A Guide to Studying Abroad

Have you ever fantasized about reading the great Romantic poets in the Lake District of England, or discussing Plato and Homer on an ancient acropolis in Greece? Or maybe you’d prefer waking up to greet the ocean while studying marine wildlife in Australia, or learning about ecology in Costa Rica.

If the possibility of living and learning in a new country excites you, then you should consider studying abroad. Many students shy away from this opportunity, worried about the cost or scared of navigating life on their own in a foreign place.

But with all of the available financial support, international programs might be more affordable than you think. Plus, as intimidating as it may seem, studying abroad provides a unique opportunity for you to dig deeper into your studies — and to learn about yourself in the process.

You may be wondering: Why study abroad? How much does it cost to study abroad? Why is studying abroad important? This guide will explore all of these questions, so keep reading to learn more.

“Study abroad” is a chance to pursue your college studies in a foreign country. Students attend lectures or carry out research at a foreign university or through their home university’s study-abroad program. Participants typically live in a residence hall, apartment, or with a local family through a homestay. Some students enroll in an international program for a semester or a year, but others take the full plunge and earn their entire degrees in a different country.

Study abroad programs come in many different formats. You should choose the one that best suits your interests and goals. Below are some popular types of programs.

American colleges and universities often administer a variety of study-abroad programs. They make agreements with higher education institutions abroad where American students can enroll, or they have their own study-abroad centers in the host country. Sometimes universities give students a set schedule of courses, but in other cases, learners must arrange their own schedules. This latter option usually involves asking professors to approve of these foreign courses so that the international credits can seamlessly transfer back to a student’s home university.

These experiences often include prearranged housing and group trips around the country or continent. In countries with foreign languages, sometimes professors come from the U.S. to teach courses in English. Students who want to learn a foreign language can enroll in non-English-speaking courses as well.

Organizations like the Council on International Educational Exchange and IES Abroad offer a wide range of programs for college learners. These experiences are usually structured, so students take required courses and stick with their student cohort for cultural experiences and weekend trips. These programs also usually organize accommodation for students and cover many day-to-day costs through required fees.

Other opportunities allow students to integrate more fully into the home country’s culture. They take courses with students from the host country, either in a foreign language or in English if they go to a country like England or Australia. Students also coordinate their own finances and housing. Learners who decide to pursue their entire degrees at a foreign university go this route, but students can sometimes enroll for a semester or year as well.

Finally, you can find experiences that don’t fit into the above categories. For example, some programs take students on a cruise ship, where they attend courses and stop to explore countries along the way. Students can also apply for internships, work experiences, or research funding abroad.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Everyone has different reasons for studying abroad. Your college counselor will tell you that studying abroad looks great on your resume, which is certainly true. You might feel giddy at the prospect of your Instagram feed looking like a glossy travel guidebook. Plus, few people would deny the opportunity to eat delicious, authentic foods like Spanish chorizo or Italian risotto. But why you should study abroad isn’t just about the photos, food, or even a nice line on your resume; it’s also about self-discovery.

Even if you’ve traveled internationally before, studying abroad is an entirely different experience — and that’s partially because of pesky practical matters, like obtaining a student visa. You should also prepare for the less tangible aspects of studying abroad, like an emotional journey that flings you from excitement to homesickness.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

For many students, yes.

One study from Florida State University found that studying abroad helped students appreciate other cultures, understand themselves, and develop deep friendships. Plus, research from study-abroad companies shows that study-abroad alumni can use their intercultural communication skills and knowledge of global culture to their advantage while on the job hunt.

Of course, not everyone needs to study abroad. If you’re on the fence, evaluate your goals, program options, finances, and funding opportunities. Ultimately, only you can decide whether this experience makes sense for you. But for many, studying abroad is an invaluable experience filled with challenges, personal growth, and a lifelong treasure trove of memories.