Study Abroad

Study abroad opens the door to global learning—giving you the chance to explore new places, challenge your thinking, and see your education from a new perspective.

I want to study abroad but...

I'm worried about costs.

Program costs vary greatly depending on the type and length of the program. Our Financial Aid Office can help you understand out-of-pocket costs before you commit to a program.

I'm afraid I won't graduate on time.

Your academic advisor can help you plan your trip around degree requirements to ensure you stay on track.

I don't speak another language.

Most of our study abroad programs are taught in English and do not require prior language experience.

Student Testimonial

Lainey's Experience in Seville, Spain

Lainey Arrol

Public Relations and Advertising Major, Class of 2027

I was lucky enough to be able to study abroad for the spring 2026 in Sevilla, Spain through Drake University’s DU: Spain program. This program offers students of any major the ability to go to Spain with an accompanying Drake faculty member. This faculty member teaches one on-site class to all of the Drake students that choose to go abroad. While I only had one class with my fellow Bulldogs I was able to take the remainder of my classes at the Universidad de Sevilla, right in the heart of the city center! Here I took classes such as Spain’s Classical Heritage, Gender Views in Contemporary Spanish Cinema, and International Marketing — topics I would’ve never been able to explore on campus. While all my classes were taught in English, I was able to be apart of a language exchange program where I was paired with a local Spanish student to increase my Spanish knowledge (which, again, was zero). While I am no where near fluent in Spanish I loved being able to form this connection with someone my age and be shown some of the more ‘underground’ city spots.

Student Testimonial

Nathan's Experience Across Honduras

Nathan Kim

Doctor of Pharmacy, Class of 2027

As a leader of this trip, it was incredibly rewarding to see student newcomers experience the culture of a different country for the first time. They were nervous at first, and they definitely took a leap of faith coming with me. Looking back, there was so much joy and laughter, and they really embraced the Honduran community and worked super hard. It was an eye-opening experience for them.

Student Testimonial

Katie's Experience Across Australia

Katie Jones

Psychology, Management, & Education, Class of 2027

Everything we did was truly impactful, but personally, my most impactful experiences were cooking meals to serve to homeless individuals at Our Big Kitchen, going on hikes led by Aboriginal guides and learning about the beauty of Aboriginal culture, and viewing the beauty of the natural world through each site we visited, including the Daintree Rainforest, the Blue Mountains, various beaches, and of course, the Great Barrier Reef. I’m so grateful for this enriching, eye-opening educational experience and plan to utilize these educational opportunities to help improve the lives of others in need through my continual pursuit of service to non-profit organizations back home.

Student Testimonial

Mike's Experience in Accra, Ghana

Mike Stupi

Public Relations & Management, Class of 2026

Throughout my time in Ghana, my eyes were opened to the intricacies of foreign involvement in the country's economy, as well as the current struggles Ghana faces with digital marketing. I came with a personal mission to evaluate the infrastructure and development of digital marketing within the country. I had the privilege of speaking with Eric Opoku, Ghanaian Minister of Agriculture, as well as Her Excellency Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the Vice President of Ghana. We discussed policy, economic development, and the future of Ghana's economy and finances.

Student Testimonial

Sydney's Experience

Sydney Smith

Environmental Science & Secondary Education, Class of 2027

I think [this program is] a great opportunity to learn about the large-scale systems that affect Belize's healthcare, indigenous rights, sustainability, and economy. We got to see the impacts of system interactions in real time, and it's so much more impactful than learning about it from a book. It's also a great way to gain access to new ideas of what sustainability can/should look like in countries of varying sizes and economic statuses.

Student Testimonial

Savannah's Experience Across India

Savannah Ervin

Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Class of 2027

My favorite part of the trip so far has been making adaptive equipment for the patients here and working with them side by side! I love that Drake OT is super hands-on and there are so many opportunities for student engagement, such as work, travel, and volunteering. Plus, the food is incredible!

Alumni Testimonial

Sydney's Experience in Ecuador and the Galapagos

Sydney Dvorak

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Law, Politics and Society Major, Class of 2025

I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Ecuador and the Galapagos in January 2024 through the Drake J-term study abroad program. While in Quito, Ecuador, I was able to stay with a host family who welcomed me into their home with open arms. On one of our free days, my host family drove me to Cayambe, known for their biscochos (a crumbly biscuit they make in front of you) and to Otavalo, known for the largest indigenous craft market in South America. I was able to bring back a giant alpaca blanket with me from a local artisan! In the Galapagos, I was able to admire the incredible ecological diversity (and see my favorite bird, the Blue-footed Booby) while discussing what it means to conserve this ecosystem. This program gave me the opportunity to fully immerse into Ecuadorian culture – to experience the laughter, joy, and kind hearts of so many Ecuadorians.

How do I get started?

Studying abroad might feel like a big step, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. From exploring your options to getting advising and applying, we’ll guide you through each stage so you can move from idea to experience with confidence.

Start Planning

Every great study abroad experience begins with a plan. Meet with your academic advisor to map out how studying abroad fits into your degree, timeline, and goals—so you stay on track while making the most of your global experience.

Find a Program

With programs around the world—from semester study to short-term travel—there’s an option for every interest and schedule. Explore your choices to discover the location, format, and focus that match your goals.

Get Guidance & Take the Next Step

Ready to move forward? Connect with the Study Abroad team for personalized advising. You’ll get support to refine your options, understand requirements, and confidently complete your application.