Joliet Junior College offers many study abroad opportunities around the world. All academic credits transfer directly to JJC and programs incorporate cultural experiences and field trips.
If you are unsure about study abroad, here are a few reasons to help you decide:
To provide wider variety of program types and destinations, some programs are offered through our partners (such as Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP)) while others are led by JJC faculty. Every study abroad program has its pluses and minuses. The list below will help you decide which program is right for you. Regardless of your choice of program, "study" comes first in the study abroad!
Summer programs are cheaper and easier to fit into your schedule but have little flexibility in course selection. Due to short period of time (2-4 weeks), the itinerary is tight with little to no opportunities for independent travel. If you would rather travel with the group in a controlled setting, summer program is a great option for you. All summer programs regardless of focus include excursions and field trips. Application deadline is Feb. 15 unless otherwise noted. Programs are offered in the following destinations:
NOTE: Main components of the programs remain the same from year to year. Summer 2025 information may be used for SM2026 planning purposes. Program dates and cost information will be updated during 2025-26 academic year.
Semester-long programs (14-16 weeks) allow for more cultural and language immersion, flexibility in course selection, and an opportunity for independent travel. These programs require full-time enrollment of 12 to 15 credit hours. This allows to create a schedule that is unique to your academic and personal interests. Semester-long programs are offered in:
Some programs are offered during spring break as part of a spring semester course. Please contact the appropriate program advisor for details.
It is never too early to start planning your study abroad experience. In fact, it is best to choose the program during your first or second semester at JJC. Early planning allows you to select a program that meets your academic and personal goals which, in turn, increases likelihood of receiving scholarships and financial aid.
Begin researching programs using links on this page and then schedule an appointment with International Education Coordinator to discuss your options.
Minimum requirements include 6-12 credit hours completed at JJC with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5/4.0. Some programs require completion of ENG.101 or ENG.102 with B or better.
Financial aid may cover part of the program cost for eligible students. Even if your educational expenses are covered by other sources, applying for financial aid broadens your eligibility for scholarships and other support programs. Contact International Education Coordinator to discuss your options.
Applications for all study abroad programs must be reviewed and approved by the JJC International Education Coordinator, Nataliya Marchenko at nmarchen@jjc.edu. Contact International Education Office at studyabroad@jjc.edu to request study abroad application. Registration deadlines are:
When applying for scholarships, consider ALL scholarships you may qualify for, not just study abroad specific. Any scholarship covering educational expenses may be applied to cover study abroad cost. Consider scholarships that may be available through your or your parents' workplaces, churches or community organizations, clubs, etc.
NEW! Crawford Honors College students may be eligible for full study abroad scholarship!
JJC offers several study abroad scholarships.
Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship
Will award up to $5,000. Students do not have to be enrolled in the study abroad program to qualify. Start working on your application essays early and read through all of the resources and guidance under the APPLICANTS tab on the Gilman website.
(FEA) gives preference to students with financial need, along with minority, community college and first-generation students. Applicants to FEA are considered for all scholarships they meet the criteria for, along with the FEA General Scholarships.
We understand that parents have many questions about the value and safety of study abroad experience. Download A Parent Guide to Study Abroad to help your student succeed.
