in fields like AI, engineering, and public administration.

UCF Study Abroad Locations

UCF offers programs in diverse destinations, ensuring options for every major and interest:

• Europe: Italy (Florence), Spain (Seville, Barcelona), England/Ireland, Malta, Lithuania.

• Asia: Japan (J.F. Oberlin University), South Korea (Seoul).

• Oceania: Australia (University of Sydney).

• Middle East: Egypt (American University of Cairo via Nancy and Jonathan Wolf Global Academic Initiative).

• Other Regions: Latin America, Africa, and more through providers like IES Abroad.

UCF Study Abroad Program Costs

Costs vary by program type, duration, and location. Below are estimated costs for 2025 (subject to change):

• Faculty-Led Programs:

  • Program Fees: $3,000–$7,000 (includes tuition, housing, excursions, some meals).

  • Additional Costs: Airfare ($1,000–$2,000), personal expenses ($500–$1,500), insurance ($100–$300).

  • Example: Barcelona Center (6 credits, summer) ~$5,500.

• Exchange Programs:

  • Tuition: UCF out-of-state rate (~$22,479 for 28 credits).

  • Living Expenses: $8,000–$15,000 (varies by location).

  • Additional Costs: Airfare, visa ($100–$500), insurance.

  • Example: Semester at Kaunas University of Technology ~$15,000–$20,000.

• Partner Programs:

  • Program Fees: $10,000–$20,000 per semester.

  • Example: J.F. Oberlin University (summer) ~$6,000–$8,000.

Total Estimated Cost: $5,000–$25,000. International students pay out-of-state tuition (~$22,479/undergraduate, $28,300/graduate annually) and should budget for living expenses ($11,498 for room/board, $4,000–$5,000 for personal costs).

UCF Study Abroad Program Requirements

To participate, students must meet general and program-specific requirements:

• Enrollment: Degree-seeking UCF student with at least one semester completed.

• Minimum GPA: 2.5 cumulative (3.0 for competitive programs like business exchanges).

• Credit Hours: 6–12 credit hours for financial aid eligibility (e.g., Bright Futures).

• Application Materials:

  • Online application via UCF Abroad portal.

  • Transcripts, personal statement, recommendation letters (if required).

  • $31 application fee (undergraduate programs).

  • Valid passport (valid 6 months beyond program end).

• Program-Specific:

  • UCF Programs: Committed program on file with UCF Abroad Office, study abroad miscellaneous fee.

  • Florida Programs: Transient Student Admission Application (FloridaShines), Florida Consortium Agreement Form, fee invoice, class schedule.

  • Private Programs: Non-SUS Transient Student Form (approved by UCF Abroad, student success coach, Registrar), Private Program Form, fee invoice, class schedule.

• Pre-Departure: Mandatory orientation on cultural adaptation, safety, and logistics.

• Insurance: International health insurance required (often included in program fees).

UCF Study Abroad Scholarships

The University of Central Florida (UCF) is committed to making study abroad opportunities accessible and affordable for all students. To support this mission, UCF offers a variety of scholarships specifically designed to help offset the costs of international travel, tuition, and living expenses. These funding options aim to remove financial barriers and encourage students from all backgrounds to engage in global learning experiences.

However, it’s important to note that international students may encounter certain restrictions when applying for some of these scholarships. Eligibility requirements can vary based on citizenship status, program type, and funding sources. Understanding these distinctions is key to planning a successful—and financially sustainable—study abroad experience.

• UCF Study Abroad Scholarship: $500–$5,000 via A2O system, based on merit/need. Requires 2.75 GPA, 6-week minimum program.

• Nancy and Jonathan Wolf Global Academic Initiative: Supports exchanges with American University of Cairo.

• David L. Boren Scholarship: Up to $20,000 for study in critical regions (e.g., Asia, Middle East).

• Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship: Up to $5,000 for Pell Grant recipients (U.S. citizens/permanent residents).

• Gilman International Scholarship: Up to $8,000 for underrepresented students studying abroad 4+ weeks.

• College-Specific Scholarships: College of Business and Rosen College offer awards via A2O.

• UCF Global Hardship Tuition Waiver: Limited funds for international students, deadline December 18, 2024, for Fall 2025.

• External Scholarships: Explore internationalscholarships.com or iefa.org.

Deadlines:

• UCF Study Abroad Scholarship: Late October (spring), late March (summer/fall).

• Gilman Scholarships: Early March (summer/fall), early October (spring).

• A2O Applications: January–May 2025 for 2025–2026 programs.

Application Tips:

• Start early and track deadlines.

• Prepare personal statements and financial documents.

• Consult UCF’s Office of International Studies or scholarship websites for guidance.

UCF Study Abroad for Engineering Students

Engineering students can enhance their global perspective through tailored programs:

• CIEE Internships: Placements in AI, robotics, or renewable energy (3–6 credits).

• Exchange Programs: Kaunas University of Technology offers engineering courses.

• Faculty-Led Programs: Short-term projects in sustainable design (e.g., Europe).

• Requirements: 2.75–3.0 GPA, completion of core courses (e.g., Calculus, Physics), advisor approval.

• Benefits: Global innovation experience strengthens resumes for multinational companies.

UCF Study Abroad for Business Students

The College of Business offers 30+ exchange agreements in 17 countries:

• Popular Programs:

  • University of Sydney (finance, marketing).

  • Universidad Pablo de Olavide (international business).

  • Faculty-led programs in London/Barcelona (International Business Minor/Certificate).

• Requirements: 3.0 GPA, completion of core courses (e.g., Principles of Accounting), application via cbastudyabroad@ucf.edu.

• Benefits: 100% of participants report enhanced career prospects.

UCF Study Abroad Application Process

1. Research: Browse programs on studyabroad.ucf.edu or Uloop.

2. Advising: Schedule a session with UCF Abroad or College of Business (cbastudyabroad@ucf.edu).

3. Apply:

   • Submit online application, transcripts, personal statement, recommendation letters.

   • Pay $31 fee.

   • Deadlines: 6–12 months in advance.

4. Funding: Apply for scholarships via A2O, meet with Office of Student Financial Assistance (SFAStudyAbroad@ucf.edu).

5. Pre-Departure: Attend orientations, secure visa, purchase insurance.

International Students: Update Form I-20/DS-2019 via UCF Global.

Cost of Applying to UCF (International Students)

• Application Fee: $31 (non-refundable, undergraduate/graduate).

• Additional Costs: Transcripts ($10–$20), English proficiency tests (e.g., TOEFL $200, IELTS $250), visa fees ($185 for F-1/J-1).

• Total Estimated Cost: $400–$500, depending on testing and document needs.

Protecting Your Laptop During Study Abroad

Laptops are critical for coursework abroad. Consider insurance from UK-based providers (for UK/Europe programs):

• loveit coverit: ~£3/month, 90-day worldwide cover, 10% multi-gadget discount.

• Post Office: ~£5/month, covers up to 10 gadgets (£1,500 each), low excess.

• Protect Your Bubble: £3.99/month, £75 excess, 15% multi-gadget discount.

Tips: Verify worldwide cover, match coverage to laptop value, check exclusions.

Benefits of UCF Study Abroad

• Academic: Earn credits toward your degree.

• Career: 93% of UCF graduates are employed within six months; study abroad enhances job prospects.

• Cultural: Develop adaptability and global cultural competency.

• Personal: Build independence and global networks.

Conclusion

In summary, UCF is dedicated to making study abroad experiences more attainable through a variety of scholarship opportunities. While international students may face certain eligibility restrictions, there are still valuable options available to help support your journey.

Studying abroad is more than just travel—it’s an investment in your education, personal growth, and global perspective. Don’t let financial concerns stop you from exploring the world. Take the initiative, research your options, and apply early to maximize your chances of receiving funding.

Your global adventure starts with a single step—make it count.