Study Abroad

CALS Study Abroad

CALS students have access to UW–Madison’s 300+ study abroad programs in more than 80 countries. Programs can range from one-week experiences to semester- or year-long programs, and everything in between. CALS Study Abroad, in partnership with International Academic Programs (IAP), offers more than 35 programs specially designed to fulfill CALS student academic needs, but programs are open to all UW-Madison students. Our programs cover a variety of content areas such as sustainable development, food systems, agriculture, health and wellness, community and economic development, and biosciences.

All CALS programs carry UW-Madison academic credit that will appear on your transcript. Most short-term programs also fulfill the undergraduate Certificate in Global Health field experience requirement and several meet the CALS International Studies Requirement.  A world language background is not required for most programs. With advanced planning, studying abroad — even as a science major — will not delay your graduation!

Why Study Abroad?

  • Study global issues including sustainability, food & agriculture, global health and natural resources, from a another perspective
  • See the world and experience new cultures
  • Challenge yourself
  • Fulfill academic requirements, earn credit, and explore new interests
  • Gain hands-on research or internship experience
  • Work toward academic, personal, and professional goals

Study Abroad Advising

Our experienced Study Abroad Advising team is available to:

  • help incorporate study abroad into your academic and/or career plans based on your CALS major
  • answer questions about CALS Study Abroad programs of interest
  • discuss identity-related concerns while abroad
  • discuss financial, personal, and academic concerns
  • advise you on application procedures for specific programs

CALS Study Abroad Program Options

CALS Study Abroad collaborates with International Academic Programs (IAP), located in the Red Gym. CALS program descriptions and application materials are located on the UW Study Abroad website. Program advisors and course leaders are CALS faculty and staff.

Scholarships for Study Abroad

Thanks to generous donations from CALS faculty and alumni as well as the College’s sponsorship of study abroad, CALS students are able to apply for study abroad scholarships!

Did you know?

25%

Percentage of CALS students who study abroad

$150,000

CALS offers more than $100,000 annually in scholarships to CALS students for study abroad

80+

Number of countries to choose from for a study or intern abroad experience

100%

The percentage of CALS students who have an assigned study abroad advisor to assist with exploration and planning based on their major

FAQ’s

How much does study abroad cost?expand_more

Our programs vary in cost depending on a number of factors including duration, location, organized excursions, whether housing or group meals are provided, and even your residency status. Many programs cost the same or even less than studying on campus, although some programs do cost more. The costs are outlined on the individual program pages and we recommend that you meet with a CALS Study Abroad Advisor who can assist with planning to meet your goals.

Financial aid can often be used to pay the program fee, in the same way that it can be used for tuition. In addition to financial aid, there are a wide range of scholarships available to CALS students studying abroad. Learn more about CALS study abroad scholarships.

Can I study abroad as  ____ major?expand_more

Most CALS students can study abroad, regardless of their major, with advanced planning. Students can explore Major Advising Pages (MAPs) for major-specific study abroad information and suggested programs.

Will studying abroad delay my graduation?expand_more

With advanced planning, students are able to incorporate study abroad into their academic plan without delaying graduation. Students should consult their Academic Advisor, Study Abroad Advisor, and their Major Advising Page (MAP) to plan for how and when to study abroad without delaying time to graduation.

When is the best time for students to study abroad?expand_more

The best time to study abroad is unique to each student, depending on their academic, personal, and professional goals. It may be a semester during the academic year, or during summer, winter, or spring break. Some students choose to study abroad multiple times. Students should consult their Academic Advisor, Study Abroad Advisor, and their Major Advising Page (MAP) to decide when to study abroad.

Do you need to know a language to study abroad?expand_more

No  – Over 200 study abroad program options offer courses in English and have no additional language requirements.

How long are most study abroad programs?expand_more

Study abroad programs can be as short as one week to as long as a year.

For Faculty

CALS faculty or instructional staff interested in offering an international academic experience for undergraduate students should contact Brett Schieve, Assistant Dean for International and Experiential Learning, to discuss study abroad portfolio needs and the process and timeline for launching new programs.

Other study abroad questions? Email studyabroad@cals.wisc.edu.

Office of Academic Affairs

116 Agricultural Hall
1450 Linden Drive
Madison, WI 53706

Office Hours: 7:45am – 4:30pm

For current & prospective student general inquiries:
Phone: 608.262.3003
Email: academicaffairs@cals.wisc.edu