First-Year Study Abroad Programming with FIE
FIE London students at Stonehenge, one of our most popular extra-curricular events
Our Expertise
FIE has been delivering exceptional study abroad experiences since 1998 and has specialized in first-year programming since 2008. We work with public and private institutions across the U.S. to create meaningful, academically rigorous, and student centric programs in London, Dublin, and Madrid.
Our services encompass every aspect of the student experience: from academic course design and delivery to housing, student activities, and intercultural learning opportunities. Our understanding of the unique needs of first-year students and our expertise in program development make us a trusted leader in the field.
Instititional Benefits of First-Year Programming Abroad
First-year study abroad programs are a strategic solution for institutions seeking to support enrollment goals, enhance retention between the first and second semesters, or between first year and sophomore years, and provide transformative learning experiences from the very start of the college journey. Offering a first-year abroad program enables your institution to stand out in a competitive admissions landscape, increase yield, and mitigate capacity concerns by supporting intentional over-enrollment.
A Program That Reflects Your Institution
FIE works closely with our partners to ensure each first-year program is fully aligned with institutional goals and campus culture. Programs are customized to include your university’s traditions, vocabulary, academic structure, and community norms. This helps students maintain a strong sense of identity and connection to their home campus, even while studying abroad.
Students return after their first semester or year abroad not only with global insight, but also with a reinforced appreciation for their home institution and often become strong advocates and engaged members of the campus community.
Cultural Immersion in Student-Friendly Cities
FIE’s programs are based in London, Dublin, and Madrid—dynamic cities that offer immersive cultural experiences while remaining accessible and supportive for first-year students. These locations are culturally rich, safe, and familiar enough for U.S. students to feel secure as they take this important step in their academic journey.
Through intentional program design using high impact practices, we help students explore and engage with their host city while building self-confidence, intercultural awareness, adaptability, leadership skills, and a tolerance for ambiguity, all critical qualities for success in college and beyond.
Trusted, Flexible, and Collaborative Partners
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Each first-year program we develop is the result of a collaborative design process that responds to your institutional priorities, whether you are growing a specific academic department, increasing selectivity, or addressing housing and retention strategies.
Our partners value our reliability, adaptability, and long-standing commitment to student success.
Testimonial(s)
“FIE has been supportive, reliable, and trustworthy throughout all the years the College of Charleston has been working with them."
— Dr. Bruce Fleming, Director, iCharleston Program, College of Charleston
Let’s Start the Conversation
FIE is ready to help you explore how a customized first-year program abroad can support your institution’s enrollment strategy, enhance your students’ experience, and distinguish your institution in meaningful ways.
Please fill out the short form below to begin the conversation. A member of our team will be in touch to learn more about your goals and share how we can help bring your vision to life.
