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Partner Programs

Partner programs are designed and facilitated by partner universities and program providers in the US and abroad. All student services and support are provided by staff from the partner partner in the program location. Most questions regarding program specifics can be answered on the Partner Program Website, including detailed information about housing, courses, cultural activities, scholarships, the admission/application process, and more. Other program-specific questions should be sent directly to the program provider.

All partner programs have been vetted and approved by the faculty-led University Study Abroad Committee (USAC) and the Office of Global Safety and Security (OGSS) and are deemed to meet Northwestern standards in terms of academic quality, housing, cultural immersion, and student support services.

GLO advisers are available to discuss program options, navigate and identify resources, answer Northwestern-specific questions, and assist with the Northwestern application process.

Northwestern financial aid may be used for participation on partner study abroad programs during the academic year.

Partner Program Types

Center-Based Programs

Classroom-based courses designed for non-host country students. Centers may be operated by a study abroad provider organization, be special units within a host country university, or be sponsored by a college or university in another country. Many study abroad centers have permanent staff and facilities.

Direct Enrollment Programs

Direct study with local university students at a host university abroad. Limited support is usually provided by an on-campus office serving international students.

Field Study Programs

Designed with pedagogy revolving around experiential study outside the classroom setting, often enabling students to engage in research or independent study projects.

Hybrid Programs

Combines two or more subtypes to a significant degree. For example, a study abroad center might offer courses just for study abroad participants but also permit students to enroll in host university courses and/or participate in a credit-bearing internship or service-learning experience.

Customized Partner Programs

Customized Partner programs are designed and facilitated by partner universities and program providers in the US and abroad in consultation with Northwestern and the Global Learning Office.  All student services and support are provided by staff from the partner partner in the program location but coursework, term length, cost, and other program attributes may be customized for Northwestern students. Here is a list of our current customized partner programs.

Summer Partner Programs

Northwestern has established formal affiliations with partner universities and program providers in the US and abroad for certain programs during the summer.