Religious Identity & Education Abroad

Religion and spirituality can be deeply personal, and incredibly global. Whether you actively practice a faith or are just curious about the role religion plays in culture, your beliefs (or lack thereof) may be understood differently in your host country. 

Studying abroad offers a powerful opportunity to explore how faith and spirituality influence daily life, politics, traditions, and identity worldwide. We encourage you to prepare, reflect, and engage with openness and curiosity.

Understanding Religion in Your Host Country

Religion is often woven into cultural norms, holidays, education systems, and government policy. Ask yourself: 

• What is the dominant religion in this country?

• How visible is religion in public life?

• Are there laws or norms about religion I should be aware of?

• Is it safe to wear religious symbols or attire?

• Are there local expectations around gender, modesty, or holiday observances tied to religion?

Practicing Your Faith (or not) Abroad

If practicing your religion is important to you while abroad, you’ll want to plan ahead. Consider:

• Is there a local place of worship aligned with your faith?

• Can you follow dietary or prayer guidelines easily?

• Will your host family or housing allow you to maintain your practices?

• How flexible can you be with aspects of your faith or spiritual habits?

Reach out to your Program Manager if you need help identifying local faith communities or navigating cultural expectations.

Interfaith & Non-Religious Perspectives

Religion isn’t one-size-fits-all. You may hold beliefs that aren’t visible, practice multiple traditions, or not identify with religion at all.

• Consider how atheism or agnosticism is perceived in your host country.

• Understand that “non-belief” may be misunderstood or stigmatized in some regions.

• Look for interfaith spaces or groups that welcome multiple perspectives.

Keep in mind: You don’t need to explain or defend your beliefs, but you can choose when and how you share them.
 

Additional Resources:

University of Chicago - Religion Abroad (acknowledgement for guiding questions)
Global Interfaith Network - LGBTQIA+ inclusive interfaith resources
The Pluralism Project: A database with lots of information about the different religions around the world 
Religions of the world App: user friendly app that you can download for information on world religions 
Global Religious Futures project: Learn the breakdown and prominence of different religions around the world 
Feeding my Faith as a Global Citizen: Charles Mckinney speaks on finding spirituality in Bangkok