How to Apply

How to Apply to Ball State Study Abroad

Once you’ve decided that you want to study abroad, follow the application process below:

1. Choose your study abroad adventure. You can browse our program catalog or book an exploratory advising appointment to help you make the best choice, taking into consideration the length, term, academic offerings, and costs of a program.  

EXPLORE OUR PROGRAMS ADVISING

2. Apply to your program. Click the apply button on your program’s information page. Make sure you’re logged in with your Ball State credentials, select your term, and you’ll see a checklist of what you need to do to complete your application.  

3. Investigate scholarships and grants. Study abroad doesn't have to be an expensive extra, and there are resources that can help make your program more affordable. Visit our Scholarships page to look at opportunities from within Ball State and from national organizations.

4. Commit to your decision. After you’ve been officially accepted, take a little time to think about it. You might still have some questions for financial aid, your academic advisor, or your family—have the conversations you need to — and when you’re ready, click the commit button.  

5. Get ready to go! Your application will guide you through post-decision tasks like choosing courses, arranging equivalent credits in your department, and flight itineraries. You’ll also have a pre-departure orientation to attend. 

Application Cycle

While specific programs may have deadlines outside of these cycles, most programs will use the following dates:

Application Phases and Statuses

Your study abroad application will involve different phases and statuses. Below is a guide to understanding what each means.

Phases:

• Pre-Decision: Before your application can be accepted, you will need to complete all the pre-decision application items. This typically includes emergency contact information, passport information, and signature of liability and billing documents. Once complete you will submit your application.
• Post-Decision: Once your application has been accepted, you now need to choose to Commit to the program! You will also be presented with new post-decision tasks, which typically include flight itinerary and credit transfer equivalency. In most cases, these items are not due until 1 week before departure. 
• Abroad: During the dates of your program, there are typically no tasks to complete for our office.
• Returnee: After you return, you will be asked to complete a brief survey. If you received a Rinker Center scholarship, you will also be asked to share a note of gratitude to the donor and/or other means of service.

Statuses:

• Pending (but not submitted): Complete your Pre-decision application items then click the Submit button!
• Pending (and submitted): Your application is being reviewed by the Study Abroad Office, which may take some time.
• Accepted: The Study Abroad Office has accepted your application; now you need to click the Commit or Decline button.
• Nominated: The Study Abroad Office has accepted your application but is waiting for second acceptance from the partner university or provider.
• Waitlist: Your program is full, but a spot may be offered to you as others drop out.
• Committed: You're in! Once the Commitment Deadline passes, you would be financially responsible for your program.
• Withdrawn: You either declined, withdrew your application, or had a staff member withdraw it for you.
• Not Accepted: Rejected from the program, usually due to insufficient GPA or being on Academic Warning.