Delta State University offers transformative international education programs, including study abroad opportunities and cultural exchange programs, that foster global awareness and cross-cultural understanding. Delta State is committed to preparing students for success in an interconnected world by offering academic collaborations and partnerships with institutions and service providers worldwide.
The university also helps students find funding for study abroad programs, making international experiences more accessible and affordable. Studying abroad allows students to gain valuable global perspectives, enhance their academic and professional skills, and develop a deeper understanding of different cultures.
”International opportunities are invaluable for broadening your perspective, especially as a student. Traveling abroad allows you to experience different cultures, understand global issues, and see how your field of study is approached in different countries.
Fa'Darryl T. Cooper, International Research Conference presenter (Cuba)Class of 2024
How to Connect with International Opportunities
The office of International Student Services provides a range of services to support students interested in international experiences through the Delta State University study abroad program. These services often include advising on study abroad programs, helping students select destinations that align with their academic goals, and assisting with application processes. The office also offers guidance on securing funding and scholarships, ensures compliance with travel and visa requirements, and provides pre-departure orientations to prepare students for life abroad. Additionally, we offer support to Delta State faculty with the creation of new study abroad academic programs.
- Pre-departure guidance and resources
- Help identifying funding sources to increase international opportunities for students
- Maintain productive partnerships with international universities
- Assist faculty with the creation of new study abroad academic course offerings
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Explore Culture and Community in South Africa
Jakori Johnson received a Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship to study in Cape Town, South Africa for Summer 2025. The competitive scholarship program provides up to $5,000 to college students to study or intern abroad and was provided on behalf of the Gilman Scholarship Program.
“This is my first trip abroad,” said Johnson. “I’m most looking forward to connecting with people through the program and immersing myself in South African cultures. Studying abroad will help me grow personally and professionally by broadening my perspective.”
Immerse Yourself in Polish Language and Culture
Delta State University rising sophomore, Kiersten Bible, has been awarded a competitive scholarship from the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA). She will attend KUL’s School of Polish Language and Culture to study abroad in Lublin, Poland, for Summer 2025.
“I applied to KUL’s program because I’m really hoping to experience what the culture in Poland is like,” said Bible. “I’ve been studying Polish independently, so this felt like the best way to immerse myself. I’m studying to be a pilot, and having another language under your belt can always help. Also, I really like traveling.”
Teach Abroad in Japan
Delta State University alum Collin Crosby was selected for the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program to serve as an Assistant English Language Teacher in Uwajima in Ehime prefecture.
“I applied for the JET Program because I have always been very interested in many facets of Japanese culture, history, and media. The program allows me to experience these things in person, while also advancing my career as an educator.”
How to Fund Your International Education
The Delta State study abroad program helps students find funding by providing information on scholarships, grants, and financial aid specifically for international programs. Staff assist with identifying suitable funding opportunities, guide students through the application process, and offer resources to budget for their time abroad. The Office of International Student Services also connects students with external funding sources and offers workshops on writing strong scholarship applications.
Erasmas+ Program
The Erasmus+ program is the European Union program for education, training, youth, and sport. It offers opportunities for mobility (travel) of students, staff, and faculty. DSU is one of three partner universities in the United States with an Erasmus+ partnership with John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin (KUL) in Lublin, Poland. Since 2014, DSU and John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin (KUL) have partnered to provide academic exchange opportunities for students, faculty, and staff.
Gilman Scholarship Program
The U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program enables students of limited financial means to study or intern abroad, providing them with skills critical to our national security and economic prosperity.
Critical Language Scholarship Program
The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program is an immersive summer opportunity for American college and university students to learn languages essential to America’s engagement with the world. Each summer, American undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at U.S. colleges and universities across the country, spend eight to ten weeks learning one of thirteen languages at an intensive study abroad institute. The CLS Program is designed to promote rapid language gains and essential intercultural fluency in regions that are critical to U.S. national security and economic prosperity.
Fulbright Scholars Program
The Fulbright U.S. Student Program expands perspectives through academic and professional advancement and cross-cultural dialogue. Fulbright creates connections in a complex and changing world. In partnership with more than 140 countries worldwide, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers unparalleled opportunities in all academic disciplines to passionate and accomplished graduating college seniors, graduate students, and young professionals from all backgrounds. Program participants pursue graduate study, conduct research, or teach English abroad.
DSU Goes Global Passport Grant
Delta State University’s International Student Services Office is excited to offer 10 DSU Goes Global Passport Grants to eligible Delta State students who have never had a U.S. passport. Thanks to donations from generous Delta State University alumni and friends of DSU, we are able to offer this kind of grant to students. Grant applications typically open twice a year, in February and September.
How to Apply for the DSU Passport Grant
DSU International Student Services will award grantees reimbursement for the regular passport service fees and photo fees (if applicable) for eligible applicants applying for their first U.S. passport.
How to apply:
1. Complete the DSU Goes Global Passport Grant application and submit. After the grant application is approved or denied, the applicant will be informed by DSU International Student Services. If approved, you will complete a grant agreement.
2. Once approved, complete a passport application (available at the post office) or at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports.html. Or visit the International Services Office in Union 200 for assistance.
3. Passport applications require 2 passport photos. The U.S. Post Offices can take passport photos for a $15 fee. The grant will reimburse the USPS photo fee. Passport photo services can be found at Walgreens, CVS, and other businesses for a fee, which may be more than $15.
4. Go to the main U.S. Post Office (USPS) in Cleveland at 210 S. Chrisman Avenue, your hometown post office, or another passport acceptance facility to apply for your passport. Find a passport acceptance facility here: https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/.
5. Bring proof of U.S. citizenship (a certified or original birth certificate, for example) with you to the post office when you apply for your passport. This document will be mailed to the passport processing facility and returned to you within 8-10 weeks.
6. Checks (personal, certified, cashier’s) and/or money orders are the accepted forms of payment for passport processing. The total cost for passport application, as of March 8, 2024, is $165 (excluding photos). There will be an additional $15 fee if a U.S. Post Office also takes the photos. The Cleveland post office does not accept credit cards as a form of payment, so make sure you have an alternate form of payment (checks seem to be the best form of payment). For more information on accepted forms of payment, see https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/information/fees.html
7. Show a photo ID (i.e. driver’s license) when you apply.
8. The USPS office will mail your passport application and birth certificate together. You will receive your passport and birth certificate back separately.
9. KEEP ALL RECEIPTS. Make sure to save all receipts, as costs cannot be reimbursed without receipts. Once you have applied at a facility, stop by the International Student Services office with your receipts as proof for your reimbursement. You will be issued a check for the regular passport service fees and USPS photo fees you have paid. Check issuing may take up to two weeks upon verification of passport receipts.
10. Bring your passport to the International Student Services Office after you have received it (average passport processing is 8-10 weeks).
For questions and more information, please contact Michelle Johansen, Assistant Coordinator of International Student Services, at mjohansen@deltastate.edu or stop by the International Office in Union 200.
Eligibility for Passport Grant
1. Must be enrolled full-time (12+ credit hours) undergraduate student at Delta State University at time of application.
2. Must be a U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization or U.S. national (i.e. native of American Samoa or Swain’s Island).
3. Must be 18 years or older.
4. Must be applying for a first adult U.S. passport (using DS-11 form, not renewing a previous passport).
5. Must be in good standing at Delta State University. Undergraduate good standing includes but is not limited to: enrolled in at least 12 credit hours (full-time); have a minimum 2.5 DSU overall grade point average; and no involvement in student conduct and/or disciplinary processes at DSU.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start planning?
You should start planning at least 18 months in advance. You want to give yourself plenty of time to work on a budget, research your options, find the right program, get your passport, work through the academic approval process, gather required documents, and apply for scholarships. Start early by speaking with the study abroad advisor!
What are the requirements to study abroad?
At minimum, Delta State students must be in good standing academically, financially, and behaviorally. You also must meet any specific requirements for the program you have selected, including prerequisites, GPA (usually minimum 2.5), and foreign language. A valid passport is required before you can complete the process. Check out the DSU Goes Global Passport Grant program to learn more about getting a passport. Some programs may have additional prerequisites.
Do I need to speak a foreign language to study abroad?
No. Many study abroad programs offer courses in English. If you are interested in studying a foreign language, there are opportunities for that as well.
How much does studying abroad cost?
International education programs vary in price. Factors include: length of time abroad, location, and program type. Students may qualify for external scholarships or financial aid to study abroad. Check with the study abroad advisor for scholarship opportunities and the Office of Financial Aid to discuss financial aid options and for help navigating the process.
What kinds of study abroad opportunities are available?
Opportunities range from short-term (one week) to semester-long programs. Options include internships, service-learning, and cultural exchanges – not just traditional study abroad.
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