How to Apply to an API Program

All you need to know about the API application process

Step One - Research Your Options

API offers a wide variety of international program options around the globe for students and participants of (nearly) all ages... so how do you choose the program that is right for you!?

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING AN API PROGRAM

  • Language of instruction/placement
  • Course/placement offerings
  • Big city or small town?
  • Cost of program
  • Location
  • Excursions / cultural events
  • Duration
  • Housing
  • Extras / special features

Check out our Program Finder which allows you to search by type of program (study abroad, intern, teach, volunteer, high school, gap), location, subject, lifestyle, and more!

Talk to people at your school, your friends, or anyone that you trust who has studied abroad, and check out reviews of API on popular platforms like Abroad101.com, GoOverseas.com, and GoAbroad.com.

Follow API on social media to see the amazing experiences that our students get to have (and that you could soon be having too!). Links to our social profiles are at the bottom right of this page.

Step Two - Speak with an Advisor

If you are high school, gap year, or university student, you are strongly advised (and in many cases, required) to meet with an academic advisor, study abroad advisor, guidance counselor, professor, or other key decision makers at your school. The API application for these programs has a component that requires the approval/signature of these decision makers before you can be officially accepted.

Students who are under 18 also will require the approval of their parent(s)/guardian(s) in order to participate.

Those who are applying for a teach or volunteer program and who are over 18 are not required to have an advisor or parent sign off on their application.

Step Three - Begin Your Online Application

Now that you've found the right program for you and you've gotten the support of your trusted advisors, friends, and family, you're ready to apply!

First - verify the admission requirements and program deadlines (see link below).

Next - click on the yellow 'Apply Now' button (at the top of every page) and begin your online application. Follow the step-by-step instructions, complete the forms by the prescribed deadlines, and start working with your API support staff to plan your trip abroad!

Finally - apply for or renew your passport. See if you need a visa. Start researching travel plans. Apply for API scholarships!

Learn about API's Application Policies
Step Four - Next Steps

Once an application is complete, it generally takes 10 business days for the applicant to be accepted. In sites where the host university abroad must review the applicant’s materials directly, students may first be offered provisional acceptance through API.

Provisional acceptance provides an opportunity for students to continue the pre-departure process while the university review is being completed. Accepted students are directed to their @api account to complete post-acceptance paperwork, to be submitted online or by mail.

Students who are not accepted are refunded their $150 application fee.