American Indian Culture and Research Journal

This exploratory case study examines the participation of Native American students in study abroad and institutional policies and practices that either impede or enhance participation. The study surveys all Native students enrolled at the American university that produces the most Native graduates with bachelor's degrees. Although Native students value the benefits of study abroad, the study finds that they face a unique confluence of factors that limit participation. The role of Native students' social networks (family, tribal members, friends, Native advisors) is found to be prominent in deliberations about participation. Social capital theory is employed for analysis of the findings.