Education Abroad at Georgia Tech
Each academic year, over 2,500 students at Georgia Tech go abroad through over 130+ education abroad programs offered through the Institute. During the 2024-2025 academic year, approximately 2,576 Georgia Tech students traveled to over 50 different countries across the 5 continents. For more information on Georgia Tech international activity, see the Office of International Education reports here.
Education abroad brings numerous benefits to students, including, but not limited to:
Academic benefits:
- Participants typically graduate with higher GPAs
- Participants are more likely to graduate
Professional development:
- Participants develop a global mindset and skills desired by employers
- Participants grow in career readiness
Personal growth:
- Participants increase their confidence and independence
- Participants broaden their perspectives and intercultural competency
FERPA
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
FERPA is a federal law that affords all post-secondary students certain rights pertaining to their educational records. Under this law, Institute employees are not allowed to disclose information (other than "Directory Information") without the student's written consent.
We understand you may have certain questions about his/her program or standing. However, other than information that is public and posted on our website, we are not permitted to discuss the details of his/her participation.
All pertinent education abroad information is sent directly to your student. Please ask them to share that information with you. If you still have questions, please have your student send written consent to their education abroad advisor (see contacts) to discuss record with you.
For more information on FERPA, please visit: http://www.registrar.gatech.edu/alumni/parentinfo.php
Selecting an Education Abroad Program
Students can explore education abroad programs offered by Georgia Tech on our Atlas page: atlas.gatech.edu. From the Program List, students can browse programs, compare options and start an application.
Programs vary depending on program type, duration, destination, course offerings, etc. Students are strongly encouraged to discuss with their education abroad advisor, and program director/coordinator if applicable. Students should also consult with their academic advisor and financial aid advisor to determine the most suitable program option for their academic, professional, and financial considerations.
When exploring and selecting an education abroad program, we encourage students to look at:
- Program dates and important deadlines
- Course offerings and eligibility requirements
- Costs and financial information
- Cancellation policy
Students can schedule an advising appointment with an Education Abroad Advisor to explore international opportunities.
Costs and Financial Info
For financial information, visit our Financial Information & Resources page.
Costs vary depending on program type, duration and destination. Students and families are encouraged to review the Financial Info tab on the Atlas program page for their chosen program for financial planning.
Most GT education abroad programs have a program deposit due at the time of application completion. Students should review all program information, especially the cancellation policy, thoroughly PRIOR to completing the application and paying the program deposit.
Health and Safety Abroad
The health and safety of our students, faculty and staff when traveling abroad is our top priority. Education Abroad programs organized and managed by Georgia Tech require participants to be enrolled in supplemental insurance contracted through the USG. For information on the education abroad insurance, visit the Health and Safety page.
Upon acceptance to a program, education abroad participants must complete a mandatory pre-departure orientation. Each education abroad program will have additional meetings prior to program departure. These pre-departure meetings cover important information regarding safe travel practices, insurance and health matters.
Students with U.S. passports are encouraged to register with the Department of State Safe Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at https://step.state.gov/step to receive updates about health, safety, and security for their study abroad destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an education abroad program cost?
Costs vary depending on program. Please see our Costs and Financial Info section above for more details.
Program costs can also be found under individual program pages on Atlas, under the Financial Info tab.
Can my student’s HOPE/Zell scholarship be used for education abroad?
HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarship may be used to pay toward the cost of tuition.
For more information, please visit the Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid’s page on HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships or email: HOPE@finaid.gatech.edu.
What if my student needs to cancel participation in an education abroad program?
Students must notify their appropriate Education Abroad Advisor and Program Director (if applicable) to request an official withdrawal from a program.
Students should carefully review cancellation policies on Atlas program pages prior to withdrawing from the program to fully understand potential financial repercussions.
Who do I contact in case of an emergency?
If students are abroad and encounter an emergency, they can contact GT Police Department at 404-894-2500 to be connected with the Dean on Duty.
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS? Please email education.abroad@oie.gatech.edu to get connected with an Education Abroad staff.