Early planning is especially important if you are a science major with limited options for the number of classes you can take away from your campus. You may be surprised to learn that the science courses offered in countries where English is widely spoken, such as Denmark, Australia, South Africa, or England, will be accepted toward graduation. Next, find out how much a program will cost and if there will be any charges above tuition. Don't forget that airfare and spending money will have to be added to the figure you are given. Check with the financial services office for information as to how the program will be financed.
Many institutions allow financial aid to apply to programs abroad, so be sure to ask.
Some colleges and universities charge full tuition and make payments on behalf of their students. Others expect students to be responsible for making financial arrangements once they are accepted into a program. However the finances are arranged, it is preferable to remain a registered student at your institution during the time you are studying abroad. While you are in a foreign country, it is unlikely you will be able to work, so saving money prior to departure may be important. There are scholarships available for U.S. college students who study abroad, and some are specifically for students who are from ethnic groups.