Global Education

Funding Global Education

Selected your global education program, but wondering how to pay for it? Ohio State students receiving financial aid may be able to apply that funding towards their program.

You must be formally accepted into a global education program through the Office of International Affairs before aid eligibility can be determined, and OIA will provide you with a budget letter once you have been accepted. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Ohio State Scholarship Application, will be used to calculate the amount of money you will be awarded for the semester or term in which you plan to study abroad.

Once you have completed and submitted both the FAFSA and Ohio State Scholarship Application, submit your budget letter and decision letter to BuckeyeLink. BuckeyeLink is available on a walk-in basis, no appointments necessary. Make sure to sign up for direct deposit as well, as this will allow you to receive any eligible funding two to three days prior to the start of your program, instead of waiting for a mailed check.

 

Funding FAQ

What types of aid can I use to fund my global education program?

Depending on your enrollment hours, most federal and state grants and loans can be used to finance global education expenses, including Pell Grants, Perkins Loans and Parent (PLUS) loans. Many campus-based scholarships and grants can be used as well. 

Are there any types of aid I cannot use?

Some external loans may not be used for global education—it is ultimately the loan provider's decision how the scholarship is administered. Some departmental scholarships may also be excluded.

How do most students fund their global education?

Loans are the largest source of financing for global education, and can be redistributed to allow a student a larger disbursement for the semester in which they will participate in a program. There are also many grants and scholarships available for eligible students.

Will my grants or scholarships be increased because I'm participating in a global education program?

No. Grants and scholarships have a set maximum amount per semester that a student may receive.

What is the deadline for filing the FAFSA?

The Ohio State priority deadline is February 1, but students interested in education abroad are strongly advised to complete and submit the application as soon as possible. The FAFSA opens on October 1 of the prior calendar year.

What is the deadline for filing the OIA global education common application?

The common application generally opens in September of the prior year for winter break, spring and spring break programs taking place in the following calendar year. For summer, autumn and year-long programs, the application is generally due in February of the same year. Review up-to-date guidelines for the current academic year here.

I'm participating in a global education independent program — what financial aid can I receive?

Students participating in a global education program not sponsored by the Office of International Affairs should review and follow these guidelines

I need to buy my plane ticket a month prior to leaving the country — can I access my financial aid early to pay for it?

No. According to federal regulations, financial aid will disburse seven to 10 days prior to the term during which the global education program is scheduled.

How can I put together a successful scholarship application?

Review these application strategies for tips to help you receive maximum scholarship awards.