Funding Your Study Abroad Experience
Studying abroad is an investment in yourself and your education. Consider all your options to fund a study abroad experience: using financial aid, earning scholarships, saving money, and raising personal funds.
1. Financial Aid
This Study Abroad Financial Aid Form connects students with PCC Financial Aid Advisors Melinda Leiva and Matthew Sagayaga. These advisors can help answer questions like:
- How much financial aid will I receive in summer term?
- How much of that financial aid award can be applied to study abroad at PCC?
- Can a specific grant or scholarship apply to summer term classes? To study abroad costs?
- How can I “bank” my unused financial aid throughout the academic year to save for summer term?
Each student’s financial aid situation is unique, so do not make assumptions about your aid. We recommend that students file their FAFSA Form in October for the upcoming academic year. Once you fill out the form, you will receive an email from Melinda to connect for an appointment.
You can also call the?Financial Aid Helpline (722-8888, option 4) to speak with someone over the phone. If you choose this option, please be specific with your questions in case the staff person is unfamiliar with study abroad programs at PCC. It is helpful to mention the academic term, course number, and credits for the program you are interested in.
2. Apply for Scholarships
Who doesn’t want free money? While scholarship applications may feel daunting, they are often worth the effort.?Visit Study Abroad Scholarships to learn more, including tips and tricks for successful applications.
The Education Abroad Office Advisors are helpful for brainstorming and reviewing essay drafts. Connect with an Ed Abroad Advisor by making a Calendly appointment or emailing studyabroad@pcc.edu
3.?Saving Money and Personal Fundraising
Text: Personal Fundraising (A.K.A Your Plan B)
We encourage you to think outside the box to creatively fund your study abroad experience! Popular options from PCC students have included:
- Birthday or holiday gifts in the form of money instead of items
- Extra shifts at work
- PCC Payment Plan
- New credit card or small private loan
Consider Digital Fundraising Options
Consider creating a digital crowdfunding campaign and sharing it with your community.?Check out examples of PCC GoFundMe Crowdfunding Campaigns from students who traveled with previous PCC summer cohorts!
After you create your campaign, share the link with the Ed Abroad Office by sending it to studyabroad@pcc.edu. We can display your GoFundMe campaign on our website and share it on our social media accounts to promote your fundraising effort.
*Note: Due to visa status regulations, GoFundMe Campaigns are not recommended for F-1 international students. Talk to the Office of International Student Services (OISS) for more information.
Funding Videos and Resources
First Steps Video: Funding Your Study Abroad Experience
- Google Slides available for download.
Want additional help with understanding the costs of study abroad at PCC? Check out our Financial Aid & Student Accounts Funding Videos Resources for more information. These short videos (~10 min each) present information from qualified PCC staff relating to the costs of study abroad and options for covering the costs of this experience.
Additional Questions?
Education Abroad Advisors are available to meet to brainstorm ideas and talk more in-depth about your funding options. Schedule an appointment via Calendly to connect with an Ed abroad Advisor virtually via Zoom or over the phone.
Scholarship Applications: Worth the Effort!
