Financial Aid for Education Abroad

Financial Aid for Education Abroad Programs

Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity to explore new cultures, gain global perspectives, and grow both personally and academically. The best part? Financial aid can help make it possible! Start planning early and meet with a financial aid counselor to explore your options!

General Information:

  • Grants and loans received during fall and spring semesters may be used for education abroad programs at ßÙßÇÂþ»­ or other SUNY institutions.
  • No special funds are reserved specifically for education abroad.
  • For summer programs, loans and Pell Grant (if eligible) may be the only available form of aid.
  • For winter programs, no aid options are available.  Contact Financial Aid directly to discuss options.

SUNY vs. Non-SUNY Programs:

  • If attending a SUNY program, New York State’s Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) will apply.
  • If attending a non-SUNY program, TAP will not be available.
    • Refer to the section "If you're attending a non-SUNY Education Abroad Program" for more details.

Steps to Follow:

  1. Meet with a financial aid counselor once you decide on a program. Bring your acceptance letter and program cost sheet.
  2. Check scholarship eligibility by contacting the Office of International Education and Global Initiatives (IEGI).
    • Location: Old Champlain, Room 240
    • Phone: 607-777-2336

Financial Aid "Must-Dos" Before Studying Abroad

  1. File FAFSA: Starting December 1 for the upcoming year.
  2. Submit required documents:
    • Obtain a letter of acceptance and detailed program budget from the institution running the program.
    • Complete and submit the Education Abroad Request for Review Form along with these documents to Financial Aid Services.
  3. Register with IEGI: Complete necessary paperwork so IEGI can pre-register you for education abroad.
  4. Discuss Aid Disbursement: Contact Student Accounts to discuss aid disbursement. Typically:
    • Spring programs: Aid disbursed in early December.
    • Fall programs: Aid disbursed in early May.
  5. Confirm Enrollment:
    • If attending a ßÙßÇÂþ»­ program, confirm your enrollment via BU BRAIN.
    • Failure to do so may result in your courses being canceled.

Education Abroad Request for Review Form:

  • Submit this form to Financial Aid Services with all required documentation to assess your eligibility for aid.
  • Your financial aid counselor will notify you if any changes are made to your existing financial aid offer.

If You're Attending a Non-SUNY Education Abroad Program:

  1. Program Approval: Get approval for your program from IEGI. Email program details to iegi@binghamton.edu for review.
  2. Consortium Agreement:
    • Check if the school/program will accept a Consortium Agreement. Financial aid cannot be processed without this agreement.
    • Once approved by IEGI, they will send you the agreement and require you to complete the Non-SUNY online application.
  3. Upfront Payment: Check with your host school whether you need to pay upfront. If you receive financial aid and have paid upfront, you will receive a refund from Student Accounts.
  4. Enrollment Verification: Refunds will only be issued after completing and submitting an Enrollment Verification form.
  5. Direct Deposit: Sign up for Direct Deposit through BU BRAIN by providing your bank’s routing and account numbers.

Payment and Refunds

  • Most programs require completion of a form verifying financial aid amounts and disbursement timelines, completed by Financial Aid and Student Accounts offices.
  • For non-SUNY programs, refunds will not be released until an Enrollment Verification form is received.
  • To arrange refund payments or discuss payment processes:
    • Visit Student Accounts: Admissions Center 101
    • Phone: 607-777-2702
  • If you decide not to attend or withdraw from the program, return any disbursed funds to Student Accounts. Failure to do so may result in loss of future aid eligibility and financial liability..