Non-Traditional Students

Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience. It offers personal growth, cultural learning, and academic development. CU Boulder encouragesÌýallÌýstudents to consider studying abroad, even students who face unique challenges as non-traditional students.

Who are non-traditional students?

  • Someone who may not have entered CU immediately after high school
  • Someone who has a high school equivalentÌýdegreeÌýinstead of a high school diploma
  • Someone who is enrolled part-time at CU Boulder and works part or full-time
  • Someone who has children or other dependents

As a non-traditional student, you may face unique challenges when it comes to education abroad.ÌýYou are likely taking your schooling very seriously and know how important furthering your education is for your career. Participating in an education abroad program is a great resume and career builder. You can learn another language, practice cross-cultural communication skills, and better understand global issues facing the 21st century.

Our Program Managers are happy to talk with you about your potential plans and questions. We can help set expectations and suggest programs that might be a good match for your needs.

A common concern for non-traditional students with dependents is: What about my family? We have had students in the past take their children and/or partner on a program. When this is possible (it depends on the program), you must make arrangements for an adult caregiver to provide care for your children during all class periods, site visits (to museums, for example), excursions (even those out of town), etc. Your children and partner should not participate in any of these program activities. However, you may find opportunities for your children to be involved with other children in the host country during the day. We've also had students who are parents go abroad without their children. In these cases, the children have stayed in the U.S. with a close family member or friend.

For many of you, you are considered non-traditional because you are older than the typical education abroad student. Perhaps you are in your 30’s, 40’s, or 50’s. There are many thousands of you studying abroad, in all countries and a wide variety of program formats. Your age works for you as a student – you may be more focused and take full advantage of all opportunities abroad.

Resources:

  • : an article about a student’s education abroad experience in France.
  • resource.

Education Abroad is committed to supporting students with a wide range of lived experiences and providing meaningful, inclusive international opportunities for all. If you have questions or would like to talk through your needs, please contact our office atÌýabroad@colorado.edu.

Disclaimer: This page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement by the ³Ô¹ÏÍø of Colorado Boulder or Education Abroad. CU Boulder Education Abroad is not an agent for these organizations.