Study Abroad Programs Website

The best way to understand another culture is to experience it, to connect with it for a prolonged period. This also encourages a deeper understanding of our own cultures as we interact with and learn from others.

At Seattle Pacific University, we strive to develop cross-cultural connections — and the new perspectives that come with them — by encouraging students to study and live abroad. We want our graduates to appreciate and understand the differences and inter-dependencies that characterize our world. 

It’s never too early to start planning for your study abroad experience. Start by asking yourself some questions: What areas of study do you want to pursue? When do you plan to study abroad? How long do you want to be away? How are you funding your study abroad experience?

We recognize that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to international education, so we offer three basic types of programs:

SPU Faculty-Led Programs

Join SPU faculty as they teach SPU courses around the globe. Choose a short-term Global Seminar (two to four weeks) or spend an entire quarter abroad with SPU faculty and students. 

SPU Partner Programs

Spend a summer, quarter, semester, or full year enrolled in coursework hosted at select partners — foreign universities and programs — and earn transfer credit (or SPU credit, through a CCCU GlobalEd program). Credits will be transferred from foreign universities or accredited U.S. institutions. Students pay SPU tuition and fees and are eligible to use SPU scholarships and grants, state, and federal financial aid (except work study) during the semester abroad.

Non-Partner Programs

A wide selection of summer, quarter, semester or year-long programs are offered by accredited universities or study abroad organizations. Credits will be transferred from foreign universities or accredited U.S. institutions. Students pay tuition and fees directly to their chosen program and may be eligible to use state and federal financial aid (except work study), but do not receive SPU scholarships or grants during the period abroad.

How to Apply

Your first step is to explore these options to determine the best fit for you. Then meet with an advisor in the study abroad office to ask questions and review the application process. To be eligible, all participants must have the application and coursework approved prior to their studies abroad.

To determine costs and financial aid eligibility, check with Student Financial Services for complete details.