About WorldStrides

WorldStrides Higher Education is one of the largest and most experienced education abroad providers in the United States, offering university students and faculty a full range of international programs — from semester study abroad and internships to faculty-led custom programs and community engagement experiences. With over 55 years of experience, WorldStrides operates programs in more than 50 cities across 25+ countries on 5 continents, partnering with 100+ host universities around the world. Students can apply directly through WorldStrides or through their home university's study abroad office.

In 2025, International Studies Abroad (ISA), The Education Abroad Network (TEAN), and WorldStrides Custom Programs officially unified under the WorldStrides brand. While students and alumni may still recognize the ISA and TEAN names from past programs, all study abroad, internship, community engagement, research, and custom programs are now offered through WorldStrides.

This transition brought together decades of experience, global partnerships, and student support under a single brand, making it easier for students and university partners to explore opportunities around the world. Today, WorldStrides Higher Education offers programs in more than 50 cities across 25+ countries, supported by the same trusted staff, academic partners, health and safety infrastructure, and on-the-ground support that students have relied on for years.

Both. Students can browse programs and apply directly through WorldStrides without needing to go through their university's study abroad office. However, WorldStrides also partners formally with hundreds of universities, whose students may have access to streamlined application processes, pre-approved credit transfer agreements, or institutional scholarships. Whether you're applying independently or through a university partnership, you'll receive the same program experience, safety support, and advising resources. If you're unsure which route applies to you, start by checking with your university's study abroad or international programs office — or contact WorldStrides directly. The application is designed to be user-friendly and includes step-by-step guidance throughout the process.

Studying abroad develops the skills that employers consistently rank as most important in new hires: adaptability, cross-cultural communication, problem-solving in ambiguous situations, and global awareness. According to the Institute of International Education (IIE) Open Doors Report, study abroad alumni report higher rates of employment after graduation, greater career confidence, and stronger professional networks compared to peers who did not go abroad. Beyond career outcomes, students who study abroad report significant gains in independence, self-awareness, and intercultural competency — skills that translate into every professional and personal context. For students pursuing careers in business, healthcare, government, education, or international affairs, international experience is increasingly a differentiator.

WorldStrides programs are designed to deliver measurable academic, professional, and personal outcomes. Students typically report gains in the following areas:

• Academic: earning transferable credit, gaining exposure to international academic perspectives, and completing coursework in their field of study
• Professional: building a global resume, developing workplace skills through internships or community placements, and earning digital badges that certify competencies
• Personal: increased independence, cultural fluency, language development, and a broader sense of global citizenship
• Networking: forming relationships with international peers, faculty, and professionals that extend well beyond the program