Study Abroad vs. Study Away

Study Abroad takes you overseas, Study Away stays closer to home, but both can change your life.

When students start exploring global learning opportunities, they often come across two terms: study abroad and study away. They sound similar, but they offer very different types of experiences, and knowing the difference can help you choose the right program for your goals, schedule, and budget.

At GLO, we specialize in study abroad: short-term, for-credit programs that take U.S. students overseas for immersive academic and cultural learning. But we know some students might be considering both options.

So let’s break it down 👇

What Is Study Abroad?

Study abroad means you’re leaving your home country (the U.S.) and traveling internationally to participate in a program for academic credit. This might be for a semester, summer, or a short-term program like GLO’s 2–3 week experiences.

Key features:

• You travel outside the U.S.

• You may earn academic credit

• Programs may include faculty-led trips, business visits, cultural excursions, and more

• You experience new languages, customs, and global perspectives

Best for you if:

You want to grow your global mindset, build intercultural communication skills, and step fully outside your comfort zone.

What Is Study Away?

Study away typically refers to domestic programs, learning experiences within the U.S. but outside your usual campus. These could be short-term, semester-long, or project-based, and may focus on cultural identity, industry hubs, social justice issues, or regional history.

Key features:

• You travel within the U.S.

• You may earn academic credit or participate in co-curricular learning

• Often includes site visits, guest speakers, service learning, or community-based projects

• Still offers a break from your regular routine and a chance to explore

Examples:

A university-sponsored trip to Washington, D.C. for political science students, or a cultural immersion program in New Mexico.

Best for you if:

You’re looking for a change of scenery and hands-on learning but prefer to stay domestic, either for budget, accessibility, or comfort reasons.

Which Is Right for You?

Both study abroad and study away offer valuable experiential learning. The “right” one depends on your goals, comfort level, timeline, and academic plan.

Ask yourself:

• Do I want international experience?

• Am I comfortable navigating a new culture or language?

• What kind of personal growth am I looking for?

• Do I need to stay closer to home this term?

Why GLO Specializes in Study Abroad

At GLO, we believe that traveling internationally, especially for the first time, can unlock growth in powerful ways. That’s why we’ve created short-term, guided programs designed specifically for American college students who want to:

• Earn academic credit

• Build global business and cultural awareness

• Travel in a group and with support from GLO

• Get the most out of a 2–3 week program during winter or summer break

Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a frequent flyer, GLO offers an accessible, safe, and enriching way to experience the world.