Connecting with Your Academic Advisor Before You Study Abroad

Before committing to a study abroad program, it is important to talk with your academic advisor at Northern Arizona University. Your advisor can help you determine how courses taken abroad will apply toward your degree and ensure that your study abroad plans support your academic progress.

Meeting with your advisor early in the process can help

Meet With Your Advisor

Academic advisors help students plan their path to graduation by selecting courses, reviewing degree requirements, and identifying academic opportunities that align with your goals.

Before you apply for a study abroad program, your advisor can help you:

  • Identify which degree requirements you still need to complete

  • Determine if study abroad courses may count toward your major, minor, general education, or elective credits

  • Ensure the timing of your program fits your graduation plan

  • Review prerequisites or course sequencing requirements

  • Discuss how study abroad supports your academic and career goals

Finding Your Academic Advisor

All undergraduate students at Northern Arizona University are assigned an academic advisor. You can find your advisor in your LOUIE student portal under the Academic Progress section. Advisors may offer appointments in person, by phone, or online, depending on availability.

You can also explore advising resources or schedule an appointment through the NAU University Advising website.

After meeting with your academic advisor, continue communicating with both your academic advisor and your Education Abroad advisor. Working together ensures that your study abroad experience supports your degree progress, academic interests, and career goals.

Best Practices for Meeting With Your Advisor

To make the most of your advising appointment, it helps to prepare in advance.

1. Research Programs First

Before meeting with your advisor, browse the Education Abroad Program Search, review potential course offerings and identify programs that match your academic interests. Bring a list of programs or courses you are considering so your advisor can help evaluate them.

2. Know Your Degree Requirements

Review your degree plan or progression plan before your appointment. This helps you understand:

  • Which requirements you still need?

  • Which semesters may be flexible for studying abroad?

  • What types of courses might work best for you abroad?

3. Prepare Questions

Consider asking your advisor questions such as:

  • Which requirements could I complete abroad?

  • Is there an ideal semester for me to study abroad?

  • Are there any courses I should complete before going abroad?

  • Can study abroad courses count toward my minor or electives?

4. Bring Potential Courses

Many study abroad programs publish course lists on their program pages. If possible, bring course titles or descriptions, the university where the course is offered and the program brochures or links. This helps your advisor determine how the course might transfer back to Northern Arizona University.

5. Meet With Your Advisor Early

Ideally, you should meet with your advisor one or two semesters before you plan to study abroad. Early planning provides time to:

  • Confirm course approvals

  • Adjust your degree plan if necessary

  • Select the program that best supports your academic goals