Did You Know?
We offer over 85 programs that cost less than UAB.
One of our biggest priorities is ensuring that every student can study abroad. That's why we offer multiple programs all over the world that cost the same or less than studying on campus. You can afford to study abroad, but you can't afford to miss the opportunity!
Search Affordable Program Options →
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What is the real cost of study abroad?
The real cost is the difference between the cost of studying and living abroad and the cost of studying and living at UAB. These costs include tuition, housing, school materials, transportation, and travel logistics.
We offer over 85 programs with a real cost that is less than the average price of a plane ticket. Choose from programs in dozens of countries where the costs are similar to living in Birmingham.
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Can I use scholarships and financial aid to study abroad?
Yes, you may be able to apply your current financial aid and scholarships to your study abroad program.
In addition to your current aid, Education Abroad offers over $60,000 in scholarship funds to help students study abroad. Most scholarships range from $750 to $1,500 and can help cover the cost of plane tickets, living expenses, and fees.
Learn more about how to fund your study abroad experience
Education Abroad at UAB encourages students to refer to their UAB account for billing records concerning their education abroad experience. Some general information about the IRS tax form 1098-T is provided below:
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Does my Form 1098-T tell me everything I need to know for tax purposes?
IRS Publication 970 defines qualified tuition and required fees as “tuition and fees required for enrollment or attendance at an eligible postsecondary educational institution, but not including personal, living, or family expenses, such as room and board.” Other examples of qualified and nonqualified expenses not reported on your Form 1098-T may include class fees for education abroad classes, off-campus housing expenses, and other fees you paid directly to your academic department or college rather than to UAB.
Amounts for student health fees, transportation fees, insurance fees, and room and board are excluded from amounts reported on the Form 1098-T.You should rely on your own financial records and receipts to document those expenses. For further information on "qualified" education expenses, please review IRS Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education.
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Does my education abroad program provider issue 1098-T forms to students for tax purposes?
Some program providers have the capability to provide Forms 1098-T for individual students. Students who would like a copy of their current account statements from their program providers should contact the program provider's Billing Coordinator to request a zero-balance account statement. For example, if you participated in a fall program in Costa Rica through USAC, please contact USAC to request a 1098-T form for that semester.
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I participated on a faculty-led program through UAB. Where can I expect to see the tuition from this program reported?
The tuition charges should be reflected on your Form 1098-T. However, if the charges are not reflected on your Form 1098-T, please refer to your UAB student account for specific tuition billing records related to your faculty-led program.
The Education Abroad Office cannot provide advice regarding expenses related to your education abroad experience and their eligibly for tax write-offs. Please consult your tax professional for further information.
The maturity, confidence, and skills that your child will gain from his/her experience will far outweigh your initial uneasiness. This guide aims to familiarize you with the study away process and will help prepare you to support and encourage your students before, during, and after this important adventure.
- We work extensively with all students to help them arrange the details of their experience abroad.
- It is essential that you communicate with your students about their study away plans.
- Your students are also responsible for making sure their study away preparations are in order.
Parent Resources
Contact Us
Families, we encourage you to review the resources on our website or speak with your student about questions you may have. However, if you still have questions, we invite you to email us at
A wide range of courses are available for you to take while studying abroad, but course offerings vary by program. You can choose to take core curriculum courses, major or minor courses, elective courses, or a combination of all. There is a lot to consider when selecting the courses you will take abroad, so we’ve provided a few resources below that can help you get started.
Explore Your Academic Interest
Identify Degree-Appropriate Courses
Knowing how your credits will apply to your degree is essential to planning your academic success. We encourage you to start this process early so that you can stay on track with your degree plan.
Learn More: Appropriate Courses →
Request Course Approvals
Course articulation is an important element of planning your study abroad experience. You should start this process before you go abroad.
Learn More: Course Approvals →
Know How Your Credit Works
From placeholders to residency requirements, it’s important to know how you will earn your study abroad credit for the program you select.
Learn More: How Credit Works →
International Credit & Grade Conversion
Foreign universities often use a different system of measuring course credits. It’s important to be aware of this when selecting courses.
Learn More: Conversions →If you want to change the world, you need to see it. You came to college to grow and learn and figure out who you want to be. If you truly want to explore and find yourself, you should study abroad.
Ready to take the first step?
Complete the World Blazer Interest Form today! This required first step provides the Education Abroad team with an overview of your needs and interests so that we can help you find and apply for the right program.
After submitting the form, be sure to schedule an appointment with a Peer Ambassador to discuss your program options and get your questions answered.
Studying abroad can be affordable!
There are many affordable programs and in most cases you can use your financial aid. With more than $60,000 available in Education Abroad scholarships, your financial aid, and low-cost options, we can help you find a program that fits your needs.
Explore Affordable Programs →
Credit towards your degree plan
Think studying abroad will set you back? False. With careful planning students can graduate on-time while having a study abroad experience. You might even graduate early! There are numerous courses already approved for degree credit, and we’ll work with you to find the perfect program.
Plan Your Academic Success →
Intern, research, or serve abroad too!
We live in a global society. Employers are looking for bright, well-rounded graduates with international experiences to enter the workforce. Studying abroad isn’t about just the classroom-- you can intern abroad, conduct international research, participate in international service-learning, or present at an international conference. Gain the hands-on experience in a global context today!
Find a Program →