Destination Experiences

Rising Scholars

Begin your adventures abroad with Abilene Christian University. Experience new cultures, test your limits and make unforgettable memories. Through courses taught by some of ACU’s most talented faculty, you’ll receive one hour of college credit and an experience to last a lifetime.

“ACU’s Rising Scholars program is an incredible once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a new culture, learn skills through unique and interactive course work, and forge deep relationships with like-minded students.” Isaac, 2023 Rising Scholar

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Home/ Admissions/ Rising Scholars/ Rising Scholars Destination Experiences

Begin your adventures abroad with Abilene Christian University. Experience new cultures, test your limits and make unforgettable memories. Through courses taught by some of ACU’s most talented faculty, you’ll receive one hour of college credit and an experience to last a lifetime.

“ACU’s Rising Scholars program is an incredible once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a new culture, learn skills through unique and interactive course work, and forge deep relationships with like-minded students.” Isaac, 2023 Rising Scholar

apply Now

Main Content

KEY DATES

November 5, 2025

Application Opens

January 15, 2026

Early Application Deadline

2026 Rising Scholars Destination Offerings

Oxford and London, England

June 13-20, 2026

Intro to Film through the Magic of Harry Potter

Explore the magic behind the camera as we journey through the art of filmmaking using one of the most iconic franchises in cinematic history – Harry Potter. In this immersive course, Rising Scholars will travel across Oxford and London, visiting real-world locations that both inspired and served as sets for the Wizarding World.

You’ll walk the hallowed halls of Warner Bros. Studios, stepping onto legendary sets like the Great Hall, Diagon Alley and the Hogwarts Express, while learning how design, cinematography, visual effects and production management bring fantasy to life.

Whether you’re a devoted fan or a budding filmmaker, this course offers an unforgettable look at how imagination, craft and collaboration come together to create cinematic magic. Mischief managed.

students walking in Leipzig, Germany.

Leipzig and Berlin, Germany

June 13-20, 2026

Design in Germany: Form and Function

Discover how creativity meets purpose in this immersive journey through Germany’s design legacy. In this course, students will explore the core principles of design thinking – from balance and contrast to usability and innovation – and see how these ideas shape the world around us.

Beginning with a foundation in the basic elements of design, we’ll examine how German designers and engineers have solved real-world problems through both classic and contemporary approaches. From the refined elegance of modern architecture to the precision of automotive design, students will experience the dynamic interplay of form and function up close. Throughout the experience, students will see how design influences everything – from the cities we live in to the products we use – while learning to think critically and creatively about their surroundings.

Oxford and London, England

July 18-25, 2026

England: Literature, Legacy and Afternoon Tea

Travel through the heart of England on this female student journey exploring British culture, history and the world of Jane Austen. From the academic halls of Oxford to the charming streets of Bath to the iconic landmarks of London, students will experience England’s rich literary and royal heritage firsthand.

From the elegance of the Regency era to the excitement of the West End, enjoy high tea, tour historic palaces, and walk in the footsteps of queens, scholars and classic authors. This course blends fun and discovery with deep learning, building confidence, cultural awareness and lasting friendships through a uniquely feminine lens.

students posing in Leipzig, Germany.

Leipzig and Berlin, Germany

July 18-25, 2026

Echoes of the Past: Music, Art, and Culture in Germany

Join us for a week in Germany where music, art, history and architecture come alive.

We’ll dive deep into Leipzig’s rich musical past, where legends like Bach, Mendelssohn and Schumann left their mark, and see how their influence still shapes the city today. We’ll make a musical pilgrimage to Bayreuth, explore the fairy-tale town of Bamberg with its medieval cathedral and half-timbered houses. The journey culminates in Berlin, a city of contrast and creativity, where stories of resilience echo from the Berlin Wall to the vibrant art scene.

This experience invites you to explore big ideas – how art connects people, how history shapes us and how culture gives voice to what matters most. Along the way, students will build confidence, friendships and a deeper understanding of the world.

Cost

The cost of international programs is $3,200 and covers course fees, airfare, lodging, excursions, daily breakfast, a few group meals and travel medical insurance. Students are responsible for other meals/snacks, souvenirs and extra excursions. Limited scholarships available based on application.

Important Dates

  • November 5, 2025 – Application opens 
  • January 15, 2026 – Early Application Deadline
    • February 1, 2026 – student contract and $500 non-refundable payment due to early admits to guarantee spot
  • March 1, 2026 – Regular Application Deadline (applications will be accepted until March 1 as space is available)
    • March 15, 2026 – student contract and $500 non-refundable payment due to regular deadline admits 
  • April 1, 2026 – Waitlist students notified if space is available 

Frequently Asked Questions

We’re happy to answer any additional questions you have about ACU’s Rising Scholars and the individual programs available. Contact us to have the answers you’re looking for. We can’t wait to see you begin your college experience with ACU.

International trips are designed for 16-20 students. Space on abroad trips is highly competitive.

Rising Scholars is led by 4-6 adults including ACU faculty and staff, as well as spouses. Two ACU current students also accompany the group to serve as peer mentors.

  • Submit the online application.
  • Students must be a current high school sophomore or junior.
  • Submit a letter of recommendation completed by a current high school teacher or administrator.
  • Submit a video essay (approximately 45-60 seconds)
  • The application and recommendation letter must be submitted by March 1, 2026, to be considered. 
  • Due to demand, we cannot accept late applications.

Students who enroll in Rising Scholars are enrolling as an ACU student for a 1 hour course. Students are expected to go to class and complete all assignments related to the course. Some coursework will take place outside of the trip.

  • Yes, a valid U.S. passport is required. If you already have a passport, it must be valid through December 2026.
  • If you do not have a current U.S. passport, we recommend you begin your passport application as soon as possible. To apply, download the application form from travel.state.gov. You must create an appointment to submit your application in person at a local post office, county courthouse or some public libraries. There are items (ID, birth certificate, photo, etc.) you must bring with you, or it will be sent back for you to do again. It can take up to six months to receive your passport. ACU needs a copy of it by June 1.

Students are required to attend virtual meetings to onboard prior to travel. Additionally, students will have 1-2 virtual class meetings and may have assignments and reading assigned before the trip. 

Our Rising Scholars groups will stay in world-class hotels. Each student will be assigned a room with one roommate. Parents will be informed of all accommodation details prior to departure.

For ease of travel to Europe, all students are required to pack in a carry-on suitcase. Students can choose to check a bag on the return flight home. They can also bring one personal item.

Parents and families are not permitted to travel with the ACU group. However, families can travel concurrently with a Rising Scholar booking a different return flight to extend their stay with family.

We will fly as a group from DFW to our location abroad. If you live in Texas, you will be expected to make your own arrangements to and from DFW airport. If you live out of state, ACU will cover the cost of your flight to meet the group in DFW.