Studying abroad has long been seen as a dream for many American students—yet, for too many, it feels out of reach. High program costs, lack of information, and limited options often put global opportunities behind a wall.
This barrier is especially high for underrepresented groups: minorities, STEM majors, and community college students, who face additional hurdles such as tight academic schedules and fewer financial resources.
But change is happening. The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs launched the U.S. Study Abroad Capacity Building Program to break down these barriers through small grants and institutional support.
📊 The Reality: Who Gets to Study Abroad?
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Only 10% of U.S. undergraduates study abroad.
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Of those, 72% go to Europe—limiting global diversity in experiences.
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STEM majors? Just 15% participate.
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For minorities, low-income, and community college students—participation rates fall to the single digits.
This imbalance not only limits students’ worldviews but also runs counter to U.S. foreign policy goals of building globally competitive talent.
💡 How the Capacity Building Program Works
The program provides up to $35,000 in grants annually to U.S. colleges and universities.
In 2019, 22 institutions—ranging from community colleges to research universities—received funding. Their initiatives targeted key challenges such as affordability, program accessibility, and faculty support.
🏆 Success Stories: How Colleges Are Breaking Barriers
🔬 Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU)
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Problem: STEM students rarely study abroad due to rigid course schedules.
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Solution: Developed four short-term programs in less-traveled destinations like Germany and South Korea.
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Focus: Programs tied to cybersecurity and energy technology (aligning with U.S. foreign policy).
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Result: 30% increase in STEM participation in study abroad.
🌍 Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC)
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Partnered with Davidson County Community College.
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Launched a South Africa program with cultural workshops, targeted marketing, and scholarships.
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Special focus: Attracting minority male students and those in business and nursing programs.
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Impact: Made study abroad possible for students who traditionally lack access.
🏫 Building Sustainable Study Abroad Systems
Beyond short-term wins, schools are investing in long-term infrastructure:
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Dillard University → Established a dedicated Study Abroad Program (SAP) office, reducing student inquiry response time by 50%.
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University of Georgia → Created the Georgia Global Pathways Program, partnering with high schools to introduce study abroad planning early, with special attention to minorities and first-generation students.
Other best practices include:
✔️ Virtual International Experiences (VIEs)
✔️ Stronger global partner networks
✔️ Faculty training for overseas program leadership
🌎 Why It Matters
Studying abroad isn’t just about personal growth—it’s about preparing American students to:
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Compete globally
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Develop cross-cultural skills
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Strengthen international cooperation
The Capacity Building Program shows that with policy support + institutional empowerment + targeted funding, barriers can be overcome.
As more colleges join this effort, more U.S. students will step onto the global stage—injecting fresh energy into international exchange and shaping the future of cross-cultural understanding.
✨ Final Thought: Studying abroad should not be a privilege for a few—it should be an opportunity for all.