<p>I’m a sophomore interested in studying abroad 2nd semester of my junior year. Right now I’m debating between schools in England, Germany (or Switzerland, or Austria), and New Zealand(Auckland). Right now I’m pulling a 2.8 GPA with a BA degree in Economics from a Big 12 University. </p>
<p>What schools should I consider in those countries, when should I apply, and will I have the ability to show them a higher GPA with a hopefully stronger Spring Semester?</p>
<p>If you are a sophomore now (first semester I guess), you wouldn’t apply until at least the end of spring 2008. At my school for spring semester study abroad, the application isn’t due til October (although you would probably want to apply earlier just to make sure you had enough time to get all your paperwork in if you have to apply for a visa and/or passport). Look to see if your school has programs in any of those countries you’re interested in. Go talk to someone in the study abroad office and look at your school’s study abroad website. Also you might want to ask people some questions on the study abroad board here on CC. They’re fairly helpful most of the time.</p>
<p>Your school should have a study abroad office. Contact them and see what they can do with you. You’ll likely be able to read literature on the various programs in each country, find out admissions standards, find out deadlines, and so forth. </p>
<p>Using the CC board is another good idea, but use it as a supplement, not a replacement. Much of the info will be specific to your school, potentially including approved programs, deadlines, and eligibility. </p>
<p>Good luck :)</p>
<p>My S. is looking at many of the same schools - he is also a currently sophomore econ major. Most of the schools seem to require a 3.0 or higher so getting your GPA up may increase your chances for acceptance</p>
<p>Although he does not attend Butler, we found this website really helpful, to compare programs and costs. There are also links to the actual schools for study abroad.</p>
<p>[Institute</a> for Study Abroad, Butler University](<a href=“http://www.ifsa-butler.org/]Institute”>http://www.ifsa-butler.org/)</p>
<p>Do you have German?</p>