Questions to consider with an Advisor/by yourself:

• How is the military viewed in my host country?
• What unique perspectives can I contribute towards my study abroad experience? What do I hope to gain from my study abroad experience?
• What military/family/school obligations at home do I need to consider when planning?
• Can I apply my veteran’s benefits to my study abroad program?
• Have I met with both Veterans and Military Services and the Education Abroad Office?
• Are there similar local VA organizations or clubs in the area I am traveling to where I could meet others?

Veteran's Benefits and Education Abroad:

• Global Exchange Program: with this type of program, you will be paying tuition directly to UofSC at the in-state rate but will be taking classes at a foreign institution; because of this, UofSC is seen as a third-party provider and therefore are likely not VA-benefit eligible
• Global Classroom Program / Global UofSC Program: with these types of programs, tuition comes directly to UofSC and courses are taught by UofSC faculty (thereby being UofSC "owned"); further, these short-term programs are often more feasible for students who have military/family obligations at home and can’t be gone for longer periods of time
• Global Direct Program: participants pay tuition directly to the host institution; for this reason, you will need to ensure that there is a School Certifying Official (SCO) at your host institution who will agree to certify your benefits; you can verify this through the Education Abroad Office or by visiting WEAMS
• Global Partner Program: sometimes called a “third-party provider,” SCOs are often less likely to certify benefits for these programs because you would be paying your tuition and fees to a third party; if you were interested in a Global Partner Program, plan to meet with the Education Abroad Office to discuss the process

Resources:

• VA Post-9/11 GI Bill: Study Abroad Program: Official information from the Veterans Benefits Administration on how the Post-9/11 GI Bill may apply to study abroad program fees and tuition. Use this as a resource as you work with the UofSC School Certifying Officials to certify your benefits for your study abroad program.
• The Last Continent: Follow UofSC student Brooks Herring, a Navy veteran, as he describes, in mesmerizing and honest detail, his experience abroad in Australia.
• From Soldier to Student: Kaylee Tindle, an Army veteran, studies in Morocco with ISA (a UofSC-approved Global Partner Program). In this brief letter, she reflects on her reasons for wanting to study abroad.