NMSU Students

Congratulations on your decision to participate in an Education Abroad or National Student Exchange program! The planning stages outlined below will help you have the best experience possible.

Attend an Education Abroad & National Student Exchange 111 Information Session
Education Abroad offers weekly and in-person Education Abroad & National Student Exchange 111 information sessions. The information session are designed to introduce students to the Education Abroad and National Student Exchange programs available at NMSU. During this presentation, you will learn about program options, fulfilling degree requirements, costs, financial aid, scholarship opportunities, as well as the next steps, and how to apply. Register for an upcoming Education Abroad & National Student Exchange 111 Information Session in Crimson Connection.
Research Opportunities
Education Abroad and National Student Exchange currently offers more than 100 programs in over 35 countries and within the United States, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. International destinations include programs in Canada, Europe, Asia, Latin America, Australia/New Zealand, Africa and the Middle East.
Meet with and Education Abroad Advisor or the National Student Exchange Coordinator
Our advisors work with a specific regional portfolio and can help you evaluate program options in order to meet your academic, professional, and personal goals. Advisors can answer specific questions and guide you throughout the process of applying and preparing to participate in one of our programs.
Make an Academic Plan
Selecting a program is an important academic decision. Meet with your academic advisor to discuss your academic standing and what classes are necessary for graduation. It is best to discuss these things before you apply, as some programs have non-refundable registration fees. Course equivalencies are determined by your College/Department, with the assistance of a faculty or staff member assigned to you to act as an advisor (not the same as your CAASS Advisor). A copy of the course equivalency form can be found in your Education Abroad Application Portal.
Research Funding Opportunities
An Education Abroad or National Student Exchange program is an investment in the future and can be affordable. It is important, however, that students determine early (even before they have selected a specific program) that they will have sufficient resources to cover all the costs of study abroad whether payable to NMSU or to another program provider.
  • Review the list of Education Abroad Scholarships to see what you may be eligible to apply for.
  • Degree-seeking NMSU students who participate in an Education Abroad or National Student Exchange program are eligible to apply their financial aid package to the cost of an education abroad program. If you will be using financial aid to pay for the cost of your program, you can log in to your MyNMSU student account to view your financial aid award and see how much money you may have to apply to the cost of a program. If you need help comparing the cost of a program with your financial aid award, schedule an appointment to meet with your Financial Aid Advisor.
  • Review the NMSU financial aid policies regarding education abroad for more information.
Apply to a Program
Education Abroad and National Student Exchange process applications on a rolling admissions basis. Be mindful of applying early for limited capacity programs, such as exchange programs, which may fill-up when capacity is met (first come, first serve). Scholarship decisions will be announced after the final deadline for each term.
Education Abroad Programs
Term Application Deadline
Fall Semester & Academic Year March 15
Winter Break September 15
Spring Semester September 15
Spring Break November 1
Summer
Faculty Led International Programs November 30 or February 1 (check program website for deadline)
Internship Programs February 1
All Other Programs March 15
 
National Student Exchange Program
Term Application Deadline
Priority Placements February 15
Fall Semester & Academic Year May 1
Spring Semester October 15
 
Virtual International Experiences
Term Application Deadline
Fall Semester August 1
Spring Semester November 1
Summer April 15
 
Sign-up for a Program
Once a program has been selected, your Advisor will provide you with a Budget Sheet that breaks down all applicable costs to your program. To sign up for the program, return a copy of the signed Budget Sheet to your Education Abroad Advisor or National Student Exchange Coordinator along with a receipt for non-refundable Program Placement Fee, paid to the University Accounts Receivable (UAR) Cashier by the sign-up deadline. Documents can be returned to your Education Abroad Advisor or National Student Exchange Coordinator by email, or by scheduling an appointment. If you are applying to a Faculty Led International Program (FLIP), you can skip this step.
Meet with University Financial Aid and Scholarships Services
  • After you have selected a program, met with an Education Abroad Advisor or the NSE Coordinator, and received a budget sheet for your selected a program, schedule an appointment with Veronica Llanez, Financial Aid Advisor, Sr. if you will be using financial aid to pay for the cost of a program. Appointments can be schedule with Veronica by emailing her at verllane@nmsu.edu or by calling 575-646-4105.
  • Take a copy of your Program Budget Sheet with you to your appointment.
  • If you will not be utilizing financial aid to pay for the cost of your program, you can skip this step.
photo: Claudio Schwarz

Choosing a Program

Education Abroad and National Student Exchange currently offers more than 100 programs in over 35 countries and within the United States, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. International destinations include programs in Canada, Europe, Asia, Latin America, Australia/New Zealand, Africa and the Middle East. So, you can travel to most destinations with an approved program, as long as it’s safe to travel there! But with so many options how can you know which program to choose? A few of the key elements you will need to consider when selecting a program are:
  • Academic Goals – Which program offers the courses I need to meet my degree requirements?
  • Term – When is the best time for me to go abroad?
  • Cost – Which program works best for my budget? What is the cost of living and exchange rate compared to home?
  • Location – Will the location I select determine the language of instruction? Will it meet a language requirement?
  • Type of Program – Which type of program best matches my overall needs?
With the help of your Advisor, you will be able to narrow it down to the program that best suits your needs, while giving priority to the key factors that matter the most to you. To see what programs are available, use the NMSU Education Abroad Program Search and view programs by country, city, term, and much more. Program Search

Academic Goals

We ask that you bring your Star Degree Audit to your first advising appointment. This will give us an overview of the types of courses you need, to get a better idea of how flexible your program selection can be. Course equivalencies are determined by your College/Department, with the assistance of a faculty or staff member assigned to you to act as an advisor (not the same as your CAASS Advisor).

Term

Programs are offered year-round, giving students the option to study for a semester, academic year, or for a shorter-term during spring break, winter break, or the summer. It’s important that you share your intentions to participate in a program with anyone who is involved in your decision. Meet with an Education Abroad Advisor or the National Student Exchange Coordinator and your Academic Advisor early, and plan ahead for any specific academic restrictions you may have. For example, there may be some NMSU courses that are only offered in the fall, so you may want to participate in a program in the spring instead. Another common example is participating in a program during your senior year, since this requires special authorization from your college, and would likely delay your graduation. Some are more practical in nature, such as the amount of time that you feel comfortable being away from home, or missing an important personal event. But whatever the case may be, plan in advance and let us know your preference during your advising appointments!

Cost

All programs are not made equal, but what is the real cost of participating in an Education Abroad or National Student Exchange program? The cost will vary, depending on the program you choose, but generally you should look at the difference between the cost of your program and cost of attendance at NMSU. Many programs have similar cost of attendance as a semester at NMSU. Other things to factor in, is how much financial aid will be available to you during each term, perhaps, at first sight, a semester program is more expensive than a summer program, but if you receive more aid during a regular semester, it may not be more expensive after all. Meet with your Financial Aid Advisor to go over their policies and any other questions you have. You will need to factor in the cost of living in the country/state you have selected compared to Las Cruces, as well as the exchange rate of the local currency against the U.S. Dollar if you are in an international destination. The cost of living will be higher in some locations and lower in others, even within the same country. Similarly, currency exchange rates will be more favorable in some countries than in others. We recommend that you come up with a budget and take that into consideration when selecting your program. As a reminder, don’t forget to apply for scholarships!

Location

Remember how we said you could go pretty much anywhere, as long as it’s safe to travel there? We determine a country’s safety based on the recommendations issued by the U.S. Department of State. Per NMSU policy, traveling is limited to locations/countries listed as Level 1 and Level 2 on U.S. Department of State travel advisory system. If you are looking to learn a foreign language, it is best to select a program in a country that speaks that language. However, this should not be a limiting factor in your program selection, as many programs offer courses taught in English, meaning you are not required to be fluent in or in the process of learning the foreign language. In such cases, you may want to consider other factors, such as culture and overall interest in the region of your program.

Types of Education Abroad Programs

There are different types of education abroad programs available through our office, to meet the needs of each of our students. The main types of programs available through Education Abroad are:
  • Exchange
  • Direct
  • Intensive Language
  • Faculty Led International Programs (FLIPS)
  • Internships
  • Virtual International Experiences
  • International Student Teaching Program
Exchange Programs are some of the most popular programs because they offer the opportunity to study at one of our partner universities, for a semester or a year, while paying NMSU in-state tuition. Students are fully integrated with local students and housing is most often acquired by the student independently through the host university’s international or housing office. As a result, exchange programs require that students exhibit a great degree of independence, personal responsibility, and self-direction, since it will be up to you to define your goals, identify resources, make connections, and seek help when necessary.
Direct programs are offered year-round and are recommended for students who would prefer to have a greater amount of support and flexibility. They can be a good alternative to exchange programs, as they will offer you access to studying a larger range of subjects at more universities and locations. Direct program fees usually include housing, excursions, cultural activities, and a high level of on-site support.
Intensive language programs are an intense, immersive experience focused on mastering a foreign language. Intensive language programs are very flexible and highly customizable. They can be as little as two weeks long, and up to an entire summer or semester.
Faculty Led International programs, or FLIPs, are programs that are organized and led by one or two NMSU faculty members. You will travel with the faculty members a group of NMSU students. Programs typically focus on a single theme or academic discipline and are usually 1 to 3 weeks during spring break or the summer.
Internships are a great opportunity to earn hands-on experience in your field of study. You can complete an internship in combination with any of the above-listed program types, or you can do an internship on its own. Our internships are unpaid, but you will earn credit for the experience.
Virtual International Experiences give you the opportunity to add an international experience from your home base in the U.S. to your regular semester at NMSU. Earn 3 academic credit towards your degree while adding a global perspective to your professional work experience. Virtual international experiences include remote global internship placements and remote undergraduate research experiences at universities abroad.
International Student Teaching Program, or ISTP, allows education majors to complete pre-service teaching licensure requirements for all grade levels in Elementary, Secondary and Early childhood.The International Student Teaching Program offers a unique opportunity to gain a broader perspective and understanding of education and teaching in a cross-cultural immersion environment!

During the Academic Year (Fall and Spring Semesters)

Scheduled Appointments
two women talking
Education Abroad Advisors and the National Student Exchange Coordinator are available for individual appointments to help you evaluate program options in order to meet your academic, professional, and personal goals. Advisors can answer specific questions and guide you throughout the process of applying and preparing for your program. Appointments will be 30 minutes in length; please be punctual and prepared.
  • Monday: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
  • Tuesday: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Thursday: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
How to Schedule and Appointment
  1. Appointments can be scheduled online through the NMSU Education Abroad Application Portal
  2. Select the name of the Advisor that you would like to meet with and then click “Request an appointment or information”
  3. Please list the following in the description box when scheduling the appointment:
    • Write the name of the region(s) or program(s) you are interested in.
    • Tell us when you would like to go abroad, term and year.
      • For example: Summer 2022
    • Include your major and GPA.
    • List any topics of discussion.
      • For example: application process, costs & funding, travel logistics, health & safety, etc.
    • Please be as detailed as possible

 

During the Summer

Students interested in speaking with their Education Abroad Advisor or the National Student Exchange Coordinator over the summer should contact them directly to schedule an appointment or email educationabroad@nmsu.edu. Education Abroad does not have regularly scheduled appointments or walk-in hours available in the summer. All appointments must be made directly with the correct adviser during this time.

Education Abroad Advisors

Bethanie Sanchez - bsanch13@nmsu.edu

  • Africa, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, and Europe (excluding Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Czech Republic), EuroScholars, and Semester at Sea

Lisa Munson - lmunson@nmsu.edu

  • Latin America, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Czech Republic, International Student Teaching Program, and Virtual International Experiences

Book a Flight

Book a Flight

Do not purchase a flight until you have been accepted into your program and received a visa (if applicable). If participating in a Faculty-Led International Program (FLIP), wait until the FLIP has been confirmed full and flight instructions have been provided to you by your FLIP Program Leader. Travel through countries or regions that have a U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory of level 3 or 4 is strictly prohibited. The Mexican State of Chihuahua, which includes Ciudad Juarez, is currently under a Level 3 Travel Advisory. Do not purchase a flight originating in or transiting through one of these areas. You will be responsible for the cost of re-booking an appropriate flight if these guidelines are not followed.
Recommended Travel Agencies
  • StudentUniverse offers discounted flights, hotels, and tours for young adults.
Online Travel Search Engines
Although somewhat less predictable than using a travel agent, booking a flight online through websites such as Expedia, CheapoAir, Travelocity, Kayak, etc. can save travelers a considerable amount of money. Online agencies, however, offer significantly less customer support than the personal service given by a travel agent. In the event of an emergency, it may be difficult to contact a customer service representative to make changes to your flight itinerary. Read the fine print before booking a flight through these websites and save copies of all your itineraries and receipts.

Passports & Visas

Passports

A Passport is a travel document usually issued by a country's government to its citizens, that certifies the identity and nationality of its holder, primarily for the purpose of international travel. All students must have a passport in order to participate in any education abroad program, and it must be valid for at least 6 months past the end date of your program of study.
How to Apply for a Passport
Information about how to apply for a passport, or how to renew a passport that is about to expire, can be found on the U.S. Department of State U.S. Passports How to Apply website. You may apply for a passport or renew a passport at the NMSU Passport Acceptance Facility or any US Passport Service Location. Regular passport processing times are typically 4-6 weeks. Expedited passport services are available for an additional fee. General expedited services take 2-3 weeks door-to-door. If you are not a U.S. citizen, contact the nearest embassy or consulate of your country of origin for information on acquiring or renewing your passport.

Visas

Many participants will need to acquire a visa prior to studying abroad. A visa is an immigration document granting approval from the host government to enter and stay in the country for a designated amount of time and for a specific purpose. The visa is often attached as a sticker in the passport. All students are required to be in possession of any required visa documentation in order to participate in their program.
Keep in Mind
  • Students are ultimately responsible for obtaining their visa; this includes researching specific visa requirements, acquiring all necessary documents, and submitting the visa application on time.
  • Education abroad advisors may be able to provide some guidance to students during the visa process, but please be aware that only the immigration officials of your host country can answer specific visa questions.
  • Not every country requires a visa for US citizens; requirements and policies will often differ based on a person’s nationality.
  • Some countries have specific immigration requirements that may limit or prohibit entry based on citizenship.
  • Some students may be able to apply for a visa online or through the mail; while some may have to appear in person at an embassy or consulate to submit their application. Students required to submit their application in person will be responsible for any additional costs associated with travel to/from the embassy or consulate.
  • In many cases, students cannot apply for a visa more than 90 days in advance of their travel.
We recommend becoming familiar with the general visa process well in advance. Many visa application processes include an application, an official letter from the host university, a medical report, photos, and/or other country-specific requirements. There may also be fees associated with the visa application. To familiarize yourself with visa requirements, refer to your host country’s embassy webpage. You can find your host country’s embassy webpage through the U.S. Department of State’s webpage under Entry, Exit & Visa Requirements. Another good resource is the U.S. Department of State's Students Abroad website.
Independent Travel Prior to the Start of Education Abroad Programs
Please be aware that the visa application process for some countries may require students to surrender their passport for several weeks or months prior to the start of the education abroad program. This may impact students' independent travel plans (including travel over summer or winter break, and/or early departure prior to their program). Visa requirements should be researched and considered by all applicants prior to planning independent travel.

Walk in Wednesdays

During the fall and spring semesters when classes are in session, Education Abroad Advisors have walk-in advising hours available on Wednesday afternoon from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm in-person in Garcia Center, Room 224. Walk in Wednesday is not held during finals week. No appointment is needed.