FAQ - Study Abroad

Complete the Electronic Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), just as if you were applying for financial aid on-campus. The application opens on October 1st for the following academic year (fall, spring, summer). File early!
Contact WIU Study Abroad to determine the program that is right for you.
Once you have selected a program, the Study Abroad Coordinator confirms your enrollment, verifies expenses, and provides the necessary information to the Financial Aid Office.
The Financial Aid Office will assess your FAFSA and post an Award letter on STARS based on your financial aid eligibility and the costs provided by the Study Abroad Coordinator.

- Most programs available for on-campus study are also available for Study Abroad.
- Programs currently available for Study Abroad include:
  1. Grants - Federal Pell, Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP) grants, and SEOG
  2. Loans - Federal Stubsidiezed/unsubsidized loans and PLUS (Parent) loans
  3. Military programs - Illinois Veterans Grant (IVG) and Illinois National Guard (ING)

Most grant funds (except IVG and ING) are not available during the Summer Session. Students with remaining loan eligibility from the prior academic year may be eligible for Summer loan. Plus Loans would usually be an option for most dependent students.

Some Study Abroad programs do offer scholarships. Contact the Study Abroad Office for specific information. The WIU Scholarship Office also has information on a wide range of scholarship programs.

It could affect eligibility based on the WIU Satisfactory Academic Progress Requirements. Please contact the Center for International Studies or the Financial Aid Office if you think your grades may not arrive on time.

Western Illinois University