FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AUSTIN, TX – Thursday, November 13, 2025 API (Academic Programs International) is proud to announce that its Chief Executive Officer, Patrick Vogt, has been recognized by The PIE News as one of “The PIE’s 50 Voices for the Americas, 2025.” This prestigious annual list highlights innovative leaders, influential advocates, and key voices helping shape the future of international education across North, Central, and South America.

Compiled by The PIE News’s editorial team, the “50 Voices for the Americas” list spotlights individuals whose expertise, leadership, and advocacy have been instrumental in navigating a year marked by significant policy shifts and sector-wide challenges. This year’s list expands beyond North America to include influential figures from Central and South America, reflecting the growing interconnectedness of the global education landscape.

Beth Kennedy, Editor of The PIE News, emphasized the importance of recognizing those who have provided steady leadership and critical insight during a turbulent year for the U.S. and Canadian international education sectors.

“It has been a rollercoaster year for colleagues across the Atlantic and there have been many voices who have provided essential commentary,” Kennedy said. “This list acknowledges the champions in our sector, along with the innovators and those who keep colleagues informed and supported.”

API CEO Patrick Vogt’s inclusion reflects his continued leadership in advocating for the rights and experiences of international students, and his strategic guidance as API continues to expand access to global education opportunities.

“We are thrilled to see Patrick recognized among such a distinguished group of leaders,” said Mary Kay Hyde, CMO at API. “Patrick has been a steady, strategic voice advocating for equitable opportunities for global learners, championing student access to career-enhancing experiences, and guiding API through a year of meaningful growth and innovation.”

Under Vogt’s leadership, API has expanded its reputation, not only as a mission-driven organization, but also as a leader in cutting-edge technology solutions that empower students and universities. His commitment to programming excellence, combined with a forward-thinking approach to AI-powered tools and services, continues to position API at the forefront of an increasingly interconnected global ecosystem.

About API

Academic Programs International (API) encourages students of all ages to embark on a lifelong experiential educational journey that enriches lives, communities and organizations and helps every student, college and company to achieve their goals.  Through the creation of APIConnect, an experiential education technology platform, the company helps colleges, universities and students create and discover learning experiences customized to meet their needs. APIConnect offers a vast library of destinations, accredited courses, internships, and original programming geared toward maximizing students’ college experiences so they are better prepared for the workforce upon graduation. Based in Austin, TX, API sends thousands of students on hundreds of programs both virtually and in nearly 70 cities among more than 25 countries in Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, North America, and the Middle East.  

Meet Nina, a student who went abroad with API in Florence, Italy. Like many students preparing to go abroad, she was excited for new adventures, but also determined to be smart about her finances. Through careful planning and a few key strategies, Nina found a balance between budgeting and fully enjoying her time overseas. Read on to hear how she managed her finances! 

Advice from Nina

You’ll often hear study abroad alumni say, “studying abroad is the experience of a lifetime.” While it’s most definitely true, you don’t often hear alumni talk about the costs of studying abroad. As a study abroad alum, here are three practical budgeting tips for study abroad students so you can afford delicious local cuisine and a cute souvenir for a loved one!

Tip #1: Track Your Spending

Whether you are savvy with Excel or prefer a nice notebook and pen, having a system of tracking your spending is an effective way to stay aware of where you’re putting your money. While your bank does give you monthly statements, sometimes it’s wise to even track as you go.

I personally used Google Sheets (it’s free!), where I separated each column into amount spent, reason, and day of spending. I also color-coded the rows by month to make it easier to see each month’s totals.

 

Tip #2: Budget Your Time Abroad

Tip #3: Research Costs in Your Host City

What exactly should you research? Look into the average cost of living in your future host city (things like the cost of groceries and restaurants). You can also look into the cost of clothing and traveling. Keep in mind that both tend to fluctuate depending on where you shop or travel.

For example, in my research, I discovered that in Florence, it isn’t expensive to buy groceries. Plus, the cost of eating at restaurants was slightly lower if I ordered pasta dishes rather than main courses! Now this doesn’t mean that I didn’t order main courses from time to time; it just means that I knew what to expect going in.

Final Thoughts

By tracking your spending, budgeting your time, and researching costs, you’ll feel more prepared for your study abroad semester. Being prepared helps you visualize what you will and won’t spend money on, saving you the stress once you arrive at your destination. Good luck abroad!

Now It’s Your Turn to Go Abroad!

Thank you, Nina, for sharing your insights on budgeting a semester abroad. We hope this helps future students better understand the realities of budgeting abroad and proves that you can make it work! If you’re interested in going abroad, just like Nina, explore API’s programs in Florence and around the world.

API Launches ConnectAIQ: A Smarter, AI-Powered Platform to Transform Experiential Learning Across Campus

Austin, TX — Tuesday, May 27, 2025 – Academic Programs International (API) proudly announce ConnectAIQ, a next-generation experiential AI learning platform designed to revolutionize the way institutions develop and deliver hands-on learning opportunities, as well as the way they advise and coach students. Formerly known as APIConnect, the platform combines smart, AI technology, scalable innovation, and powerful data tools—all at no cost to API member institutions.

More than just a name change, ConnectAIQ represents a bold leap forward: an open, agnostic platform where any school or provider can build, curate, and manage any experiential learning opportunity, all while protecting student data. From study abroad to internships, from faculty-led programs to research and service experiences, ConnectAIQ unifies everything in one intelligent, user-friendly space.

“With ConnectAIQ, we’re building the infrastructure for our entire sector and for the future of experiential education,” said Patrick Vogt, CEO at API. “It’s a truly inclusive and adaptive AI platform that meets students and universities where they are—while providing the real-time data and smart tools needed to scale access to life-changing learning opportunities. And, with Membership, it’s free to access and use.”

Key benefits of ConnectAIQ for students and institutions include:

• AI-Powered Advising and Coaching: Delivered throughout the student lifecycle,
• AI-Powered Course Matching: Help students stay on track with degree progress. Known as the Global Course Navigator, this app provides intelligent course mapping and personalized program recommendations.
• Mobile-First Experience Delivery: Meet students wherever they are—on campus, abroad, or in the field—with timely, critical details delivered through a student-facing mobile app.
• Custom-Branded Hubs: Easily build and promote a curated catalog of experiential programs aligned with institutional priorities, brand, and cost-of-attendance.
• Centralized Program Management: Design, share, and approve all types of experiential programs—from study abroad and internships to exchanges and campus-based initiatives—in one place.
• Actionable Data & Insights: Track student interest, identify advising trends, and use real-time analytics and reporting tools to inform program development and strategy.
• Smart, Scalable Innovation: Combine modular program components to develop new models that meet evolving student needs and institutional goals.

ConnectAIQ empowers institutions to serve more students, more effectively, by embedding experiential learning into the heart of the student journey—from discovery and advising to program completion and beyond.

As demand grows for scalable, tech-enabled solutions that expand access to real-world learning, ConnectAIQ is the connective tissue between student potential and transformative experience.

To learn more or schedule a demo, visit https://apiabroad.com/newsroom/

Meet Rebecca Raynier, a senior studying Early to Middle Childhood Education, who completed an internship abroad in Sydney, Australia with API. Teaching in a Kindergarten classroom outside of Sydney, her time abroad provided insight into her passion for education. She also expanded her knowledge of global practices and forged meaningful cross-cultural connections. Read on to see Rebecca’s experiences and insights from her internship abroad in Sydney.  

Comparing Classrooms: Insights into Educational Systems

Rebecca’s internship experience in a Kindergarten classroom offered a firsthand comparison between the Australian and US education systems. What stood out to her was the unique approach to phonics education, influenced by the distinct accent and pronunciation differences. Despite initial challenges, Rebecca quickly adapted, showcasing the importance of flexibility and openness when immersed in a different environment: 

“It has been fascinating seeing firsthand how the education system in Australia compares to the US. Due to their accent, a lot of the vowel sounds they learn are different from how we learn to sound out words here in the US. Initially, it was more challenging for me to support students with reading and writing but I quickly learned to adapt to their different pronunciation.”

Embracing Cultural Immersion Beyond the Classroom

Beyond the classroom, Sydney’s vibrant atmosphere and accessible public transportation provided Rebecca with countless opportunities for exploration. 

“Being in Sydney was an amazing experience. The big city and accessible public transportation made it easy to find something fun to do every weekend. I am also close to many other unique places in the world such as Tasmania, New Zealand, Fiji, and the Great Barrier Reef. All of which I visited during my time abroad.”

Recommendations for Future Explorers

For those considering a similar adventure, Rebecca recommends solo travel as an empowering experience, facilitating personal growth and meaningful connections:

“I came here solo, and definitely recommend that other students do the same. It has been a great way to put myself out there and meet amazing people from all around the world!”

It’s Your Turn!

By listening to the stories of students like Rebecca, you can gain valuable insights into whether interning abroad is the right decision for you. With each experience abroad comes the chance to learn, grow, and connect with the world in ways that transcend the confines of the classroom. 

Many students find their programs to be more than an internship, but an opportunity to grow personally and professionally. While abroad, you have the opportunity to acquire valuable skills and earn course credits outside the classroom while leveraging API’s one-on-one career coaching and customized support. 

If you’re ready to embark on your own journey, API offers hundreds of internship placements across the world with reputable employers. Take the leap and discover the perfect internship for you!

Transitioning back to life at home after studying abroad isn’t always a smooth process. It’s a period filled with adjustments, reflections, and a longing for the experiences that shaped us while traveling abroad. Join us as Nicole Powers shares her journey, now one year removed from her life-changing experience in Sevilla, Spain. Her story serves as a testament to the complexities and joys of returning home from going abroad.

Hace un Año….

I like to think pieces of my heart are sprinkled throughout Sevilla. A little with my host family, my professors at school, the sweet lady I’d see at church, and my API coordinators. There’s a bit of me on the rooftop of my host home apartment complex, along the river where we’d picnic, at the bike rack where our group met, in the beautiful plaza, and in Premiere Garden with my friends. 

Memories of Daily Life in Spain

It’s hard to believe there was a time in my life before living in Spain. Not a day passes by without a memory from my journey passing with it. Whether it’s in seeing the framed pictures in my room, going to Spanish classes, or talking to friends from my program. I vividly remember the first few weeks after coming back home — a confusing mix of heartbreak, frustration, sadness, and uncertainty.

Seeking Guidance

A few months into my fall semester, a little over six months from returning from Spain, I found myself in my Spanish professor’s office going over some notes for my class project. She asked if I had any more questions, and I said I had one quick question, but it didn’t have to do with the project. I could feel every emotion coming to the surface as I asked, “How long does it take to adjust back to life after being abroad? I’m having a hard time.”

She expressed total understanding at the difficulty of adjusting to life back home, and how to keep memories of Spain with me. 

The fear and guilt of moving forward after life abroad is real, and I didn’t want to do anything wrong by settling too comfortably back into life here and letting go of my time in Spain. There is no right or wrong in the process, but I was still having a hard time trying to find that balance. 

My professor kindly gave me one of the best pieces of advice, which I continue to carry with me daily. “Just because you’re moving on doesn’t mean you’re letting go.” Something simple, common, yet so profound, and captured so well what I was struggling to realize.

Balancing Act

It’s hard to know how to carry your new country and new home while allowing yourself to continue life back in your original home. I just needed someone to remind me that I can keep Spain near and dear to my heart without missing out on life continuing here. 

I’ve found solace in conversations and reminiscing with friends, putting together videos of life abroad, rereading journals or vlogs of moments as they happened, looking through photos, listening to music, talking to other people, keeping in touch with my host family, and continuing to write and process everything.

Reflections of Gratitude

It’s been a year since moving to Spain, and I’m still trying to reflect and unpack it all. And truthfully, I don’t think I’ll ever fully comprehend everything from that semester. I know I’ll be recognizing and realizing lessons I’ve learned from my time abroad for months and years to come, both life lessons and personal lessons to better understand myself. 

I’m forever grateful for all the people I encountered who made my time abroad exactly as it needed to be. I’m grateful for every “yes” that led to the opportunity to study abroad, and for every “yes” of all the people I came to know and love. To anyone considering going abroad, I can guarantee it will have a lasting impact. It isn’t always easy, but the experience will carry over into every other facet of life.

A Part of Who You Are

For those who have returned from life abroad and are still figuring out how to navigate the next phase of life, you’re not alone. Even a year later, I’m still figuring out what this all looks like, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. 

Your time abroad will always be a part of who you are, and you’ll encounter people in the future who need to hear your story and perspective that only a post-abroad version of you could offer. Embrace every day, the good and the bad, and know that all of these moments continue to shape who you are.

Embrace Your Story

Your study abroad doesn’t end when you get home; the next piece is how you choose to incorporate your experience back here, which looks different for every person. You have not let go and you have not forgotten—you just get to find your own ways to carry your home abroad with you every day. 

When you come back, don’t worry about being the person who continually talks about their experience abroad. You’ll find a lot of us are right there with you, and we can’t wait to hear everything.

Transform Your Life with API

Through the highs and lows, the laughter and tears, Nicole has emerged from her journey abroad with a deeper understanding of herself and the world around her. As you’ve followed her story, perhaps you’ve found echoes of your own study abroad adventures. If you’re ready to embark on a transformative journey like Nicole’s, feel free to explore all our offerings.

Shoutout to Our Alumni!

Lastly, we wanted to give a big thank you to our API Alumni who shared their experiences with us! In sharing your stories, we spread the word about the benefits of studying and interning abroad. Your story may have a positive impact on other students, encouraging them to consider a life-changing experience abroad! 

If you studied or interned abroad with API, and wish to share your memories, experiences, travel tips, and more, please reach out! You can DM us through our Instagram account @apiabroad or email our Director of Alumni, Hannah Olevson, at hannah.olevson@apiexperience.com. We look forward to featuring your story!

Imagine strolling through the streets of Paris this summer, every corner brimming with history and culture, and you are participating in a life-changing internship that can shape your future! Interning abroad lets you expand your horizons, gain vital skills, and explore the world. Paris, with its iconic landmarks and global connections, is the perfect place for international internships. Here, you can dive into a new culture, build global networks, and gain a perspective that can open doors to countless career opportunities. Discover API’s Paris internships below!

API’s Paris Internships

Click the titles to take you to the internship listing!

Notre Dame Restoration Project Team (8-Week Internship)

Dates: May 29, 2024 – July 27, 2024

With this internship, you have the chance to be part of an extraordinary restoration project – the refurbishment of Notre Dame of Paris! In April 2019, a fire devastated the Cathedral of Notre Dame. Be a part of history by participating in its reconstruction, a true once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Who will be leading you? Meet your art history professor—Dr. Iliana Kasarska, one of 14 specialists appointed to a team of scientists and art historians with special access to the cathedral to begin their work. For arts and architecture students, this is the perfect internship to learn about restoring beloved buildings and monuments, as carried out by the teams of the Etablissement public under the Ministry of Culture. Here’s where you can learn more!

2024 Sports Management at the Paris Olympics (10-Day Career Expedition)

Dates: August 2, 2024 – August 12, 2024

Be part of the action during the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris! Learn from seasoned faculty who have worked for the Olympic games, and embrace this introduction through interactive lectures covering Olympic history from ancient times to the modern era. You’ll also hear from French personalities and sports experts, including former Olympic athletes. Visit iconic Olympic venues with special access saved just for this expedition. Lastly, you’ll also learn all about internship, job, and career opportunities within the exciting world of the Olympic Movement. Learn more here!

French Gastronomy and Wine Management (8-Week Project-Based Internship)

Dates: June 20, 2024 – August 17, 2024

Here’s your chance to experience a dynamic program with a project-based internship! You will delve into French wine, champagne, and gastronomy management exploring the intricacies of French culinary excellence. This includes sustainable business practices within the renowned French gastronomic landscape. The hands-on course will deepen your understanding of the cultural and business aspects of French wine, champagne, and gastronomy. It’s not just theory — you’ll apply your skills through a project-based internship, bridging academic knowledge with practical experience.

A group of carefully chosen students will have the opportunity to spearhead the coordination of exclusive wine tasting events in collaboration with Ecole Ducasse, a renowned culinary institution. This initiative is set to unfold in conjunction with the grandeur of the Olympic Games, where you can curate and orchestrate unforgettable experience. Discover this internship here!

Exploring Fashion and Luxury (8-Week Internship)

Dates: May 29, 2024 – July 27, 2024

For this internship, you will explore the nuanced landscape of luxury, through a comprehensive exploration of key concepts, case studies, and practical workshops. The journey begins by examining the essence of luxury, drawing distinctions between fashion and prestige, and learning the principles of marketing. A subsequent workshop navigates the trajectory from shoes to beauty, using Louboutin as a lens to understand brand extension strategies. Learn more here!

Whether you’re drawn to restoring iconic landmarks, exploring the fashion world, savoring culinary delights, or embracing the Olympic spirit, API’s internships in Paris serve as an investment in your future. Now’s your chance to intern abroad in Paris, and spend your summer on a unique adventure of cultural immersion and professional growth. Apply now — don’t let these opportunities pass you by!

New APIConnect mobile app meets students where they are and delivers a seamless experience for onboarding, orientation, and on-site delivery.

AUSTIN, TEXAS – May 31, 2023 — Academic Programs International (API), an  experiential learning and education technology provider, is pleased to launch the APIConnect mobile app for students. With this new app, students have useful features that make their onboarding, orientation, and on-site experiences safer and more enjoyable. Students can download the app from the Apple App and Google Play stores for the spring 2024 application season. 

APIConnect Simplifies the Process

Once students have applied to their program, APIConnect allows them to quickly dive into their onboarding process and easily and securely upload documents, such as their passport, headshot, and transcript, right from their phone. Furthermore, students receive notifications and nudges to ensure they stay on track and don’t miss important deadlines. Prior to this launch, onboarding was one of the most stressful and cumbersome parts of the experiential learning process industry-wide. The APIConnect app makes it fun and easy for students.

Consistency You Can Rely On

The app also improves the orientation portion of the student journey, creating a level of consistency and access that is unparalleled in the industry. Students can watch videos and review important materials relevant to their personalized program and can access the content for reference again and again, at any time, from any place. 

Making Important Information More Accessible

Once students arrive in their host country, the APIConnect app transforms into an on-site concierge, providing important information about health and safety, their API resident director, housing details, city guides, travel management, calendar of events, activity planning and more.

“API is on a mission to serve all students who want to study or intern abroad and to use technology to meet them where they are. In addition to providing unprecedented levels of student choice, we are making the onboarding, orientation, and on-site delivery of programs easier, safer, more intuitive, more affordable, and less stressful through our app,“ said Patrick Vogt, CEO. “The APIConnect mobile app will substantially improve students’ feelings of preparedness and readiness by increasing transparency, providing choice, personalization, and delivering the right content at the right time from wherever students are. Using the APIConnect app, every student will be supported at every stage of their experiential learning journey. This is the start of a new level of service and support for students in our industry.”

About Academic Programs International (API)

Academic Programs International (API) encourages students of all ages to embark on a lifelong experiential educational journey that enriches lives, communities and organizations and helps every student, college and company to achieve their goals.  Through the creation of APIConnect, an experiential education technology platform, the company helps colleges, universities, and students create and discover learning experiences customized to meet their needs. APIConnect offers a vast library of destinations, accredited courses, internships, and original programming geared toward maximizing students’ college experiences so they are better prepared for the workforce upon graduation. Based in Austin, TX, API sends thousands of students on hundreds of programs every year, both virtually and in nearly 70 cities in 26 countries in Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, North America, and the Middle East. Read more at https://apiabroad.com/

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New APIConnect app delivers airfare savings and free services that cater to student and faculty educational travel needs

AUSTIN, TEXAS – June 1, 2023 — Academic Programs International (API), the experiential learning organization leading advances in education technology and career-accelerating experiential programs globally, has announced a new app called Fare Finder™. It offers students and faculty significant savings on airfare for all educational travel.

Reduce Financial Barriers with Fare Finder

Available through the APIConnect platform, the Fare Finder app is just one of the many new technology solutions API is launching. The company works to reduce the financial barriers that prevent students from participating in experiential programs, such as study abroad and global internships.  Students using Fare Finder can choose from a wide variety of discounted rates for their education-related travel with major airlines. In addition to lower prices, Fare Finder provides:

• Access to more favorable terms and conditions, such as increased schedule change flexibility and free baggage, in most cases
• 24/7 assistance so students will always be supported if an emergency arises 
• Ability to hold flights and share itineraries ahead of purchasing to allow time for trip planning 
• Comprehensive search and sort filters, such as price, quickest route, most sustainable/greenest route, and more
• A simple booking process that allows students to compare options and book a flight in just a couple of minutes
• Upon arrival, airport pick-up service through API concierge 

Building Apps to Support Students

“All students and faculty can use the Fare Finder app to access discounted airfare for their educational travel needs,” said Patrick Vogt, CEO. “The APIConnect platform and our Fare Finder app are key pieces of the puzzle allowing us to achieve our purpose of encouraging students of all ages to learn through experience. This is why we are actively building apps that support all students — beyond just those participating in API programs. Making educational travel more affordable will increase access for all. Whether it is travel from home to college, travel for a study or intern abroad program with any provider, travel for a college exchange program, or travel by faculty members for research or to educational conferences, Fare Finder can serve them all. With the help of Fare Finder, we hope that millions of students will be able to gain an experience they otherwise thought they could not afford.”

Read more about Fare Finder at https://apiabroad.com/fare-finder/  

About Academic Programs International (API)

Academic Programs International (API) encourages students of all ages to embark on a lifelong experiential educational journey. These experiences enrich lives, communities, and organizations. As well as helps every student, college, and company to achieve their goals. Through the creation of APIConnect, an experiential education technology platform, the company helps colleges, universities, and students create and discover learning experiences customized to meet their needs. APIConnect offers a vast library of destinations, accredited courses, internships, and original programming. All of which is geared toward maximizing students’ college experiences so they are better prepared for the workforce upon graduation. Based in Austin, TX, API sends thousands of students on hundreds of programs every year. This includes both virtually and in nearly 70 cities in 26 countries across Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, North America, and the Middle East.

You’ve talked to your academic advisor and confirmed studying abroad will fit into your degree plan, you met with your study abroad office and the financial aid office to gather necessary paperwork…and now, you’re ready to apply to study abroad! 

We know a lot of planning and preparation goes into your application and sometimes the study abroad process can be a bit overwhelming. Let’s walk through the next steps together so you know what to expect!

Getting Started on Your API Application

When you submit your application on our website, you’ll have access to our Learning Experience Application. In APIConnect, you’ll see which onboarding forms you’ll need to submit, when they are due, and where you can make payments. Before we jump into the specifics, let’s zoom out.

It’s important to note the difference between your home university and your host university. Your home university refers to the institution that you are enrolled in, and will receive your degree from. The host institution is the college or university that you’ll attend while abroad. When completing your forms, keep a close eye on the instructions. 

When you start applying to study abroad and completing your forms in APIConnect, you’ll notice they’re divided by due date into Onboarding 1 and Onboarding 2 forms. The difference between these forms and their due dates depend on your program. Before diving in, we recommend exploring all material in your APIConnect account. That way, you can appropriately pace yourself! Some materials might involve multiple steps depending on where you’re at in the study abroad process. Let’s start there!

Time-Sensitive Forms To Keep in Mind

The University Approval Form

The University Approval Form notifies your home university that you’re participating in an API program. When we notify your university, we may contact your study abroad office or the appropriate advisor. This form helps ensure everyone is on the same page, and that your home university approves the program you’re applying to. Pro-tip: Some programs might require university approval before we can accept you.

Your Passport

Your Passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your program’s end date. For example, if your program ends on January 1st, your passport needs to be valid until at least July 1st of the same year. If you don’t have a passport yet, or it’s in the process of being renewed, let your API advisor know. (And check out this helpful blog post!) In this case, your API advisor might ask for a state ID as a placeholder until your valid passport comes in. 

Student Visa

Some programs might need a Student Visa in order to participate. It is your responsibility, as a participant, to obtain a student visa prior to departure. We recommend starting this process ASAP. Check out our Student Visa Resource for detailed instructions on the visa process for each of our locations! 

Once you have scheduled an appointment with your local consulate, add the details to your APIConnect account so that your API advisor can mail you any required materials before your visa appointment!

Pro tip: If you are participating in a Spain or Italy program that requires a visa, API offers a Group Visa Service for those that qualify. (This includes the jurisdictions of Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, and San Francisco consulates). Opting into this service gives you the option to pay a $185 visa processing fee to API. Then, you’ll send us your visa application and supporting documentation. An API representative will appear in person at the consulate on your behalf to submit your application!

Next Steps to Apply to Study Abroad

Now you’ve gotten the ball rolling on the forms that might require multiple steps, you can start dotting your i’s and crossing your t’s! The forms below require careful attention. Don’t just sign and submit, make sure you fully understand these documents. 

Transcripts

Your transcript does not have to be the original sealed copy, but it must be an official copy. You can conveniently request an official e-transcript be emailed to API via your APIConnect account.

Code of Conduct Form

The Code of Conduct Form outlines expectations and disciplinary procedures if those expectations aren’t met. This form ensures the safety, wellbeing and success of all participants in an API program. 

Participant Agreement Form

The Participant Agreement Form outlines various terms and conditions. Make sure to review each page, so you don’t miss anything important (like adding your parental and emergency contact)!

Network of Support Form

The Network of Support Form should include the people that you are counting on during this adventure. This includes university support and at least one emergency contact (or in the case of our underage participants, a legal guardian). 

Health & Wellness Form

The Health & Wellness Form needs to include true and accurate information so we can make sure to accurately meet your needs and ensure your wellbeing while abroad!

Arrival Plans

Arrival Plans should be added to your APIconnect account. That way, if there’s a delay or issue in your travel, our onsite team can plan accordingly. You should arrive on the program’s start date.

Headshot

Your headshot will be used for things like knowing who you are at airport pick up, university registration, immigration documents, ID cards, etc. When you take your headshot, it’s important to closely follow the guidelines in your APIConnect account. Otherwise, we’ll need to ask you to retake and resubmit.

Last Steps in Your API Application

Completing everything on your To Do List in your APIConnect account and making your final payment are the last two steps in this process. Once you’ve done this, your API advisor will send you the Final Packet a few weeks before your program start date! 

Final Packet

The Final Packet includes information about orientation, housing, excursions and more! It’s imperative you complete the forms and make the final payment in a timely manner.

We know the application process can feel like a lot! We recommend taking it step-by-step and using the guide above. Remember, if you still have questions, we are happy to help you apply to study abroad! You can email your API advisor, use the Chat Box on the lower left-hand side of our website, or send us an email at studentoutreach@apiabroad.com. We promise a real, live human is there to answer any questions!

Phone, wallet, keys… and passport! Your passport is your ticket to international travel. Without it, your study abroad process might be stalled. Don’t miss out on study abroad as a result of a delayed or expired passport! Apply for a passport or renew your passport TODAY!

First-Time Passport Applicants

Instructions and advice can be found on the U.S. Department of State website: How to Apply for a Passport. Also, make sure to check with your study abroad office on campus to see if your university has a passport grant or assistance in funding your first passport! Here are the materials you’ll need to apply:

• DS-11 form (this is just the passport application, which can be downloaded by following the link above, or check your local post office for physical copies).
• Evidence of U.S. citizenship and a copy (like your birth certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship)
• Photo ID and a copy
• A passport photo

If You Already Have a Passport

If you have a passport already, check the expiration date. Many countries require that the passport be valid for at least 6 months AFTER your intended date of departure from the country. (So, if your program ends in May, your passport would need to be valid through at least November). If you need to renew your passport, instructions on how to do so by mail are available through the U.S. Department of State website. Please note, however, that in order to renew by mail, the following requirements must be met:

• You must have your current passport in your possession, and it must be in good condition (normal wear and tear is acceptable).
• The passport must have been issued within the last 15 years, and you must have been at least 16 years of age at the time it was issued.
• The passport was issued in your current name, or you can provide documentation of the legal change of your name.

 If you do not meet all of these requirements, you’ll have to apply in person for a new passport (see link above for how to apply for a new passport).

The U.S. Department of State website says that the processing time for submitting or renewing a passport is 6 to 9 weeks. But we recommend starting the passport process ASAP in case of delays due to Covid. If you’re in a time crunch, API recommends that you pay for expedited processing and pay the extra fee for expedited return mailing fee. In doing this, you can track its mailing and delivery.  

Keep Visas in Mind

As a reminder, many countries require U.S. students to obtain visas in order to enter the country. Different countries have different visa requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website of the country you want to study in to find out what is required and how to schedule an appointment. 

Similar to the passport process, consulates have been inundated with appointments following Covid. Contact the consulate or embassy as early as possible to secure an appointment. Note: you may need proof of program enrollment from the university or college that you are going to attend. Some consulates may have very specific instructions for when you can officially request an appointment. (If you’ve already applied to an API program, your API advisor can also provide you with information on the visa process, if applicable.)

Once your appointment is scheduled, the process of obtaining your visa can take anywhere from 2-3 months. This processing time depends on the country, the consular requirements, the volume of requests, and so on. In order to obtain a visa, you must also submit your valid passport. What does this mean? If you plan to travel to a country that requires a visa, and you do not have a valid passport, you’ll need to start the application process early enough to have your passport in hand at least 3 months in advance of your program start date. This allows sufficient time for visa processing.

The good news? Once you have your U.S. passport, it is valid for 10 years, so you have a decade of international travel and opportunities to explore the world!