Regardless of your own religious or spiritual beliefs, you may be exposed to different beliefs during your time abroad. Remember that you will be expected to follow the local laws and cultural norms of your host country.

In some countries, laws, customs, dress, and diet may reflect the values of the dominant religion. If your religious or spiritual community is important to you, you may want to seek out this community while abroad. Depending on where you study abroad, you may be able to connect with your religious community while abroad. Doing research before you arrive in your host country can help you gain a better understanding of the people and culture, while giving you a sense of what to expect during your time abroad as it relates to your own religious practice and spirituality.

One place to start may be asking our Study Abroad Ambassadors about their experiences abroad. You may also find it useful to read Harvard’s Pluralism Report, an introduction to the world’s religious traditions through the lens of America.

The following reflection questions may be helpful to consider:

  • What is the dominant religion in my host country? Will I be a part of the religious majority or minority?
  • How might my religious practice or identity be affected if I study in a country where the dominant religion is not my own?
  • Do any parts of my identity conflict with my host country’s religious values or attitudes?
  • Are there any laws regarding religion? Is there a separation between religion and the government?
  • How tolerant is the culture in my host country of other religions, atheists, and agnostics?
  • Is it safe for me to wear religious symbols or clothing?
  • If I have religious dietary restrictions, can they be accommodated in my host country and program housing? Who can I contact to discuss my specific religious requirements?
  • If you will live in a homestay, are you open to living in a household with a different religious background than yours?
  • Will I be able to find places of worship in my host country?
  • Are there any religious holidays that will take place during my term away?