Study Abroad opens Internet site

    Attending college overseas has become a popular choice for American students.

   Because of that popularity, StudyAbroad.com launched College Abroad.com, a new Web site for researching international programs.

   “What many American students don’t realize is that guaranteed student loans apply to the majority of international universities,” Mark Shay, CEO of Educational Directories Unlimited, a parent company of StudyAbroad.com, said in a press release.

   Typically, students interested in attending college abroad enjoy travel and international culture.

   Earning a four-year degree abroad offers many benefits. For example, a person who enjoys theater may want to study in London with its West End theatre district. Someone fascinated by international business may want to study in Australia, also known as the gateway to Asia, where many larger international firms are located. Students with an interest in art might enjoy the access to museums in Paris, Florence or Rome.

   The launch of this Web site allows U.S. students to research over 550 four-year programs abroad based in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand and the UK (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland).

   Because parents need to stretch every tuition dollar possible, Canada has become popular. Some Canadian programs are cheaper than those at colleges in the United States.

   As the site gains popularity, new listings will be added along with more languages.

   The Web site offers sections on determining reasons for studying abroad and selecting the right program. It also gives advice on what to do prior to leaving and after returning home. Information covers costs, requirements, housing, financial aid, transportation and health care.

   With CollegeAbroad.com, counselors and students have additional resources for locating programs that best fit individual needs, goals and styles.