Institutional Barriers to Study Abroad Participation: The Perceptions of Undergraduate African American Students

The study abroad experience at the university level is an increasingly important developmental opportunity. Unfortunately, while campuses within the United States collectively enroll a growing number of international students, the number of American students studying abroad during an undergraduate degree program remains consistently low. This is especially true among African American students. This case study examines the perceptions of undergraduate African American students regarding institutional barriers to study abroad. Supporting extant literature, perceived cost and restrictions on financial aid for studying abroad topped the reasons for not pursuing study abroad. In addition, the largest influences on the decision by African American students to participate in study abroad are family and friends. However, minimal institutional awareness of these influencers was present. To increase African American participation in study abroad, the findings highlight the need for focused institutional actions that include involving African American campus resources, carefully considering study abroad destinations, and strategic communication.