FACULTY-LED PROGRAMS… directed, group, travel-based
Faculty-led programs give you the opportunity to take a course while traveling domestically or abroad with other USD students and faculty members. You can expect to earn three to six credits, depending on the program duration and course content. Most trips are one to two weeks.
 
Costs:  Programs range from $1,500 - to $6,000, depending on the location and duration of the trip. These prices often include most on-site costs such as lodging, meals, local transportation, and cultural excursions.

Pros: affordable, short-term, travel with other USD students
 
Cons: prices vary depending on location, and programs vary year to year
 
 
 DIRECT EXCHANGE PROGRAMS… affordable, immersive, independent, university-based
USD works with 15 partner universities all over the world. Students from these universities can exchange for USD. The application process is straightforward and if you are in good standing with USD and meet minimum requirements such as a 3.0 GPA, applications are likely approved.

Costs: Students on exchange continue paying regular tuition and fees to USD; students are responsible for airfare, housing, and other university fees which vary by location.
 
Pros: authentic, immersive, affordable
 
Cons: limited location options, not all majors can apply
 
 
 AFFILIATE PROGRAMS… customizable, supportive, pre-arranged excursions
Study Abroad through third-party (non-USD) program providers offers extensive on-site support, including airport pick-up, course registration, housing placement, cultural excursions, and more. USD chooses to partner with these program providers based on reputation, academic quality, excellent student support services, and correspondence with our students' needs.
 
Costs: You do not pay USD tuition or fees when you study abroad through a third-party program provider, but instead, you pay a program fee directly to the program provider. Financial aid and scholarships may be used.
 
Pros: wide range of locations, flexible and affordable, additional scholarships available
 
Cons: lots of program options, early deadlines
 
 
 NATIONAL STUDENT EXCHANGE… customizable, supportive, pre-arranged excursions
The National Student Exchange (NSE) facilitates the exchange of students between universities in the United States, Canada, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Like going on a study abroad program, you're able to study for a semester or academic year at one of the 200 participating universities. With options in every U.S. state and beyond, NSE offers you the opportunity to explore a different academic and social experience as a college student.

Costs: Attend an out-of-state university for a USD price (or cheaper!), while receiving all regular federal financial aid and USD scholarships.
 
Pros: affordable, unique coursework, close to home
 
Cons: limited capacity