“Studying abroad is the best way for us to learn how to interact with people of different cultures in a setting that is not our own, and be open to new ways of thinking and living…France was everything I expected it to be and more. Freshly baked baguettes, warm “4 kiss” salutes, narrow, beautiful streets filled with history and an incredible sense of nationalism.”  - Jennifer, Visual Arts major

“This land (Italy) was made by loving hands over thousands of years.”  - Roel, Dance major

Study abroad can be one of the most rewarding experiences of a student’s life. Experiencing another culture and language and seeing an unknown part of the world while gaining a new perspective on an area of study can be life changing. Equally importantly, students can gain a new perspective on the United States by seeing it from a foreign vantage point. And without question, students will gain insight into their studies at Purchase College.  In addition, experience abroad may open new and unexpected doors upon graduation and thereafter.

On campus, visit the study abroad office on the second floor of the Student Services Building to research options available around the world, or attend the study abroad fair in the fall or one of our information sessions.  We would be happy to advise you, make recommendations and help you plan for your sojourn abroad. You may also contact International Programs and Services on the Purchase College campus for more information at study.abroad@purchase.edu.

Many students on campus seem unaware of what study abroad opportunities are open to them.  Please stop by our office on the second floor of the Student Services building, or email study.abroad@purchase.edu to make an appointment, if you have any questions or would like advising regarding potential study abroad programs. 

Purchase College runs 4 summer programs, in Spain, Italy, France, and China, and also has an affiliated program in Turkey.  We have a number of exchanges, in Visual Arts, Music (Jazz,) and Dance, and one for Social Sciences/Language & Culture.  More information on these programs, including dates, course options, cost, and video tours, can be found at the links to the left.

Students are by no means limited to Purchase-run programs.  To start, you have access to over 500 SUNY programs, which you can search at our database www.sunysystemabroad.com.   In addition to these options, some students chose to go abroad through non-SUNY schools or 3^rd party organizations.  In this case, you must have the program approved in advance.  In any case, if you have more questions, about finding or approving programs, about funding, or any other Study Abroad concerns, please contact us.   

A primary concern we hear regarding study abroad is cost.  Most exhcange programs cost approximately the same as a semester at Purchase, however, and our office can help you identify affordable programs, as well as funding opportunities.

Joseph Sannicandro, Study Abroad Advisor- joseph.sannicandro@purchase.edu