Study Abroad Programs

Our faculty-led study abroad programs are an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in another culture and build your language skills. The programs run for three to five weeks in the summer. Depending on the program, you might stay with a host family, on a college campus or at a hotel. You'll enjoy a blend of exploration and guided activities as you earn up to six credit hours toward your foreign language major or minor.

Interested in applying? Visit the Study Abroad at NIU website

Cost and Financial Aid

Program cost varies. We offer several scholarships to help cover costs. Learn more about our study abroad awards and scholarships.

You may be eligible for federal or state grants or loans through NIU. Read more about financial aid. You can use a scholarship from an outside organization if the organization agrees. You can't use a tuition waiver.

France

La Vie Provençale

Join us to experience the fascinating culture of the south of France. Located on the Mediterranean Sea, Aix-en-Provence offers the elegance of a large metropolis and the charm of an intimate setting. You'll stay with a host family and have the option of living with other students. You'll soak in the French culture as you:

  • Visit the picturesque Luberon countryside, full of hilltop villages, vineyards and lavender fields.
  • Journey to the port city of Marseille, including a visit to the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde.
  • Explore the medieval city of Avignon and the Palais des Papes, a 14th-century gothic palace.

A typical day includes class time, cultural events and free time. You can earn credit for the following courses:

  • FLFR 300 - Special Topics in French Language, Literature, Linguistics or Culture (topic: Provençal culture) (3 credits)
  • FLFR 400 - Special Topics in French Language, Literature, Linguistics or Culture (topic: Provençal culture) (3 credits)
  • Independent Study/Research (requires advance approval) (1-3 credits)

For more information, contact Matthew Smith at msmith6@niu.edu.  

Read a blog by a student participant.

Germany

Facets of Contemporary Germany

The welcoming Internationales Haus Sonnenberg will be your home base as you explore destinations such as Goslar, Göttingen and the VW Autostadt in Wolfsburg. You'll also follow in the footsteps of the Brothers Grimm as you travel along the German Fairy Tale Road, staying at excellent hotels. The program ends with several days in Berlin, featuring sightseeing, guided tours, expert presentations and exploration.

A typical day includes class time, cultural events and free time. You can earn credit for the following courses:

  • FLGE 300 - Special Topics in German Language, Literature, Linguistics or Culture (3 credits)
  • INTL 301 - Study Abroad Program (3 credits)

For more information, contact Professor Jessamine Cooke-Plagwitz at jpcooke@niu.edu.

Read a blog by a student participant.

Spain

Spanish Language and Culture in Toledo, Spain

With its rich cultural history and picturesque scenery, you'll have much to explore in Toledo. You can stay in a university residence hall or with a host family. In the past, we've enjoyed trips and activities such as:  

  • Guided tours of Toledo, Cuenca and Segovia.
  • Flamenco/Sevillanas dance classes.
  • Spanish cooking classes.
  • Spanish film nights.

A typical day includes class time, cultural events and free time. You can earn credit for one or two of the following courses:

  • FLSP 302 - Advanced Composition in Spanish
  • FLSP 311 - Advanced Spanish Conversation
  • FLSP 461 - Seminar on the Cultures of Spain
  • FLSP 400 - Special Topics in Spanish Language, Literature, Linguistics or Culture
  • FLSP 561 - Seminar on the Cultures of Spain
  • FLSP 500 - Special Topics in Spanish Language, Literature, Linguistics or Culture

For more information, contact Francisco Solares-Larrave at fsolares@niu.edu.

Read a blog by a student participant.

Contact Us

World Languages and Cultures
Watson Hall 111
815-753-1501
askfl@niu.edu