International Education for Graduate Students

Bentley Global Experiences (BGX)

We proudly offer Bentley Global Experiences (BGX), intensive, 3-credit education abroad experiences during semester breaks. BGX courses are open to all graduate students, who can use these courses as electives toward their graduate degree, or, upon approval by faculty, enroll in addition to their regular degree requirement. BGX students will travel abroad with a Bentley professor on an immersive learning experience. BGX courses offer students the opportunity to combine cultural activities with business, NGO, or other relevant site visits. Students have the advantage of meeting contacts at overseas organizations they would not likely encounter as a tourist, all while traveling with other Bentley students.

Because BGX courses take place during January break, Spring break, or in May after exams, graduate students can study abroad with minimal disruption to their personal, professional, and academic lives.

Physical Activity During the BGX Course
Please be aware that BGX courses are not typical classroom experiences, and students may be expected to participate in physical activities during their time abroad. Some of these activities may be quite strenuous. Students may be asked to participate in physical activities, such as walking or hiking, as a part of the experience. Students are expected to participate in physical activities as a part of the course, unless they require any modification and/or reasonable accommodation due to a disability. Documentation from the Office of Disability Services will be required in such cases.

Global Business Experience Application Process

Application links are available on each course description page. Applicants must submit a letter of intent and a $500 non-refundable deposit. The deposit confirms that, if accepted, the applicant is committed to enrolling in the course and participating in the entire travel program. If an applicant is not accepted into the course, or if the course must be cancelled, the deposit will be refunded.

Acceptance decisions are at the discretion of each faculty leader. Applicants may be contacted for an interview with the professor and/or co-leader of the course so they can more accurately assess your readiness for the experience. The interview, in conjunction with your letter of intent and other factors such as academic standing, will be used to determine an acceptance decision. Applications open each year in August, and close at the end of January.

Financial Information

Costs vary by program type; please see the course budget sheet in your BGX course program page for individual program fees. A range of program costs has been listed below:

Bentley merit scholarships do not apply to BGX courses. However, it may be possible to obtain loans for these costs.  Please visit the Office of Financial Assistance and speak with a financial aid counselor to discuss these options.

Scholarships

Bentley provides a number of competitive scholarships for students applying for BGX Courses each year. To apply, students must FIRST create an application in BentleyAbroad for their preferred BGX course. After creating a course application, students may use the below link to create a scholarship application. After answering all application questions, students should hit "submit". Please email us with any questions. Scholarship deadlines and announcement dates align with BGX course deadlines and announcement dates.