Planning to Study Abroad? Choose Your Program Wisely

There has been a lot of talk lately in the newspapers about the "Study Abroad Scandal." The states of New York and Illinois have launched investigations into 15 universities (including Harvard, Columbia, Cornell and Northwestern) concerning their relationships with providers of foreign study programs. There may be evidence that some independent foreign study programs have been giving cash incentives and other benefits to schools to ensure that the schools steer students to their study programs. Although students attending the programs that are being investigated may find that these programs are indeed the right fit for their purposes, the Attorney Generals of both states are concerned that the universities' Study Abroad offices may not be serving students' best interests. Two of the programs under investigation are the American Institute of Foreign Study and the Institute for the International Education of Students, which both have programs in Rome. What can you do to make sure you are indeed choosing the right program for yourself or your family members? Budget Travel has put together a list of 10 questions to ask before you commit.