The mission of Global Programs is to advance the University’s global strategy in Boston and around the world. By developing and facilitating international education programs and activities, we provide students with meaningful global experiences while also supporting the University’s role as a welcoming host for scholars and students from across the globe. In doing so, we lead, support, and strengthen BU’s global engagement.
IEW will run from November 16-20, 2026.
We’re proud to play a key role in facilitating and supporting global projects and partnerships conducted by BU faculty and students in far-flung places.
countries and all 50 states
partnerships with global institutions
travelers with resources, travel alerts & more in 2024-25
BU alumni living and leading in 185+ countries
annually
of students intern while abroad
International students studied at BU
International scholars engaged in study and research at BU
BU Study Abroad stands as an industry leader, one of the first American institutions to offer international studies. We enroll 2,300+ students annually in our 150+ Study Abroad programs across the globe.
At home in Boston, our ISSO department welcomes 12,000+ international students and 1,000+ scholars to campus annually, enriching BU’s community.
We also help cultivate a welcoming campus environment with myriad tools, programs, and initiatives to help our international community thrive.
Explore our latest news, updates, and stories—filled with global perspectives from around the world and campus.
ISSO Remains Dedicated to Supporting the Community This has been a challenging and stressful time for international students and scholars. With various proposed rule changes, changes in guidance to existing rules, and one of the most difficult visa application seasons…
Rae Ruane (COM ’27) grew up learning about mythology and spirituality in all forms from her grandmother. Her interest in mythologies did not fade as she grew older, and by the time she was applying to universities, she was interested…
Ben Bucaj (CAS ’26) started travelling internationally at a young age. As a first-generation American, he and his family regularly traveled to the Balkans and spent long summer days on his grandfather’s farm in Kosovo, often driving to visit extended…
Notes the Importance of Fostering Belonging and How Doing What You Love is Crucial
Research Ranges from Global Preparedness for Emerging Infectious Disease to Anti-displacement Policy to Bilingual Language Learning International scholars deeply enrich and contribute to the BU community in all kinds of ways. At Boston University, we welcome 1,100+ international scholars to…
New Prague Internship Program Offers Exciting Opportunity for Students to Gain Real-World Professional Experience in the Heart of Central Europe With the launch of BU Study Abroad’s newest program, undergraduate students now have the opportunity to spend the fall or…
By Leonella Castellano Thiébaud, Director, BU Geneva Programs Last January, Dr. Melissa Gilliam visited Boston University students in Geneva and immersed herself in the day-to-day lives of those completing physics research and international relations/public health internships during their semester abroad.…
Whether it’s an athlete in the middle of a perfect game or a writer lost in a burst of inspiration, many people have experienced the elusive feeling of being “in the zone.” At Boston University, Associate Professor of Sport, Exercise…