Limited Capacity Program: This program can accept a limited number of students each term, and in the past, we have received more qualified applicants than available spots. Review and admission of applicants occurs on a rolling basis, and you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. You may only have one open application per term, but should have an alternate program in mind in the event that you are not accepted to this program.
Offered through the School for Field Studies (SFS), the SFS Croatia semester and summer programs are approved UW-Madison affiliate program.
Explore Mediterranean islands and wind through the Adriatic archipelagos in search of whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. Work alongside marine conservation professionals as they study population ecology, community behavior, and practice rescue and rehabilitation actions on these animals. The Center for the Conservation of Marine Megafauna program takes place in the Croatian archipelagos of the Eastern Adriatic coast, a hotspot for biodiversity, and one of the regions of the Mediterranean most affected by climate change. Course fieldwork focuses on issues such as spatial and population ecology of marine megafauna, human dimensions of conservation, and veterinary sciences.
You will be working closely with both IAP and SFS on this program. You can access the program's main information page through the SFS website to learn more about the academics, housing, excursions and activities, and program location.
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
Previous college-level ecology, biology, earth science, or environmental studies course required for semester programs.
2.8 cumulative GPA for semester programs
Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior
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
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
Learn more about the program location, academics, housing/study center, community engagement, and research opportunities at the SFS Croatia site.
It's important to note that while this program is in Europe, the SFS program model focuses on the cohort-based experience and independent travel is limited to the mid-semester break.
Cost of living varies widely by location. Be sure to consult a variety of resources when researching cost of living.
Housing
UW-Madison students are required to live in SFS provided housing for the duration of their program. The SFS Center features 4-person bunkrooms with ensuite shower and toilet. Housing varies during program excursions.
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.
This program may require specific immunizations for program participation. SFS will provide information on any requirements.
On-Site Support
The SFS Center Director and staff provide on-site support for the duration of the program.
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.
Participants will also have an on-site orientation upon arrival to the program.
Visa
US citizens do not need a visa for travel to Croatia under 90 days. Students' visa waivers will be supplemented with a Temporary Residence Permit to cover students for the remainder of their program. Upon arrival, SFS staff will assist students with applying for Temporary Residence Permits.
Students need to leave at least 30 days of their visa waiver to process their Temporary Residence Permits. US citizens traveling before and/or after the program within Croatia or other Schengen countries can do so using up to 60 days of their 90-day tourist visa waiver.
Non-US citizens may require a different visa process and are responsible for applying for, obtaining, and paying for their own visa valid for the duration of their stay.
Getting to Your Program
You are responsible for arranging round-trip transportation to the program site. SFS provides 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.
Sources of available funding for study abroad include scholarships, grants and loans. To increase your chances of receiving financial aid, we recommend filling out your FAFSA to begin the financial planning process early.
For detailed information on financial resources, visit our Funding Study Abroad.
Scholarships
This scholarship list includes scholarships we know are relevant to this program. It is not an exhaustive list of all available scholarship opportunities for study abroad. Although we make our best effort to ensure the list is up-to-date, this information changes frequently, and it is the responsibility of the applicant to verify information. For additional scholarship information, please visit our scholarship page.
Complete applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Early submission is encouraged.
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.
Tortuga Backpacks Study Abroad Scholarship
Description
Young people deserve to experience the world beyond their college campuses, but not everyone can afford to travel, especially if you're on a student budget. The Tortuga Backpacks Study Abroad Scholarship is awarded biannually to passionate students who want to explore the world. At Tortuga Backpacks, our mission is to help people take amazing trips, including students studying abroad. When customers purchase luggage from us for their trips, they are "paying it forward" by funding scholarships for students like you.
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.
Phi Kappa Phi Study Abroad Grants
Description
Phi Kappa Phi Study Abroad Grants are designed to help support undergraduates as they seek knowledge and experience in their academic fields by studying abroad. Fifty $1,000 grants are awarded each year. Students do not have to be a member of Phi Kappa Phi to apply.
Award Amount
$1,000
Eligibility Criteria
1. The competition is open to Phi Kappa Phi members and nonmembers in all fields of study. 2. You must be enrolled as an undergraduate student at an institiution that has an active Phi Kappa Phi chapter. 4. You must have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least a 3.75 on a 4.0 scale (3.74 GPA does not qualify). 5. You must be accepted into an accredited study abroad program before the date provided and provide the letter of acceptance as part of your application. 6. Your study abroad plan should relate directly to your academic preparation, potential career choice, or commitment to the welfare of others.
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
Description
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate students studying abroad on any UW-Madison study abroad program. Preferences for this scholarship include a minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA, financial need, first generation college student, and first time abroad.
The Bryan Davia Scholarship was created in his honor to commemorate his life and to continue to share his gift of enriching the lives of everyone around him. As someone who loved to explore the world and everything life had to offer, Bryan would want nothing more than to help others do the same. Bryan was a compassionate, outgoing, hard working alumni of UW-Madison who cherished his time studying abroad in Barcelona. During his time abroad, Bryan set out to discover everything his new home had to offer. Bryan possessed the ability to extract the energy of a city through the exploration of its music, nightlife, and food allowing him to fully integrate himself within his environment and it’s culture. Bryan understood the value of knowledge gained from experiences and social interactions, rather than just in a classroom. We hope the recipient of this scholarship shares his devotion to balancing hard work with an unrelenting desire to explore, discover, and enjoy every moment in their new city.
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.
UW Global Gateway Fellowships
Description
UW Global Gateway Fellowships for Semester and Year-long Study Abroad are designed to provide undergraduate students the access to the UW-Madison approved semester or year-long study abroad program of their choice, including the semester-long domestic study away program, UW Wisconsin in Washington, DC Internship Program, which best meets their academic and professional goals.
The Global Gateway Initiative is based on the following values:
Global competency and experience is necessary to succeed in today’s world.
Global learning continues throughout a student’s career at UW-Madison, both on campus and away.
Financial barriers should not prevent access to these opportunities.
This prestigious scholarship was established by International Academic Programs, in partnership with the Office of Student Financial Aid, to introduce students to the issues of globalization and prepare students for success in an increasingly interconnected world.
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate students studying abroad on an IAP program.
This scholarship is made possible through the generous donation of the children of Morton and Lena Wax as a tribute to their parents and to express their appreciation for the excellent education family members have received at UW-Madison.
Award Amount
$500
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarships is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison students studying abroad on an IAP 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.
Great People - International Studies Scholarship
Description
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate students studying abroad on an IAP study abroad program, in partnership with CALS, Engineering, and Business. This scholarship aims to ensure that undergraduates with financial need can realize their dream of studying abroad. The Great People-International Studies Scholarship makes study abroad accessible and affordable, just as the UW Foundation’s Great People Scholarship helps to ensure that no student accepted to the university on outstanding merits will be turned away for want of money.
Award Amount
Varies
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate students studying abroad on an IAP study abroad program.
This scholarship is available to degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduates participating on an IAP study abroad program. Preference is given to Evans Scholars with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA. Awards range from $500 - $1,000 depending on program duration.
This award is made possible by generous donation from Julie and Michael Gerend to help provide financial support to students who wish to study abroad since their own study abroad opportunities profoundly influenced their lives.
Award Amount
$500 - $1,000
Eligibility Criteria
Degree-seeking UW-Madison undergraduate participating on an IAP program. Preference is given to Evans Scholars with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA.
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.
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.
As part of our Commitment to Sustainability, we are excited to offer the Badgers Go Green Abroad Scholarship to undergraduate students who also have a commitment to sustainability.
This scholarship is open to undergraduate students who:
Apply to a UW-Madison Study Abroad approved semester or year-long program.
Have a demonstrated interest/commitment to sustainability (as demonstrated through application essays), including concrete actions plans during and after the program to demonstrate this commitment. Award Amount
$5000 towards semester program $8000 towards year program
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.
Sarah Perry Fund for International Study
Description This funding comes from Sarah Perry, who having studied abroad for a year, wishes to support the same opportunity for students. Recipients may attend the University’s Approved Study Abroad Program of their choice (of any duration, international location, or subject matter), but may lack the necessary financial resources to do so.Award Amount
$5000
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.
IAP Gilman Incentive
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.
Students must have their primary academic program in CALS are eligible to apply for scholarships specifically for CALS majors. Students must apply for the Study Abroad Scholars scholarship through IAP to be considered for these awards. Students must have also completed/submitted their study abroad application in order to be considered for a CALS study abroad scholarship.
Students who are completing the Global Health Certificate, but whose majors are outside of CALS (such as L&S) are not eligible.
Award Amount
Varies ($1000-$2500)
Eligibility Criteria
Students must have their primary academic program in CALS to be eligible to apply. Students who are completing the Global Health Certificate, but whose majors are outside of CALS (such as L&S) are not eligible. Students must have also completed/submitted their study abroad application in order to be considered for a CALS scholarship.
Established by Barbara B. Glass in 1988 in memory of her parents, the Roland & Maude Becker scholarship provides financial assistance to students with a major in Conservation Biology (formerly Biological Aspects of Conservation). The scholarship is a one-time award to help support a conservation experience related to the Conservation Biology major. A conservation experience may include an undergraduate research experience, internship experience, study abroad program, etc. Awards will be in the amount of $500 and up to two awards will be awarded per academic year.
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).
SFS Scholarships
Description
Students participating on a SFS program are eligible to apply for scholarships through SFS. Scholarship eligibility criteria varies, but has included: need and identity-based scholarships.
Award Amount
Varies ($1,000-$5,000)
Eligibility Criteria
SFS Program participants. Eligibility varies by program and award; be sure to read scholarship details thoroughly.
How to Apply
For more information and to apply, visit the SFS website
State of Wisconsin Study Abroad Travel Grant
Description
Grants available for undergraduate students attending an approved UW-Madison study abroad program who demonstrate financial need. Maximum award is $2,000 for semester or year long program durations.
Award Amount
$200 - $2,000
How to Apply
Students accepted to an approved UW-Madison study abroad program for a semester or year are automatically considered for this grant if they have completed a FAFSA and submitted all necessary supplemental forms to the Office of Student Financial Aid Office.
