Go global

TCU study abroad application opens for fall 2026

TCU Global Tabling (Ella Alexander/TCU 360)

TCU Global Tabling (Ella Alexander/TCU 360)

With the fall 2026 applications to study abroad opening, TCU students have the opportunity to spend a semester overseas and progress in their studies. For one TCU student, this entailed completing classwork in Athens during the weekdays before spending the weekend in Paris admiring the Eiffel Tower.

Ariel Thompson, a sophomore nursing major who studied abroad in spring 2025, reminisced about her time in Europe. She described visiting the Greek islands of Skopelos and Skiathos, saying, “That's when it really hit me, wow, this is my real life.”

Sophomore biology major Ariel Thompson poses in front of the Eiffel Tower on a weekend trip to France (Courtesy of Ariel Thompson).

Sophomore biology major Ariel Thompson poses in front of the Eiffel Tower on a weekend trip to France (Courtesy of Ariel Thompson).

According to Texas Christian University, 40% of students take advantage of study abroad opportunities during their time in college.

TCU Global offers a variety of programs through different providers, and applications are due March 31 at 11:59 p.m. Students can choose between programs run directly through TCU Global and affiliated programs offered through providers such as the Institute for the International Education of Students (IES) and Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE).

Symi, Greece (Courtesy of Ariel Thompson)

Symi, Greece (Courtesy of Ariel Thompson)

To start the application process, students should first meet with their academic advisor to review what credits will transfer into their major while overseas. It is recommended that students who are planning to study abroad take classes that fulfill the TCU Core Curriculum during that time. 

After meeting with their academic advisor, students should speak with their global advisor to review courses, destination choices, and ask any questions. After confirming the destination, students should apply through the TCU Global portal to their selected program.

Amalfi Coast, Italy (Courtesy of Ariel Thompson)

Amalfi Coast, Italy (Courtesy of Ariel Thompson)

Once applications are complete, students can begin considering ways to finance their study abroad. Students studying abroad for a full semester may apply their current TCU scholarships and grants toward their tuition. There are also additional scholarships available that can be applied for.

Depending on the program, students may need to complete additional application forms. For a TCU Global course, this could include applying to the university specific to that program. If accepted to the university, the student would then need to get their course choices approved.

Sahara Desert, Morocco (Courtesy of Ariel Thompson)

Sahara Desert, Morocco (Courtesy of Ariel Thompson)

If the student applied to an IES or CIEE program, they must complete additional forms for that program after completing TCU’s application. It is important to note that students can only participate in the affiliated programs offered by TCU.

Program start dates vary by location, with the earliest beginning July 2 and the latest beginning in September. If a student wishes to study abroad but can’t participate during the fall semester, TCU offers spring semester programs as well as summer semesters, and Maymester, allowing students to find the program that works for their schedule.

Crete, Greece (Courtesy of Ariel Thompson)

Crete, Greece (Courtesy of Ariel Thompson)

Life abroad doesn’t come without its challenges; Thompson described her first few weeks as “very difficult." However, once she settled in, she realized it wasn’t as scary as it felt initially. “Going abroad changed my life completely and I am so grateful," she added. 

Sebastián Galarza, a junior business major who transferred to TCU from a university in Peru, said the challenges of studying internationally are exactly what make the experience worthwhile.

Junior business major Sebastián Galarza and a study abroad advisor table for TCU Global outside the Mary Couts Burnett Library on March 4. (Ella Alexander/TCU 360)

Junior business major Sebastián Galarza and a study abroad advisor table for TCU Global outside the Mary Couts Burnett Library on March 4. (Ella Alexander/TCU 360)

“I think it is an opportunity to challenge yourself,” he said. “Coming to a country where the language, culture and food are different helps you grow and prepares you to face challenges and succeed.”

Rhodes, Greece (Courtesy of Ariel Thompson)

Rhodes, Greece (Courtesy of Ariel Thompson)