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CIS Abroad

Why choose CIS Abroad?

We provide innovative education programs that broaden academic perspectives, promote global awareness, and encourage personal development while laying the foundation for participants to become engaged world citizens. Our lives were transformed by international experiences. Every day we create a more connected and compassionate world, one person at a time.

We pitch in. From helping our colleagues with meals when a new baby is born, to working with students to make sure credit transfers back home, to consulting with US study abroad offices to help improve business processes, our staff go the extra mile for each other and for those we are serving. We have each others’ back.

More than 22,000 students have participated in our programs. They have come from all backgrounds and all types of institutions. It’s our job to expose students to amazing places, teach them new concepts and help them explore their boundaries. It’s their job to accept new ideas, change their perspective.

Scholarships

CISabroad Scholarships

CISabroad Scholarships and Financial Aid

70% of all CISabroad students receive scholarships, grants, or discounts to study abroad. We're unapologetically committed to increasing access to international education for all students.

Value
$250 - $500

Reviews

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Liliana
5/5
No, I don't recommend this program

You Need to Study Abroad with CIS in ITALY!

Studying abroad with CIS in Italy has been an unforgettable experience. The academic programs are well-structured and engaging, offering a perfect blend of classroom learning and cultural immersion. The program staff were incredibly supportive, always ready to assist with any challenges. The social scene was vibrant, with plenty of opportunities to connect with other students and locals. Housing was comfortable, and the local community felt safe and welcoming. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to expand their horizons and dive deep into Italian culture. PS love Frankie!

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Joryn
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Everyone should study abroad!!

I loved studying abroad through CIS! I had an incredible experience and was surrounded by amazing people. I had the opportunity to participate in a multitude of different events and gatherings with other students, which helped build a community. However, we were allotted a lot of freedoms, which is amazing. I felt safe and like if I had an issue, I had a support system who would help me find a solution. I truly believe everyone should study abroad if they are able. It changed my life. I made lifelong friends in Italy who will continue to be in my life for a long time to come. Being in Italy was a dream come true and I am so grateful for CIS for creating such an amazing program for me to be able to shine and thrive in.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
I solo traveled to Rome and I got lost in the city without my phone for a while. I was terrified! However, my Italian was good enough I was able to ask for directions back to where I needed to be.
Pros
  • Good housing
  • Group trips
  • Supportive staff
Cons
  • Provided food was not very good
  • Bad housing location
  • Homesickness!!
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Ava
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

BEST EXPERIENCE

I completed a summer intern program and I would HIGHLY reccomend it! CIS Abroad provides such a fun experience for all students. Students get to participate in many excursions (cooking class, boat day on catamaran, dance class, tour of roman ruins, tour of Park Guell, etc.). In addition, the program director is so sweet and always makes sure to provide the best for all the students.

In terms of my internship experience, I appreciate that CIS Abroad matched me with a place that was closest to my interests and experiences. I was a social media marketing intern for a Spanish Language academy. Not only did I gain hands-on experience, but I also learned so much about the Spanish working culture, and different communication styles.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
If I did this all over again, what thing I would change would be to eat more tapas!! The food in Spain is absolutely delicious (especially their tapas). So I would love to go back and try out more tapas restaurants and the unique dishes each one offers.
Pros
  • Strengthen your Spanish Language Skills
  • Lots of things to do (you'll never get bored)
  • Delicious and CHEAP food
Cons
  • Can feel lonely at times
  • Be careful of pickpockets
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Bryn
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

La Dolce Vita!

My experience studying abroad in Rome was unforgettable. Rome is a city rich in history; with breathtaking views of the Colosseum, Sistine Chapel, and Roman Forum along cobblestone streets. Apart from the famous and well-known artwork and architecture painting the city, finding the hidden gems of the city was the best part. I can tell you where to find the best coffee, pizza, and gelato away from the tourist hot spots. I can tell you how to connect with the local community despite a language barrier. The best part of studying abroad is immersing yourself in all that the city has to offer; for me, that was stepping outside the comfortable and familiar destinations, and allowing myself to assimilate into the community as more than just another tourist. I said some of the hardest goodbyes to the friends and memories I made along the way, but they will never be forgotten. It truly was a sweet life!

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
The most nerve-wracking moment I faced was flying internationally for the first time. Before studying abroad, I had never flown alone at all. As excited as I was, I was terrified of losing my passport, missing my flights, misplacing my luggage, etc. It is easy to become consumed by all the negative "what ifs" that you forget about the wonderful possibilities awaiting you on your journey. I didn't overcome my worries right away. It's unrealistic to expect yourself to adapt to so much change at one time. It's important to remind yourself that everything will work out, whether or not it is easy.
Pros
  • Food
  • Walkable
Cons
  • Unpredictable Transit
  • Housing
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Nya
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Just Do It!

I loved going to Korea. It was such a rush to be there, especially coming from a small town. There were so many street signs, tall buildings and opportunities to get involved on campus. I loved how efficient the public transit system is. The food was great and opened me to new things I now have in my diet (I am a picky eater.) The scenery is one of a kind and I still keep in contact with my friends I made there! I was scared to go as this trip held a lot of firsts for me, but once I got of the plane and collected my luggage, I knew I made the right decision.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
I would travel more by myself. I did a lot of traveling with friends I made there but didn't get to explore by myself and learn more about what I like.
Pros
  • Great food
  • Rich culture
  • Language immersion
Cons
  • Easy to get lost
  • Need to know a little Korean

Programs

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Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Why did you choose this program?

I chose the CIS Abroad Newcastle program because, from the very beginning, it fits all of the things I was looking for in a study abroad program. I knew I wanted to be in Australia and, when I read the descriptions of Newcastle, I just knew it would be a place I could call home. I was close enough to big cities like Sydney and Melbourne that I could travel and experience the tourist attractions, while also creating a home for myself in the smaller community on and around campus.

CIS Abroad had preplanned excursions included in the program that allowed me to do even more traveling and check off some things that were already on my bucket list, without the hassle of planning more things by myself. Not to mention, the pre-departure support, day of traveling support, and on-site support allowed me to be confident in my safety and ability to endure so a large adventure all on my own!!

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

My program provider was incredible at always answering any questions I could possibly have, and helping me navigate the extensive requirements for a travel endeavor as large as studying abroad.

She helped me to coordinate transportation to and from airports during my time abroad, understand and finding my housing, and even prepared in advance linens and kitchenware to make my transition easy. She also gave clear instructions on how to apply for a Visa, travel grants, advice for booking flights, and so much more.

I could not be more grateful for the CIS program providers and on-site guides.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

My biggest piece of advice for someone who is going abroad through CIS is to make sure that you pay attention to all the documentation and instructions that the program providers give you. If you do everything they recommend before departing on your adventure, your travel experience and stay abroad will be so smooth!!

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

An average week for me consisted of going to class, building relationships with new friends both inside and outside of the CIS Abroad program, as well as attending frequent hangouts and excursions planned and organized by my CIS Abroad on-site director. A few of these included a day hike at a nearby mountain overlook, as well as a winery tour, and beach picnics.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

Growing up so close to my home university, I never really had the chance to gain a large amount of independence away from home. My biggest fear about going abroad was that I would be so far away from all of my family, friends, and those who care about me. Once arriving in Australia, I realized how exciting and freeing it is to be able to completely take care of myself.

I loved that I had complete control over everything that I did. It allowed me to form many great friendships and go on many adventures that otherwise I may have been too afraid to endure.

Staff Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with program leaders.

Helena Henare Coolen

Job Title
New Zealand Site Director
Helena lives in the “Coolest Little Capital in the World”. She is passionate about ensuring every student has a safe life-transformative experience whilst soaking up the unique and diverse culture and environment New Zealand has to offer. Based in Wellington, she is very connected with many people and is able to ensure every student has access to people and experiences personalized to their area of interests. She prides herself on being your New Zealand Aunty who you can trust and feel safe knowing she is there for you.

What is your favorite travel memory?

Learning to say hello in 52 different languages. The laughter when you mispronounce it but the respect and kindness from them that at least you tried. I remember using a word completely out of context and the raucous outburst of laughter from a group of elderly ladies. I love going out of my comfort zone and experiencing different world views.

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

I have been a student myself learning the diversity of cultures that come out of the United States of America. Learning all about life in the US College system which is very different to New Zealand. The accents of students from different states is often like listening to different languages. I have learned also from my colleagues about their experiences of what it takes to successfully study abroad.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

Every student has told Helena they will return to New Zealand. One in particular said he would be returning with his future wife and children to introduce them to their Aunty Helena. Every student is captured by the natural beauty of the New Zealand environment and loves to go hiking and exploring all it has to offer.

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

I would choose Thailand as I have never been there and I love Thai food and find the people so warm and kind. I think having the opportunity to live in a country and having the authentic local experience is always more rewarding than just being a tourist. Knowing there is a local Site Director is what would make me feel safe.

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

The commitment to inclusion, especially the rainbow community of which I belong. I love that we identify as a family and, whenever I am dealing with a tough situation, I know I have a large wealth of experience to draw upon. I love that student wellbeing is critical to CIS leadership and the focus on continual learning about how we can always be better at working together to put our students at the heart of our business.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

Putting the safety and well-being of every student at the heart of each program. I think offering unique and culturally rich program in countries around the globe at an affordable cost is what sets CISABROAD apart. I am super proud to do my work and feel it’s a privilege to be instrumental in supporting the future global leaders.

Professional Associations

The Forum on Education Abroad Logo
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