Choosing a Program

For many students, the hardest part of studying abroad is getting started! At USAC, we want to help make this process as straightforward as possible. Every journey has to start somewhere, and your study abroad journey starts here. 

USAC Program Models

USAC offers two types of program models for study abroad: Specialty (UNR credit) and Partnership (transfer credit). Some key model differences include pricing, type of transcript awarded, the type of support on-site, the level of student independence, etc. Both models offer a variety of academic courses taught in English, immersion opportunities, access to the host university clubs and activities, language courses, housing support and assistance, and more.

You may want to focus first on programs that meet specific needs and then consider the program model to understand some of the differences.

Learn more about USAC Program Models

Specialty (UNR credit)

  • USAC Resident Director & staff onsite to provide live support 24/7
  • Curated course list taught by local USAC faculty on the host university campus in classes with other USAC students (and sometimes international students as well)
  • USAC-arranged housing, field trips, activities, and optional tours
  • Academic calendar mirrors U.S. academic calendar
  • Most locations offer language-intensive options
  • Receive UNR transcript / U.S. credit

Partnership (Transfer credit)

  • Similar to an exchange program, USAC partners with a host university abroad to send students to their campus. Students receive support from host university staff; there is no USAC staff onsite for most Partnership programs. Support available from the international students office on campus with whom USAC partners.
  • Direct enrollment in host university, wider course selection, courses with local and international students
  • Academic calendars may vary from the standard U.S. academic calendar
  • Receive host university transcript / foreign credit (students will independently work with UNR on credit transfer process)

Things to consider

To guide your research and find the best study abroad fit for you, begin by considering these four factors:

  1. Academics - What kind of classes do you want to take? What courses do I require to stay on track to graduate on time?
  2. Timeline - When do you want to study abroad? How long do you want to study abroad for?
  3. Location and culture - Where do you want to go?
  4. Cost - What will it cost to attend a given program vs. a term at UNR? (Did you know that it can often cost less to study abroad with USAC than to study on campus for the same term?)

Depending on your goals, you may find one factor to be more important than others. For example, the classes you need may limit your destination options, or, you may decide that you are willing to compromise in other areas to go to your dream destination. Making a list can be very helpful. Do some soul-searching. When you close your eyes and imagine yourself studying abroad, where are you? On a coast, in a big city, in a jungle?

Take into account your personal preferences and interests, such as proximity to family, travel opportunities, hobbies, and lifestyle choices. What is your intended career path? Consider your long-term goals and how studying in a particular location can contribute to your career, personal growth, and overall life plans.

Planning far in advance? Set aside some elective credits for study abroad! Students who reserve some of their elective courses for their study abroad find they have much more flexibility when it comes to selecting a program.

Finding courses

Specialty courses (UNR credit)

  • Begin by visiting the UNR Academic Advising Guides for Specialty Programs page
  • Search for programs based on location or by academic discipline
    • Note: Not all courses shown will be offered every term. Make sure to check out the program-specific webpage for more details.
  • Visit the Courses page for any given program location and term and review the information under the Academics section to get a better understanding of the course expectations for that program

Partnership courses (Transfer credit)

  • Begin by visiting the UNR Academic Advising Guides for Partnership Programs page
  • Browse for disciplines offered at the host university 
  • Visit the Courses page for any given program location and term and review the information under the Academics section to get a better understanding of the course offerings and academic expectations for that program
  • Scroll down to the bottom of the Courses page to find a link and/or instructions for finding courses on the host university website 
  • Identify courses you would like to take and submit the course descriptions/syllabi to your UNR Academic Advisor for pre-approval