Global Gateway
Interactive 3D globe with study abroad programs worldwide. Filter by country, cost, language, and duration. Compare programs side by side. Cultural preparation resources and visa checklists. Connect with exchange students. Your journey starts here.
Study Abroad Explorer
Interactive 3D globe showing programs worldwide. Click on countries to see available opportunities. Filter by cost, language, duration, and subject. Student testimonials and cultural guides included.
Interactive 3D Globe
Explore study abroad destinations with an interactive 3D globe. Red markers show popular destinations. Blue markers show emerging destinations. Click any marker to view programs in that country.
Filters
Search Programs by Country
Browse programs by destination. Each country page shows available programs, costs, language requirements, and student reviews. Find the perfect match for your goals.
United Kingdom
450+ programs | English
Spain
380+ programs | Spanish
Italy
320+ programs | Italian
France
290+ programs | French
Germany
270+ programs | German
Australia
240+ programs | English
Japan
210+ programs | Japanese
Canada
180+ programs | English/French
Student Testimonials
Hear from students who studied abroad. Learn about their experiences, challenges, and advice. Real stories help you prepare for your own journey.
Emma L. - Semester in Barcelona, Spain
"Studying in Barcelona changed my life. I became fluent in Spanish, made friends from 15 countries, and discovered a passion for international business. The city is beautiful and affordable. Highly recommend CIEE Barcelona program."
Business Major | University of Texas | Fall 2024
James K. - Year in Tokyo, Japan
"Tokyo was intense but amazing. The cultural differences pushed me out of my comfort zone. I learned Japanese, tried new foods, and gained confidence. My host family was incredibly welcoming. Come with an open mind and willingness to adapt."
Engineering Major | MIT | Academic Year 2023-2024
Sofia M. - Summer in Florence, Italy
"Eight weeks in Florence felt too short. I took art history classes in actual museums and cathedrals. Weekend trips to Rome, Venice, and Cinque Terre were unforgettable. The food, art, and people made this the best summer of my life."
Art History Major | Smith College | Summer 2024
Program Comparison Tool
Compare programs side by side. See costs, credits, housing, requirements at a glance. ROI calculator shows experience value versus expense. Scholarship availability highlighted for each program.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Select up to three programs to compare. View differences in cost, duration, credits, housing, and eligibility. Make informed decisions based on your priorities and budget.
| Feature |
Program A CIEE Barcelona |
Program B IES Rome |
Program C API Paris |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Cost | $15,000 | $18,500 | $19,200 |
| Duration | Semester (15 weeks) | Semester (16 weeks) | Semester (14 weeks) |
| Credits | 12-18 credits | 15-18 credits | 12-16 credits |
| Housing | Shared apartment | Host family | Residence hall |
| Meals Included | No | Breakfast & Dinner | Meal plan optional |
| Language Requirement | None (English courses) | 1 year Italian | 2 years French |
| GPA Minimum | 2.75 | 3.0 | 3.0 |
| Scholarships Available | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
ROI Calculator
Calculate return on investment for study abroad. Compare program costs to career benefits, language skills gained, and personal growth. Many employers value international experience at $5,000-$10,000 in salary.
Cultural Preparation
Language learning resources with free Duolingo integration. Cultural etiquette guides by country. Visa application checklists with step-by-step instructions. Packing lists and travel tips from experienced students.
Language Learning Resources
Start learning the local language before you go. Even basic phrases help you connect with locals and navigate daily life. Free resources make language learning accessible to everyone.
Cultural Etiquette Guides
Learn cultural norms before arrival. Understand greetings, dining customs, personal space, gift-giving, and business etiquette. Avoid unintentional offense and build positive relationships.
Japan Cultural Tips
- Remove shoes when entering homes and some restaurants
- Bow when greeting people (deeper bow shows more respect)
- Use both hands when giving or receiving business cards
- Avoid eating while walking in public
- Stand on left side of escalators (right side for walking)
- Speak quietly on trains and public transportation
Spain Cultural Tips
- Lunch is main meal (2-3 PM), dinner late (9-10 PM)
- Greet with two kisses on cheeks (right cheek first)
- Siestas are real - many shops close 2-5 PM
- Tipping not expected but appreciated (round up bill)
- Speak Spanish when possible, locals appreciate effort
- Social life centers around plazas and tapas bars
United Kingdom Cultural Tips
- Queue (line up) properly - cutting in line is rude
- Say "please," "thank you," and "sorry" frequently
- Pubs are social centers - buying rounds is common
- Tipping 10-15% in restaurants if service not included
- Small talk about weather is normal conversation starter
- Personal space important - avoid physical contact
Visa Application Checklists
Step-by-step visa application guides for popular study destinations. Required documents, processing times, fees, and interview tips. Start applications 3-6 months before departure.
Student Visa Requirements (General)
Packing List for Study Abroad
Pack smart for your semester or year abroad. Bring essentials but leave room in luggage for souvenirs. Check airline weight limits and host country voltage for electronics.
Documents
- Passport and visa
- Acceptance letter copies
- Travel insurance documents
- Emergency contacts list
- Prescriptions (if needed)
Clothing
- 1 week of everyday clothes
- 1-2 formal outfits
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate jacket
- Swimsuit (if relevant)
Electronics
- Laptop and charger
- Phone and charger
- Universal power adapter
- Portable charger
- Camera (optional)
Essentials
- Toiletries (travel size)
- Medications
- Sunscreen
- Small first aid kit
- Reusable water bottle
Exchange Student Network
Connect with current exchange students. Ask questions in forums organized by destination. Buddy matching pairs incoming and outgoing students. Photo and video diaries from students abroad show real experiences.
Student Q&A Forums
Ask questions and get answers from students currently studying abroad or who recently returned. Topics include housing, classes, culture shock, budgeting, and making friends.
How do I open a bank account in Spain?
Posted by Sarah M. in Barcelona Forum | 3 replies
I need to open a bank account but don't speak much Spanish. Which banks are student-friendly? What documents do I need?
Best weekend trips from Paris?
Posted by Mike T. in France Forum | 8 replies
Looking for affordable weekend trip ideas from Paris. Train or bus preferred. What did you visit?
Dealing with homesickness in Tokyo
Posted by Lisa K. in Japan Forum | 12 replies
Been here 3 weeks and really missing home. How did you cope with homesickness? Any tips?
Buddy Matching System
Get paired with a student who studied in your destination or a local student at your host university. Ask questions, get advice, and make a friend before arrival.
Fill out your profile to get matched with a buddy. We pair you based on destination, interests, major, and language skills.
How Buddy Matching Works
- Complete your profile with destination, dates, interests
- Our system matches you with compatible students
- You receive buddy contact info via email
- Connect through email, WhatsApp, or video call
- Ask questions and get insider tips
- Meet in person when you arrive (optional)
Photo & Video Diaries
See what daily life looks like abroad through student vlogs and photo collections. Real experiences from real students. Get honest perspectives on challenges and highlights.
Budget Planner
Cost of living calculators by city. Currency converter with historical trends. Student discount resources. Part-time work regulations by country. Plan your finances before departure.
Cost of Living Calculator
Compare living costs between your home city and study abroad destination. Data covers rent, food, transportation, entertainment. Budget accurately to avoid financial stress abroad.
Currency Converter
Convert currencies with real-time exchange rates. See how much your money is worth in your destination country. Plan your budget in local currency.
Student Discounts & Work Permits
Access student discounts worldwide with ISIC card. Learn about part-time work regulations in your destination. Many countries allow 15-20 hours per week for international students.
Start Your Global Journey
Study abroad transforms lives. Gain new perspectives, build international networks, and develop skills employers value. These resources make global education accessible to all students.