Many people dream of studying abroad, but circumstances—they can’t leave their family, or they can’t get a scholarship to shoulder the admittedly large expenses of living alone in another country—may force them to get their degree at a local college.

But that doesn’t mean that they have to completely sacrifice their dreams of studying abroad. They have one option: to spend one or two semesters as an exchange student.

Choosing a university

Like any other class you want to take in college, you have to make sure that your semester abroad contributes to your overall academic goals. Whatever your major, or your field of interest, ask yourself which country and what program will best suit your purposes. You can’t randomly point to a map and say, “Oh, well, I’ve always wanted to know what it felt like to be in Paris.”

For example, if you’re taking a course in architecture, it would make sense to go to a country known for its fine tradition in that art. Or if you’re an economics major, you can go to an emerging country with the specific purpose of seeing the effects of certain government policies on entrepreneurial ventures or quality of life.

Choosing courses

Don’t overwhelm yourself with too many unrelated courses. If you have an academic goal, take preparatory courses so that you can go abroad with the basics in place—for example, take an elective in Renaissance architecture before going to Italy. You should also take a few units in the predominant language or start listening to tapes or taking online courses.

Gathering Resources

Ask your guidance counselor or student affairs office about the school’s foreign study programs. You can also ask about financial aid, or grants. Do be aware of the costs of living abroad, including housing and daily expenses. You can also contact the schools you want to apply to for any information on working on campus to offset certain costs.