How Does Studying Abroad Work? A Comprehensive Guide for College Students

June 1, 2023

So you’re thinking about studying abroad but don’t know how it works? Well, you’ve come to the right place. We know studying abroad can seem overwhelming, especially for those who have never done it. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how studying abroad works, from choosing a program to preparing for your departure and more.

Overview - How Does Study Abroad Work?

Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to live in a foreign country, experience a new culture, and receive an international education. Students go abroad for different reasons and each place offers a unique experience. For example, some students choose their program location based on their major, while others choose based on the local culture and ambiance.

In addition, your college or university may only offer specific destinations, or you may need to choose based on which one will fulfill your course and credit requirements.

Of course, there’s much more to it than just choosing a program, so let’s dive into the details.

Choosing a Study Abroad Program

The first step in starting your international educational experience is choosing a study abroad program. Depending on your university, countless programs may be available, so it’s essential to choose the one that’s right for you. Consider the following factors when choosing a study abroad program:

Length of Program: Determine how long you want to study abroad. Programs can last a few weeks to an entire academic year. Some programs even take place over the summer.
Host Country: Research the culture, environment, and programs offered in each country and the individual cities. See which place aligns with your interests and allows you to fulfill your academic and personal goals.
Language Skills: Consider whether you want to study in a country where you already know the language or if you’ll need to learn a new language. Be sure to check if programs have a language level requirement or are open to all levels (including no prior experience with the language).
Cost to Study: Consider your budget and choose a program that fits your financial constraints. Some programs may require you to pay a program fee in addition to tuition, room and board, and other expenses.
Living Costs: Consider the cost of living in the host country. Some countries are more expensive, so you’ll need to factor in the flight cost, rent, food, transportation, and other expenses.
Level of Independence: On some programs, you may be accompanied by a professor from your home country, while on others, you may be on your own. Some programs are also more outlined in terms of day-to-day activities, whereas others give you complete freedom outside of your class schedule. We’ll talk more about this in the next section.
Credits/Course Requirements: In some cases, you may need to choose your study abroad program based on your area of study and whether or not you can earn credits towards your degree.

Types of Programs

As mentioned above, there are different program types; some offer more support, guidance, and freedom than others. There’s no right or wrong option–it’s up to you based on your preferences and your institution’s program availability.

Faculty-Led: A short-term study abroad program, typically lasting 2-6 weeks, led by a faculty member from your home institution or a partner university. It focuses on one topic or discipline and is structured, with pre-planned coursework and travel done as a group. It’s ideal for students who want to work closely with a faculty member and a group of students interested in a specific discipline.
Language Learning Programs: Immersive and intensive, focusing on acquiring language skills. Cultural activities and homestays are commonly included. Some programs offer a significant number of language credits.
Exchange Programs: Students enroll at a foreign university for a semester or year. They offer flexibility for customization and immersion in the local culture and community. Students should be prepared for an independent experience and open to unfamiliar teaching styles and living arrangements.
Internship Programs: Typically offer academic credit towards a degree and provide practical experience to build their resume. Students can customize their experience in some programs, and placements can be full-time internships or blended with coursework.
Research Programs: Combine classwork with a research component, providing practical experience for students. Field research and lab research options are typically available.
Service-Learning Programs: Earn credits through a service-learning placement while assisting with local issues. Students usually take additional courses and are awarded academic credit based on demonstration of learning associated with the service.

Applying for a Study Abroad Program

Once you’ve chosen a study abroad program, you’ll need to apply. Most study abroad programs have an application process that requires you to provide the following:

Your personal information
Academic transcripts
A statement of purpose or essay
Letters of recommendation
A student visa (more on this in the next section)

Securing a Student Visa

Securing a student visa is one of the most critical steps in this whole process. A student visa permits you to study and live in a foreign country legally. Depending on your program’s length and destination, you may or may not need a student visa. Check your program requirements (and do so well in advance!).

The process will look something like this:

Check the visa requirements: Once you have chosen a program and host country, you will need to check the visa requirements. The visa requirements will vary depending on the country and the length of your stay.
Apply for the student visa: After you have checked the visa requirements, it’s time to apply for the student visa. The application process will vary depending on the host country. You typically will need to visit your destination’s consulate or embassy to apply.
Provide the required documents: Provide the necessary documents as part of the visa application process. These may include your passport, application form, proof of enrollment, financial documents, medical certificate, and proof of health insurance.
Attend an interview: Depending on the host country, you may need to attend an interview as part of the visa application process.
Receive the visa: If your visa application is approved, you will receive your student visa.

Obtaining a student visa usually takes several weeks or even months, so starting the process early is essential. We recommend waiting to book any flights until you’ve secured your visa.

Preparing for Departure

Once you’ve been accepted into a study abroad program and obtained a student visa, it’s time to prepare for departure. Here’s what you can do:

Purchase your plane ticket
Arrange for housing in the host country (if your program doesn’t do this for you)
Purchase medical insurance
Research the culture and customs of the host country
Pack your bags!

What to Expect When Studying Abroad

The study abroad experience can be both exciting and challenging. Keep these things in mind during your time abroad:

You will go through an adjustment period: When you first arrive, you’ll need to adjust to this new way of living. Life will be different, so be patient and give yourself time to get used to everything.

Make friends from around the world: Studying abroad is ideal for meeting people from all over the world. So take advantage of this and make new friends!

Get out of your comfort zone: Studying abroad is about stepping outside your comfort zone. Try new things, explore the host country, and meet locals (who could become your friends!).

Focus on your studies: While studying abroad is an excellent opportunity to explore a new country, don’t forget about your studies. Your education is the reason you’re there, after all.

Don’t let one bad day get you down: Studying abroad will have ups and downs. Be prepared to experience moments of homesickness or days when everything seems wrong. It’s all part of the experience–don’t let it knock you down too hard.

Returning Home

Returning home after studying abroad can be a difficult adjustment - sometimes even more difficult than arriving in a foreign country. Be prepared to:

Experience reverse culture shock: You may experience reverse culture shock when returning home as you adjust to life in your home country. This is normal and can take some time to overcome.

Keep in touch with your international friends: Stay in touch with the friends you make. You’ll never know when you’ll cross paths again in the future.

Use your experience to your advantage: Your study abroad experience can be a valuable asset in the job market. Use it to your advantage when applying for jobs and internships.

Apply what you’ve learned: Use what you’ve learned abroad to enrich your life back home. Share your experiences with others and continue to explore new cultures.

FAQs

How long is study abroad?

Study abroad programs can vary in length. Some programs may be as short as a few weeks, while others can last an entire academic year or more.

What foreign languages can I study?

The languages available for study abroad programs depend on the program and the host country. In addition, some programs may offer courses in English, while others may require proficiency in the host country’s language.

Will studying abroad help me in the job market?

Studying abroad can be a valuable asset in the job market. It shows that you’re adaptable, open-minded, and have experience in a different culture. However, you must be able to demonstrate this experience in an interview.

How can I pay for a study abroad program?

There are several ways to pay for a study abroad program, including:

Scholarships and grants: Many organizations offer scholarships and grants to help cover the cost of studying abroad.
Financial aid: You may be able to use your existing financial aid to help cover the cost of studying abroad.
Personal savings: You can also save money for your study abroad program. Estimate your monthly expenses, multiply this number by your duration of stay, and plan to save a little more than that just to be safe.

Final Thoughts

Studying abroad is a life-changing, unforgettable experience for college students. It allows you to explore new cultures, learn new languages, and gain valuable experience in an international educational environment. By using the steps in this article, you can get prepared, seize the experience, and create lasting memories and friendships.