Study abroad

You're interested in studying abroad, but don't know exactly what's involved? This enriching, life-changing experience allows you to complete an educational program in another country of your choice. By spending time elsewhere, you open a window to a world of new experiences. You'll learn more about other cultures, languages and people while experiencing life in another country.

Many students are willing to study abroad and they chose to go to Western European nations. However, increasing numbers of students are choosing to study in Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe and Latin America. With over 80 percent of the world's population living in these areas, a better understanding of these nations is valuable preparation for life in a global economy.

Numerous employers are looking for graduates who have studied abroad due to the valuable workplace skills they develop. International knowledge, second language skills and the ability to adapt to new circumstances and deal with cultural differences are among those desired attributes.

Students who incorporate overseas study into their academic programs deepen their knowledge and understanding of international, political and economic issues as well. Many students return from their time abroad with a better perspective on world affairs and a broader understanding of their own country and its way of life.

Before you go, you should ask yourself:

Do you want to study in your field, or take language or cultural studies?

Will the courses you take fulfill major degree requirements or count as electives?

Do you want to live with a family, with students, with other visitors or with fellow students from your country?

Do you want to spend most of your time in one location or travel around?

How much time do you want to spend abroad?

How much money can you afford to spend?

Students going abroad today have a wider choice of programs than ever before. Students of business, engineering, health and other disciplines can now find academic programs overseas. Students in all fields can choose programs ranging from a semester, to part of a summer or even a four-week session offered between semesters.

Many factors may influence your choice of program: course content, location, language proficiency, your financial situation, your degree requirements, and the amount of time you have available.

The majority of undergraduates participate in study abroad programs organized by their own institutions, or by other colleges or groups of higher educational institutions. Academic credit is most easily arranged in this way, and most forms of financial aid can generally be applied to program costs.

If you're a graduate student, you may be able to enroll independently at foreign universities, generally for short-term study or research. In addition, some colleges and universities sponsor graduate programs abroad or admit graduate students to their undergraduate programs overseas.

When you are considering a study abroad experience, you should do some research on the countries you are interested in first. You should understand the country's language, history, culture, social and political conditions through books, plays, films and exhibitions. Reference materials can be found at your public library and from the appropriate embassy, consulate or tourist office.

Planning is the key to a successful time studying in another country. How well you achieve your personal and academic objectives, and long-range career goals depend on your choice of the right country, institution and program. As an international student, you'll be able to learn a lot about different and unique subjects, and challenge yourself in new ways. In a different country you'll soon find that even ordinary, everyday living experiences become an adventure!