Advocates of programs that allow college students to study abroad are working to put the programs within reach of more Latinos.

Officials at Global Learning Semesters Inc., an organization that promotes study abroad programs, say Latino students enroll in international study programs at about half the rate of all college students.

The organization has partnered with the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities to secure $8 million in scholarships to help Latino students take part in international study programs.

Officials with Global Learning Semesters hope their multimillion-dollar scholarship fund - to be distributed over 10 years - will increase Latinos' numbers in study abroad programs nationwide.

"Part of our mission is helping to educate America's leaders of tomorrow, and we're certain that having some international experience and understanding of other cultures is integral to that," said Antonis Polemitis, president of Global Learning Semesters.

"Latino students aren't getting that exposure," he added.

Officials point the finger at several factors - affordability, limited awareness of programs and cultural issues.

According to the Institute of