Overview

The Texas Leadership Scholars (TLS) program, launched in 2022 by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, was designed to support high-achieving students from rural and underrepresented communities. These first-generation college students are selected for their academic excellence and leadership potential with the goal of developing future leaders who will contribute to the Texas workforce.

Recognizing the value of international experience in leadership development, TLS included a global learning component starting in 2023. The University of North Texas (UNT), which administers the program, partnered with Academic Programs International (API) to design a customized, scalable, and fully funded 2-week study abroad program focused on rural entrepreneurship, leadership, and community engagement.

Challenge

TLS needed an international experience that would not only fit seamlessly into its statewide structure, but also deliver measurable outcomes. It had to be an engaging, relevant, and inclusive experience that could:

• Meet academic standards across 26 public universities
• Remain financially accessible to high-need students
• Provide relevant, immersive leadership training
• Scale as the program expanded statewide

It was a complex undertaking developing a high-quality study abroad program that satisfied these requirements while accommodating logistical and academic diversity.

Solution

In response to these challenges, UNT collaborated with API to build a fully inclusive, 2-week summer study abroad program tailored to TLS goals. Key features include:

• Curriculum: Students enroll in a 3-credit leadership course at the host university. In Costa Rica, the course “Business Leadership in Rural Settings” at Universidad Veritas focuses on rural entrepreneurship, leadership, and community engagement.

• Experiential Learning: Field visits introduce students to local entrepreneurs and leaders, encouraging real-world application of course concepts.

• Program Design: The program includes housing, meals, in-country transportation, excursions, flights to and from Costa Rica, and support. Scholars have minimum financial requirements related to their personal needs and travel.

• Scalability: Starting with 10 students in 2023, the program grew to 20 in 2024 and 30 in 2025—a 200% increase in two years. In 2026, TLS will send 40 students: 20 to Costa Rica and 20 to Greece.

Benefits

• Program Growth: TLS study abroad participation has grown by 200% since launch, with further expansion planned.

• Academic Integration: Each program aligns with TLS’s leadership development goals and delivers transferable academic credit.

• Accessibility: State funding removes financial barriers, creating opportunities for everyone to participate.

• Tangible Outcomes: Upon return, the scholars complete a post-trip survey. The survey findings and feedback are presented to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Student Testimonials

“This program was an incredible opportunity, and I’m grateful to have been part of it. The blend of academic challenge, cultural immersion, and leadership development made it one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had as a student.”

“This was such a great and fun experience, one we will always remember. It was a chance to grow personally, connect with new people, and gain a deeper understanding of another culture.”

“The people you meet will change your life. Be open to everything!”

“The trip was awesome! All of the meals were a great representation of Costa Rican culture and tasted amazing. Coffee farm was 10/10—everyone’s favorite! Can’t wait to continue my TLS journey with new friends from all across Texas.”

Participating Institutions

TLS students represent 26 Texas public universities, including:

• East Texas A&M University
• Prairie View A&M University
• Sam Houston State University
• Tarleton State University
• Texas A&M University
• Texas A&M University Corpus Christi
• Texas A&M University Kingsville
• Texas A&M University San Antonio
• Texas State University
• Texas Tech University
• Texas Woman’s University
• The University of Texas
• The University of Texas at Arlington
• The University of Texas at Dallas
• The University of Texas at El Paso
• The University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley
• The University of Texas at San Antonio
• The University of Texas at Tyler
• University of North Texas
• West Texas A&M University

Interested in Building Your Own Customized Program?

If you’re exploring ways to bring a tailored, high-impact global experience to your students, API can help. Whether you’re starting from scratch or expanding an existing program, our team has the tools, templates, and expertise to bring your vision to life.

Visit our Customized Programs page to learn more.

Challenge

In an environment where only 38% of U.S. community colleges offer study abroad opportunities (CCIERI 2024–25), the Nebraska Consortium of Community Colleges’ TRIO program stands out as an exception. Six community colleges work together to make international education possible for TRIO-eligible students — including first-generation, low-income, and students with documented disabilities. Coordinating across multiple campuses and funding sources, the consortium needed a provider capable of delivering a complex, multi-campus program with consistent quality and support.

Solution

In 2025, the consortium partnered with API for a Costa Rica program led by Southeast Community College. With each institution sending students, they were able to combine enrollment and secure more affordable pricing. API managed all program logistics — from coordinating faculty needs and student travel to arranging guided cultural excursions — ensuring a seamless experience for both students and leaders. The program offered three academic credit hours and explored Costa Rica’s ecology, tourism economy, and conservation programs. Guided by local experts, participants experienced the Arenal hot springs, Arenal Hanging Bridges, the forest canopy, and the Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center, and engaged in a service-learning project in an Indigenous community. Participation goals were met at 100%, with all 28 expected students attending alongside six faculty leaders.

Benefits

• Access for TRIO-eligible students: Targeted first-generation, low-income, or students with documented disabilities; many received Pell Grants or other aid.
• Full participation: 100% of anticipated students attended (28 of 28).
• High-impact learning: Positive feedback on excursions and cultural activities tied to ecology, tourism, and conservation; three academic credits earned.
• Collaborative efficiency: Six colleges share a rotating leadership model and benefit from price breaks with larger combined enrollment.
• Ongoing partnership: The consortium plans to continue working with API annually, aiming to grow participation to 50 students. Past destinations include Italy, France, and Costa Rica, with Greece or Croatia under consideration for future programs.
• Reliable program delivery: API’s expertise in managing complex, multi-campus programs ensured smooth execution, cultural depth, and strong on-site support.

“I enjoyed all the opportunities that were offered and had a great experience. API supported me throughout the program, helping me understand my role and successfully navigate challenges along the way.”
— Samantha H., Southeast Community College, TRIO First Gen; Sole in Costa Rica

Curious how to bring a program like this to your campus? Learn more about building your own Customized and Faculty-Led Programs with API!

The spring fair season is here! API will be on college campuses across the country in the upcoming months, and we would love to talk to you! Come say hi to API at one of the spring study abroad fairs listed below! While at our table, sign up to learn more about API and you’ll be entered to win a $1,000 flight voucher!

2024 Spring Study Abroad Fairs

March 25th

Springfield College

March 26th

University of South Dakota

Washington State University

March 27th

Augustana University

March 29th

Morgan State University

April 3rd

Houston Christian University

University of Houston, Clear Lake

April 9th

University of New Mexico

University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee

Don’t see your school listed above? That’s okay!

Click here to complete our contact form and one of our student outreach coordinators will follow up to advise on which programs might be best for you! 

If you’re a student looking to book travel for an academic experience, you are likely searching for the most affordable deal. In an effort to reduce financial barriers and increase access, we are offering the Fare Finder™ app inside of APIConnect. It provides access to lower cost airfare with major airline carriers. With Fare Finder, we’re making travel for educational purposes simpler and more accessible than ever before. 

Benefits of Fare Finder

Enjoy Lower Cost Airfare

Fare Finder not only allows you to search for lower fares, but also for more favorable terms and conditions. This includes increased schedule change flexibility and free baggage allowances in many cases. With Fare Finder, you can quickly and easily book lower cost airfare, right from inside APIConnect. 

Pro Tip: To find the best value (lowest cost, plus the best add ons, such as free baggage), look for the fares marked “API”. 

Access Around-the-Clock Assistance

Fare Finder also provides access to 24/7 assistance so you’ll always have the support you need if an emergency arises. Whether it’s a last-minute change of plans or an unexpected delay, Fare Finder operators are here to help!

Hold Flights and Share Itineraries

With Fare Finder, you also have the ability to hold flights and share itineraries ahead of purchasing for no additional cost. If you find the perfect flight and want to share it with your parents or friends before booking, Fare Finder makes it easy!

Broad Sort and Filter Options

By utilizing Fare Finder’s filters, you can narrow your search based on many different options. If you are cost-sensitive, use the lowest price filter. Or if schedule is the most important to you, select that option to be served the flights that most closely match your desired flight times. Lastly, if sustainability is your goal, you can even sort flights by those that are the greenest!

Simplify the Process

The booking process gives you the ability to compare options and book a flight in just a couple of minutes. You don’t need to worry about spending hours researching and scheduling your travel; Fare Finder makes booking airfare both efficient and easy! 

Pro Tip: Be sure to check out your arrival guidelines in your travel form, which is in Onboarding Step 2 in APIConnect, so you know which airport you need to arrive at and the date and time window when your API Resident Director will be expecting you. 

Because of the simple booking process, access to lower cost airfare, 24/7 assistance, and the ability to hold flights and share itineraries, Fare Finder is the ultimate companion for academic travel. Learn more about the platform and see the difference for yourself on our website!

One last thing: Fare Finder can only be used for academic travel. Any non-education-related travel booked using the tool will be automatically canceled and refunded. 

Introducing a five-week series from API that will discuss the top five concerns about studying abroad: Finances, Falling Behind, Fit, Fear, and Friends and Family. 

Are you considering studying or interning abroad, but have some concerns about whether you should or even can do so? You’re not alone! Over the years, we have heard from students that their worries about the five “Fs” have kept them from pursuing incredible international opportunities, and we’re here to help reassure you that YOU CAN DO IT!

F #1: FINANCES

“I could never afford to study abroad, even though I really wish I could.” Time and time again we have heard this common misconception about studying abroad from students. This belief has prevented countless students from even considering international educational experiences when they really shouldn’t have…

The truth of the matter is that in many cases, API’s programs are actually far more affordable than the average cost of a semester at a U.S. university. Also, remember that programs include a lot more than classes and tuition – so you get a lot of bang for your buck! This, coupled with the fact that API awards hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships each year AND most students can use their financial aid to help cover the cost of study abroad, makes it a financially viable option and a wise investment in the future.

In addition, creating and sticking to a budget while you’re abroad is an easy way to minimize expenses, while still having the experience of a lifetime. We have compiled a list of financial tips to help you prepare for your time abroad, which could be applied to your life at home, too!

F #2: FALLING BEHIND

This is part two in our five-week series discussing the top five concerns about studying abroad: Finances, Falling Behind, Fit, Fear, and Friends and Family. 

Another common objection to studying abroad is the perception that doing so will delay graduation, thereby requiring even more money to complete a degree. However, the data disagrees. In fact, according to research completed by the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and the University of Texas at Austin, four-year graduation rates are actually higher among the population of students who study abroad compared to their peers who remained on campus (Inside Higher Ed). Likewise, the University System of Georgia recently released findings that “the evidence shows that [education abroad] will accelerate time to graduation relative to peers who don’t study abroad: (“Students Who Study Abroad Graduate Faster Than Peers”, Inside Higher Ed).

Staying on track for an on-time graduation is easy, especially if you plan early! Meet with your academic advisor, the study abroad office, and anyone else on campus who can help you map out a plan to build studying abroad into your schedule. 

Consider timing! Remember – there are also abundant programs that run during the summer, as well as Maymester and January-Term sessions, which will allow you to have that international experience without being away from campus during the fall or spring terms. 

Explore virtual options! Consider participating in a virtual global experience! API offers virtual internships with international organizations, which allow you to enhance your resume, grow your global network, refine valuable skills, and further your professional development – all from the comfort of your home. You can also explore API’s virtual Community Engagement and Innovation Labs; these unique programs allow you to engage with people from across the globe as you create solutions to pressing issues that impact the world around you. These virtual opportunities can be completed concurrently while you’re on campus at your home university! Additionally, students can earn microcredentials – or digital badges – for the skills they learn, enhancing their LinkedIn profiles and setting apart their resume from peers.

F #3: FIT (ACADEMIC AND OTHERWISE)

This is part three in our five-week series discussing the top five concerns about studying abroad: Finances, Falling Behind, Fit, Fear, and Friends and Family. 

Are you overwhelmed by the sheer quantity of options available to you? Are you worried that you’ll never be able to pick the program that is right for YOU? The good news is that BECAUSE there are so many choices available, the odds are extremely high that a program exists that checks all your boxes! 

In addition to identifying options based on your major and your degree requirements (which your academic advisor and study abroad office can help you do), you can refine your search by a multitude of filters. If you don’t know WHERE and/or WHEN you want to go, then you can narrow down your options by searching for programs that meet other qualifications. 

Consider the following questions!

• Do you want to study abroad or complete an internship?
• Do you speak any language other than English? If so, do you want to take classes conducted in that language, or would you be more comfortable learning in English?
• What are your professional goals? What kind of program would help you develop skills for your future related to these goals? (E.g. an internship in a specific field? Focus on language development? Field based research? Strong academic reputation of the host institution? Major specific programming? Volunteer/service learning opportunities?)
• Do you prefer a big city or a small town?
• Would you like to be close to the mountains? To the beach? 
• Would you rather go somewhere vastly different than your hometown, or would you prefer to find a place that is similar to your own?
• Are you athletic? Are you artistic? Are you the type of person who wants to be outdoors all the time? Are you looking for socially tolerant locations? Do you want to have easy access to the live music scene?

While it may seem overwhelming to choose from the extensive list of programs available to you, you CAN narrow down your choices and you CAN pick a program that meets your needs, your goals, and your interests! The world is your oyster! 

Celebrate this incredible opportunity to explore your options and enjoy the process! You just may learn something about yourself along the way, which can help bring you more clarity about your goals.

Stay tuned for the next edition in this series!

F #4: FEAR (OF THE UNKNOWN, AND OF MISSING OUT)

This is part four in our five-week series discussing the top five concerns about studying abroad: Finances, Falling Behind, Fit, Fear, and Friends and Family. 

We get it. It’s completely normal to be afraid of the unknown. We also know that fear of missing out (FOMO) is real. We have been there. 

However, it has often been said that “fear is temporary, regret is forever.” Countless students have said that the one thing they regret NOT doing while at college was studying abroad; we’d be hard-pressed to find a study abroad alum who said they regretted missing out on life at home while they were away, exploring the world and gaining global experience.

Consider this: you will likely be on campus for at least 3 years, and that’s if you go abroad for an entire year. That gives you three years of chances to spend time with your friends, doing what you do on your campus. Three years of sporting events, sorority or fraternity activities, performances, roommate nights, or whatever else it is that you so enjoy about your university life. You also have the rest of your life to spend with your U.S. friends and your family… but very likely just one opportunity to live abroad for weeks or months, exploring new places and seeing sights you have only dreamed of or read about. 

“You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do.” ~Eleanor Roosevelt

Without study abroad, I would have never realized what I am capable of. Anyone who has doubts about studying abroad should listen to the part that keeps pushing them to say yes. Don’t let your doubts hold you back and let you miss out on what life has to offer. Take a chance because you can do it, and you will be so glad you did.”

~Jocelyn N., API Seville student

Stay tuned for the next edition in this series!

F #5: FRIENDS AND FAMILY

This is our final installment in our series discussing the top five concerns about studying abroad: Finances, Falling Behind, Fit, Fear, and Friends and Family. 

This fear manifests in two ways: 1) Fear of missing friends and family while abroad; and 2) Not having the support of friends and family to embark on this adventure.

One of the greatest joys in life is spending time with our loved ones – with our friends and family. That goes without saying, and there is absolute validity in worrying about how you’ll manage in a different country without your support system. However, if you’re like most students who have studied abroad, you’ll find that this is an amazing opportunity to make NEW lifelong friends, many of whom will become like family to you. There are few things that create such a strong bond as experiencing things for the first time – together. 

“It was so worthwhile and the best thing I ever did. I met so many people and made lifelong friends.” 

~Chloe S., API London student

We live in a time when connecting with people across the world is as easy as logging into social media, texting, or even Facetiming – for little to no cost. It is EASY to stay in touch with your family and friends back home. 

If your friends or family are less than supportive of your ambitions to study abroad, it can be disheartening. Don’t let their concerns discourage you from taking the chance of a lifetime to pursue your dreams!

If your family has concerns about the value of an international experience, consider this: study abroad is truly an investment in your future! According to research conducted by the IIE Center for Academic Mobility Research and Impact (Farrugia and Sanger) involving interviews with more than 4,500 study abroad alumni: 

• Study abroad has an overall positive impact on the development of a wide range of 21st-century job skills. 
• The skills gained through study abroad have a long-term impact on career progression and promotion. 

“Those more advanced in their careers more consistently linked study abroad to career growth and reported being hired or promoted based on their international experiences. This finding held true across all majors and industries.”

It is only natural for parents/guardians to worry about their children. We understand! Reassure them that there are safety protocols in place to help you be as safe as possible while you’re abroad. Remind them that you are only a phone call away and that you are able to take advantage of this opportunity BECAUSE of the foundation they laid while you were at home. Encourage them to visit you, make a video call schedule, or plan to send regular videos about your experiences. They can live vicariously through you! And tell them that you understand their concerns come from a place of love.

To quote the parent of a former study abroad participant, “As a parent, it was a delight to see my daughter flourish; it is only in letting go that our children become who they were meant to be.” 

API and Richmond to extend unique, experiential learning opportunities including study abroad programmes to students across the US and the world. 

Richmond, The American International University in London, is delighted to announce that it has just signed an agreement with a major Experiential Learning and Study Abroad partner – Academic Programs International (API).  API, who are headquartered in Austin, Texas, is a global organisation operating programmes in 25 countries. The partnership will take effect immediately, with plans for Richmond to host API students in London as early as summer 2022.

API is an independent experiential learning organisation which provides high quality, affordable experiential programmes for thousands of students annually, sending them to nearly 60 cities in Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, North America, and the South Pacific. Celebrating 25 years in business this year, API was founded by four moms whose diverse experiences abroad, first as students and later as professionals, shaped their philosophy on the value of international education as a means of promoting intellectual curiosity, multiculturalism, and personal development. API invested significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, building out a new technology platform, APIConnect, which is an experiential learning solution that supports students, colleges, and universities.  

Professor Dom Alessio, Vice President of International Programmes at Richmond, said about the new partnership: “Given Richmond started out as a Study Abroad destination and is accredited in both America and the UK, we are very excited about our new partnership with API.  We see this as an exciting new chapter in the history of study abroad between our two nations and our two organisations. We are also in preliminary discussions with API about a host of other new educational opportunities, which are both innovative and pioneering. So watch this space!” 

Patrick Vogt, CEO of API stated, “We are delighted to be the exclusive U.S. partner of  Richmond University and are looking forward to working together to provide exceptional educational experiences to students around the world. Through our rich and rewarding partnership, we will expand program access to students, deliver meaningful, cultural engagement, and help prepare students for opportunities in the global workspace.”

About Academic Programs International

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 more than 60 cities in nearly 25 countries in Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, North America, and the Middle East.  

About Richmond, The American International University in London

One of the first universities to introduce the liberal arts to the UK when it was founded 50 years ago in 1972, Richmond pioneered this multidisciplinary approach. Diversity, choice and freedom are hallmarks of the Richmond liberal arts curriculum which develops students’ multi-disciplinary skills and provides them with a unique and unrivaled experience. All programs at Richmond offer students the opportunity to do a credited internship which creates invaluable work experience and greater employability for students, another key element of a liberal arts education.

The University awards a UK and US degree for both undergraduate and Masters students, having been awarded Taught Degree Awarding Powers (TDAP) by the Privy Council in the UK. The University also holds US degree-granting authority from the State of Delaware under accreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The University’s mission is to educate and inform future generations by providing them with the knowledge and support to think critically, the freedom to challenge assumptions and the skills to work with others. Sustainability is one of the central strands shaping the University’s vision of the future and the move to a state of the art campus in Chiswick Park in July 2022 will help the University build a greener, more sustainable future through a range of eco-friendly initiatives including the use of renewable energy sources at Chiswick Park.

As you prepare for your upcoming international experience, your finances may be on your mind. How will you manage your money in an unfamiliar place completely removed from your daily routine? We compiled a list of financial tips to help you prepare for your time abroad and alleviate any stress you have surrounding the cost of your experience.  

Think about your bucket list

Are there certain places you hope to visit while abroad? This may include specific monuments, tours, or cities. Estimate the cost of each activity, excursion, or trip. Be sure to check API’s schedule because there are a number of excursions included in your program! Once you know which activities are included in your program costs, you can start prioritizing the other activities on your bucket list. 

Create a budget

Decide how much money you want to spend on cultural activities, trips, and souvenirs. Ideally, your budget will set a guideline, helping you cut down impulse spending, but also allowing you the freedom to treat yourself when the opportunity arises.

Keep an emergency fund

You never know what could happen while abroad. Keep an emergency fund in case you wind up lost while exploring a new city and need to take a cab back to your hotel. This emergency fund may look like having a credit card of spare cash. If you choose cash, make sure it’s in the local currency of  your host country. You won’t regret having money set aside for these sorts of emergencies! 

Use the resources available to you

You are likely familiar with online banking apps that can assist you in tracking your expenses. As a student, you should also look out for student discounts. A flash of your student ID could bring you savings on train tickets, hotels, or sightseeing tours. If you know other students or friends who have studied abroad, ask for advice! They may have some useful tips for managing money during your experience.

Consider the exchange rate

Keep in mind, currencies in other countries aren’t worth the same amount in the U.S. When shopping in another country, it’s important to keep the conversion rates in mind. Depending on the country, you might be spending more than you think, especially for larger purchases such as plane tickets. Here’s a helpful resource to get you thinking about currency conversions.

Investigate conversion fees and withdrawals

Pay attention to the credit and debit cards you plan to use during your study abroad experience. There may be conversion fees that can add up over time. You may want to search for cards that specify no foreign transaction fees. In some cases, you can avoid withdrawal fees if you stick to the same network of banks, so be sure to explore your bank’s policies. By going into your study abroad experience informed and prepared, you can avoid extra costs! And remember, you can do a money exchange at the airport, on-site with your Resident Director, or at your bank before you leave on your trip.   Also, make sure to notify your bank of your travels abroad so they do not view your international transactions as fraud! 

Connect with your API Resident Director

Your Resident Director is a local expert who will have tips to find safe, reliable, and affordable deals. They have years of experience helping students make the most of their journey abroad, so don’t hesitate to ask questions! 

By taking the time to create a budget and track your spending, you can have peace of mind while traveling abroad. We hope these tips help you track your finances in a way that works for you!