Studying or working abroad can be a great way to experience new cultures, languages and different education systems while simultaneously earning course credit. If you’re looking for a program that fits your interests and academic plan, UC Berkeley has a range of classes and internships that may be worth checking out. Here are some programs and resources that could help you get started in your search.

UC Education Abroad Program (UCEAP)

UCEAP is a great option because it gives you the chance to go abroad with a group of students from other UC schools and expand your circle beyond just students at Berkeley. The program has options in more than 40 countries, with choices to suit your preferences on classes, internships or research. If you don’t want to commit to a whole semester in a different country, you can search for summer programs instead. If you’re interested in UCEAP, begin planning early because many of their application deadlines are six to nine months before the actual departure date.

Berkeley Summer Abroad

This is different from UCEAP because Berkeley Summer Abroad programs are uniquely designed to resemble Berkeley courses, and they are taught by Berkeley faculty in different locations. This could be a great option if you don’t want to deal with a different academic system and the potential stress of units and grades not carrying over. It’s a good idea to research your options thoroughly before applying, because you’re only allowed to apply for one Summer Abroad or Global Internships program each summer.

Berkeley Global Internships

Spending a summer taking classes can sound like a drag, so if you want a change in pace, you can choose to do an internship while you travel and live in a new area. Berkeley Global Internships could be a great way to hone your professional skills and sharpen your resume. If this isn’t enough incentive and you’re still thinking about the classes you won’t be able to take, the program also offers academic credit, so it’s a win-win.

International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU) Global Summer Program

IARU presents an exciting way to experience life at elite research universities around the world such as the University of Cambridge, the University of Oxford, the National University of Singapore and even Yale University. This is a good option if you’re looking to gain a global perspective and come together with other students to discuss critical issues.

UC Washington Center (UCDC)

You don’t actually have to travel far away to a different country to experience a new city or environment. UCDC provides the perfect balance for switching up your surroundings while also remaining rooted in the United States. Students in the center spend a term taking courses at the UCDC center and working in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. If you’re politically inclined, this might be your shot at interning at a government agency.

Advising

If it feels like none of these options make sense, or if you have questions about travel requirements, visas, how your course credit will carry over or just about life abroad as a student, you can seek help. It’s difficult to understand which classes are good options or what documentation you need to complete an academic program outside the country. Berkeley Study Abroad has drop-in advising services to meet you at whatever stage of planning you find yourself, and if you don’t want to speak to a staff member, you can choose to meet a peer adviser for a student perspective instead.