# Take the World by the Horns: First Semester Abroad

**Source**: https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/programs/first-semester-abroad
**Parent**: https://global.utexas.edu/abroad

Launch your journey to a world-class degree at The University of Texas at Austin with an academic adventure abroad during your first semester. Begin your life as a Longhorn with a select group of globally minded students as you immerse yourselves in a new culture!

## Where will your story begin?

### [Copenhagen, Denmark: Energy and the Environment, Health and Well-being](https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/programs/first-semester-abroad/energy-environment-health-wellbeing-denmark)

Examine how Denmark innovates as a global leader in health and sustainability.

### [Panama City, Panama: Energy and the Environment](https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/programs/first-semester-abroad/energy-environment-panama)

Explore marine life and visit an ancient archipelago as you study the world’s most biodiverse environment in Panama.

### [Seoul, South Korea: Society and Technology, Health and Well-being](https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/programs/first-semester-abroad/society-technology-health-wellbeing-south-korea)

Travel to South Korea, the heart of innovation, to discover how advances in technology can benefit health and society.

### [Stockholm, Sweden: Health and Well-being](https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/programs/first-semester-abroad/health-wellbeing-sweden)

Learn how Swedish design prioritizes human health and well-being, setting the global standard for quality of life.

## Why begin your college career abroad?

- Develop close ties with a cohort of talented students and stay connected to your team throughout your college career.   \
- Dive deep into one focus area of study by going beyond the classroom to apply knowledge in an experiential, international setting.   \
- Prepare yourself for an increasingly global marketplace by learning to communicate across cultures, incorporate diverse perspectives into your work, and lead with empathy.

## Program Details

### Admissions

Take the World by the Horns is a competitive program for students applying to enter their first year of college at the University of Texas at Austin. Criteria for selection is based on academic achievement, extracurricular experience, and a demonstrated interest in international or intercultural learning. Students will be admitted across four international sites for 2026.

### Orientation

Take the World by the Horns participants are required to attend a spring virtual pre-departure session to learn about program timelines and logistics, and an in-person UT Austin [Freshman orientation](https://newstudentservices.utexas.edu/orientation) featuring supplemental programming to prepare for their first semester abroad.

### Academics

The Take the World by the Horns program (TWBH) curriculum offers an immersive exploration of global challenges, combining traditional academic and experiential learning opportunities. There is no language requirement to participate. Introductory language and culture classes are included in the program. (See individual program detail pages for more details.) Students are expected to enroll in four courses (12 credits).

### Cost and Financial Aid

Estimated costs are listed on each program page. Students’ financial aid package will be based on education and program costs, which include registration fees and tuition, overseas insurance, flights, passport, visa, pre-departure costs, housing, excursions, meals, and estimated personal expenses. Students can apply for federal and institutional financial aid to cover a portion or all costs of this program.

### Returning to the Forty Acres

Cohorts will return to UT Austin and integrate into campus life for the Spring semester by taking advantage of the following opportunities:

- Enroll in a First-Year Signature Course to deepen and expand global learning
- Attend a re-entry session and welcome event
- Participate in college-specific advising sessions
- Connect at social events
- Learn about first-year Interest Groups
- Attend a Bridging Disciplines information session
- Campus life welcome events

There is limited on-campus housing for the spring semester therefore dormitory housing is not guaranteed. Students can apply for housing on a first come, first serve basis or explore additional options through the [Off-Campus Housing Marketplace](https://housing.offcampus.utexas.edu/).

### Frequently Asked Questions

For answers to the most commons questions about the Take the World by the Horns Program, please see the [First Semester Abroad FAQs](https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/programs/first-semester-abroad/faqs) page.

For more information, contact [educationabroad@austin.utexas.edu](mailto:educationabroad@austin.utexas.edu).