Off-Campus Study

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Colgate opens up the world to students by giving them an extraordinary chance to see it. Colgate has long been moving outward, encouraging its students to learn the cultures and perspectives of foreign places. From Uganda to Jamaica, Australia to Europe, Washington, DC to Santa Fe, Colgate classrooms are everywhere.

By the Numbers

63%
of Colgate students participate in an off-campus study program before they graduate
70+
countries
3
off-campus study models to choose from including study groups, approved programs and extended studies

Off-Campus Study Options

Knowing that our students are unique in their interests, and pursuits, Colgate offers a diverse range of off-campus study programs. At Colgate, there are many ways to study abroad — or domestically.

Two students walk near a war cemetery in Belgium

Study Groups

Each year, Colgate sponsors up to 20 semester-long, faculty-led programs that are linked both to the Colgate curriculum and professors' disciplines. From Australia to Europe, China to South Africa, and in the U.S., there is an option for most majors.

Learn about study groups

A student poses on a bridge near Big Ben in London

Approved Programs

Colgate works with more than 100 approved programs sponsored by other institutions. Several types of off-campus programs are available including direct enrollment at another institution, study centers, or field study programs — all vetted by Off-Campus Study.

Learn about approved programs

Students and a professor sift through sand

Extended Studies

An extended study program is a great opportunity for students who may not be able to fit a semester-long experience into their schedules. Extended studies include an on-campus course followed by a 2-3 week experiential travel component, often for an additional partial credit.

Learn about extended study

Get Ready for the Experience of a Lifetime

Students walking and swimming near a Jamaican waterfall

When to Apply

Typically, students go off campus in their junior year. We recommend students begin exploring their options as a first-year and apply for their selected program in their sophomore year.

Application Cycles

  • Study Groups: September 25 - October 29, 2025
  • Approved Programs: October 30, 2025 - February 4, 2026
  • Spring 2026 Extended Studies: September 25 - October 16, 2025
  • Fall 2026 Extended Studies: March 2 - March 20, 2026

 

Apply for a program

Affording the experience

Undergraduate students receiving Colgate Grant are eligible to receive financial aid towards one semester long off-campus program (Study Group or Approved Program) and one short program (Extended Study). The additional cost of the program is first met with a $1,500 loan. The remaining additional cost is met with an increase in Colgate Grant. 

More about financial aid

Get Started

Ready to learn more? Off-Campus Study has three ways to connect and explore your options.

Study Group Fair

Held in September, students can learn about the study groups and spring extended studies, and speak to faculty directors and recent participants.

View the event calendar

Information Sessions

Held in the beginning of the semester, these sessions designed for first-year and sophomore provide insight into the study abroad process and timeline.

Attend an info session

Advisor Appointments

Speak one-on-one with the experts. Our team of student and staff advisors are available to answer all your questions. Drop-in hours are also available.

Learn more