Two weeks of immersion in Portuguese culture through the daily practice of drawing on location. With the city as our studio, we’ll be based in Porto with side trips to Lisbon and other nearby locations. This course aims to explore the city as layered space with all its diversity, complicated histories, rich materialities, and visual poetics. Through interaction with guest speakers, UW faculty, local peer groups, and each other, students will engage deeply with daily life in Portugal and develop a grounded understanding of the city as a dynamic and multifaceted entity. Students will expand their drawing practice through a variety of onsite exercises and assignments to encourage new and lateral ways of seeing and thinking
Through visual and drawing skills, acquire immersive knowledge through their interaction with the city and its natural and built environments as a venue that functions as a “studio.”
Gain identifiable disciplines that are deemed necessary in terms drawing and other interactive skills through new and lateral forms of visual inquiry and experimentation.
Experience and learn how to work in collaboration with others as they explore and understand the many and diverse narratives that are gained through the processes of drawing in a convivial environment that is the city.
Develop a body of visual work in the form of a portfolio, book or other forms. This will also help students understand the value of showing, sharing and disseminating visual work with potential audiences.
Diversity & Inclusion
We are committed to providing quality study abroad and domestic study away programs for every UW-Madison student. We work strategically to identify, address, and remove barriers that may prevent participation and to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for students. Our staff actively engages with students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds and prioritizes the continuous development of our knowledge and cultural competence. We also recognize the importance of increasing access to study abroad for historically underrepresented student populations. We are committed to diversity and inclusion so that every student can engage with and understand their identity through a new lens and continue to develop and make progress on their personal, professional, and academic goals.
Sustainability
We recognize that the future of study abroad, domestic study away, and international internship programming requires a Commitment to Sustainability. We are devoted to examining, developing, and improving sustainability in all our endeavors, aligning with campus priorities and following through with UW-Madison's climate action and Resilience Commitment. Join our efforts and learn more about how to study abroad sustainably.
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Eligibility
Preference is given to students in the School of Education (all majors). Further preference is given to students with a declared Art major or Art certificate.
Preference is given to undergraduate students.
2.0 cumulative GPA
Sophomore, Junior, Senior, Graduate Student
Open to UW-Madison degree-seeking students only
Good academic and disciplinary standing
At the time of application and the semester prior to participation, UW-Madison students must be currently enrolled. Transfer Students to UW-Madison need to be currently enrolled at their home institution
Over the course of two weeks, you will explore the City as Studio in Porto, Lisbon, and other locations in Portugal. You will expand your drawing practice through a variety of onsite exercises and assignments to encourage new and lateral ways of seeing and thinking.
You can expect to be out in the city for hours at a time, drawing in different locations, and spending meaningful time in those spaces.
Upon completion of the program, you will earn 3 credits for Art 448.
Course Equivalents
Use the links below to see a list of courses that past students have taken
on this program and the UW equivalents. Note: This list only includes
pre-approved courses for your program and may not be an exhaustive list of
courses, departments or equivalents. Courses may not be available the
semester you are abroad. You will receive instructions on the course
equivalent process after acceptance.
View Course Equivalents
Lisbon is located in western Portugal on the Atlantic Ocean and River Tagus. It is the westernmost capital city in continental Europe and serves as the country’s chief port, largest city, and commercial, political, and tourist center.
Porto is a coastal city in northwest Portugal located along the Douro River. It is the second largest city in Portugal with a historic city center designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cost of living varies by location. Be sure to consult a variety of resources when researching cost of living for Porto and Lisbon.
Students on this program should anticipate spending hours outdoors, walking from various spots in each location. As you explore the different sites throughout your program the terrain will be steep and along uneven cobblestones which become slippery when wet. Please plan accordingly.
Housing
Housing is provided for participants for the duration of the program and is included in the program fee. You will stay in a hotel with other UW-Madison students on the program.
IAP typically places students in rooms with others of the same sex. In some locations, this is necessary for legal or cultural reasons. We understand that not all students may identify as female or male, and we want to create a welcoming environment for you while you are abroad. We are happy to work with students who identify as transgender, genderqueer, gender non-conforming, and/or non-binary regarding life abroad. If you have questions or concerns regarding housing as it relates to your gender identity, please contact your Study Abroad Advisor.
Program Considerations
In a physical sense, the on-site experience may be very different from life on the UW campus. You may walk or take public transportation more than you are used to in Madison. The physical activity level will vary by program, but in general you should be prepared for extended periods of time walking, potentially on uneven terrain.
For many students, discovering and experiencing new foods is a part of the experience. It is important to consider any dietary restrictions, whether they are due to health conditions, religious beliefs, or individual needs, and look into whether you can get the foods you need locally.
How you identify yourself in Madison may differ from how people will view you on-site. Consider exploring our Identity Resources to reflect on how your identities may impact your experience. Students with disabilities should keep in mind that attitudes and laws related to disabilities vary by country, and these differences may impact the level of accommodation available in a particular location. More details are available on our page on Study Abroad for Students with Disabilities.
We encourage you to contact your Study Abroad Advisor and share your accommodation needs with us as early as possible. This will allow us to help you explore your options in advance.
Students on this program should anticipate spending hours outdoors, walking from various spots in each location. As you explore the different sites throughout your program the terrain will be steep and along uneven cobblestones which become slippery when wet. Please plan accordingly.
On-Site Support
You will be supported by on-site staff from CIEE as well as Program Leaders from UW-Madison.
Orientation
IAP expects you to be an active participant in preparing yourself for your study abroad experience. As a participant on an IAP program, you will receive a pre-departure orientation, either in-person or online. The type and format of this orientation will vary by program and will be provided to you upon acceptance to the program.
Visa
Starting in 2026, U.S. citizens will need to get an ETIAS travel authorization to travel to Portugal. You should apply for your travel authorization after you are accepted to the program. It can take up to 30 days to process your application. ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whatever comes first. If you are not a U.S. citizen check the ETIAS travel authorization web page to determine if ETIAS or another visa is required.
A visa is not required for U.S. citizens for this program. U.S. citizens must have a U.S. passport valid for at least six months beyond the end of the program.
Non U.S. Passport holders may have different visa requirements. Ask your Study Abroad Advisor, if you have any questions.
Getting to Your Program
You are responsible for arranging your own travel to and from Portugal, but will be given arrival dates and guidelines.
Insurance
You will be enrolled in the UW System required health insurance through Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) and the cost of the insurance coverage is included in program fees.
If you are a citizen of a country other than the United States and will remain/study in, or travel to your country of record (the location of your permanent residence), the insurance provided for you is the same as the “study away” insurance provided to U.S. citizens studying on domestic U.S. programs. You may want to explore alternative or additional international health and medical insurance that will cover your needs both while in and during any period of transit to/from your country of record. This may include participation in a national healthcare plan or coverage provided under a personal healthcare plan in your country of record. If you have questions about the coverage of the “study away” plan, please speak with your Study Abroad Advisor.
All other students participating on an international program will automatically be enrolled in Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI), the university's international health, medical and repatriation insurance policy.
Program cost information includes program fees, as well as out-of-pocket expenses with notes to help explain costs. Program fees are estimated and can be adjusted at any time. Once accepted, you will receive a cost sheet that includes confirmed program fees and additional out-of-pocket expenses. "The IAP Program Fee" and all processes and policies stated on this cost sheet apply to all participants on programs managed by International Academic Programs (IAP) and in partnership with the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, the College of Engineering, and Wisconsin School of Business. All students participating on approved programs are all eligible to apply for scholarships administered through IAP when they meet the scholarship eligibility and selection criteria.
UW–Madison students can typically use their financial aid on UW–Madison study abroad, domestic study away, and international internship programs. You need to complete a FAFSA if you want to be eligible to receive federal and state financial aid.
Beginning in 2026-27, the Office of Student Financial Aid will require all incoming undergraduate students to submit a CSS profile.
“Studying abroad in Portugal challenged me to see the world through a different lens; both as an artist and as a psychology student. Through drawing historic architecture and experiencing a new culture firsthand, I gained confidence, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for how culture shapes people's perspectives and experiences.”
IAP completes a review of all applications to determine if students meet minimum eligibility requirements.
Session
Application Status
Summer 2026
Application Closed
Disclosure
Students Requiring Accommodations: Consult and register with the McBurney Disability Resource Center McBurney Services if you will need academic, housing, and/or other disability-related accommodations or services abroad.
Military-Connected Students with Veteran’s Benefits: Talk with University Veteran Services about how your benefits can be used for study abroad.
This program is offered by International Academic Programs. We have a team that works with each program. Each member of this program team is able to help students with different kinds of questions. Visit the advising webpage to learn how to schedule an appointment.
Enrollment Manager
For questions on application advising, program eligibility, course equivalency request process, grade processing.
The U.S. Department of State's Benjamin A. Gilman Internatonal Scholarship is a grant program that enables students of limited financial means to study or intern abroad, thereby gaining skills critical to our national security and economic competitiveness. The Gilman Scholarship Program is open to U.S. citizen undergraduate students who are receiving Federal Pell Grant funding at a two-year or four-year college or university to participate in study and intern abroad programs worldwide.
Award Amount
Varies (up to $5,000)
Eligibility Criteria
Scholarships available for undergraduate students who receive federal Pell Grant funding. Scholarships up to $5,000 for a semester/year in addition to a possible $3,000 Critical Need Language Supplement.
The Gilman Scholarship Program aims to support a diverse range of students who have been traditionally under-represented in study abroad, including but not limited to: 1. Students with high financial need 2. Students studying in non-traditional countries, especially those outside of Western Europe, Australia and New Zealand (Note: Students may not study in a country currently on the Department of State's travel warning list) 3. Students with diverse ethnic backgrounds 4. All recipients are required to carry out a Follow-on Service Project that promotes international education and the Gilman Scholarship Program at the students' home institution or in their home community.
All applicants are strongly encouraged to contact their Study Abroad Advisor for assistance with the application essays.
Fund for Education Abroad
Description
The FEA is committed to increasing the opportunities for dedicated American students to participate in high-quality, rigorous education abroad programs by reducing financial restrictions through the provision of grants and scholarships. This scholarship is great for students who are early in the planning process of their study abroad experience as the deadline is early.
Award Amount
Varies
Eligibility Criteria
1. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the U.S. 2. Must plan to study abroad for a minimum of 4 weeks in country 3. Is committed to supporting education abroad in his/her campus community through work with the FEA and his/her campus education abroad staff upon return
How to Apply
For more information and to apply, visit the FEA website.
Going Abroad Scholarship
Description
Our mission at Going is to help people travel and experience the world. Since 2017, we've helped young travelers get out there and get going. Twice a year, two outstanding students will win $1500 towards their study abroad programs. Students must be U.S. citizens or residents enrolled full-time at an accredited institution of higher learning.
Award Amount
$1,500
Eligibility Criteria
Students must be U.S. citizens or residents enrolled full-time at an accredited institution of higher learning. How to Apply
This scholarship is available to UW-Madison students participating in the following affiliated programs: Center for Educational Opportunity, Chancellor's & Powers Knapp Scholarship Program, First Wave, PEOPLE, or the Posse Program. The scholarship was designed to support Scholars who are engaging in study abroad or study away opportunities during the Winter Intersession and/or Summer; must be participating on an International Academic Programs (IAP) study abroad program, in partnership with CALS, Engineering, Business, & the International Internship Program (IIP).
Pending annual renewal, this scholarship is available to UW-Madison undergraduate students pursuing degrees in the School of Education who are studying abroad on an IAP program. Any School of Education undergraduate majors, including students in "pre" status (e.g., pre-Elementary Education, pre-Kinesiology) are eligible to apply. Certificate students are not eligible.
This award is made possible from Claire Shaffer who worked in the Dean's Office in the School of Education for 17 years. Claire believes that spending time overseas helps persons to more fully understand and appreciate the difference in our cultures and perspectives. Spending that much time involved in various capacities made her appreciate what UW-Madison stands for, and how it positively impacts the lives of all who study and work in the environment. She hopes that the recipient of the scholarship will fully embrace the experience the culture and opportunities that present themselves while overseas. And, hopefully, be able to travel, whenever, and wherever they get a chance.
Award Amount
$2,000
How to Apply
Students who are eligible are automatcially considered for this award.
Lois E. Hack Study Abroad Scholarship
Description
Pending annual renewal, this scholarship is available to UW-Madison undergraduate students pursuing degrees in the School of Education who are studying abroad on an IAP program. Any School of Education undergraduate major is eligible to apply. Preference will be given to applicants for whom this would be their first study abroad experience, as well as for students on a program to Africa, Asia, or Latin America.
This award is made possible from alumni of the School of Education who share the school's value of international education.
Award Amount
$3,000
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarship is available to UW-Madison undergraduate students pursuing degrees in the School of Education who are studying abroad on an IAP program. Any School of Education undergraduate, including students in "pre" status (e.g., pre-Elementary Education, pre-Kinesiology), or students earning the Certificate in Educational Policy Studies or the Certificate in Education and Educational Services are eligible to apply. Preference will be given to applicants for whom this would be their first study abroad experience, as well as for students on a program to Africa, Asia, or Latin America.
How to Apply
Students who are eligible are automatcially considered for this award.
L&S Honors Study Abroad Grant
Description Each year, the L&S Honors Program supports Honors students intending to study abroad at a UW-Madison-approved academic study abroad program through the L&S Honors Study Abroad grants. Award Amount
$1250
Eligibility Criteria
L&S Honors student studying on an approved UW-Madison Study Abroad Program How to Apply Students can apply for this award at Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH).
Study Abroad Promise Scholarship
Description
Undergraduate students who are part of a UW-Madison Promise Program (Bucky's Tuition Promise, Bucky's Pell Pathway, BANNER, Wisconsin Tribal Education Promise, and Badger Promise) are eligible for this scholarship of up to $6000 towards a faculty-led program during winter or summer. Review full eligibility on our Study Abroad Promise page.
Award Amount
$6000
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarship is open to undergraduate students who:
Will participate on a short-term faculty-led program*
Are part of a Promise Program (Bucky’s Tuition Promise, Bucky’s Pell Pathway, BANNER)
are full-time degree-seeking undergraduate students at UW-Madison.
Students participating on Global Gateway programs or have previously participated on any UW study abroad program are not eligible.
How to Apply
Eligible students will be automatically reviewed and notified of award amount prior to acceptance to program.
Study Abroad Alumni & Friends Scholarship
Description
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison students participating on an IAP study abroad program. This award is made possible through generous donations from UW-Madison alumni and friends of study abroad programs. These donors value the benefits of study abroad and are committed to making this opportunity available to UW-Madison students.
Award Amount
Varies
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison students participating on an IAP study abroad program.
How to Apply
This scholarship is an auto-match application. Students who submit an application for the IAP Study Abroad Conditional Application in the Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH) will be automatically considered if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Study Abroad Scholars
Description
This competitive scholarship provides students with financial awards starting at $1,500 towards the eligible study abroad program of your choice, and the chance to share your experience with the UW-Madison community upon return. Students attending any program, except the funded Global Gateway programs, in IAP, CALS, ENGR, or WSB are encouraged to apply to become a Study Abroad Scholar. Please read full scholarship details, including eligibility requirements, and considerations on the Study Abroad Scholars page.
CALS majors must apply for Study Abroad Scholars to be considered for CALS donor scholarships. Award Amount
$1,500-$8,000
Eligibility Criteria
In order to be considered for the Study Abroad Scholars scholarship for this application round, an applicant must:
Be in the process of applying, or have already applied, to an IAP study abroad program (UW Global Gateway Programs are not eligible)
Be a full-time, degree-seeking undergraduate UW-Madison student
Academic merit and financial need will be considered
Submit completed application materials online by the posted deadline
This scholarship is available for degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate students attending an IAP study abroad program. Applicants must demonstrate financial need (to be determined by FAFSA submission) and maintain Minnesota or Non-Resident residency. Scholarship will be awarded to students participating on a fall, spring, or year-long program. Scholarship award can range from $200-$2,000.
This scholarship was established by International Academic Programs (IAP) in order to provide assistance to students looking to expand their educational opportunities abroad.
Award Amount
Varies
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarship is available for degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate students attending an IAP study abroad program. Applicants must demonstrate financial need (to be determined by FAFSA submission) and maintain Minnesota or Non-Resident residency. Scholarship will be awarded to students participating on a fall, spring, or year-long program.
How to Apply
Students accepted to an approved IAP study abroad program for a semester or year are automatically considered for this scholarship if they have completed a FAFSA and submitted all necessary supplemental forms to the Office of Student Financial Aid Office. Students should submit a FAFSA as soon as possible. Funds are disbursed until exhaused for the term.
Rothschild Study Abroad Scholarship
Description
This scholarship is open to enrolled UW-Madison Students from the greater Chicagoland area (as defined by Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will counties) or a current recipient of one of the WAA Chicago Chapter Scholarships.
WAA Chicago Chapter created this fund circa 2005 with the estate gift from Robert Rothschild in efforts to support study abroad participants.
Award Amount
Varies
Eligibility Criteria
Must be from greater Chicago Area (as defined by Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will counties) or a current recipient of one of the WAA Chicago Chapter Scholarships.
Description
IAP will provide a guaranteed $1000 scholarship to students applying to the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship for the first time and meet the Gilman's scholarship eligibility requirements and application deadlines.
Students can only receive the IAP Gilman Incentive one time in their academic career. No additional application to IAP is needed and our staff will notify recipients after the Gilman scholarship deadline. Award Amount
$1000
How to Apply
For more information and to apply, visit the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship website. No additional application is needed for the IAP Gilman Incentive award. Students can only receive the IAP Gilman Incentive one time.
IAP WISc Scholarship
Description
This scholarship was established by International Academic Programs (IAP) to assist undergraduate student participants in the Wisconsin International Scholars (WISc) Program with building their global competence and citizenship skills, which is the core goal of the WISc Program. Each WISc Scholar is eligible to receive scholarships as follows:
1) 1 scholarship of $2500 toward participation on a short-term study abroad program duration (winter intersession, spring break, or summer), and
2) 1 scholarship of $4000 toward participation on a semester program OR 1 $6000 towards a year long program.
These scholarships can be used for students attending any approved UW-Madison study abroad program.
Award Amount
$2500-$6000
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible for student participants of the Wisconsin International Scholars (WISc) Program at UW-Madison.
