essay studying abroad is the better choice

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What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad?

January 26, 2023

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@cieestudyabroad These are the pros and cons of studying abroad! #cieestudyabroad #studyabroad #studyabroadadvice #studyabroadprograms #wheretostudyabroad #howtostudyabroad #college Sunshine - WIRA

Studying abroad is a big decision. On one hand, it’s a life-changing opportunity that only comes around during your college years. On the other hand, it can feel like a total leap of faith. 

If you’re on the fence about taking the next step with CIEE Study Abroad, keep reading! W e’ve created the ultimate list of the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad . Why? So, you can make an informed decision about whether studying abroad is the right choice for YOU.  

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Read More: Is Studying Abroad Worth It? 10 Outcomes of Studying Abroad  

The Pros  of Study Abroad

Studying abroad opens the door to a world of new possibilities. We couldn't be more passionate about that. The benefits of living and learning in a new culture will impact all parts of your life, from the day you enroll to every day thereafter.  

You will be surprised at the impact this one experience will have on you. And you will be so glad you took that leap of faith, after all. 

The Top Advantages of Studying Abroad  

As you weigh the pros of studying abroad, add these to your list:  

1. You will learn to think more broadly.    

By immersing yourself in a new culture, you will be exposed to a new language, new perspectives, foreign foods, and life-changing experiences. All of this will change the way you see the world and your role in it. 

2. You will make lifelong connections.    

By sharing new experiences, you can’t help but connect deeply with other students in your cohort and at your partner institutions. And trust us, you will share many new experiences while studying abroad. These are the kind of friendships that last a lifetime. 

3. You will gain a competitive edge.    

Ninety-seven percent of students who study abroad find employment within 12 months of graduation and 25 percent earn higher salaries than their peers. How’s that for standing out in today’s competitive job market?  

Bonus : You can even boost your resume by gaining real-world experience through a global internship ! We offer full- and part-time international internship opportunities across a wide variety of industries. So, if it’s a competitive edge you want, then a competitive edge is exactly what you’ll get. 

4. You will build your language skills.    

Whether your goal is to master a new language or just get by with a conversational understanding of the local language, studying abroad will help you do it. There is nothing quite like cultural immersion for optimal language learning.  

Do note , however, that most CIEE programs are delivered in English unless you’re in a language class or program for advanced speakers.  

5. You will step out of your comfort zone.    

Trying new things helps you learn how to adapt to new situations. A key life skill for our rapidly changing world.  

Just think, you will be working with new professors, new peers, a new currency, a new language, a new transit system, new food, and more – you get the idea. And just know, CIEE will be there to support you every step of the way, 24/7. Our program is a truly great way to safely take that leap of faith. 

6. You will be better for it.    

We hear it all the time : “study abroad changed my life.” And it’s so true. Studying abroad teaches you leadership, cross-cultural communication, adaptability, and so much more. Mark this down as a key advantage to studying abroad.  

The Cons  of Study Abroad

Charting new territory is not in everyone’s comfort zone. And studying abroad, for many students, is definitely classified as uncharted territory. We know the unknown can be intimidating, and we also know studying abroad comes with a bit of sacrifice.  

This is why we’re sharing some of the disadvantages of studying abroad. So you can make the most informed decision possible.  

The Main Disadvantages of Studying Abroad  

Here are the cons of studying abroad you should address when weighing your decision:  

1. Studying abroad can be expensive.    

It can be . But there are scholarships and grants available to help you make studying abroad a reality . Your college or university may offer their own scholarship and grant options. Others you can apply for at CIEE directly in your CIEE Study Abroad application . We offer millions each year for students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, or who’ve enrolled in specific programs as well.  

On average, a semester with CIEE costs $18,861 . A little less when studying abroad in Latin America ($17,291) . A little more when heading to Europe ($19,968) .   

Our Open Campus Block program option, in which you can choose one, two, or three consecutive six-week study abroad sessions, costs about $18,750 but drops significantly to a little over $6,000 for students who choose to pursue only one block (6 weeks) or about $12,000 for two blocks (12 weeks).  

Bear in mind, too, that CIEE tuition provides a high level of student support. Not every program can say the same. Our program fee covers most of the essentials, outside of airfare and meals, and typically includes: 

• Tuition  
• Housing  
• Pre-departure advising  
• Orientation  
• On-site staff + 24/7 emergency on-site support  
• Cultural + co-curricular activities  
• Travel protection  

Read More: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad in 2023?  

2. There will be language barriers.   

Even for the most advanced speakers, immersion into a new culture will stretch your language capabilities. We see that as a really good thing. And we believe that if you go abroad with us, you will, too.  

But there’s no getting around the fact that there will be a steep language learning curve as you make your way through the program. We bet you’re up for the challenge. Plus, most of our classes are taught in English, so you will still make big gains academically. 

3. You may experience culture shock.   

The food will be different. The language will be different. The architecture will be different. The style of communication will be different. The local customs and social norms will be different, too. You will have to adjust. But isn’t that at least some of the point? You will return home with a new perspective! 

4. You might get homesick.  

Most of our students are traveling for the first time without their family or friends. And that’s a huge step.   

Just know that CIEE offers a ton of support, including around-the-clock on-site staff. So, we’re always available. Plus, you’ll have a cohort of new friends to keep you company when those homesick feeling begin creeping up.  

And remember , you can always call home when you need to hear a familiar voice. Our students love to FaceTime, Skype, Zoom, and so on to virtually connect with their loved ones whenever they want. 

5. Re-integration can be hard.    

This is an adjustment most students don’t anticipate.   

Often, when the study abroad experience is really great and there’s a ton of personal growth, students have a hard time adjusting back into their typical routine back home. You may experience this, too. It’s a sort of homesickness for the study abroad culture.  

Just know it will get better once you’ve had time to adjust to your routine again. And, for those who just can’t shake the feeling, there’s the opportunity to apply to join CIEE’s Student Ambassador Program to get paid to talk about your study abroad experience! 

Learn More: Become a CIEE Student Ambassador  

The Choice is Yours  

Thinking through the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad is an important first step in your study abroad experience. If you have any questions or want to talk through your personal list of studying abroad pros and cons, we ’re happy to connect .   

In the meantime, check out t he 170+ incredible programs we have to offer to begin planning your perfect study abroad experience! 

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Your Study Abroad Essay Made Easy

by Danielle DeSimone - Last updated on July 3, 2017

• Before You Go

How to write a unique study abroad essay

Sometimes, the process of studying abroad can feel almost as difficult as applying for college. You have to choose the country you want to study in, compare and contrast programs (hint: MyGoAbroad ), collect your transcripts and references and, inevitably, you will have to write a personal statement and study abroad essay for your application. 

When applying for a study abroad program —especially a competitive one—your personal statement and/or study abroad essay can make or break your application. After all, your program wants to know who it is exactly that will be representing their program in another country! They want to know exactly why you’ve decided to make the life-changing decision to spend a summer, semester, or even a year abroad.

Sound intimidating? Don’t you fret. We’re here to give you 10 study abroad essay tips so you can WOW your study abroad program with your application.

10 awesome study abroad application tips

1. brainstorm .

Most study abroad applications will ask you something along the lines of, “Tell us about yourself,” and “Why do you want to study abroad?” Simple questions, right?

Actually, these can be pretty tough, when you consider how many ideas you need to narrow down to fit into a 500 word response. Remember that writing is a process. And, the best first step to streamline your study abroad essay-writing process is to just scribble some ideas down and do some good ol’ fashioned brainstorming.  

[ Read 5 More Ways to Ace Your Study Abroad Application ]

Write down the things you’re excited to see, do, eat while abroad. Think about what intimidates you or what will be challenging in a new country. Doodle some of your goals for your summer/semester/year abroad, and really think about what it is that has made studying abroad so important to you .

Is it the idea of finally exploring that country you’ve been reading about since you were seven? Is it because this will be your first time living independently and far away from home? Are you just over the moon to be learning about your favorite subject in a place that is relevant to your studies? Whatever it is, write it, draw it, sing it— but get those ideas out there, so you can plan out the best essay you can possibly write. 

[ Browse study abroad programs here ]

Take some time to brainstorm and jot a few things down.

2. Outlines, Outlines, Outlines

Yeah, yeah, we know: since day one, your teachers and professors have pushed the idea of an essay outline. You’ve done about a billion of them, but breaking down your study abroad essay and knowing exactly where you’re going to go in your writing can help you have a more concise argument as to why your chosen study abroad program should choose you. We repeat: writing. Is. A. Process. 

3. First Impressions Matter

You always want to have that eye-grabbing introduction: who are you as a student, a person, and a traveler? In just one to two sentences, try to summarize and explain exactly who you are and why you want to study abroad (easy-peasy, right?). Don’t be afraid to get personal and really let your true colors fly — this is how you’ll stand out to the admissions counselors who are reading hundreds of personal statements and essays!

For example: “My grandparents emigrated from Argentina at the ripe, young age of 20 years-old, and throughout my entire life, I have been taught to love a country I have never met. My passion for studying the Spanish language, and gaining a deeper understanding of where my family comes from, has inspired me to apply to ______ study abroad program in Buenos Aires, Argentina .”

Don’t forget to sprinkle in your sparkling personality.

4. Supporting Statements

Up next in our study abroad essay tips: support your statement on why you want to study abroad by expanding on the ideas you presented in your introduction.

This is where your brainstorming comes in! What has brought you to this point? What subjects studied, projects completed, or passions followed have made you choose to not only study abroad, but study abroad with this particular program?

Be honest and sincere. It’s okay if the main reason why you want to study literature in England is because you spent your childhood reading Harry Potter and The Chronicles of Narnia . It’s perfectly acceptable if your love of the ocean comes from an obsession with sea turtles, which is why you’ve decided to study marine conservation in Costa Rica . 

Maybe you want to study in Germany because you’ve always had the goal of working in international business! These are the things that make you a unique and interesting prospective study abroad student! Just be sure to always tie your passions, goals, and dreams back to how this study abroad experience will help you expand on these things and carry them with you through the rest of your life.

5. Get Detailed

Organize your outline and start on Draft 1!

When you’re describing the who, what, when, and why of your decision to study abroad, be sure to state your goals clearly .

Passion is one thing, but your study abroad program also wants to know what it is exactly that you plan on gaining from this experience. How will this summer , semester , or year abroad bring you closer to your academic or career goals in the future?

Example: “Through this study abroad program in Israel , I will expand my worldview and understanding of Middle Eastern cultures, which will, in turn, prepare me for my plans to pursue a graduate degree in Global Peace and Conflict Studies. With this, I hope to eventually utilize my experience and passion to work for the United Nations. Studying abroad will help me achieve these goals.” 

[ Get Matched with 5 Study Abroad Programs for FREE ]

6. be yourself.

In the world of academia, being formal and professional is key, but in the world of study abroad, it’s all about making those human connections beyond the borders of your own country! That’s why it’s so important to be yourself when writing your study abroad essay.

Of course, always put in the time and effort so that your writing sounds smart, but don’t be afraid to add a little pizzaz and let your personality shine through! This will set you apart from other study abroad applications, and will give your study abroad program a much clearer sense of who you are as a student and a person.

Always related your study abroad essay back to your long-term #GOALS and how this program will help you reach them.

7. A Two-Way Street

Ask not what you can do for your study abroad program, but what your study abroad program can do for you! Studying abroad isn’t just about what your study abroad program can provide you — you also need to prove your worth to the program’s officials .

After all, you’ll be serving as an ambassador of your home country and this program in a completely different country. They want to be sure that they’re accepting dedicated and deserving students into their program, so that years from now, when you’re a famous scientist or a world-leading politician, they can point to you and say: “See that person? They studied abroad on our program!” 

A study abroad program’s reputation is dependent not only on the opportunities they build for their students, but also on the caliber of students that they bring in. So when writing your personal essay, be sure to highlight what you bring to the table and how you look forward to continuing your study abroad program’s mission.

Example: “As a participant in this program, I know that I could expand my worldview and continue <Insert Study Abroad Program Provider’s Namer>’s mission of creating global citizens by creating bridges between myself and other cultures.” 

No need to go totally analog when writing your study abroad essay. Stay in the 21st century!

8. A Solid Sprint to the Finish Line

As you conclude your study abroad essay, be sure to nail the point home and finish with a strong conclusion . You’ll have to tie together your original introduction, the reasons for studying abroad, and your goals for the future all together in a nice, clean, concluding two to three sentences.

Don’t repeat yourself, but be sure that these final sentences pack a punch, and leave your study abroad program admissions officers ready to buy you your plane ticket outta here.

9. Edits & Revisions

Never hit submit without first revising and editing your essay two or three times! You might notice typos or awkward sentences at second glance, and you might also think of an exciting new idea you want to add in after your third look-over! It’s also always a good idea to have someone else to look at your essay (or maybe even write it for you ...), to get a fresh pair of eyes on your writing.

[ Use MyGoAbroad to Find & Compare Study Abroad Programs ]

10. submit (on time).

Once you’ve cleaned up your essay, upload that application and click submit! But, don’t forget to pay attention to all of the application deadlines, and be sure to get all of your relevant documents to the study abroad program on time! There’s no worse feeling in the world than having spent weeks perfecting an essay and application, only to have missed the deadline. 

A Pulitzer Prize-Winning study abroad essay

With all of these study abroad essay tips, you might as well start packing! You’re well on your way to your grand adventure abroad, and by investing so much time and effort into your writing, your chosen study abroad program will be sure to accept you! Applying to study abroad can seem like a lot of work, but the minute you step off that plane and into your new home, you’ll realize that it was all worth it. 

Find a Study Abroad Program & Get Writing!

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Why Studying Abroad Results in Better Education Essay

Introduction, merits of studying abroad, demerits of studying abroad, works cited.

Education is one of the most important building blocks of the human civilization. It provides people with the knowledge necessary to take part in the advancement of the society (Brand and Xie 273).

Because of the importance attached to education, many governments have tried to provide the best education opportunities to their citizens. Many institutions of higher learning have been established in countries all over the world. In addition to this, the number of students enrolled in institutes of higher learning today is greater than it has ever been at any other time in history.

However, the educational standards and opportunities among vactious countries differ. Therefore, some individuals opt to travel abroad for better educational opportunities. This has led to questions as to which is the more advantageous form of education: local education or abroad education. This paper will argue that studying abroad increases the chances for a person to acquire a good education and therefore improve his/her economic outcomes.

By studying abroad, a person is better prepared to enter the international labor market. The world today is highly globalized and international companies are being set up in most nations (Black and Duhon 141). International competitiveness is therefore becoming important for individuals from all countries. Prospective employees are increasingly required to have an education that is internationally oriented.

For most people, especially in developing nations, the only way to gain an education that will satisfy the demands of the international job market is by studying abroad. Multinational companies prefer to employ people who have some international exposure since such individuals are more likely to have the skills necessary to function in a global business environment. The huge economic and talent gains that studying abroad brings are therefore key motivation for studying abroad.

Studying abroad increases the cultural competence of an individual. When studying abroad, students interact with people of different nationalities and cultural backgrounds. This exposure enables them to appreciate other cultures. Black and Duhon suggest that a student who has studied abroad develops a broader outlook on life due to his interaction with people who have different views on life (144).

Contact with culturally diverse individuals will increase tolerance for differences. This multicultural exposure is important since today’s workplace is characterized by workers of varied cultural backgrounds (Black and Duhon 142). A student who has studied abroad will therefore be at an advantage when dealing with other employees in the multicultural work setting.

Studying abroad assists in the growth and development of the student’s home country. Today’s economy is highly dependent on a modern and more global labor force. Many developing countries lack the resources necessary to create this global labor force. Most domestic education programs are characterized by a lack of diverse knowledge (Huang 118).

This limits the exposure of a student and fails to prepare him/her for the global work environment. For such countries, the only feasible alternative is for the citizens to go abroad for studies and then come back equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge. Studying approach enables the country’s citizenry to access the educational resources necessary to build a sustainable economy in modern times.

By studying abroad, a student is exposed to opportunities to utilize research and technology that is not available in his/her home country. The educational services offered in different countries vary in terms of the facilities available and the faculty members. Some international schools are renowned for their first class research facilities and advanced technology (Harman 110).

Internationally renowned schools also attract the best faculty members. Most Western Nations have established themselves as the powerhouses in scientific research and technology. When a person goes to study from schools in these countries, he/she is given the chance to benefit from resources therein. The quality of education that a student gains is therefore greater than what he/she would have had in the local institutes.

Studying abroad gives a person more choice in terms of courses and institutions of higher education. In some countries, the number of courses provided for the students in educational institutes is narrow. Huang documents that most developing nations have a limited list of available courses on offer to their students (120). A student who wishes to pursue a specialized course might find himself/herself unable to do so since the course is absent from the list offered in his country.

The institutes abroad have very expansive list of courses on offer and this gives the student more choices (Brand and Xie 273). By studying abroad, an individual is able to select the desired course from the many options on offer. In addition to this, studying abroad gives a student a large selection of schools to choose from. A person therefore has the chance to select his ideal school from a large collection when he goes to study abroad.

Studying abroad can help overcome the issue of limited places in local educational institutes. More people appreciate the value of education today and this has led to higher enrollment rates in institutions of learning (Olcott 99).

As the demand for education increases, it is becoming harder for students to gain placement in local institutes. Studying abroad gives a person the chance to explore other options. A person is able to find a school in a foreign country and therefore pursue his/her educational goals in spite of the limited places locally.

Studying abroad enhances a student’s proficiency in a foreign language. In some cases, students go to study abroad in countries where people communicate in languages foreign to the student. In such a case, the student can enhance his proficiency in the particular language. Hunley asserts that while it is possible to learn a foreign language through traditional didactic experiences, the exposure to native speakers and the culture in which the language is used is indispensable (3).

Language is the most important tool of interaction and achieving proficiency in foreign languages increases the marketability of a person. The world today is characterized by a major integration of economies and cultures. Therefore, the frequency of interaction with people who speak different languages is high. Studying abroad gives a student proficiency in more than one language and this is an advantage when they are applying for a job. Organizations view people with additional language skills as greater assets.

Studies indicate that students who study abroad have higher overall grades and they graduate sooner than their counterparts who study locally. Redden documents that the timely graduation rate of students who studied abroad was 23% higher than that of students who did not study abroad (1).

This link between studying abroad and on-time graduation can be attributed to the deep commitment that students who study abroad have to learning and their motivation to get on with life. Most of these students want to successfully complete their course and reap the benefits of their education. The fact that abroad education is expensive serves as a major incentive for the students to work hard and achieve good results for themselves.

Studying abroad promotes personal growth in the individual as they are forced to deal with issues on their own. For most people, moving to study abroad entails leaving behind a familiar environment and going to an unfamiliar place. In this new place, the individual does not have the social and economic support that he enjoyed in his home country.

The student is forced to handle issues on his/her own in the host country. Hunley asserts that such experiences assist students develop “a better sense of self and have more insight into their lives” (4). During the adjustment period, the student will learn how to deal with real life situations on his/her own.

One of the main disadvantages of studying abroad is the significant cost associated with the activity. Studying locally is usually cheaper since the government may subsidize local institutes and a student does not have to incur high costs of living (Hunley 4). On the other hand, studying abroad is an expensive affair and the student is forced to incur significant financial costs in the overseas school. In addition to the cost of tuition at the educational institute, the student has to cater for the cost of living, which is in most cases very high.

Adjusting to life in a foreign country might be hard and if a person is unable to adapt effectively, their experience will be bad. Studying abroad means that a person has to move from their familiar environment to one that is alien to them. Most people experience culture shock and may have a hard time integrating into their new environment (Pyvis and Chapman 24). Some students end up feeling isolated and a lack of social support.

Without friends and family to help the person, studying abroad can be an emotionally straining. Hunley documents that students who study abroad experience psychological problems such as anxiety and depression because of the lack of adequate social support (14). Some people find the environment too strenuous and they decide to return to their home country. If a student decides to return home without completing his/her studies, he/she will have wasted time and a lot of money unnecessarily.

A notable disadvantage of studying abroad is that it leads to a loss of human and intellectual capital to some countries. Most students who leave their home countries to study abroad do not return once they have completed their studies.

Instead, they seek employment opportunities in their host country and utilize their professional skills for the benefit of the host. This problem of human and intellectual capital loss is most significant in developing countries. Tansel and Naomi assert that most students from third world countries leave for further studies never to return leading to a brain drain from the developing nations (54).

Studying abroad reduces the incentive for many countries to develop their own local educational institutes to meet international standards. As has been noted, most students go to study abroad in order to benefit from the research and technological advances in the overseas institutes.

The home country is not pressured into creating their own highly developed education systems since there is the option of going abroad to get the same. Olcott documents that these short-term strategies of utilizing the expertise and knowledge base of other countries is preferred by most developing nations since it is the relatively cheap option (98). Studying abroad decreases the chances of a country developing its own high quality education system leading to poor education outcomes for the country.

While the importance of education is acknowledged by all people, debates concerning which is better between local and abroad’s education systems are notably on the rise. Proponents of attaining an education locally argue that studying abroad causes an unnecessary strain on the student who is forced to incur significant financial expenses without a guarantee that their investment will pay off.

The opponents of studying abroad also note that this system discourages some countries from investing in their own high class educational facilities. While this argument is true, studying abroad leads to many advantages for the individual student and his home nation. Students obtain knowledge and skill that they later use to advance their home countries. Some nations are even motivated to improve their educational institutes in order to attract foreign students.

Harman states that for educational institutes to operate effectively internationally, they have to adopt internationally oriented curricula and expand their programs (113). The host nation therefore benefits from these innovations, which come about because of students wanting to study abroad.

The paper has acknowledged that students who study abroad deal with many challenges and problems due to their isolation from the familiar environment in their home country. However, these challenges help the student attain a level of maturity and gain insights into his/her life.

In addition to this, the challenges are only temporary in nature. Dwyer notes that when students study abroad for longer durations, they are able to overcome the initial setbacks caused by culture shock and benefit from the educational opportunities presented to them in the new environment (152). Students who overcome these hardships develop greater emotional maturity and they are likely to achieve success in life because of their experiences.

This paper set out to argue that studying abroad is a positive thing since it offers the individual many benefits. The paper began by highlighting that a student gains a competitive advantage in the labor market due to his/her international education.

Studying abroad gives the individual many opportunities and exposes them to different cultures and ways of life. The paper has also discussed some of the major demerits associated with studying abroad. It has noted that studying abroad is an expensive affair and many students have a hard time adjusting to life in a foreign country.

However, most students manage to overcome the setbacks that studying abroad presents and benefit from the practice. From the arguments presented in this paper, it is clear that the advantages of studying abroad to the individual and his home country by far outweigh the disadvantages. This practice should therefore be encouraged in order to ensure that more nations benefit from the economic growth and development that is promoted by studying abroad.

Black, Haron and Duhon Davis. “Assessing the impact of business study abroad programs on cultural awareness and personal development.” Journal of Education for Business 81.3 (2006): 140–144. Web.

Brand, Jennie and Xie, Yu. “Who benefits most from college? Evidence for negative selection in heterogeneous economic returns to higher education”. American Sociological Review 2.75 (2010): 272-302. Web.

Dwyer, Max. “More is better: The Impact of Study Abroad Program Duration.” The Interdisciplinary Journal of Study Abroad 10.1 (2004): 151–163. Web.

Harman, George. “New Directions in Internationalizing Higher Education: Australia’s Development as an Exporter of Higher Education Services.” Higher Education Policy 17.1 (2004): 101-120. Web.

Huang, Futao. “Quality Enhancement and Qualitative Growth: Changes and Trends of China’s Higher Education.” Higher Education Policy 18.2 (2005): 117-130. Web.

Hunley, Holly. The Impact of Mental Health on the Decision to Study Abroad and on Students’ Functioning While Studying Abroad, Chicago: ProQuest, 2008. Print.

Olcott, Don. “Back to the UK Future Trends in Internationalism and Cross-border Higher Education.” Perspectives 13.4 (2009): 98-103. Web.

Pyvis, David and Chapman Anne. “Culture Shock and the International Student ‘Offshore’.” Journal of Research in International Education 4.1 (2005): 23‐42. Web.

Redden, Elizabeth. Study Abroad, Graduate on Time . 2012. Web.

Tansel, Alex and Naomi Güngör. “Brain drain from Turkey: Survey evidence of student non-return.” Career Development International 8.2 (2003): 52–69. Web.

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IvyPanda. (2024, January 30). Why Studying Abroad Results in Better Education. https://ivypanda.com/essays/why-studying-abroad-results-in-better-education/

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1. IvyPanda . "Why Studying Abroad Results in Better Education." January 30, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/why-studying-abroad-results-in-better-education/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Why Studying Abroad Results in Better Education." January 30, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/why-studying-abroad-results-in-better-education/.

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• Studying Abroad and Improving the Outcomes of Students’ Career Development
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Why study abroad? Stories from international students

Are you considering studying abroad students who have studied abroad share why they chose to move abroad for their degree.

There are lots of reasons why studying abroad might be for you.

You might find a degree course that isn’t available in your home country; you might learn to live independently; or you might network with amazing people and learn about other cultures. Whatever your reason for considering the experience, there are so many more positives. And if you don’t believe us, just look at what real students had to say about studying abroad.

The American university experience is unlike any other in the world and certainly very distinct from my home country, India. I was particularly drawn to the academic possibilities. As an undergraduate, you can study a range of subjects, and most universities don’t require you to declare your major until your junior year, giving you time to explore a variety of academic paths and see what interests you.

Some universities, including my own, require undergraduates to take a core curriculum of classes, developing the basics. Your course can be customisable, allowing you to choose multiple majors and minors, change things as you go along, and take electives that are unrelated to your main areas of study.

I really benefited from this diverse way of learning. I entered university committed to studying politics, but my discovery of college-level English literature classes was transformative and reoriented my interests in a way that could never have happened without the freedom that the US system encourages and celebrates. – Aditya Sharma, political science and English graduate, Columbia University .

Moving to Dublin for my university education in 2020 came with so much excitement and a little bit of nerves. Nevertheless, I stayed optimistic about starting something that was once a dream – studying medicine.

Studying abroad meant learning to live independently, which has allowed me to grow as an individual, overcome everyday challenges and build life skills such as managing my finances.

Studying abroad has also given me the opportunity to experience a style of education different from that in my home country, Nigeria. By exploring the environment around me, travelling, taking up volunteer work and through learning in the classroom, I am beginning to see the world and gain new perspectives.

During my time in Ireland so far, I have also been able to develop long-lasting friendships and create beautiful memories with people from diverse backgrounds and countries including Trinidad and Tobago, Malaysia, Canada, Iraq and many more.

Finally, I have discovered new interests and found new hobbies including kick-boxing, something I might not have discovered if I stayed back in my home country. Studying abroad has been a life-changing experience so far. –  Temitayo Olabamiji, medicine student, RCSI Ireland

One of the benefits of studying abroad is learning more about yourself outside your comfort zone. At first, you might struggle, feel homesick and even question whether you made the right choice. However, as time passes, you learn more about yourself and how to cope with problems on your own. The things that have made you feel anxious before, like having your final exam, later seem like minor problems that you can handle. Eventually, you feel less scared and will learn independence.

My experience when I first came to Canada from my home in Turkey was like being a swimmer without a lifeline in the ocean. Eventually, I learned how to surf the waves and enjoyed new ones as they came. In the end, studying abroad has benefited me beyond the academics; I also found myself. –  Gaye Padir, sociology with a double minor in art history and communication studies, McGill University .

Five reasons why you should study abroad Video: how to choose which university or country to study in The best ways to prepare for studying abroad What documents do I need to study abroad?

I moved from India to do my master’s in Australia. It’s been about four years since, and I have gained a lot from the experience. On the professional front, I received a lot of exposure from the number of great academics I met. I enjoyed my experience so much that I decided to stay in academia and pursue my PhD at the same university. I want to stay in research in the future, and I can say with some certainty that my degree, along with my supportive supervisors, will help me reach that goal.

I think the key to getting the most out of studying abroad is to put yourself out there. I have tried to get to know as many people as I can to learn about different cultures, their personal struggles and how they got to the position they are in now. I did my master’s during the pandemic, and not being able to go back home was scary. But in the whole situation, I realised that even though our cultures and backgrounds are different, I had found a family far away from home. – Anneshwa Dey, PhD computer science student, Australian National University .

I was born and raised in a town in Hungary. I attended elementary and high school in one place, with mostly the same people. The places I went to every day, the friendships I had for over a decade, the environment I grew up in, though they all provided me with stability and comfort, held me back in many ways.

Moving abroad without my family or friends was the scariest experience of my entire life.

However, it was more than worth it. It allowed me to break out of a routine I had been following for most of my life. I found friends for life from all over the world who taught me so much about their cultures. It was a truly eye-opening experience.

Finally, living without my parents made me a lot more disciplined and reliable. Having to live on my own, though sometimes difficult, was character-building. It allowed me to have fun, but also taught me to get myself out of difficult decisions. These tough situations made me a lot more resilient, and getting through them made me believe in myself and my abilities. – Dora Szeles, international business administration student, Rotterdam School of Management , Erasmus University.

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Crafting the Perfect Study Abroad Essay

Follow these tips to make your study abroad essay stand out.

• Applying to Study Abroad

Whether you just want to do a semester or an entire program abroad, it’s likely a study abroad essay will be required. Students are beginning to realize what a great opportunity it is to take their studies abroad. Not only is it a great way to make new friends, practice your language skills, and travel while studying, it’s also great to put on a resume . So, it’s no wonder students are lining up to pick their top destinations and programs to study abroad.

To make sure they pick students who are ready and serious about studying abroad , most schools will, therefore, require a study abroad essay. The essay is a chance to make a great first impression and show the university administration that you’re ready to make the commitment to take your education even further by going abroad.

Consider some of the following tips to really make your study abroad essay stand out!

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1) Explain Why Study Abroad Will Make a Difference for Your Studies

A lot of students want to study abroad just for the experience and the excitement of living and learning abroad. These are important aspects, of course; however, school administration wants to know why going to your top study abroad destination will make a difference to your education.

Be specific! Explain the impact studying abroad will have on your personal and professional growth. Don’t just highlight how you think you will learn a lot. What do you expect to get from the program specifically? Is there a reason you picked one country over another to study in?

The more specific you are the better. It shows the university that you have given serious thought to your studies and that you are ready for the commitment!

2) Let Them Know Why You Picked Where You Want to Study

Instead of just saying you will study anywhere, as long as it’s abroad, tell the university why you picked your top study abroad destination. Write with enthusiasm and let admissions know what you are excited to see and do in your new home.

Make sure you do the research in advance! Name some museums you would be interested in exploring or some monument you would be interested in seeing. It’s in your favor if you can also tie these back to your study program!

This will show your school that you will not take your study abroad experience for granted, and that you already have things to do to integrate into your new home easier.

3) Describe Why You’re Qualified

Whether you've recently entered college or are ready to graduate, your experience says a lot about what you will accomplish on your study abroad. If you want to make your study abroad essay stand out, make sure to make mention of your previous experience.

Mention major academic accomplishments, work experience, or skills that you might find useful abroad, such as knowledge of a second language.

The university knows you will learn a lot during your time abroad, but the more you can bring to the program, the better!

4) Show Your Personality

The best study abroad essays are the ones with a little bit of personality! Your essay should still sound professional, but don’t be afraid to let yourself shine through as well. Studying abroad comes with challenges, and if the university gets a sense you are ready for them, you will move to the top of the list.

Add a personal story about something relevant to living and studying abroad. Describe a time you traveled somewhere new or met a friend from a different country. A well-rounded individual with some experience is the perfect candidate for studying abroad.

Showing some enthusiasm while also keeping your expectations realistic is the right way to show the admissions team that you have thought long and hard about your decision to study abroad, and that you are ready to pack up and move abroad.

5) Follow Instructions

It might sound simple, but if you don’t want your study abroad essay to be immediately tossed aside, make sure to read and follow all the instructions given. Some universities will ask specific questions or ask students to format their essays in a particular way.

Don’t ignore these instructions! It’s the first step to making a great impression.

If the essay is open-ended — great! Follow our tips to get inspired. But, if there are specific questions, make sure you answer them clearly and concisely. There might not be any right or wrong answers, but your school will still be looking for students who are able to express themselves and get their point across.

The Perfect Study Abroad Essay

If you followed our advice so far, you’ll be looking at the study abroad essay that’s going to get you into the program of your choice at the study abroad destination of your dreams!

Don't forget to proofread before handing in your essay. If possible, it's great to have someone take a look over it as well, especially if it's a professor or someone who has written a study abroad essay before.

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How Study Abroad Can Benefit College Students

Doing some coursework outside the U.S. can help students learn power skills and may provide an employment edge.

College Study Abroad Benefits

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Students can develop various personal, interpersonal and cognitive skills by studying abroad, studies indicate, including adaptability, self-awareness, tolerance for ambiguity, teamwork, leadership, work ethic, and problem-solving and intercultural skills.

International education opportunities expose college students to foreign cultures, language immersion and interaction with diverse communities around the world, which can lead to increased self-awareness, improved critical thinking and even work opportunities, experts say.

Due largely to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of U.S. college students studying abroad plummeted nearly 96% from the all-time high of 347,099 in 2018-2019 to 14,549 in 2020-2021, according to the 2022 "Open Doors U.S. Study Abroad" annual survey by the Institute of International Education, a not-for-profit global organization founded in 1919.

The most recent data is still inconclusive, but the institute reports that 96% of responding college administrators in a different recent survey predict that their international programs will grow or stabilize in 2023-2024. Along those lines, conversations about the many benefits of studying abroad are echoing across U.S. campuses once again, experts say.

“We live and work in a globalized world. We are so interconnected, whether virtually or through physical contact,” says Lindsay Calvert, director of the Center for Access and Equity at IIE. “And it is ever more important for students to have these experiences, so they are able to work with and among different cultures.”

What Students Can Gain From Studying Abroad

Nick Gozik, dean of global education at Elon University in North Carolina, is emphatic about the utility of study abroad.

“It is difficult to imagine that a college graduate will not need the skills gained through study abroad and other global experiences,” he wrote in an email. “Whether it is a doctor who treats patients originating from other countries, a teacher with students from underrepresented backgrounds, or a scientist working in a multinational, it is increasingly necessary for graduates to be able to navigate difference and work with people from other cultures and backgrounds.” 

Cognitive and Relational Skills

In an IIE research study involving 4,500 college alumni who studied abroad between the 1999-2000 and 2016-2017 academic years, about 90% of respondents said their overseas experience cultivated these qualities in them. The benefits generally increased with the length of the study period, from a short term of a few weeks to one semester to a year.

Asked if their study abroad contributed to a job offer at some point, 67.5% of respondents who participated in a full academic year of the experience said yes, compared to 53.4% of those who studied overseas for roughly a semester and 42.5% of those who did so for fewer than eight weeks.

Professional Development

Students in study abroad programs often mix their desire for an adventure with foreign language acquisition, academic pursuits, short-term work opportunities such as internships, career building or a combination.

Sera Park, who is earning an art history degree at Temple University in Pennsylvania, went to the university’s Rome campus in spring 2021, during the pandemic.

“It was my dream to study in Italy,” she says. “My mom is an artist and I grew up around that but didn’t know what I wanted to do with my degree.”

Park worked as an intern on an art preservation project with a local art conservator recommended by her professor.

“As I continued my internship,” she says, “I realized this field (art conservation) was what I wanted to pursue in my future.”

Upon learning that studying chemistry was essential to becoming an art conservator, Park decided to add a chemistry minor to her degree. She plans to go to graduate school to complete her training as a conservator. Knowledge of chemistry is required in some graduate art programs in the U.S.

Study abroad also exposed Park to many opportunities for travel, she says. “As I was traveling, it helped me appreciate cultural heritage and art more, and why it is important to preserve it.”

How Study Abroad Can Enhance Job Prospects 

Among the most tangible ways that students are leveraging their study abroad experiences is in their job searches. Experts and students say that when searching for employment straight out of college and lacking significant employment history, one’s broader life experiences may count more.

Having been in a foreign environment gives job applicants a broader scope for a narrative about how their background and experiences have built their character, experts say.

Moriah Baxevane-Connell, who studied at the University of East Anglia in the United Kingdom for six months during college, says she highlighted her time abroad in her job resume .

“Looking for my first job out of college, study abroad helped me show that I had the curiosity and the willingness to explore new things and that I was open-minded,” she says.

So, when an interviewer asked, “Can you thrive in this new environment?” she was prepared with a response: “I said, ’Yeah sure, absolutely. I flew 4,000 miles away from everyone that I know and spent six months and I had a great time.’”

Baxevane-Connell worked for a tech firm in the U.S. for several years before going back to the U.K. to earn an MBA at the University of Oxford . She now works as a strategy and operations manager for Google in London.

The pandemic taught additional lessons about the value of studying abroad, says Samantha Brandauer, associate provost and executive director of the Center for Global Study and Engagement at Dickinson College in Pennsylvania. Those lessons include “your ability to understand and tolerate ambiguity that comes from cross-cultural experiences and to sit with the ‘I don’t know,’” she says. “That is a valuable skill in your working environment, your ability to sit with the unknown that often comes with significant cross-cultural experiences.”

At Dickinson, about 65% of the 2,200 students study abroad at some point during their time at the college, Brandauer says.

Employers may have more favorable views of young job seekers with international experience, some research suggests. QS Global Employer Survey Report found in 2016 that six out of 10 employers around the world give extra credit for job applicants with study abroad on their resumes, and more than 80% said they actively seek graduates with overseas study experiences. 

What Deters Students From Studying Abroad 

Multiple factors deter U.S. students from studying abroad, such as financial concerns, fear of missing out on something at home, health challenges and being far away from family and friends, experts say.

“It is the combination of the expenses and just not knowing what it is,” says Baxevane-Connell. “And the fear that, 'I really need to finish my degree in four years, so I can get a job and start paying back my loan and so I can start living my life.'”

Female students are more likely to study abroad than male students, says Brandauer. “For decades, it has been 60-40” in favor of women, she says, and that's been the national trend.

Brandauer suspects that male students have "a harder time finding their social niche on a college campus, and once they identify with a group, then it is hard to leave that group,” she says. “There is a lot of comfort being male on campus.”

Students who are historically underrepresented in U.S. colleges, such as students with disabilities and some racial minorities, tend to also be underrepresented in study abroad participation, according to the 2023 IIE study. That study report also notes that many colleges have been making efforts to improve the access and experience for underrepresented students by offering scholarships, boosting advising and providing special information sessions.

In the 2020-2021 academic year, according to data from NAFSA: Association of International Educators, Black students were 13.1% of U.S. postsecondary enrollment but just 4.1% of U.S. students studying abroad, while Hispanic and Latino students were 20.3% of postsecondary enrollment and only 12.3% of U.S. students who studied overseas. At the same time, White, Asian/Pacific Islander and multiracial students were proportionally overrepresented.

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Studying Abroad - IELTS Essay

Many students now have the opportunity to study in other countries. Studying abroad may bring some benefits to some students, but it also has a significant number of disadvantages. Discuss both sides of the argument and give your own opinion. Studying abroad has become an extremely popular study option amongst university students. While studying abroad is extremely expensive, it exposes students to a wide range of people, cultures and experiences that will reward them later on in their careers. In my opinion, students are far better off studying abroad even though it might be a bit costly. One of the greatest advantages of studying in a foreign country is that it exposes students to essential life experiences that will develop them professionally, impossible if they have studied only in their own country. Being in another country forces people to pop and come out of their bubble of comfort, opening them to a plethora of opportunities, which can help them advance in their careers. For example, when I went to study in the UK as an eighteen-year-old, I had to push myself out of my comfort zone and become self-reliant, making me much more mentally and emotionally mature. These ultra-challenging experiences are what develops a person. A negative aspect of studying overseas is that it is extremely expensive. It is not just high university fees that drive up the expenses; it includes stationery and study material expenses, travelling costs, rent, money spent on food, and other miscellaneous expenses. For example, I had to take an education loan of 30000 pounds to fund my tuition fees. Moreover, during my stay in the UK, I had to take up a job as a part-time waiter to earn enough to pay my monthly rent and meet a part of my monthly expenses. An increasing number of students are opting to study overseas. Although studying abroad can make a hole in your pocket, it will test and challenge you mentally and emotionally, helping your overall personal and professional development. In my opinion, long-term professional and personal gains from overseas studies justify every penny spent on it.

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Home — Essay Samples — Education — Studying Abroad — Comparing Education: Studying Abroad vs. Domestic Education

Comparing Education: Studying Abroad Vs. Domestic Education

• Categories: Studying Abroad

About this sample

Words: 717 |

Published: Feb 22, 2024

Words: 717 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

Table of contents

Introduction, tipping the scale: evaluating pros and cons of studying locally and internationally, contrasting outcomes: investigating the potential successes and challenges, students who study abroad achieve greater success: the evidence that students who study abroad are more successful in their careers, studies abroad for and against: a balanced look at the pros and cons of studying abroad.

• Cultural Enrichment: Exposure to new cultures, traditions, and perspectives can be a profoundly enriching experience, broadening one's horizons and fostering personal growth.
• Academic Excellence: Many international institutions offer world-class education with cutting-edge research opportunities, attracting top students and faculty from around the world.
• Career Opportunities: International experience enhances employability and opens doors to global job markets, offering a wider range of career options.
• Personal Development: Living independently in a foreign country promotes personal growth , self-reliance, and resilience.
• Financial Costs: Studying abroad can be expensive, including tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
• Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to a new culture and environment can be challenging, leading to feelings of homesickness and isolation.
• Language Barriers: Language differences can pose communication challenges, especially in the early stages of studying abroad.
• Social and Emotional Strain: Being away from family and friends can be emotionally taxing, impacting mental well-being.

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10 Benefits to Studying Abroad

Studying abroad may be one of the most beneficial experiences for a college student. By studying abroad, students have the opportunity to study in a foreign nation and take in the allure and culture of a new land. Here is a list of the top 10 reasons to study abroad!

1. See the World

The biggest reason you should consider a study abroad program is the opportunity to see the world . By studying abroad, you will experience a brand-new country with incredible new outlooks, customs and activities. The benefits of studying abroad include the opportunity to see new terrains, natural wonders, museums and landmarks of your host nation.

In addition, when you’re abroad, you won’t be limited to traveling in just the nation in which you are studying – you can see neighboring countries as well! For example, if you study in France, you’ll have the option to travel through various parts of Europe including London , Barcelona , and Rome.

2. Education

Another reason you might consider studying abroad is for the chance to experience different styles of education . By enrolling in a study abroad program, you’ll have the chance to see a side of your major that you may not have been exposed to at home.

You’ll find that completely immersing yourself in the education system of your host country is a great way to really experience and understand the people, its traditions, and its culture. Education is the centerpiece of any study abroad trip—it is, after all, a study abroad program—and choosing the right school is a very important factor.

3. Take in a New Culture

Many students who choose to study abroad are leaving their home for the first time. When they arrive in their new host country, they are fascinated by the distinct cultural perspectives. When you study abroad you will find incredible new foods, customs, traditions, and social atmospheres.

You will find that you have a better understanding and appreciation for the nation’s people and history. You will have the opportunity to witness a completely new way of life.

4. Hone Your Language Skills

Chances are if you’re planning on studying abroad, one of the major draws is the opportunity to study a foreign language. Studying abroad grants you the opportunity to completely immerse yourself in a new language, and there is no better way to learn than to dive right in.

In addition to the considerable language practice you will get just in day to day life, your host university will likely offer language courses to provide you with a more formal education. Immerse yourself in a new culture and go beyond a purely academic experience

5. Career Opportunities

When you finish your study abroad program and return home, you will return with a new perspective on culture, language skills, a great education, and a willingness to learn. Needless to say, all of these are very attractive to future employers.

Many students find that they love their host country so much that they decide to seek work there. If you can relate, you will find that a local education will be very valuable when searching for a potential job in that country.

6. Find New Interests

If you are still questioning why to study abroad, you should know that studying in a different country offers many new activities and interests that you may never have discovered if you’d stayed at home. You might find that you have an as-yet undiscovered talent for hiking, water sports, snow skiing, golf, or various other new sports you may never have tried back home.

You’ll also have the chance to discover other new and exciting forms of entertainment. Plays, movies, dancing, nightclubs, and concerts are just a few activities that you can enjoy.

7. Make Lifelong Friends

One of the biggest benefits of studying abroad is the opportunity to meet new lifelong friends from different backgrounds. While studying abroad, you will attend school and live with students from your host country. This gives you the opportunity to really get to know and create lasting relationships with your fellow students.

After the study abroad program ends, make an effort stay in contact with your international friends. In addition to rewarding personal relationships, these friends can also be important networking tools later down the road.

8. Personal Development

There is nothing quite like being on your own in a foreign country. You might find that studying abroad really brings out your independent nature. Students who study abroad become explorers of their new nation and really discover the curiosity and excitement that they harbor.

A benefit to studying abroad is the opportunity to discover yourself while gaining an understanding of a different culture. Being in a new place by yourself can be overwhelming at times, and it tests your ability to adapt to diverse situations while being able to problem solve.

9. Graduate School Admissions

Like future employers, graduate school admissions boards look very highly on study abroad experiences. Students that study abroad display diversity and show that they aren’t afraid to seek out new challenges or put themselves in difficult situations.

Most importantly, students who have studied abroad show just how committed they are to their education. Graduate schools regularly look for candidates who will bring a unique aspect to their university. Students who have studied abroad have shown that they have the curiosity and educational acumen to be a leader in graduate school.

10. Life Experience

Why study abroad? For most students, this time may be the only opportunity they ever get to travel abroad for a long period of time. Eventually you will find a job and career, and the opportunity to study abroad may turn out to be a once in a life time opportunity.

Take this opportunity to travel the world with no commitments but to study and learn about new cultures. Studying abroad is an experience unlike any other.

These are just some of the advantages of studying abroad. The benefits of this experience really can’t be explained in such a short article. Boost your language skills as you live in another country, get out of your comfort zone and meet people from different places of the world and at the same time get the best education.

Living in another country exposes you to things you cannot experience in your home country and in the future it will help you stand out from the competition as you apply for jobs and your experience of studying abroad is somethig you can share on your resume.

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What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad? IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay

The IELTS writing task 2 requires an individual to present their views on a topic that has been assigned to them. They are required to go through the topic and present their side of the argument. One such example of it could be: “What are the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad?”

So, whenever you are presented with such topics, all you are required to do is present your side of the argument. There is no right or wrong in these answers – all an individual is required to do is to let the examiner know their understanding of the topic that they are provided with.

So, let’s move forward to learn a little about this topic and present an amazing essay answer afterwards to let you know how it’s done.

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad? 

The decision to study abroad depends solely on the different advantages and disadvantages of that thing.

So, let’s move forward to know all about them.

What are the Advantages of Studying in a Foreign Country? 

Studying abroad has today become the new normal, every other child wishes to move out of their resident country to enjoy among a bunch of completely new people to study between them and to gain as much knowledge as possible with the help of this.

Given below are a few advantages of studying abroad:

#1. Improved Language 

The greatest benefit of studying abroad is that it helps you to improve your language skills to a great extent. you get to learn some new words each day and among a bunch of people who speak this language on a regular basis, you get to enjoy the benefits of learning a language completely.

Talking to your friends on a daily basis in the same language helps you to have that fluency in the language which you were not able to achieve before.

#2. New Friends and Career Opportunities

Another benefit that one gets to enjoy after studying abroad is that it really helps an individual to expand his/her network and have some really good friends which can also turn into friends for life. One gets to enjoy their time with people they have not known before and have a great time in their company.

It also helps one to expand their network for some great business or job opportunities overseas. A wider network helps one to connect to some really amazing people and have the benefits of so many new opportunities in life.

#3. Confidence Booster

When you enjoy time among people from a different country and culture altogether, you get to learn so many new things from them on a regular basis. Along with this, it helps one to practice the language on a daily basis which helps in boosting their confidence.

With a great and built-up confidence level, it’s easy to then achieve the heights that you want to.

Also Read: Important Points to Keep in Mind while Answering IELTS Writing Task 2

#4. Explore the World

Moving out of your resident country provides you with an opportunity to live in a new city altogether which also comes with the benefit of exploring a new city and a place never seen before.

When you live in a completely new place, you get to enjoy the scenic beauty of that place, the unexplored yet the most famous places at the same time which serves as an amazing experience.

Now, let’s move forward to learn some of the disadvantages of studying abroad.

What are the Disadvantages of Studying Abroad?

Everything that has some advantages comes with some disadvantages too. So, while there are many advantages of studying abroad, there are many disadvantages of the same too.

So, let’s check them out.

#1. Highly-Priced

Studying abroad might look fascinating to you but it is extremely expensive. Bearing all the expenses of studying abroad for an individual can be quite expensive and tiring at the same time.

The expenses of studying abroad depend solely on the place that you have chosen for yourself and the university that you’re going to get your degree from. The more advanced the country, the higher the expenses.

Also Read: Guide to Ace The Advantages & Disadvantages Essay Questions in IELTS Writing Task 2

#2.   Language as a Barrier

One of the biggest problems that many students face while studying abroad is the language that they are not fluent in. It is extremely important for one to learn the official language of the country that you have decided to move to in order to enjoy the benefits of having meaningful conversations.

Many times students have a lot of difficulty in speaking the native language or even understanding it. There are many cases in which teachers prefer to teach the entire lessons in the local language of the city. Therefore, it’s extremely important to have a good grasp of the language.

#3.   You’re Dependent on Your Own

Living in a foreign country means you are completely on your own. All the work that you need to do, right from washing your clothes to doing all the household chores, all need to be done by yourself.

There are many students who have never lived out of their home for a long period of time and studying abroad requires them to have such experiences for the first time. While this may have a lot of benefits like you learn so many new things, it can also have some serious demerits too. Many times it has been noticed that students who live alone tend to suffer from loneliness or in some cases, even depression.

IELTS Advantage Disadvantage Model Essay 

So, let’s move ahead to discuss one such advantage disadvantage essay in order to know how to present an answer while in the examination hall.

The question for today is: With more and more people moving out of their own country to study abroad, it has been a trend these days. What do you think are the advantages or disadvantages of the same? Share your opinions with us.

Also Read: Want Band 9? Check These Previous IELTS Writing Task 2 Exam Questions and Answers

Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad – IELTS Model Essay

With changing times, more and more students wish to move out of their native country to a completely new place where they can study among a bunch of students who are new to them. And this has certainly given a rise to the number of students moving abroad to study among them. While the idea of going out seems fun, is it actually true in real scenarios?

Elaborate – IELTS Model Essay Answer

There are many benefits of studying abroad but according to me, I believe the number of demerits of studying abroad is more than its advantages. Starting with knowing about its benefits, it feels great to study abroad. When one starts studying abroad, they become more independent as a person. This is because everything, right from all the household chores to outdoor things needs to be done on one’s own and this helps an individual to become a better version of himself/herself. They learn to be better and dependent on themselves. Living abroad allows an individual to learn different foreign languages in order to converse with their peers and fellow classmates. This further helps them to broaden their horizon, that by learning new languages and living for a period of 2-3 years in a foreign country, they tend to learn new cultures and how things are done differently in their country. They learn about their customs, traditions, and values.

Talk about the Disadvantages

But despite having so many advantages, the number of disadvantages succeed them. Though it is true that students get to learn new languages while living in a foreign country, with that comes the possibility of isolation and loneliness. There are many students who face difficulty while speaking in languages other than their native ones and while learning these languages, there are times when they are not able to converse fluently and swiftly as other students. And this leads to the different language barriers that arise among them. Thus, these children tend to spend most of their time alone without anyone’s company which can further lead to failure in examination and also depression.

Move towards Conclusion of the IELTS Essay Model Answer

Another demerit of studying abroad is that one has to do all of their work on their own which can be quite tiring at times and can lead to fatigue. This can also affect the students psychologically and they can suffer from various mental illnesses. Further, living abroad for a long time alone without being with anyone from your family or loved one can lead to homesickness and even lead to depression among many students. Along with this, studying abroad can be extremely expensive as compared to the cost one bears when he/she decided to study in their native country.

In conclusion, I believe it’s always better to study in one’s own country while being in the company of your loved ones and it should be encouraged more than moving out to study.

Hopefully, you must have found this article useful and if you have any doubts regarding the same, feel free to comment down below and let us know about the same.

For more such information, check out our amazing blogs on our site.

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Sakshi Bachani is a freelance Content Writer and Teacher. She has completed her Bachelor's degree from Delhi University.. She has been a freelance teacher for the past five years and has worked towards helping young kids achieve their dreams. She had also worked as an Intern teacher with an NGO. Apart from writing and teaching, she really enjoys music, animals, and plants. She even has her own little garden which she loves very dearly and can be sometimes seen buying more plants for herself.

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Studying abroad is definitely a better choice for students. Do you agree with this?

IELTS essay Studying abroad is definitely a better choice for students. Do you agree with this?

• Structure your answers in logical paragraphs
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• 6.5 band What are the benefits of traveling for the traveler? There is a saying that a brain that is open for learning will never remain the same. Although it is quite acceptable for some people to think that it is only through travelling that we can gain new insight, yet it is out of the question for others. In my opinion, I strongly disagree that moving from ...
• Language is not a genetic gift, it is a social gift. Learning a new language is becoming a member of the club – the community of speakers of that language. Frank Smith
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• 6 band Great number of people are moving to cities. What are the causes and how the problems can be tackled Everyday population of the metros is increasing. Numerous corporates have settled the manufacturing Plants nearby to the capitals which is the main reason of the public to go there for exploring the carrer opportunities. I believe that to gear the professional growth amid people have encouraged to l ...
• One should not aim at being possible to understand but at being impossible to misunderstand. Marcus Fabius Quintilian
• 5.5 band Nowadays more and more women work outside while men stay at home to look after children. What is the cause of this? Is this a positive or negative trend? Nowadays more and more women work outside while men stay at home to look after children. What is the cause of this? Is this a positive or negative trend? It is true that the number of stay-at-home fathers climbs to a peak in recent years, by seeing an increasing numbers of female who start to fuel ...
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Studying Abroad Vs. Studying In Your Home Country

Saumya singh       june 22, 2023, about this article.

Students from all over the world travel across countries, continents, and oceans to get the best education possible. But since when did attending an institution in another country become so famous? The reality is that studying abroad offers several wonderful perks, ranging from assisting us in finding a decent career to boosting our social life. Apart from making new worldwide acquaintances, we also learn more about ourselves by partaking in a new and interesting lifestyle. In this age of rapid globalisation, travelling around the world and seeing various cultures may help us understand our role in the world as individuals.

On one hand, we do have the advantage of being able to live and study in our own country without having to overcome language and cultural obstacles or leave our family and friends behind. On the other side, the possibility of obtaining a foreign degree, gaining international exposure, good research chances, and the related professional rewards are all riveting. It forces us out of our comfort zones from the minute we arrive!

Are there any cons of studying abroad? Perhaps there are. The most palpable factors, such as homesickness and expense, may have significant drawbacks. For some, the idea of leaving home and venturing into the unknown is terrifying, yet studying abroad can be an invigorating challenge that leads to better job options; it reflects a greater understanding of how the world works while simultaneously preparing us for an international working environment. Cultural shocks may both weaken and strengthen individuals. There may be circumstances that we have never encountered before that we must navigate. It's confusing and frightening, but also exhilarating. As a result, in today's globalized world, one may expect it to be more competitive. For most fresh students, the university experience is a steep learning curve in achieving true independence. But studying abroad takes this a step beyond, allowing students to grow as individuals.

There are several reasons why study abroad programs are becoming increasingly popular among students, even if their respective courses are available in their home nations. The major difference between studying abroad and studying in my own country is the sense of freedom. The attraction for most foreign students is likely to be a juxtaposition of obtaining a high-quality education (to study in a global hub for the chosen field), immersing themselves in a new culture, improving language skills, developing a global mentality, and extending potential career opportunities. Furthermore, long-term exposure to various cultures has been shown to help one think critically about oneself and one's native country, to accept differences, and to identify and appreciate variety.

Studying abroad allows you to broaden your horizons and comprehend and evaluate problems and phenomena from a longer-term, global perspective. Someone who can show on their CV that they studied abroad has a significant advantage when it comes to impressing prospective employers. On the simplest level, it will provide them with something to discuss in an interview. Knowledge of cross-cultural and social relations may be crucial to the project while working on any multi-cultural team. But, more significantly, it will demonstrate to future employers that they can adapt to various settings and that you are resourceful and decisive. Therefore, more students do look forward to studying popular courses abroad instead of studying in their home countries.

Studying in India vs Studying in the UK 

The professional benefits of studying in the UK include exposure to a global audience, access to cutting-edge research, acceptance into elite institutions, and more. India is a land of many religions and traditions, and it is also home to some of the world's finest educational institutions, including the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT), the All India Institutes of Medical Science (AIIMS), and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Do you feel torn about where to enrol next year, 2022? If you're trying to decide between studying in the United Kingdom or India, here's a blog that compares the two countries and lays out all the information you need to make an informed decision.

UK vs India: At one look 

To help ambitious students weigh the pros and cons of studying in the United Kingdom versus India, we've compiled the following table.

Benefits of Studying in the UK  

Some students believe that remaining in their home country to complete their education is the most practical choice. But if you want to broaden the scope of your knowledge and gain recognition in different parts of the world, you have no choice but to consider the United Kingdom as the most desirable alternative:  

Education of a High Standard

Because it successfully combines a centuries-old educational system with cutting-edge instructional practises, the United Kingdom is an excellent choice for students coming from other countries. Their teaching staff has extensive experience as well as a high level of qualification. Universities in the United Kingdom engage students in learning through a variety of novel and imaginative approaches.  

Institutes That Have Received International Accreditation

The United Kingdom is home to a number of the world's most renowned educational institutions, including Oxford University, the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and a number of others. The United Kingdom is home to eight of the top 50 universities in the world and twenty-six of the top 200 universities in the world. Students from other countries all over the world who are enthusiastic about receiving an education of the highest possible quality are drawn to these incredibly prestigious educational institutions in large numbers.  

Flexible Course Durations

If you decide to pursue your education in the United Kingdom, you can take comfort in the fact that the classes there are both brief and adaptable, making it possible for you to finish your degree in a shorter amount of time without sacrificing your intellectual growth. Students in the United Kingdom receive an education that encourages them to think critically and take a more applied approach to their academic pursuits. The educational system in the United Kingdom is well-known for its adaptability, as it enables students to construct their own curricula based on the topics that most interest them.  

Employment Possibilities

In addition to your academic pursuits, you might consider getting a part-time job or participating in an internship to gain valuable experience that you can later highlight on your resume. The placement services offered by universities in the UK are available to students. You are now qualified to apply for the New Graduate Route Visa, which will allow you to remain in the UK after finishing your education for a period of up to two years.  

Advantages of Completing Your Education in India

Because India has a wide variety of opportunities available, the real question is "why wouldn't you study in India?" The nation is home to some of the world's most renowned educational institutions, including prestigious colleges and universities. While studying in India, both international and Indian students can look forward to an enriching experience that does not break the bank.

The Best Colleges According to Their Rankings

Higher education in India is well-known throughout the world, particularly in the fields of engineering, technology, medicine, and teaching. The nation is well-known for its commitment to the ongoing pursuit of excellence in international research and academic instruction. From Politics to Philosophy or Aviation to Economics, there is something to serve all different kinds of interests of students in India who are pursuing higher education in India. India is by no means limited to the fields of study that have been mentioned above.

A Higher Education System That Is the Second Largest in the World

The higher education sector in India is the second largest in the world after that of China. About 343 universities and 17,000 colleges are included in its scope. Greater diversity and better opportunities for academic and personal enrichment are direct results of the size of India's higher education system and its global network of students and faculty who are pursuing bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. India's higher education system encompasses all three levels of education: bachelor's, master's, and doctoral.

Large and Varied Selection of Courses

The higher education system in India is not only extensive in terms of the range of subjects it covers, but it is also very large. Due to the country's illustrious history and bright prospects for the future, it is able to provide a vast and varied selection of classes, ranging from the traditional to the cutting edge. In addition to having access to the most recent breakthroughs in science and technology, students also have the opportunity to study more conventional topics, such as Ayurveda, Sanskrit, Hindi, and various other regional and local languages.

Affordability

The low cost of education in India is a steal when compared to the fees charged by many of the most prestigious educational institutions in the world. In addition, there are a variety of scholarship opportunities, student loan options, and financing programs that can be utilized to offset the costs. In addition to this, the cost of living in India is not prohibitive for most people. According to Numbeo, the average monthly rent in the United Kingdom is 509% and in India, it is 456% higher than that.

Comparison of the Best Universities in the UK and India

Top educational institutions in the uk.

After going over the many advantages of obtaining your higher education in the United Kingdom, we will now examine the ranking of the best universities in that country for the academic year 2022–2023.

Leading Educational Institutions in India

Students from other countries are welcome to enroll in any one of India's many colleges or universities. In the comparison between the United Kingdom and India, the following is a list of the leading educational institutions in India that can be completed quickly.  

A Few Facts Regarding the Universities of the United Kingdom

The process of enrolling in a school in the UK is straightforward and can be finished in just a few easy steps. The first thing that needs to be done is to get registered at one of the many reputable universities that are located in the UK. Some of these universities are as follows:  

• Over two hundred different undergraduate and graduate degree programmes, including those in the fields of law, business, engineering, and the social sciences, are available to students at the University of Birmingham.  
• Education of the highest calibre is provided by the University of Bristol, which is comprised of seven faculties and more than fifty departments.  
• King's College London (KCL), which was founded in 1829 by King George IV, is currently regarded as one of the 20 best universities in all of Europe. Over seventy-five departments at King's College London cover a wide variety of fields of study, including the arts, medicine, and science.  

The Times Higher Education World University Rankings placed Durham University in fifth place among research-led institutions; additionally, all of the university's degree programmes received either a gold or silver rating under the new Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF).  

Comparing the Cost of Studying in the United Kingdom and India

The cost of an advanced degree can range anywhere from 18,000 to 35,000 pounds sterling (18.06 lakhs to 35.13 lakhs Indian Rupees), depending on the college attended and the number of classes taken. For an extended period of time during the study, this would cost approximately £11,000 to £12,500 (or 11.04 lakhs to 12.54 lakhs Indian Rupees), taking into account the typical cost of essential items (i.e 9 months).

When compared to the United Kingdom, which is widely regarded as one of the world's most advanced educational systems, the cost of education in India is significantly more affordable, making it one less thing to worry about for prospective students.

Comparing the Most Popular Courses in the UK and India

In addition to having universities that are among the best in the world and an education system that is among the best in the world, both the United Kingdom and India have a wide variety of courses and subjects available for students to choose from. This is another reason why both countries are so popular among students from other countries.

Courses that are popular in the UK

The following are some of the top programmes in the United Kingdom that are chosen by the vast majority of students coming from other countries:  

• Business Studies
• Auditing and financial management
• Finance and law Economics and design
• The Study of Computers
• Engineering of a Mechanical Nature
• Biological Sciences
• Engineering of Electrical Circuits
• Politics  

Courses that are popular in India

The following is a list of some of the most popular courses offered in India:

• Management (MBA/BBA)
• The Sciences of Engineering and Designing Computers
• Journalism and other forms of mass communication
• Medicine Applied to Hospitality Management (MBBS, BDS)
• Economics Law and Studies in Sociology and Psychology
• Instruction and Education  

Are you having trouble deciding which path to take? Utilize our cutting-edge AI tool so that you can create a shortlist of the universities and programmes that are the most suitable for you based on your individual preferences and areas of interest. Connect with us right now!

Eligibility Requirements for the United Kingdom and India

The following topic on our blog comparing the United Kingdom and India is the eligibility criteria that prospective students must meet in order to be accepted into a higher education program in either of the two countries.

Criteria for Eligibility in the United Kingdom

If they want to study in the UK, students from other countries need to be aware of the essential requirements listed below:  

• Successful completion of all required coursework at the undergraduate or graduate level with an aggregate grade point average of at least 65% to 70%.
• a photocopy of a current and valid passport
• Scorecards from various English language tests such as the TOEFL, IELTS, C1 Advanced, and Duolingo. (Students may be exempt from this requirement at certain educational institutions if they fulfil the necessary criteria.)
• Tests like the GMAT and the GRE, as well as any other entrance exams for master's programmes
• Academic Transcripts
• Recommendation Letters (Letters of) (LOR)
• Portfolio (for specific courses) (for specific courses)
• A CV/Resume (if applicable)
• Purpose and Objectives Statement (SOP)  

The Requirements for Eligibility in India

Students from other countries who wish to enrol in one of India's universities or colleges are required to have completed the 10+2 education system and to have maintained an aggregate grade between 55 and 75 percent in their senior year subjects. It will be evaluated as if it were an application for direct enrollment in undergraduate classes. In other circumstances, some of the most prestigious public universities in the country may require you to have a score that is higher than 90%. Exams such as the Common Admission Test (CAT) for MBA, the National Eligibility and Eligibility Test (NEET) for MBBS, the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE), the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT), the UPSC for IAS, and many more are popular in India.

 In addition to the educational credentials, let's take a look at the supporting documents, which are as follows:

• Valid for a minimum of six months passport.
• a letter of acceptance from the university
• A copy of the application form completed online
• Address of the permanent residence required as proof.
• photographs in the format of a passport
• A copy of the application form that was filled out online.  

Cost of Living : UK vs India

Students who are trying to decide between studying in the United Kingdom or India should be aware that the price of education varies greatly between the two countries. The tuition rates charged by educational institutions located outside of the United Kingdom are widely regarded as among the highest in the world. The cost of tuition for a master's degree can range anywhere from 18,000 to 35,000 British pounds (18.06 lakhs to 35.13 lakhs Indian rupees), depending on the university and the number of courses required. For one academic year of study, this would cost approximately £11,000–12,500 (INR 11.04 lakhs–INR 12.54 lakhs), taking into account the cost of living expenses (i.e 9 months).  When compared to the United Kingdom, which is widely regarded as one of the most successful educational systems in the world, the cost of education in India is significantly more affordable. According to a report by HSBC, the annual tuition fee at an Indian university is only about 40,000 to 50,000 Indian Rupees (INR). It is dependent on the kind of university being asked. Therefore, the annual tuition fees in India are not a significant barrier for students from other countries to overcome.

Comparing the Postgraduate Job Markets of the United Kingdom and India  

After completing your education at a higher level in the UK, you will have access to a wealth of different employment opportunities. In terms of employment opportunities, the United Kingdom is highly globalized. This includes fields such as accounting, engineering, healthcare, marketing, and law, amongst others. The New Graduate Route Visa is a brand-new employment authorization option that has recently been introduced by the Home Office of the United Kingdom (UK). This will give international students the opportunity to find work for two to three years after they have completed their Ph.D. programs. They are not required to make a certain minimum salary, and they are free to work in any recruitment industry.  

Despite the fact that India provides a wide range of programs in a variety of fields, a significant number of international students looking for employment opportunities in India both during and after their studies there. The Indian government does not permit students from other countries to hold jobs while they are enrolled in school there. However, international students have the opportunity to participate in internships and training courses. 

Opportunities for Post-Study Work in India vs. the UK

After completing your higher education, there are numerous job prospects available in the UK. For employment chances in industries like accountancy, engineering, healthcare, marketing, and law, among others, the UK is highly globalised. The New Graduate Route Visa is a new method of entering the country to work that has recently been developed by the UK home office. This will make it possible for international students to work for two to three years after completing their PhDs. They are not subject to any minimum wage rules and can work in any recruitment-related industry.  

Despite the fact that India has a wide range of programmes in numerous sectors, many foreign students look for jobs in India both during and after the programme. Foreign students are not permitted to work while studying in India by the government. International students may, however, enrol in training programmes and internships. International students might look into job options when the programme is over.

FAQs: 

Here are the answers to your most frequently asked questions!

You've arrived at this page because you're considering studying abroad. That's fantastic! We understand that this is a big step, and you'd like to have all of your questions answered before taking the plunge. Don't worry, our study abroad consultants have compiled a list of questions that you can ask.

Ques 1. What is the eligibility to study abroad? 

Ans. To begin studying as an international student, there are a range of entry requirements you may have to meet. The academic requirements (including evidence of English language skills) you need to study abroad will vary depending on the level of education you want to pursue. For instance, some courses will require you to have done a foundation course before applying for a degree. All universities and schools can have different entry requirements, so read the course information on their respective websites very carefully.

Ques 2. How much will it cost to study abroad?

• The costs associated with studying at a university or school abroad vary greatly. It depends on the nature of your chosen program, the length of your stay, the distance you travel and the kind of lifestyle you want when you get there.
• Be aware that some student visas require you to have a certain amount of funds available in your bank account when you arrive in your chosen country. It is best to speak to one of our counsellors.
• Many students choose to carry out some part-time work alongside their studies to support their living or socialising costs. However, there are restrictions on the hours you are allowed to work to ensure you don’t lose your academic focus. 

Ques 3. When should I start planning my study abroad procedure?

Ans. We recommend that you begin as soon as possible. This will allow you to reflect on your interests and conduct research in accordance with your personal and academic goals and aspirations. Location, course duration, costs, accommodation, and living conditions are some of the other factors to consider as you plan your programme. Begin planning at least a year or intake ahead of time. Of course, we are available to assist you throughout the process.

To help you plan, we've created a rough timeline for you to get started and live your study abroad dreams.

Ques 4. How long does the application process take?

Ans. We recommend you begin your application process at least a year in advance to give enough time for your applications to be processed and to prepare for your time overseas. Remember, the academic year begins at different times of the year in different countries.  Ques 5. What if one can’t afford to study overseas?

Ans. International students can apply for a variety of scholarships and bursaries to help them fund their studies. The amount and availability differ depending on the level of study and the institution. Because scholarships are competitive, you must demonstrate exceptional academic achievement to be awarded one. Scholarships and awards are also provided by governments and other organisations to assist international students in financing their studies. Speak with one of our study abroad consultants about the various scholarships that are available for your chosen course and university.

Ques 6. Can one work and study at the same time?

Ans. Working while studying can enhance your educational and living experiences while studying abroad. If you are studying for a degree or higher, you may be able to work while on an international student visa. But, before you start working for money, make sure your visa allows it. The ability of students to work part-time while studying varies from country to country. Many universities have a dedicated student job centre on campus that advertises job opportunities and internships to help students develop a variety of skills. A useful source of information is also the university's career service.

Ques 7. Do I need study abroad partners?

Ans. While you can apply directly to a university or college, you may prefer to use the expertise of an international education specialist (also known as a student counsellor) to guide you through the process of selecting the right university or college and enrolling. Using an accredited and trusted agent, such as zoom abroad, can help alleviate the stress of selecting a university in another country, applying, and preparing to leave.

This was all the information that aspirants needed to know about the match between the United Kingdom and India. It is now time for you to make a decision regarding which nation would be most suitable for you to initiate your higher education in 2023! If you are still a little uncertain about your choice, connect with our study abroad Zoom Abroad partners right away and they will guide you through the process of selecting the country, universities, and courses that are the most suitable for you!

Saumya Singh

Content Writer

Saumya is an enthusiastic reader with a keen inclination toward literature, academics, and marketing. Ideas, strategy, and impact are what keep her belief in marketing intact. Oh, and playing with content is her hobby.

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When you’re deciding where to study, there’s a lot to consider. Which university do you want to do go? What kind of education do you want? Which city do you want to live in? Many students decide to stay at home, and many decide to study abroad instead.

There are a number of great benefits to both of them and it’s a big decision to make. Studying abroad used to be too expensive for most and not all students could do it. But not it’s more accessible and more people are studying abroad than ever before.

If you’re struggling to decide whether to study abroad or study at home, you’ve come to the right place. Read on while we discuss the benefits of both to help you decide.

Staying at Home: No Language Barrier

When you stay at home to study, you don’t have to worry about overcoming a language barrier. Starting university can be a daunting experience, and when you throw in a language barrier, it can be overwhelming.

Staying at home doesn’t have this added pressure, and it allows you to get through uni life without having to use another language you might not be confident with.

Studying Abroad: Learn a New Language

When you decide to study abroad, chances are you will need to learn a new language to get by. This is a great opportunity to expand your language skills and learn something that will be useful throughout your life.

It can be scary, to begin with, but it gets much easier the more you do it. Whether you want to learn an entirely new language or expand on your existing language skills, studying abroad is the best way to do it.

Staying at Home: Save Money

It may have become more affordable in recent years, but studying abroad is often still a lot more expensive than staying at home. When you stay home to study, you only have to pay the prices at home. Housing, groceries, tuition, etc may be a lot cheaper in your home country than if you went abroad.

If money is a big concern for you, staying at home will help you save money while you study.

Studying Abroad: Having Unique Experiences

While it may be a little more expensive depending on where you’re coming from, studying abroad can offer a lot of unique experiences. There are a lot of ways to save money studying abroad, and that can be a unique experience in itself.

Studying abroad means you get to meet people from all around the world and travel to exciting new places. You will have experiences that you would never get if you stayed in your home country, and it will help you grow a lot.

Staying at Home: You Know What to Expect

When you stay at home to study abroad, you know what to expect from your time there. You know the education system so you don’t have to adapt to a new one, and there’s no risk of culture shock either.

You get to study in comfort without any unexpected surprises that could hinder your studies. If big changes and uncertainty make you anxious, staying home can help you feel more secure.

Studying Abroad: Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

Studying abroad forces you out of your comfort zone from the moment you arrive. You need to push yourself to try out a new language, go to new places and meet new people.

As an international student, there will be many situations that you have to navigate that you’ve never done before. These can be challenging but each time you do it, you feel fantastic and it helps you grow as a person. You don’t get the choice of staying in your comfort zone and avoiding new situations.

Leaving your comfort zone helps you gain new perspectives and push you to do things you’ve never done before. It’s a great learning experience and great for people who are looking to get more out of their studying experience.

Studying Abroad vs Studying at Home: What Will You Choose?

These are only a few of the benefits of studying abroad vs studying at home, but there are many more as well. There are certain benefits to both options and it’s up to the individual what they choose.

Are you studying abroad next semester? Get in touch with us and we can help you find the best student accommodation to make your stay the best it can be.

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[…] Even before the occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic, and its impact on International students this may have been a hard evaluation for many. Regardless, there are advantages and disadvantages to both. Last year, we dedicated an article to this subject (which you can find here) […]

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Studying Abroad or Studying Locally - Which Is a Better Choice for A Successful Career Abroad?

It's a million-dollar question that has been asked more than a million times, isn't it? You would have discussed this multiple times with your friends, family, and career counsellors, trying to decide on the course and university that's best suited for you. Or perhaps, even debated why you should even study abroad. Right?

Which university provides the best learning experience? Which country has the best scope for the course you're choosing to pursue? What are the career prospects for this course and the related fields in the chosen study destination? These are the most frequently asked questions when deciding what to study next.

Before coming to any conclusion, it is prudent to evaluate both choices and decide what suits you best. Let's get started with it, then!

Table of Contents

Studying abroad vs studying locally - what would you pick, undeniable benefits of studying abroad.

• Global Lifestyle
• Independence and self-reliance
• Cultural sensitivity and tolerance
• Scholarships and student funding
• Career Opportunities

Whatever your choice is, it's better to be informed of the benefits of both choices so that you prepare yourself for the best educational experience.

Let's start by analysing the pros and cons of both choices now, shall we?

Now, you may have made up your mind about studying abroad or locally, but if you still haven't, don't worry. We have put together a list of the various benefits of studying abroad, detailing how studying abroad changes you to help you decide on the best course of action.

Read More: In demand Courses in Canada for International Students

1. Global Lifestyle

Studying abroad introduces you to different cultures and customs followed by people from different ethnicities, giving you the opportunity to experience a global lifestyle - with all its highs and lows, making it a unique experience. From food and travel to language and quality of life, studying abroad gives you a new perspective on life and personal beliefs and makes way for a holistic development of your personality.

Studying abroad is a truly global experience in the sense that popular destinations like the UK, the USA, Australia, Canada, Germany, Malaysia and Singapore have students from all over the world. These destinations are thus a hotspot for cross-learning and cultural exchange.

Read More: STEM Courses in USA for International Students

2. Independence and Self-reliance

Being a global citizen could teach you a lot of things, and learning to be independent is definitely the best lesson. Surviving in a new place and getting accustomed to a different lifestyle makes you independent, self-reliant and focused on achieving your academic objectives.

You all might be familiar with the famous saying - "if you survive in New York, you could survive anywhere else in the world", which is true for any international city and not just New York, because stepping out of your comfort zone and living in a multicultural environment makes you resilient and world-wise.

Read More: 3 Types of Post Study Work Rights in Australia for International Students

3. Cultural sensitivity and tolerance

Living in your homeland makes you sensitive to certain beliefs and practices which are congenial to the environment you've grown up in. But isn't variety the spice of life? Being in a multicultural milieu sensitises you to the different practices and customs worldwide, nurturing in you a sense of appreciation for the ingenuity and sentiments of other communities.

Read More: Top 7 Affordable Universities in USA for International Students

4. Scholarships and student funding

Studying abroad is definitely an expensive affair. From tuition fees to study expenses to accommodation, you might have to shell out a considerable amount of money to have a convenient study-abroad experience. Ergo, scholarships.

Many international universities offer student funding and scholarships for deserving candidates to ease the financial burden. There are multiple categories for availing of scholarships, including Academic Scholarships, Athletic Scholarships, Scholarships for Extracurriculars, Country-Specific Scholarships, Need-Based Scholarships, Military Scholarships, STEM Scholarships, etc., which cater to a broad range of student requirements and needs.

Read More: Study MBA in Canada for International Students

5. Career Opportunities

When it comes to career opportunities, an international degree has better weightage, owing to the quality of your specialisation and the work skills gained while studying abroad. Many universities also provide career counselling and research opportunities to help enhance your credibility in finding a deserving career anywhere in the world.

Armed with a world-class education experience, you could boost your chances in a competitive career space and take up further education based on your academic and career objectives.

Read More: Top 7 Affordable Universities in Australia for International Students

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6 reasons I chose to study abroad during business school

By Kalyn Chang ’24 MMM Program

I knew immediately that I wanted to participate in one of the Full-Time Exchange Programs at Kellogg . I didn’t study abroad during my undergrad, so I was excited to have another opportunity to immerse myself in a different culture both in and out of the classroom. I was especially interested in INSEAD Singapore’s exchange program for a few reasons:

• INSEAD’s student population is diverse, so I’d expose myself to more cultures and ways of thinking.
• There are a lot of interesting classes available for exchange students. The class selection can be more limited at other programs.
• I had always wanted to live in Asia, and I was particularly drawn to Singapore’s reputation as a global hub for innovation and the Silicon Valley of Asia.
• I completed my exchange at INSEAD Singapore this past quarter, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision and experience — it broadened my horizons and helped me grow professionally and personally.

Here are six reasons why I chose to study abroad during business school: 

1.  Gain a global business perspective

At INSEAD, no more than 12% of their student body is of any one nationality, and course material like case studies dives into business problems from all around the world. It was refreshing to participate in discussions and hear perspectives from a global perspective beyond an American lens. I loved that students’ name tags at INSEAD have their nationalities on them, so you have more cultural context behind each student’s class contributions.  

2.  Build my international network  

I  connected with classmates from around the world who I’m looking forward to staying in touch with. I took Market Driving Strategies and competed in a team-based simulation. My team consisted of members from China, Singapore, Thailand, the UK and America. We won first place, showing how diverse teams can lead to better discussions and outcomes.  

3. Step outside of my comfort zone   

Studying abroad and navigating a new country and a new school is a perfect chance to jumpstart growth. It gave me a fresh start where I was able to apply what I learned during my first year of business school in a new setting with new people. Without my usual group of friends to lean on, I was pushed out of my comfort zone and became more independent and confident as a result.  

4. Immerse myself in a new culture 

Living abroad can come with its own unique challenges such as finding long-term housing, but it also gave me the opportunity to take things slower and dive deeper into a country’s culture and society.  

Singapore has a large Chinese population allowing me to reconnect with my roots and cultural heritage, especially through food and traditions. For example, Chinese New Year is widely celebrated in Singapore, and it was special to experience the holiday while living there and to see signs of it all around the city since it’s not as big of a celebration in the United States.  

 5. Travel to new places  

I took advantage of already being abroad to explore as much of Asia as possible, particularly Southeast Asia, since it has some of the best diving in the world. I was able to put my certified open-water scuba diver skills to full use! Singapore served as an excellent hub for traveling throughout Asia, and INSEAD’s class structure allowed me to take a lot of extended trips in between classes.   INSEAD’s term is only eight weeks, so I had an extra month to travel before classes at Kellogg started again. After my term in Singapore wrapped up, I moved to Hong Kong for the next month and used it as my travel base to explore more of East Asia. The timing worked out since my fiancé, who is also a Kellogg student, was doing his global exchange in Hong Kong at the same time.  Flights within Asia are very affordable and traveling within Southeast Asia especially can be done on a budget, so I had the best time going on trips to Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, Hong Kong, Macau and Korea with a mix of Kellogg and INSEAD friends. I even got to meet up with the Kellogg students who were doing an exchange program in Japan while there!  

6. Make lifelong friends  

Studying abroad can help you develop a deeper bond with your fellow Kellogg exchange students. There’s something about spending eight weeks living in a foreign country and going through a transformative experience together that leads to lifelong friendships.   I’m looking forward to reuniting with my classmates for my final quarter of business school back at Kellogg!  

Read Next: Pack your bags: Global MBA opportunities foster life-long connections