Independent Programs
Study Options
If you cannot find what you are looking for on a UC program, you can also participate on an Independent Program. Independent Program study options are offered by:
- International education organizations based in the U.S.
- Universities abroad (i.e. direct-enrollment at a foreign institution such as Fudan University, Waseda University, etc.)
- Other U.S. colleges and universities (such as Orange Coast College, American University, etc.)
Why choose an Independent Program study option?
- You want to study in a city or country not currently offered by UCEAP, UCI Programs, or Other UC programs.
- Program details, such as dates, courses, cost, eligibility, etc., match your needs.
- Program aligns well with your academic, personal or professional interests.
- You missed the application deadline for UCEAP, UCI Programs, or Other UC programs.
- You may receive credit for your courses. More information can be found here.
- When you participate on an Independent Program, you take a leave of absence from UCI so that you do not pay UCI tuition. This also means you cannot enroll on both the Independent Program and take UCI courses at the same time.
How do I search for an Independent Program study option?
- Note that there have been financial aid policy changes effective in 2024 and beyond and thus financial aid will no longer be available for students participating on independent programs.Use the Search Engines below to find a program that best fits your needs. All program details, such as eligibility requirements, program length, and cost (and what the cost includes) vary by program. If you have program-specific questions, contact the program provider directly.
How do I know which Independent Program to choose or if it is reputable?
We offer a variety of resources to help you Choose Your Program. If you have any program-specific questions, contact your program provider directly. We also recommend that you connect with a past participant ask both pros and cons of the program and the services provided. Look for user reviews on sites like StudyAbroad101.com and check the Better Business Bureau for organizations operated in the U.S.
Still can’t decide? Book a virtual advising appointment for assistance.
What do I do once I'm ready to apply?
Click here for deadlines and how to apply.
Non-Study Options
If you are looking for a more hands-on experience, consider Independent Program non-study options such as internships, research, teaching, volunteering, or work abroad. These are great résumé builders that you can take advantage of before or after you graduate UC Irvine. Some programs provide compensation (e.g. room and board or a stipend) and/or offer assistance with securing housing, visas, etc.
Why choose an Independent Program non-study option?
- You do not need to take courses for credit, fulfill degree requirements, and/or receive financial aid.
- You would like a hands-on experience abroad (e.g. intern, research, teach, volunteer, work).
- You would like to build your résumé.
- You recently graduated from UC Irvine and are looking for a post-grad international experience.
How do I search for Independent Program for non-study option?
Below are Search Engines and Highlighted Providers so you can find the program that best fits your needs. All program details, such as eligibility requirements, program length, and cost (and what the cost includes) vary by program. If you have program-specific questions, contact the program provider directly.
SEARCH ENGINES
- GoAbroad.com
- IIEPassport.org
- Studyabroad.com (includes non-study search options)
HIGHLIGHTED NON-STUDY PROVIDERS
- Absolute Internship – intern abroad in one of several locations.
- Au Pair – work abroad as an international nanny in one of several locations.
- BUNAC – work abroad in one of several locations.
- CIEE – intern or teach abroad in one of several locations.
- DAAD – intern, research, or complete post-graduate study abroad in Germany.
- Embassy of Spain Language & Culture Teaching Assistants Program – be a language assistant to elementary and middle schoolers
- French Ministry of Education – teach abroad in France.
- Fulbright – research or teach abroad post-grad. Application guidance provided by UCI Scholarship Opportunities Program.
- GlobaLinks Research Internship Abroad Programs – intern abroad in one of several locations.
- GPI US Japan Empowerment Program – teach abroad in Japan over the summer. Airfare, meals, transportation, housing costs covered by the program.
- IAESTE – intern abroad in one of several locations as a STEM major.
- IES – intern abroad in one of several locations.
- JET – teach abroad in Japan.
- Peace Corps – volunteer abroad post-grad in developing nations. UCEAP offers a Peace Corps Prep program to help you become a competitive applicant.
- U.S. Department of State – intern abroad in one of several locations.
- WorldTeach – volunteer to teach abroad in one of several locations.
How do know which Independent Program to choose or if it is reputable?
We offer a variety of resources to help you Choose Your Program. If you have any program-specific questions, contact your program provider directly. We also recommend that you connect with a past participant ask both pros and cons of the program and the services provided. Look for user reviews on sites like StudyAbroad101.com and check the Better Business Bureau for organizations operated in the U.S.
Still can’t decide? Book a virtual advising appointment for assistance.
What do I do once I'm ready to apply?
Click here for deadlines and how to apply.