Have you always dreamed of taking creative writing courses abroad? Creative writing study abroad programs could be a great way to jumpstart your craft, from starting a bestselling novel in Norway to perfecting your poetry in Paris. After all, travel can be inspiring…just think of all the new people, places, and experiences you may be able to write about! Likely, you’ll have a few questions before boarding the next plane to your country of choice. So ,here are some FAQs that may help you plan your writing adventures abroad.

Why take creative writing study abroad programs?

Hemingway went to Spain and famously wrote about bullfighting. Gertrude Stein lived and wrote in France. Surely, some of your favorite writers were inspired by their travels, too. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, writers who want to write about a particular topic may need some personal experience in that area. (Future travel writers, take note!) Research is also an important part of many writing career paths. Even if you hope to write fiction, experiencing a new part of the world could help get your creative juices flowing, or even help you flesh out your characters and new environments. And if you are hoping to earn a degree in writing, creative writing programs abroad might help you pursue your studies while experiencing another culture.

Can creative writing courses abroad be part of my degree program?

Sure, it may be possible creative writing study abroad programs as part of a writing degree program. Most professional writers earn a bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, or communications.i It’s important to check with your college or university to see if you can earn course credits abroad. Naturally, rules and requirements may depend on the institution where you hope to earn your college degree. However, it might be possible to fit a short-term or long-term creative writing study abroad programs into your studies. For other writers, creative writing programs abroad may simply be a great way to practice the craft of writing, meet likeminded people, and experience life in another country. Whether you hope to go abroad for course credit or personal reasons is totally up to you!

What financing options may be available for creative writing courses abroad?

Wondering how to finance your creative writing study abroad programs? Funding options depend on the program, as well as your eligibility. The Higher Education Act (HEA) of 1992 says that qualified students may be eligible for financial aid while studying abroad if enrolled in a study-abroad program approved by their home institution. Be sure to check with your school’s financial aid office or other authorities to determine if you may qualify for financial aid. Also consider any possible scholarships or grants for which you may be eligible. Remember that financial aid is not guaranteed, but you may find a way to make your study abroad goals possible.

How can I prepare to study creative writing abroad?

Every study abroad program and host country may come with its own set of challenges. Likely, your creative writing program will have some tips and suggestions to help you get ready. However, some common-sense advice may apply. For example, it could potentially be helpful to learn as much as you can about the local customs, etiquette, and language of your host country. That way, you’ll be ready to meet new people and make friends! Learn some basic vocabulary if you are traveling to a country where English isn’t typically spoken. Also be aware of travel advisories, recommended vaccinations, and other health or safety concerns when traveling. And finally, don’t forget to bring a notebook to write things down while you practice being observant. Inspiration is where you find it, and sampling new foods, seeing new places, and interacting with people from different walks of life could provide great material for budding writers. If taking creative writing courses abroad sounds like an exciting prospect, take the time to explore some programs that may meet your needs. Here are a few to check out below: