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Your Study Abroad Essay Made Easy

by Danielle DeSimone - Last updated on July 3, 2017

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  • 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.

Your Study Abroad Essay Made Easy

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 ]

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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 .”

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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

close up of hands typing on mac keyboard with headphones plugged in

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.

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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.” 

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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. 

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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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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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Crafting the Perfect Study Abroad Essay

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

  • Applying to Study Abroad

study abroad college essay

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

study abroad

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

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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.

Unsure of where to study abroad?

Check out our handy country guides!

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The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.

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Articles & Advice > Financial Aid > Blog

How to Write a Winning Study Abroad Scholarship Essay

Studying abroad is a big and expensive part of many students' education, and scholarships can help with that. Here's how to ace those study abroad scholarship essays.

by Ashley Halsey Professional Educator and Writer

Last Updated: Mar 16, 2023

Originally Posted: Nov 23, 2019

Studying abroad is a dream opportunity that can have so many benefits, some of which you may not even realize as you head into your application or daydream about having the chance to go. The most obvious benefit is that you get to experience a different culture, different people, or a different way of life. This is fascinating on its own and could be considered reason enough to start your application. Add to that the opportunity to freshen your perspective with a change of scenery, make new friends, potentially pay lower tuition and living fees, learn a different language, and broaden your understanding of the world, and you’ve got something all students should at least think about doing while at university.

Of course, study abroad isn’t as easy as signing a form and away you go. Most of the time, you’ll need to have some financial support from an institution before you can go galloping off. To earn this, you’ll almost always have to write an essay and compete with your peers for the opportunity. So, here are some tips for making sure that it’s you getting on that plane and not anyone else.

Read the prompt carefully

The most classic error students make with any essay is not answering the question. This goes for travel abroad writing as much as anything else. “You can write the most incredible essay full of perfect demonstrations of your intelligence and passion, but if it doesn’t answer the question, it won’t get considered at all,” says Jake Cole, an educator at Writinity . You’ll also write a more informed essay if you really understand the parameters of your question. You might easily be vague in how you respond if you don’t really know what you’re responding to. A good technique is to reread the question several times, highlighting operative words when they occur to you as a way to keep things under control.

Related: How to Read a College Application Essay Prompt

Surprise your reader

It’s easy to write formulaic essays —an intro, a few body paragraphs, a conclusion, and you’re done. A study abroad essay is unorthodox by nature, so you definitely don’t want to limit yourself in form or substance. The other thing you’re up against is how much competition there is for each spot in the program. The people who make decisions will read hundreds of essays, and you want to make sure yours stands out so come decision time, they haven’t forgotten yours exists. Take an approach to your essay that’s different from what you suspect others are going for. Use your alternative approach as a connection to how strongly you feel about the application. It’s easy to dash off a standard essay, but it’s difficult to slowly piece together something more unusual and specific. It shows care and attention, two traits they’ll want to see to prove you actually deserve the scholarship. 

Run your essay past the right people

It’s easy to get too insular as you work on an essay. They tend to take a good amount of time, and most people prefer to work in isolation. This means you could write an essay for six hours without even stopping to let your own mind have a subjective overview, let alone get an outside opinion. “Whenever I write anything extended, I will always run it past people around me. In the case of a scholarship essay, past winners, parents, people from where you are hoping to transfer to, and your professors are going to be your biggest resources as you try to put something of consequence together,” explains Kaya Gopal, tutor at DraftBeyond and ResearchPapersUK . Always get second, third, and fourth opinions on your content to make sure you’re in the best position to avoid getting lost in your own work, which can definitely happen if you aren’t careful.

Related:   Secrets to Writing an Amazing Scholarship Essay  

This is always important! Making mistakes in a standard essay is bad, but you’re fighting so hard in a study abroad scholarship essay that if you aren’t vigilant about the small things, those judging your work will be eager to cut you out to save themselves the trouble. Proofreading is a complex process. It’s harder than just passing an eye over your work. There are different layers to it: Does your essay’s logic stand? Have you done everything you said you’d do? Is it structured correctly? Is all the spelling correct? The grammar ? The syntax? Each of these details is as important as the rest. Again, getting these things correct helps demonstrate to readers how committed you are to your application and how much work you’re willing to put in to be accepted. Conversely, if you fail to proofread, it comes across like you don’t care about your application.

Do your research

Before you write your essay, you need to research the country, city, and institution you’ll attend if you get the scholarship and, in a different sense, you need to research yourself. Researching yourself means knowing why it is that you actually want the scholarship and how it will be instrumental in making a difference in your life. This means taking some time for reflection.

Related: List: The Experts’ Choice: Terrific Study Abroad Programs

Studying abroad is such an incredible opportunity, so you have to do everything in your power to ensure the application you put in to secure funding is as strong as possible. Hopefully these tips will help as you think about writing your essay.

Find scholarships to fund your study abroad goals with our Scholarship Search tool.

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How to Write Impactful Admission Essays for Study Abroad?

Updated on 12 october, 2023.

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad Abroad Team

Upgrad abroad editorial team.

upGrad Abroad Team

Applying abroad for education requires the fulfillment of certain criteria that make a candidate eligible for foreign universities. One such document that needs to be submitted is the admission essay. An admission essay can be of many types and usually depends on the university or course you are applying for. Let’s begin with a little introduction about admission essays for study abroad . 

Admission essays or commonly known as application essays are a mandatory part of your application process and are required by universities to get a clear understanding of your personality and interests. The application essay can be based on various topics that will be provided by the university. Admission essays are usually a part of the application process for those universities that do not require a statement of purpose. It is just another way of evaluating candidates for admissions. Universities that seek admission essays usually design their requirements depending on the program. A variety of essay topics are set across for UG and PG courses. 

From a student’s point of view, admission essays create opportunities for the students to set themselves apart from the rest of the candidates by exhibiting their writing skills and intellectual ability. This article provides an insightful understanding of Admission Essays for study abroad.

  • Importance of Admission Essays:

An admission essay is one of the most important documents in your application. It will provide the university with all they need to know about your (personal) background, abilities, experiences, and personality. Admission essays have the potential to make or break the deal when it comes to admissions and hence must be given high priority. To write an impactful essay, the applicant must have his/her thoughts well aligned and maintain a high standard of the English language . A good essay can ensure your admission into the college of your preference.

  • Different Kinds of Admission Essays:

Universities usually seek to understand the applicant’s profile, personality, and purpose through an admission essay. The impression it creates will determine your admission. When it comes to essays for study abroad , there are various types of essays to assess and understand the applicants’ capabilities. 

Mentioned below are the various types of admission essays for study abroad :

  • Admission essays for undergraduate programs.
  • Admission essays for MS programs in different universities.
  • Admission essays for MBA or master’s programs in Management and Business .
  • Admission essays for financial aid or also known as Scholarship essays.
  • In case you have taken a gap year, many universities ask for an essay explaining your gap year.
  • Backlog admission essays are required in case you failed in an exam. The essay will require you to state your reason for failure and your learning experience from the backlog.
  • Admission essays that are situation-specific require you to elucidate on incidents in your life.

Each essay may have a different word count. The word count requirement is usually provided by the university you are applying to. Make sure you stick to the instructions provided and do not write more than the word limit. Mentioned below are some ideal situations of word limits provided by foreign universities for admission essays:

  • An admission essay is usually around 350 to 500 words long.
  • The minimum word requirement is usually around 250 to 300 words.
  • The maximum word limit for most admission essays is around 600 to 650 words.

The three most important details you must keep in mind while writing an admission essay are:

  • The essay under no circumstances can be vague. A vague essay will reflect poorly on your admission application. 
  • Avoid making grammatical mistakes as it is an integral part of the criteria on which your essay will be judged. Punctuations are equally important.
  • Make sure that the essay is of a professional standard as it will aid in making your essay stand out.

Before we dive into the tips and guidelines for writing the admission essays for study abroad, let’s talk about some of the basic points that are worth mentioning in your essay:

Undergraduate program admission essay: 

  • Start by describing yourself and maybe delve a little into your (personal) background.
  • Candidly elucidate your interests in academia and talk a little about your academic achievements.
  • Mention your extracurricular achievements and interests.
  • You must discuss in brief your reason for selecting the college and the country for your education program.
  • You must include your prospects and how the course will help you attain your goals and ambitions.
  • Conclude on an inspirational note.

Admission Essays for MBA programs:

  • Start by providing a short introduction about yourself. Try to make your introduction as interesting as possible to grab the attention of the reader. You can probably include some inspiring quotes or anecdotes to help your cause.
  • It is important to talk about your academic background and professional experiences. 
  • You must talk about your prospect concerning the MBA program.
  • You must talk about your goals and ambitions. Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years? 
  • You must briefly discuss the topic of why you have selected the university and country for your further education.
  • It is important to leave an impact as you conclude your essay. This will help in creating a suitable impression.

Remember that the word count might be less than required to jot down so many points. Hence it is very important to be brief and informative at the same time.

Some essays are based on the applicant’s academic circumstances like scholarship essays and gap year essays. These essays are usually not required by the college unless you mention them in your application. 

Scholarship essay:

These essays are usually written by students looking to get financial aid for their education programs. Usually, only tier 1 students tend to get scholarships based on their academic records. Your scholarship essay plays an integral part in determining your position in getting financial aid. Even students who do not have an excellent academic record can get scholarships depending on their standardized exam scores, extracurricular involvement, and social work .  

  • You need to create an impactful title for your essay. This itself should grab the attention of the reader.
  • You must talk about your personal and family background. 
  • Mention your academic performance and achievements
  • Your involvement in extracurricular activities and social work. Remember that social work is kept in very high regard by foreign universities. 
  • You must elucidate on how the scholarship will help your cause and push you towards your career goals.
  • It is important to mention your reasons for selecting a particular university.
  • You should express yourself on why you deserve the scholarship.
  • Try and write an inspirational conclusion

Gap Year Essay:

Most universities don’t ask for a gap year essay. But in some cases, they might ask depending on how the university wants to assess you. Even though the basic structure of the gap year essay is the same as the above-mentioned essays it is important to mention why you took the gap year and how it has helped you in finding yourself. 

General Tips and Guidelines for Writing an Impressive Admission Essay:

  • Plan your essay – Before you start writing your essay, plan. Consider the essay question/topic and the response you wish to provide. Also, think about what the admissions committee could be looking for in your application essay. Before you start writing your essay try to make a detailed strategy, preferably with the aid of a flow chart. This will help you align your thoughts and avoid confusion.  Building a logical argument by going over each aspect will help maintain coherence and fluidity. Prepare a response that will highlight your abilities.
  • Establish your essay objectives – Establishing your essay objectives will help you create the right impression of yourself in the eyes of the admission committee. The opinion created about you through your essay will be in your hands by highlighting your achievements, skills and portraying a confident tone. 
  • Defining your X-factor – If your goal is to get admission into a top university you will have to set yourself apart from the rest of the candidates. The admission essay is a good opportunity to display your uniqueness and secure admission.  
  • A clear understanding of the essay topic – This point is essential for creating the right impact. A clear understanding of the essay topic will allow you to streamline your thoughts and pen down only relevant points. Being vague may diverge the attention of the reader and will reflect poorly on your application. 
  • Be Specific – This is an equally important point as the previous one. Admission essays require you to provide more with fewer words. You have a word limit of a maximum of 600 words and a lot to talk about. It is important that you remain concise and to the point. Beating around the bush will disinterest the reader and get you nowhere.
  • How will you contribute to the University – An application essay allows you to tell the admissions committee all you want them to know about yourself. One aspect you don’t want them to overlook is how you can contribute to the university. As an international student, you bring a variety of cultures to campus, as well as stories of fresh experiences and potential opportunities. Emphasize how your experience and knowledge may benefit the university and its culture.
  • Focus on Grammar and Language – You need to check and re-check for grammatical errors and punctuations. The university will be judging your language skills and grammar through this essay. Any mistake may hamper your chances of getting admission. 
  • Re-writing and Proofreading – The best way to ensure no mistakes is to write the essay and then re-write it again. This way you can weed out all the problems and ensure an impactful essay. While re-writing you will realize where to edit and omit. This way you can be concise, informative, and confident at the same time. After writing your final draft it is important to proofread the essay to ensure no errors. You can ask others to do this for you. In this way, you can take some constructive feedback as well as ensure no mistakes in grammar or language. 
  • Essay guideline provided by the university – The student must adhere to the guidelines provided by the university concerning the word limit, formatting, and font. 
  • Deadlines – Admission essays take time and effort. You will have to write, re-write, edit, omit and proofread your essay before you send it. You may tend to lose track of time while focusing on other aspects. You need to maintain deadlines. Any form of default may lead to disqualification. So make sure you have all the aspects planned out to maintain efficiency and punctuality.

In short, an admission essay for study abroad can be your ticket to a top-class educational institution abroad. As an international student, you must prove your excellence to get into a prestigious university. Avoid procrastinating over thoughts and take the initiative to formulate a plan of action that will help you create an inspiring essay.

We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education process for all. Our diverse experience as journalists, content writers, editors, content strategists, and marketers helps create the most relevant and authentic blogs for our readers.

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study abroad college essay

How to Write an Outstanding Study Abroad Application Essay

The study abroad application essay is an important part of the college application process.It is a great opportunity to provide valuable information about yourself and your career interests. The content is significant because it gives insight on why you should be selected for a program or school.It provides why you want to participate in the program and why you are the best candidate.Completing the assignment is easy when planning ahead. Here are the basics to help you get started.

Collect Ideas via Brainstorming

How can I write my essay online and get the help I need for my paper? Start by reviewing guidelines and instructions for the paper. Based on the topic information they provide start coming up with ideas for writing.Think about the course or school you are applying. Consider the atmosphere and your career goals and personal interests. Use these aspirations to create original topics for writing.Think about the importance of studying abroad and why it is significant to your learning needs and experience.Narrow down the list of ideas until you find something you can write in full detail.

Develop an Outline

An outline is essential for writing and it breaks up the task into easier segments. Your paper will have an introduction, body, and conclusion. Your outline will have each of these sections but you can mention significant points to discuss. You can focus on developing each one at a time. Your intro will mention your thesis statement. The body will mention three points each having its own paragraph. The conclusion is last summarizing main and supporting points discussed throughout your paper. Essay help through writing tools such as an outline is beneficial for any form of writing.

Explore Supporting Details

As you work on your outline your attention will turn toward supporting statements for your main idea or thesis statement .You'll brainstorm information to support your idea.You will discuss why you want to study abroad and mention experiences or things you have learned contributing to your decision.What you are passionate about should be connected to your main and supporting points to give insight about your educational intentions. Spend time developing a solid thesis statement and supporting details to help your paper come together.

Be Comfortable with Yourself

Comfortable with Yourself

As you provide information about your career goals, be true to who you are and what you aspire to be.It is important to be professional and formal with your content, but don't lose the essence of who you are. Let your personality come through your words.It will help distinguish your application from the others.Sharing who you are lets the school know why you are a match. Be creative to make a connection but at the same time be you.

Provide Proof You Are a Fit

Give a clear reason why you should be considered for the school or program.Detail your self-worth and show why you are deserving of the opportunity.The program wants to make sure they have the best students for what they have to offer. They want assurance whoever they choose will complete the program successfully.Use this essay to highlight your abilities by discussing what you have to offer and how it fits in with the school or program mission. An essay writing service can assist if needed.

Finish Your Paper Strong

Your conclusion will provide a summary of what you discussed earlier in the paper.It is your last chance to make a good impression and bring your paper to a strong close.You should have a few sentences that are solid, clean, and clear about you are and why you qualify.Make these last few words stand out. Use this time to connect the main idea (thesis statement) with supporting points (body paragraphs) to complete your personal statement.

Revise and Edit

revise study abroad application

Did you know it is recommended to review your work at least two or three times before you submit it? Much time and effort was spent developing content for your essay. It deserves to be reviewed for typos and errors.Make necessary changes to improve chances of approval.Take a break after writing your draft and come back to it for review. How can I get help with my essay writing ? Hire an editor to do it for you if don't have time. Whatever you do, don't submit without reviewing it first.

In conclusion, planning your work is easy when familiar with essential steps of the writing process.Brainstorming, outline creation, developing discussion points, and revising your work are all important steps to complete for your study abroad application. The time spent planning and writing will be worth it. Make sure to submit your work on time by the deadline.

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How to Write an Outstanding Study Abroad Application Essay

Dave Harriman

For some students who wish to study abroad, the statement of purpose can be one of the most daunting components of the program application. The good news: it’s not as difficult as it may seem at first! After all, you’ve come this far in the study abroad research process , so chances are you’ve already given thought to what the essay requires you to write about. As long as you don’t rush and take the time to create a solid outline, your study abroad application statement of purpose will truly shine.

writing

Common statement of purpose requirements

Although each program application may have program-specific essay requirements to address, most will ask students to address the following two components:

  • Goals for studying abroad (i.e. academic, career, and personal) – Most likely, you will have to briefly describe your goals, outlining specific ways in which studying abroad will help you achieve these goals.
  • Reason you chose this program/location – This aspect of the statement of purpose is more specific to why, out of all the programs and locations on Earth to study, you’re applying to this one.

Creating an outline

Before rushing into writing out your statement of purpose, make sure you’ve carefully read the instructions and prompts for the essay. The worst way to sabotage an otherwise excellent essay is to miss a key requirement outlined in the instructions. To help keep essay requirements fresh in your mind, consider copying and pasting the requirements at the top of essay document so that they are there for quick reference.

After you fully understand what points you are required to touch on in your statement of purpose, drafting an outline will help keep your essay organized, clear, and succinct. Consider following the steps below to help make this process easy and straight-forward.

Open up a blank Word document, and get down the general essay components:

Introduction

Paragraph 1

Paragraph 2

Paragraph 3

Now that you have the foundation laid out, you can complete your outline by creating a couple compelling sentences for each paragraph. Having these sentences drafted will help you quickly move forward after your outline is complete. Let’s take a look at each paragraph, and sample sentences for each.

Introduction – Create a strong thesis sentence that sums up your overall purpose for studying abroad.

  • Example: Studying abroad at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid will be a monumental step in realizing my personal, academic, and career goals to my highest potential.

This thesis sentence portrays to the reader that you have identified personal, academic, and career goals in relation to studying abroad in a specific program, and will describe them below.

Paragraphs 1-3 – Draft a sentence that sums up your response to the each point, then a second sentence that provides a specific outcome that this study abroad program will provide.

Paragraph 1 (e.g. personal reason/goal for studying abroad in this program):

  • Example: My grandfather migrated to the United States from Madrid, and since an early age I’ve wanted to see and experience the city and culture he grew up in. By the end of my study abroad program, I plan to have developed a deeper understanding and appreciation for my family heritage by becoming more fluent in Spanish and familiar with Spanish customs and cultural practices.

Paragraph 2 (e.g. academic reason/goal for studying abroad in this program):

  • Example: As a history major, I plan to utilize my time in Spain to contribute to my overall academic success and focus within the history program at my home university. Throughout my time studying abroad, I will visit historical sites around Spain relevant to my intended topic for my graduate thesis topic: Moorish architectural and cultural influences in modern Spanish society.

Paragraph 3 (e.g. career reason/goal for studying abroad in this program):

  • Example: I plan to one day teach Spanish history and culture at the college level, and this program will give me the first-hand experience I believe necessary to be qualified and successful in this position. By being completely immersed in the Spanish culture, and by having access to a large number of relevant historical sites and resources, I will enter this study abroad experience with my career development in mind.

For the conclusion, come up with a strong sentence to sum-up (again) why this program and location is the best choice.

  • Example: After extensive research of all possible programs, I am convinced that studying history and Spanish culture at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid is an ideal match for my personal, academic, and career goals outlined above.

Drafting suggestions

Now that you have a strong outline, filling in the rest should come easily and naturally. As would be normally expected in college-level essays, it’s important to make sure that each sentence you write relates directly to the main sentences in its respective paragraph you came up with in the outline.

After you’ve written your completed first draft of your study abroad application statement of purpose, save the document and take a break for a week. After you’ve had some time to clear your mind, you’ll likely come back to edit your essay with a fresh perspective and as a result more easily catch mistakes you may not have otherwise caught!

Finally, before you send it off, double (and triple) check to make sure that you haven’t overlooked any requirements for the statement of purpose. Also, consider having at least one other person look at your essay – your campus’s writing center is a great resource you might consider utilizing!

Congratulate yourself

After you’ve sent in your essay, congratulate yourself! You are well on your way to one of the most exciting journeys of your life, and you certainly deserve to be proud of this accomplishment.

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Dave Harriman

Dave Harriman

Dave Harriman, SHRM-CP, has a background in human resources, anthropology, and international education. His experience teaching English abroad during a gap year as an undergraduate student in Spain ignited his passion and advocacy for student travel. As a human resources professional, Dave is interested in helping students prepare for future career growth, and for helping facilitate social & cultural inclusion in the workplace.

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Student Exchange Program Essay: Examples, Topics, & Tips

It is not a secret that for every open slot at a prestigious college, there are from 10 to 15 eager applicants. They often seem equally qualified academically.

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

However, it is often the college application essay that sets one lucky applicant apart from the others. While writing is very personal, and styles can vary, the college application mistakes that students tend to make are common. So if you want to find out 10 college application mistakes to avoid, just read this article by Custom Writing experts!

In a student exchange essay, you need to tell about yourself, your potential benefits from the program, and show that you're aware of the country's culture.

Want to succeed? Just keep reading this article by Custom Writing experts!

  • ✅ What to Include
  • 👣 Writing Steps
  • 💡 Essay Topics
  • 👀 Essay Sample

🔗 References

✅ student exchange program essay: what to include.

The following information should be included in a good student exchange essay.

To make your essay really strong, try our hints for writing motivation essays and a personal essay .

👣 Student Exchange Program Essay: Writing Steps

Outshine the other applicants by writing an excellent student exchange essay that demonstrates your ability to think intelligently and express yourself in writing! The process of writing an impressive exchange application essay is not as complicated as you might think.

Just in 1 hour! We will write you a plagiarism-free paper in hardly more than 1 hour

Here are the writing steps that will help you write a thoughtful, convincing, and concise exchange application essay.

💡 Student Exchange Program (FLEX) Essay Topics

  • Many students have experiences, identity, or talent that define their character and life. Their application for FLEX would be incomplete without it. Please share your story if it sounds like you . You can find an exchange student essay on this topic below.
  • Our success in studies, personal life , and career owes to the lessons learned through overcoming obstacles. Have you ever faced a failure, challenge, or setback that made you stronger and smarter? How did it affect you, and what conclusions did you make?
  • Recall a hard problem you had to solve or the one you are still struggling with. For example, it can be a complicated assignment, an intellectual challenge, or an ethical dilemma. Why is it so critical to you? Which steps did you take or could take to find a solution?
  • Reflect on a belief or idea that you felt was wrong. Why did you question it? What result did you reach in these thoughts?
  • Our accomplishments and realizations spark a new understanding of life and personal growth . Tell about a similar event that changed the way you perceive yourself and others.
  • Describe an idea or topic that is engaging enough to make you lose track of time. Why is it so captivating? What actions do you make to learn more in this field?

👀 Study Abroad Essay Sample

Every person has a talent. It takes a while to discover it, but life becomes similar to an engaging strategy game once you know your vocation. My parents never insisted on my selecting a path. I tried many hobbies and activities, but none of them lasted longer than a year.

Four years ago, I attended my first botany class. At that moment, I understood that it was something I would like to study deeper. So many plants surround us, and we are ignorant of their names and life cycles. This knowledge gives us an opportunity to understand our role on the planet and explore how we can help nature.

This year, I asked myself: what do I want to do in my future life? It didn’t take long to answer. I would like to become a pharmacologist and develop new medicines. But at the moment, I need to study hard. I expect that the study abroad program will allow me to learn more about American culture and make me more open-minded.

As an international student, I will have a chance to perfect my biology knowledge at an American school. I can tell a lot about trees, flowers, and grass, as well as the animals and birds that live in them. That is why I will always have a topic to discuss with my host family and peers. I am looking forward to meeting new people and experiences.

Your student exchange application essay can be the deciding factor for your selection and participation in the student exchange program. There is no doubt that your student exchange essay can be a good indicator of your personality. Make every effort to communicate your enthusiasm for studying abroad and let the student exchange program officials learn about your unique qualities. Also, don’t be shy to use every bit of help that you may require. For instance, try a summary helper if you struggle to finish up your writing properly, get someone to proofread your writing in case you’re not sure if it’s perfect, and so on.

Remember that studying abroad is a life-changing experience that will impact your college career. Don’t miss this chance to invest in your future. Start your journey today with a strongly written and carefully proofread student exchange essay. We promise it will make a difference!

✏️ Student Exchange Essay FAQ

If you write an application for a scholarship, it is crucial that your study abroad essay tells about your personal motivation to participate in the exchange program. Otherwise, you may focus on the general pros and cons of the experience.

When you start a personal statement, keep in mind that it is the way admission committees get to know you. Make sure to provide relevant info about your goals , passions , examples of personal accomplishments , etc.

If it is a welcome letter to a foreign student, express how glad you are to meet them. You may give some advice on how to adapt to the new environment, share your thoughts about the exchange program, and ask about the student’s feelings and impressions .

Some advantages of becoming a foreign exchange student are: broadening your horizons , getting off your comfort zone, making new friends, practicing foreign languages (if applicable), gaining new skills/knowledge. Overall, it is an excellent opportunity to experience something new and valuable.

  • 25 Reasons to Study Abroad | Top Universities
  • Exchange Programs | U.S. Department of State
  • EU students | European Commission
  • Student Exchange Programs | EF Foreign Exchange
  • International Student Exchange Programs
  • 8 Student Exchange Programs for Teens | GoAbroad.com
  • How to apply – International Exchange and Study Abroad
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Really valid and sensible . Great work. I hope it will help alot

Custom Writing

Thanks for your feedback, Kashif!

Thank you very much, I also wanted to participate in flex program, but I didn’t understand much about Essay and I understood a lot after seeing this sample

Glad to hear that, Sherdorbek! Thank you for your feedback!

Hello, I am from Uzbekistan. I want to participate in the student exchange program in the USA. How is this test administered? Online or face-to-face and where? And what knowledge should be acquired to participate in the program

This was an useful blog for our institute

I’m happy you found our blog useful, Sweattha! Thanks for the feedback!

How long should a exchange essay be?

Your essay should be up to one page in length if not otherwise required by your professor

Hello. Please help me with my essay. I can not pay. Can you send me some sample essays, please?

Hello! You can find sample essays here: https://studycorgi.com Thanks for stopping by!

It is very helpful thanks.

You’re welcome! Glad you found the article helpful.

Good techniques

Thanks, Zakir!

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study abroad college essay

June 9, 2022

Writing About Your Experiences Abroad

Writing about your experiences abroad

You studied, worked, or volunteered abroad. Now you want to include part of this in your personal statement as part of an undergrad, AMCAS or other application. Maybe you want to show that you’ve experienced a different culture and expanded your perspective through your eye-opening experiences meeting new people, mountain-climbing, assisting in a rural community, or some other opportunity to help people who genuinely need it.

Don’t forget the most important question: WHY?

But, at this point, you’ve also realized that many other applicants have had similar experiences. While the experience may have been transformative for you, requiring you to learn how to operate without your usual safety net in a foreign environment, you need to ensure that your study abroad experience serves a role in your essay as something other than window-dressing.

But you also know that your experiences aren’t unique to you; other applicants will have had similar adventures. 

There’s an old Onion article that jokes about a person whose short work experience in Africa allowed her to post a better Facebook photo. Without asking yourself the most important question of why your experience was transformative in some way, your travel descriptions might resemble the person parodied in that article.

I’ve read many essays with lush descriptions of exotic scenery and people who speak different languages, yet the writer does not seem to have changed. Unless you can articulate how you have changed from these experiences, your stories will simply blend together with those of other applicants. The admissions committee will get the impression that you traveled simply to add another notch to your resume.

You may consider that your travel experience really was transformative for you, requiring you to learn how to operate without your usual safety net in a foreign environment, a pivotal moment in your life journey. The key is for you to be able to explain in your personal statement exactly why . 

[Click here to read a sample diversity essay]

What, specifically, did you learn from your immersion in another culture? It can’t be enough to just tell a story about someone you met on a bus, train, or in a classroom. Explain why and how that person’s influence changed you. How do you think, act, and perhaps even plan differently now as a result of this exposure?

An admissions committee member once told me that an applicant’s actual experience mattered less than how they talked about it . Even a seemingly dull experience can be transformative to someone who is really paying attention.

Do you need help taking your experiences and using them to create a unique, compelling – even exciting – personal statement? Explore our Admissions Consulting & Editing Services and work one-on-one with an expert advisor who will guide you through the admissions process to acceptance.

From Example to Exemplary - Download your guide today!

Jessica Pishko graduated with a J.D. from Harvard Law School and received an M.F.A. from Columbia University. She spent two years guiding students through the medical school application process at Columbia’s Postbac Program and is a former Accepted admissions consultant.  Want an admissions expert help you get accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

  • Leadership in Admissions , a free guide
  • 9 Secrets to Telling an Attention-Grabbing Story
  • 7 Simple Steps to Writing an Excellent Diversity Essay

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Should Students Study Abroad? Essay

Introduction, new cultural experiences, opportunities to learn new languages, travel opportunities, enhancement of employment opportunities, arguments against studying abroad, works cited.

Studying abroad refers to the act of pursuing primary, secondary, or post-secondary education in a foreign country. In the United States, foreign students comprise approximately 1 percent of the student population (Byram 34). Many students study aboard especially for their post-secondary education that includes university and postgraduate studies. In certain cases, students enroll for short study programs.

For instance, many institutions conduct academic exchange programs that aim to expose students to new cultures and educational environments (Cressey 52). The issue of studying abroad has been debated among experts in the academic field for a long time.

Opponents argue that it is expensive and introduces students to new cultural experiences that alter their perspectives and values in negative ways. On the other hand, proponents argue that studying abroad is good for cultural exposure and new educational experiences. Students should study abroad because it exposes them to new cultural experiences, provides travel opportunities, increases their chances of employment, and expands their perspectives of different cultures and countries (Cressey 22).

One of the advantages of studying abroad is exposure to new cultures and learning environments (Byram 37). Globalization has increased competition for employment opportunities among graduates in international labor markets. As a result, it has initiated changes in learning approaches because of the need to work in different cultures and among people who speak different languages (Cressey 62).

It is necessary for students to study abroad in order for them to gain cross-cultural communication skills, learn different languages, and get international exposure. A common challenge among international workers is ineffective communication due to language barriers (Williamson 29). For instance, American graduates who secure employment in countries such as China and Japan find it difficult to communicate with natives because of language barrier.

In order to work in such countries, learning native languages is a necessity because few people speak English. Studying in China is an opportunity for American students to learn the language and culture of the Japanese. The global economy has numerous challenges that can be overcome by studying abroad. Statistics show that only 10 percent of American students study abroad at one point in their academic lives (Williamson 30).

Experiencing new cultures and environments pushes students out of their comfort zones and facilitates acquisition of skills that are necessary for the attainment of success in the global economy (Byram 39). Countries have different educational systems that encourage diversity through cross-cultural interactions. Exposure to different cultures is important in eradicating ingrained stereotypes and misconceptions about certain races and cultures.

Interacting with people from other cultures equips students with skills that are important in solving challenges that developing countries face (Williamson 33). For instance, foreign students who study in Africa experience the challenges that poor people face. Examples of these challenges include poverty, hunger, and diseases. This increases their compassion and willingness to offer viable solutions to solve the challenges.

The most effective way of learning a new language is through interaction with people who speak that language. In countries that do not use English as the official language, foreign students are required to study the language used by the educational systems of those countries.

Even though some programs are offered in English, students learn local languages in order to ensure proper communication and interaction with other students. One of the advantages of studying a new language is the opportunities it offers with regard to communication, interactions, and socialization with natives (Williamson 39). It is easy to learn a new language through interactions with people who use it.

Studying abroad offers students an opportunity to travel to new countries and have new experiences that expand their perceptions of the world (Williamson 41). Foreign students get the opportunity to visit places that they could not have otherwise visited in their lives had they not traveled abroad to study. Some study programs include field trips that allow students to master their surroundings.

In addition to travel experiences, students make new friends because they interact with both natives and foreign students from other countries (Cressey 72). International media outlets usually present distorted images of certain countries by focusing on the challenges that their citizens face such as poverty, hunger, and diseases.

Studying aboard equips students with firsthand experience regarding the lifestyles and economic endeavors of such countries and as such gain new perspectives and ideas (Williamson 46). One of the challenges that American students face is a constricted view of the world. The United States is the largest economy in the world that offers innumerable opportunities to its citizens.

Studying abroad offers American students an opportunity to live in countries that do not offer as many opportunities to citizens as their country does. Such experiences change their perspectives regarding their culture and the cultures of other countries. Cross-cultural interactions shift or validate some of their perspectives and beliefs.

Students who study abroad increase their opportunities for employment especially by international organizations. Employers are more attracted to individuals who possess international experience that is gained form living in different cultures and countries (McKeown 54).

Examples of job opportunities that require international experience include international relations, diplomacy, medicine, and governance. Students should use their experiences in foreign countries to gain communication skills and other abilities that will give them competitive edge in the labor market. Many students choose to study abroad because of the high quality of education offered in certain educational systems (Cressey 63).

Students from developing countries travel to developed countries for higher education because of the high quality of education offered by the systems in those countries. Another aspect that increases employment opportunities is the creation of professional networks during the study period (Williamson 73). Students form professional networks that they use after graduation to find employment.

Studying abroad increases students’ their opportunities to volunteer, find internships, and work part-time (McKeown 55). Many institutions help students find internships and work placements after completing their programs. Forming professional networks gives students an edge over students who complete their studies in their home countries.

Opponents argue that studying abroad exposes foreign students to homesickness, culture shock, and new cultures that might change their perspectives in negative ways (McKeown 58). In addition, they argue that it is expensive and students might enroll in institutions whose educational systems are not as rigorous as those in their home countries. Even though foreign students experience homesickness, the opportunity to study abroad helps to develop independence and learn how to live without influence from their families.

The process of seeking foreign educational opportunities involves a through scrutiny of the educational systems of different institutions. Therefore, before students enroll to foreign institutions, they are usually aware of the value and quality of their educational systems (McKeown 64).

In many cases, students who study abroad receive government grants and scholarships that reduce financial pressure. On the other hand, the quality of education that students receive is far more important than the cost incurred. The benefits of studying abroad outweigh the disadvantages. Finally, the value of international exposure and acquisition of skills that enhance cross-cultural communication overshadows the cost of studying abroad.

Students usually have many options with regard to pursuing their post-secondary education. One of the options is to study abroad. Some of the benefits of studying abroad include exposure to new cultures and educational experiences, enhancement of employment opportunities, and creation of professional networks that are important for career development.

Opponents argue that studying abroad is expensive and posses the potential to affect the cultural perspectives of students negatively. In addition, they claim that students might be subjected to inferior educational systems that fail to equip them with quality academic and professional experience to navigate their careers. An important step in choosing an institution is a through scrutiny of its educational system.

Therefore, it is difficult to enroll into an inferior educational system. On the other hand, many governments and institutions offer scholarships to students. Therefore, those who cannot afford to pay for their study abroad can apply for scholarships and government grants.

Students who study abroad increase their opportunities for employment especially by international organizations because of their experiences with different cultures and cross-cultural communication skills. Another benefit of studying abroad is the opportunity for international travel. Students visit other countries and cultures that facilitated the development of new perspectives. Finally, students get an opportunity to learn new languages that give them competitive edge in different labor markets.

Byram, Michael and Feng Anwei. Living and Studying Abroad: Research and Practice . New York: Multilingual Matters, 2006. Print.

Cressey, William. Guide to Studying Abroad . New York: The Princeton Review, 2004. Print.

McKeown, Joshua. The First Time Effect: the Impact of Study Abroad on College Student Intellectual Development . New York: SUNY Press, 2009. Print.

Williamson, Wendy. Study Abroad 101 . New York: Agapy Publishers, 2008. Print.

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Home — Essay Samples — Education — Studying Abroad — Advantages of Studying Abroad for College Students

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Advantages of Studying Abroad for College Students

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Words: 521 |

Published: Jan 30, 2024

Words: 521 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Table of contents

Introduction, body paragraphs, counterargument and rebuttal, works cited, cultural immersion, personal growth, improved career prospects, counterargument: studying abroad is expensive and inaccessible to many students..

  • "2019 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange." Institute of International Education.
  • "2019-2020 Gilman Scholarships and Scholarships from... - U.S. Department of State | Facebook." www.facebook.com
  • "Global Skills Gap - Report." QS Quacquarelli Symonds.
  • "One Year Later: The Impact of Studying Abroad on College Students at Two UC ... - CORE Scholar." corescholar.libraries.wright.edu

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Canadian Bureau for International Education. (2021). Studying in Canada. Retrieved from 245-260.

European Commission. (2023). Erasmus+ Programme. https://ec.europa.eu/programmes/erasmus-plus/about_en

International Baccalaureate Organization. (2020). Mission and strategy. Retrieved from 385-405.

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An Introduction to Study Abroad

This article was written based on the information and opinions presented by Alexandra Johnson in a CollegeVine livestream. You can watch the full livestream for more info.

What’s Covered:

The academic benefits of studying abroad, how to find a study abroad program, financial aid for studying abroad.

Studying abroad is an enriching experience to add to an undergraduate education. This article will give you some tips on what to look for in a study abroad program.

Studying abroad not only offers a new country to learn from everyday but also unique academic opportunities. The classes you take at a university abroad will satisfy some of your major requirements, but will offer you a different learning experience than your home university. For instance, a student majoring in Public Policy could take classes related to immigration and refugees while studying abroad at the University of Lille, which is near the migrant camps of Calais. 

Educational experiences such as this are one of the main benefits of studying abroad, so be sure to look into the class offerings that each study abroad program could make available to you. 

Another major benefit of studying abroad is language and cultural immersion. Each program will offer different degrees of immersion — some programs will enroll you directly into the same classes that domestic students in your host country take, while others will allow you to take classes taught in English that are specifically designed for study abroad students. Keep these differences in mind as you choose between programs.

Your college’s study abroad office will be your most important resource for finding study abroad programs. The study abroad office is there to listen to your goals for your study abroad experience and match you with the right program. 

For example, let’s say that you are a first year student who studied Chinese in high school. You might approach the study abroad office and ask if they have any study abroad opportunities in a Chinese-speaking country. They will use their expertise and connections to international partners to find the best study abroad options for you. The office will then put you in touch with the right people in your school’s administration and universities abroad to make your study abroad dreams a reality.

Many schools offer financial aid and scholarships to students who are looking to study abroad.  Yale, for example, offers students who receive financial aid the International Summer Award — this provides funding to cover study abroad expenses. 

The financial aid policies for studying abroad will be specific to your school. The amount of funding available, the eligibility requirements, and the application process will all take on different forms at different schools. Your school’s study abroad coordinators and financial aid office will guide you through the details.

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Application Essay: Types, How to write Application Essays for Study Abroad

• Study Abroad

by CANAM Group

  • By: CANAM Group
  • Updated On: Aug 11,2023 10:55 AM IST

Admission Essays or Application Essays are necessary part of application process and serve as a clear picture of candidate’s personality and interests. Some universities put forward requirement of Application Essays instead of statement of Purpose. It can be based on any diverse topic given by the university. Universities at times provide students with several essay prompts, out of which any specific topic could be chosen and given instructions could be followed.

Table of Contents

  • • Significance of Application Essay
  • • What is an Application Essay?
  • • Diverse categories of Application essays
  • • How to write Application Essay for study abroad?
  • • Below is an excerpt from one of NYU Application Essay examples:

Significance of Application Essay

Vast majority of students strive to study abroad in top most universities and thus go through the comprehensive process of gathering required important documents according to university’s guidelines. Students need to meet all the academic requirements as well as submit all relevant documents within the deadline in this strenuous and time-consuming process. Number of documents are required for the admission process, such as academic transcripts, visa documents, financial statements, letters of recommendation (LORs) and a statement of purpose (SOP). Admission essay or commonly known as Application Essay is crucial for the admission process. It generously gives elaborative glimpse of one’s background, experiences, abilities as well as various aspects of personality. Admission Essays hold the power to create a powerful impact, either positive or negative, and so must be given high priority during the writing process. These essays are better kept in alignment with one’s thoughts and should be presented in flawless language. All this effort could lead to assured admission in the college of preference. These essays clearly create opportunities for the students to set themselves apart through their unique expressions in the essay.

What is an Application Essay?

Admission or Application Essays are one of the most often asked documents by most universities. It is made clear by universities about the requirements with details. Some essays are asked in the form of answer to the question whereas others may be in the form of a statement of purpose. At times, it might seem as if Application essay is quite similar to Personal statement or Statement of Purpose, but that’s not the case. The essay certainly depicts the authentic personal image of an individual as compared to the statement. It could also be distinguished on the basis of guidelines issued regarding pointers to be utilized in the essay or any given prompt for that matter. Application Essay conveniently extends opportunity for students to bring forth their excellent and articulate writing skills through this. This essay is also expected to reflect student’s determination and existing knowledge of the chosen subject. It thoroughly highlights student’s writing skills, ability to express and unique perspective as well. Prompt questions are very common for graduate essays as personal development questions are more prevalent for undergraduate essay prompts.

Diverse categories of Application essays

Undergraduate Admission Essay

  • Common Application Essay
  • UCAS Application Essay

MBA Admission Essay

  • Career Progression Essay
  • Goals Essay
  • Leadership Essay
  • Culture Shock Essay

Other Admission Essays

  • Scholarship Essay
  • Gap Year Essay

Essays based on genre

  • Argumentative
  • Autobiographical
  • Descriptive

Preparation for Application Essay

  • The word limit for admission essay is around 350 to 500. Each essay may have a different word count. The word count requirement is usually provided by the university. It is suggested to stick to the instructions and not exceed the word limit.
  • The language of essay should never be vague as it will reflect poorly on student’s skills and expression.
  • Grammatical mistakes should be avoided at all costs as an integral part of criteria on which it will be assessed.
  • Formal and relevant language should be used in essay to make it stand out and put forth one’s expression in best manner.

How to write Application Essay for study abroad?

Guidelines for writing Application or Admission essay:

  • Planning and Organizing: One important step is to draft the material of essay and organize according to the given format. Plan it thoroughly into a structure according to given guidelines. To include authenticity, genuine beliefs and real-life experiences and support for ideas with a clearer perspective backed by evidence.
  • Targets determined for comprising essays: Target of the essay is considered to be the unique information that sets one apart from other applicants. One should also share their goals and inspirations and how desired university will help them achieve their dreams.
  • Being Specific counts: Relevant answers according to the topic is appreciated. Appropriate word limit and good vocabulary gets authorities engaged and impressed.
  • Proofreading: Application essay is expected to be concise, informative and confident at the same time. Final draft should be proofread keeping in mind all the above things to make it error free.
  • Deadlines: They are to be followed to avoid any default leading to disqualification. It is always better to maintain efficiency and punctuality.

Below is an excerpt from one of NYU Application Essay examples:

The Bachelor of Science in Business Program excites me, as it entails a well-rounded yet intensive study in core business disciplines. However, what draws me to stern is the emphasis on gaining a global perspective, which is crucial in today’s rapidly changing world economy. Through the International Business Exchange Program, I will be able to gain a first-hand cultural experience that will mould me into a global citizen and business leader. Not only will I be taking courses in the most prestigious business schools across the globe, but I will also have new doors opened for me to network with alumni. Accordingly, application essays should be detailed, specific, and shows the admissions team at any school, college or university, why the writer would enrich campus life- all while answering the college essay prompts.

Have questions? we have all the answers. Find out all the information you need about this program, student visa, work permit, and more.

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Beyond the classroom: a student's study abroad experience

February 22, 2024

study abroad college essay

Sophia Bettger, a junior double majoring in sociology and criminology, had the opportunity to study abroad in South Africa early on in her college career. “I couldn't recommend it more. By stepping out of my comfort zone, I was able to experience an amazing once in a lifetime curriculum,” she explains. Sophia already has an internship lined up for this summer and plans to graduate next spring. Read the full Q&A below to learn more about her trip and her plans for the future! 

You're a double major in sociology and criminology. What helped you to decide that these two majors were the right fit for you? 

I have always had a deep interest in criminal justice, so it was clear what I should major in. During my freshman year, I realized I was also very interested in social behaviors and how individuals function in society. So, I added Sociology as a second major. 

Tell me about your summer 2022 study abroad experience in South Africa! I went to an info session and was sold on the trip. The purpose of this trip was to study social and racial justice in South Africa. My experience was amazing! I was able to greatly expand my knowledge of the pre-and post-apartheid society from those with lived experience. I was also given the opportunity to take part in sacred ceremonies and learn about South Africa's rich culture firsthand.

What was your favorite part of the trip, and how has having this experience early in your college career impacted the rest of your time here so far? My favorite part of the trip was definitely exploring the towns and learning about the culture from locals. It was amazing to have an experience abroad; I have been very fortunate in that I have been able to have multiple abroad experiences. I do think it's pretty amazing I went halfway across the world and got to have such a long experience there (3 weeks). 

I definitely think that by choosing to study abroad early, I was able to apply the knowledge I gained during my trip in other parts of my college career, such as for assignments and presentations. 

What advice would you give to other students considering studying abroad? I would tell other students who are considering studying abroad to go for it! It was definitely worth it and I would do it again 100 times. While it may seem far fetched, the experience and knowledge you gain is not something you can get on campus. I couldn't recommend it more, and getting out of your comfort zone is an important lesson to learn. By stepping out of my comfort zone, I was able to experience an amazing once in a lifetime curriculum. 

Have you had any internship experiences during your time here?

I have an internship set for the summer of 2024 at the Department of Family Services. I am super excited to get experience with advocacy. I am also thrilled to grow my network and learn more about the Department of Family Services.

What do you hope to do after you graduate? 

I will be graduating in spring of 2025. My hope is to work within criminal justice, social justice, and reform. I haven't completely narrowed down what my plans are because you never know what type of new opportunities may arise!

If you could give advice to any new Sociology and/or Criminology majors, what would you say? 

The only piece of advice I have is to enjoy it! Savor every minute – I am now a junior and often reminisce on my previous years here at Tech. So, enjoy every experience and opportunity you can!

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The country you choose to study abroad in will determine the language you’re immersed in, the university experience you’ll have — and the cost of your study abroad program .

The world is your oyster, but 73% of the nearly 189,000 U.S. students who studied abroad in 2021-22 opted for programs in Europe, according to a November 2023 report published by the U.S. Department of State and the Institute of International Education. About 10.3% of study abroad students went to Latin America or the Caribbean, 5.3% did a program in the Middle East or Africa and 4.7% studied in Asia, the report found.

Looking for inspiration? Consider the 10 most popular study abroad destinations for U.S. college students, along with their average costs.

From the Roman Empire to the Renaissance, Italy has a rich history. Today, it’s the fifth-most visited country in the world. Cities like Florence, Bologna, Milan and Rome are popular destinations for U.S. students.

No. of U.S. study abroad students, 2021-22: 30,610.

Average semester program cost: $17,238.

Currency: Euro (€).

» MORE: Can college abroad actually save you money?

2. United Kingdom

If you want to skip the foreign language aspect of study abroad, consider the U.K. It’s home to top universities like the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, the London School of Economics and Political Science and The University of Edinburgh.

No. of U.S. study abroad students, 2021-22: 27,503.

Average semester program cost: $18,041.

Currency: Pound sterling (£).

Whether you choose Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia or another city, Spain offers immersive study abroad opportunities that can help you boost your language skills. Generally, it also offers a lower cost of living and warm weather.

No. of U.S. study abroad students, 2021-22: 25,348.

Average semester program cost: $14,338

» MORE: How to pay for study abroad

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Outside of Paris, French cities like Lyon, Strasbourg and Lille host thousands of American students each year. Depending on your program, you might study alongside other U.S. or international students, or you could integrate directly into a French university.

No. of U.S. study abroad students, 2021-22: 14,397.

Average semester program cost: $12,758.

Programs are typically taught in German, but there are also English-language options. You’ll encounter diverse international perspectives if you study in Germany: With 83 million residents, it has the largest population of any European Union state — and 13% come from other countries.

No. of U.S. study abroad students, 2021-22: 7,644.

Average semester program cost: Not available.

Ireland is another option if you want to study in English. Dublin, the capital of the Republic of Ireland, hosts major universities like Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin. Students may also study abroad in smaller cities like Cork and Galway.

No. of U.S. study abroad students, 2021-22: 7,031.

Average semester program cost: $13,952.

Currency: The Republic of Ireland uses the euro (€); Northern Ireland, where you may likely visit, uses the pound sterling (£).

7. Costa Rica

Costa Rica has plenty to offer. More than 25% of the country is protected national park land, and the capital city, San José, is home to the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and the United Nations University of Peace. Studying abroad in Costa Rica is also a great way to improve your Spanish.

No. of U.S. study abroad students, 2021-22: 4,751.

Average semester program cost: $8,080.

Currency: Colon (₡); U.S. Dollars are widely accepted in Costa Rica.

» MORE: Is studying abroad worth it?

If you’re intrigued by ancient history, consider studying abroad in Athens, the capital of Greece and its largest city. University courses are often taught in English, but you can still immerse yourself in the local culture and language.

No. of U.S. study abroad students, 2021-22: 4,484.

Most study abroad programs in Denmark are taught in English, so you won’t need to worry about a language barrier. The capital of Copenhagen is a frequent destination, particularly for students who choose third-party study abroad programs. Watch out for a high cost of living, though.

No. of U.S. study abroad students, 2021-22: 4,393.

Currency: Danish krone (kr).

10. South Korea

Korea contains about 200 four-year universities. Yonsei University, a major institution based in Seoul, is popular with exchange students. Most courses are taught in Korean, but students also have English-language options.

No. of U.S. study abroad students, 2021-22: 4,304.

Average semester program cost: $9,684.

Currency: Won (₩).

No. of U.S. study abroad students, 2021-22: Open Doors 2023 Report on International Educational Exchange , U.S. Department of State and the Institute of International Education, Nov. 2023.

Average semester cost : GoAbroad.com , 2018.

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Clark honors college menu, clark honors college, feature: chc's study abroad programs in berlin, oxford and london.

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Take your studies overseas

Financial support for studying abroad: 

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This summer, Clark Honors College students and others will set off abroad to learn about public policy, history, politics, and more. Alumni and current students spoke to the CHC Post about their time abroad with the Clark Honors College. Learn about how their experiences have shaped them and see what they want future study abroad participants to know about the benefits of traveling.  

interior of the reichstag dome in berlin

Embracing Rememberence in Berlin

portrait of ian mcneely outside chapman hall, a brick building

In Berlin, students will embrace what it’s like to live in Germany’s largest city – both in the present day and when a wall divided it. During the four-week program , students will see how a city damaged during World War II has worked to remember its past, how subcultures have thrived in its unique neighborhoods, and how people live there today. 

Ian McNeely , a CHC core faculty member and history professor who leads the program, weaves the city’s history in with discussions of social policy in the European Union to create an immersive abroad experience. Students complete two Honors College colloquium classes and the global perspectives requirement during the trip. 

“It’s your foot in the door to the big world out there,” says McNeely. “You don’t need to love Germany or be a history major. Just get out of the country at least once while you’re still young enough that it can make an impact in the future.”

brass cobblestones set among other cobblestones identifying holocaust victims in a german street

While on the program last summer, Kyle Stupfel, an Honors College junior, learned how “being able to know your past sets you up for your future.” In Berlin, he investigated the city’s unique neighborhoods, getting to know the resident’s way of life on a more intimate level than any of his previous travels. 

kyle stupfel portrait outside

As a neuroscience major, he was interested to see how he would do in a humanities-focused program – but the policies and customs of Berlin opened his mind to new ways of thinking of the world.

What was most memorable about your experience?

“One of the biggest things that sticks out to me about Berlin is (its) memorials,” he recalls.  During the trip, Stupfel’s group visited the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial, just north of Berlin. The proximity of the camp to residential neighborhoods struck him. “These places were so ingrained -- this was just another part of a city at the time. There were people living right there.”

After the Holocaust, the camp was converted into a memorial. “(Germans) are able to talk about these things in a way that, for some reason, Americans are not able to,” he says. “They actually know how to remember their past.”

What advice would you give to students who plan to study abroad this summer?

“Going on a long study abroad trip, you start to miss your friends. You start to miss your family,” he recalls. “And that's just very normal. But looking back on it, you don’t really think about those things. You will come back remembering all places that you went to and all the lessons that you learned.”

group of students posing in front of brandenburg gate

Madeleine Getz, a senior studying at UO, says her time in Berlin made her eager to keep traveling. Her month abroad was marked by exploration of the city’s sights, new lifestyles, and her individual passions. 

It’s not often that you have the freedom to engage with the world in that way as a young adult, she says. The program gave her the opportunity to develop an appreciation for a new setting and culture, without all the responsibilities she carries at home. 

madeleine getz portrait outside

“It was awesome to go to class and learn about events that had happened in the city or social change in Germany, and then go out and see it in action,” she says. “I feel like it was definitely one of the most fulfilling academic experiences I’ve had.

“One of the things I remember most was visiting the Reichstag, which was the Parliament building in Germany. It was one of the last days, so it was just a really nice culmination of all the things we’d been learning about Germany's history and the city's history and its role in politics and culture.”

“You get really familiar with your coffee shops, your favorite brunch spots, your favorite runs or hikes – you get familiar with your spaces,” says Getz. “And so being in Berlin was a really awesome opportunity because you’re pushed to explore and you’re also pushed to explore as the outsider, which I think is very humbling.” 

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The leader in you: Environments of revolutionary imagination

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In Oxford, students will follow in the footsteps of genius, earning an arts and letters colloquium along the way. The program will be led by Julie Voelker-Morris, an instructor from the school of Planning, Public Policy, and Management, and CHC Professor of Practice Barbara Mossberg . 

The program is guided by exemplars: geniuses ranging from Albert Einstein to J.R.R. Tolkien. In the morning, students will learn about these revolutionary thinkers. Then, they’ll spend afternoons visiting the same sights where their exemplars stood – often hundreds of years prior.

“When you see yourself through the lens of other cultures, you become new and exciting and interesting to yourself,” says Mossberg. Like the intellectuals they’ll study, students use travel to discover new parts of themselves within an unfamiliar environment. 

group of students with rolling suitcases in oxford street

Jeff Hodson, who graduated from UO with a philosophy degree in 2016, took his first class with Mossberg during his senior year. He didn’t know what his thesis topic would be, and he knew he needed to make a plan, he says. Mossberg invited him to apply to her summer study abroad program and offered to help him shape his thesis.

student and family in front of white board after defending thesis, with printed copy in hand

“It ended up being a great thesis,” Hodson says. “I did well on it and was super excited about it. I think it kind of revealed the part of myself that I didn't really know was there.”

Now, Hodson is first vice president at CBRE Group, Inc., a real estate company with offices all over the world.

What did you learn on the trip?

“I think what I probably brought back was a little more self-knowledge and a little more energy to apply to stuff I was interested in,” he says.

“I have a lot of skills because I had a lot of good teachers. But I never really took that somewhere for myself, and I think that in really being with people who I didn’t really know at the beginning and were very much different (from me), I was able to apply the stuff I had learned.”

“Life keeps coming pretty fast,” he says, “and we've all been on prescribed paths, from kindergarten all the way through college, right? And then as soon as you’re done with college, you’re like, ‘Shoot. I guess I can go do whatever I want now.’ But we don’t really practice having those options. And studying abroad – it’s hard to not come back with some additional perspective.”

group of people circling around a standing stone in the oxford countryside

Hanna Minns studied abroad in 2017, during the summer before her junior year. She chose an exemplar she could relate to: Hedy Lamarr, a famous actress and inventor. 

The trip helped her reconcile her love of both science and the arts. Mossberg’s guidance during the program set her up for success in her final years at UO, where she took courses in many subjects along with her biology major.

portrait of Hanna Minns on porch of a house

Minns graduated in 2019 and is now an MD-PhD student at Oregon Health and Science University.

“I was interested in what I thought were two very different fields and was struggling with how I could find creativity within the sciences,” she says. “Being able to study (exemplars) who were so interdisciplinary made me realize that all of the fields are interconnected, and you should allow yourself to be inspired by all of them.”

“Be willing to put yourself out there and make new friends and get out of your social comfort zone,” she says.

“After the program we had multiple get togethers. You continue the connection with (Mossberg) and with the people that you were abroad with. (My) relationships with these people didn’t just end after the summer. They carried on through my time at UO and the Honors College.”

group of students posing in a park, smiling

A Taste of the Honors College in London

portrait of anita chari in an office seated at desk

Opportunities to go abroad this summer aren’t limited to current students. Incoming freshmen have the chance to travel to London and experience a preview of the Honors College experience with Associate Professor Anita Chari . 

Chari, who teaches political science, will be leading her class “Music and Politics,” which covers popular music and musical traditions within the context of politics. In London, students will visit different neighborhoods to explore their musical histories and speak to local experts. 

“I think that is one of the most valuable things that we can do is to make ourselves strangers somewhere, to put ourselves in experiences that are kind of disorienting but also exciting for that reason so that we can kind of learn a different way of being,” says Chari, who has spent time abroad since she was a child. 

The program will be four weeks and allow students to earn nine credits and fulfill two honors college requirements. Students must be 18 by the programs departure date to apply. For more information, visit the program’s GEO page .

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College Study Abroad

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Featured study abroad programs .

At CIEE, we offer a variety of college study abroad programs covering semester, summer, and January terms. In addition to studying internationally, we provide internships abroad where students gain professional skills and experience in real-world work environments. Learn more about our comprehensive college study abroad programs and international internships below.

Featured Study Abroad Programs

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Summer Study Programs

Summer study abroad programs are open! Start planning your next adventure today. 

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Fall Study Programs

Kick off the school year by studying or interning abroad during the Fall semester.

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Intern Abroad

Dive into an international internship (in-person, virtual, for-credit - your choice!).

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CIEE provides study abroad programs in some of the world's top locations, from Spain and Italy to South Korea and Australia . With 150+ programs in over 30 countries, your dream study abroad destination is just a few clicks away!

Trending Study Abroad Destinations

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Study abroad in Spain with CIEE on one of our top study programs in Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Alcalá de Henares, or Palma de Mallorca.

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South Korea

Study abroad in South Korea with CIEE in Seoul and put your Korean lanuage skills to the test, all while learning more about Korean culture.

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Study abroad in Italy with CIEE in Rome, Florence, or Milan where you can explore Italian culture, language, fashion, cuisine, and more.

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High-Quality Study Abroad Programs

For more than 75 years, CIEE has set the standard for study abroad programs.

Academics:  Our rigorous academic programs extend outside the classroom walls, offering you the experience and skills you need to succeed in your college career and beyond.

Cultural Immersion:  We offer you the life-changing opportunity to travel abroad and live like a local, rounding out your experience with exciting cultural excursions and activities.

Student Support:  Our resident directors and staff, highly trained support teams, and health & safety specialists are with you at every step of your journey.

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$8+ Million in Scholarships and Grants

CIEE is committed to helping every student – regardless of socioeconomic background or academic major – access a transformative study abroad experience. If you’re looking to travel abroad, but are worried about covering the costs, CIEE offers a variety of study abroad scholarships & grants for students with demonstrated financial need and proven academic merit.

CIEE maintains many partnerships  to help students grow academically, professionally, and personally through study abroad. 

Explore Scholarships & Grants

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Flexibility To Design Your Own Program

With  CIEE's Open Campus Block Program , you can design your very own study abroad program to include up to three different locations. Feel free to build your own program using our custom study abroad tool, spin the globe , or take a look at experiences around some of our most popular open campus combinations!

Build Your Own Program

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Health & Safety

Living abroad means a new environment and lifestyle - two things that can affect your  health and safety . With planning and awareness, living abroad can be a very healthy, safe, and rewarding experience for you.

CIEE has partnered with experts in producing resources that address health concerns for students who are thinking about studying abroad. As a founding member of the Interassociational Advisory Committee on Safety and Responsibility in Study Abroad, we are committed to the operation of safe and secure study experiences.

College Study Abroad Blogs

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Discover Spain with Madrid as Your Starting Point!

By: Ella Schneider Madrid, the lively capital of Spain, is more than just a place to study; it's a doorway to lots of exciting travel adventures. Thanks to its great... keep reading

  • Activities & Excursions

travel abroad ciee student london bridge

Ranking My Top 9 Favorite Trips Abroad

By: Emily Margolis 9th: Andorra Andorra is such a beautiful place, but it is small, and there is not a ton to do. However, what it lacks in size and... keep reading

madrid breakfast plate abroad

Dining in Madrid: Best Coffee Shops, Tapas, and more!

By: Ella Schneider As my study abroad semester comes to an end, I've tracked my dining experiences to compile the ultimate guide for navigating Madrid's diverse culinary scene. Coffee Shops... keep reading

Questions About College Study Abroad

Put simply, study abroad is when a student pursues their academic goals in a foreign country. By studying abroad, students learn more about different cultures, languages, people, and more, transforming their global perspective and cultural understanding. 

Read more: What is Study Abroad? Everything You Need to Know!

Studying abroad can be as cheap or expensive as you want it to be, but in general, the cost to study abroad can range anywhere from $3,650 for January programs to $19,968 or more for semester programs . The cost of studying abroad varies depending on several factors, including:

  • Program type
  • Length of study

While the cost of study abroad programs for college students is constantly changing, CIEE program fees typically include all essentials outside of airfare and meals. This typically includes tuition, housing, pre-departure advising, orientation, on-side staff and 24/7 emergency support, cultural activities, and travel protection. Read more: Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants

While the length of your study abroad program varies based on your study abroad program provider, CIEE offers four different study abroad program durations:

  • Semester Programs:  Fall or spring semester study abroad programs typically last 15-17 weeks.
  • Summer Programs:  A single summer session lasts four weeks, but students can choose to enroll in one, two, or three consecutive sessions for a full summer abroad.
  • January Programs:  January study abroad programs are typically between two and three weeks long.
  • Open Campus Block Programs:  Open Campus Block programs allow students to design their own custom study abroad programs that last for six, 12, or up to 18 consecutive weeks.

Yes! Students who study with CIEE can earn college credit abroad for specific courses they take. We recommend that students check with their campus study abroad office prior to leaving for their program to ensure that course credits can be counted. 

Search all Courses

Yes, CIEE study abroad is a legit study abroad organization that was founded in 1947 with the mission of promoting international education and exchange. Headquartered in Portland, Maine, CIEE aims to humanize international relations and foster peace through international educational programs that promote intercultural understanding.

Check out our full list of study abroad programs! 

If you’re wondering how to study abroad in college, follow these simple steps:

  • Search our study abroad programs and find one that you love!
  • Ensure program dates, expenses, financial aid, courses, etc. fit into your goals
  • Connect with your campus study abroad office
  • Start your application

There are countless benefits of studying abroad in college, from getting out of your comfort zone by connecting with new cultures and languages, to making new friends and gaining a new perspective on the world. Not to mention if you complete an internship abroad , you’ll boost your resume with real-world international work experience. Read more: Benefits of Study Abroad

CIEE Study Abroad Reviews

"I absolutely loved the program - classes were structured well and the professors are amazing. CIEE is very supportive and also efficient with housing."

Ella S. | Spring 2022 | Seville, Spain

"CIEE Study Abroad is an incredible program providing the students to experience different culture and appreciate the opportunities to widely open their eyes."

Linda L. | Spring 2022 | Dublin, Ireland

"The classes were super personalized and my professors recommended so many things in Prague as well as took us on a variety of field trips that made Prague feel more like home."

Brynn C. | Spring 2022 | Prague, Czech Republic

"They genuinely care about every student and did everything they could to ensure the students enjoyed their time abroad."

Noel S. | Summer 2022 | Copenhagen, Denmark

"It was an amazing experience. I felt truly immersed in the culture and environment of my host country. I also made friendshops that will last a lifetime."

Emma S. | Summer 2022 | Monteverde, Costa Rica

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CIEE School of Record: Tulane University

Tulane University serves as CIEE's School of Record for all CIEE Study College Abroad programs. Tulane University is one of the nation’s premier research universities with highly respected academic programs in many of the fastest-growing academic areas of interest for international study, including architecture, engineering, technology, public health, business, liberal arts, and world languages.

The university is fully accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, as well as by leading academic organizations in the areas of engineering, architecture, public health, and business.

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Attend a Study Abroad Information Session Feb. 26!

Students on a J-Term study tour to China.

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In honor of Study Abroad Day, Carthage will hold an informational session at 4 p.m. Monday, Feb. 26, in Lentz Hall 318.

During the session, you will learn how you can use financial aid to help pay for your study abroad experience. We’ll talk about the different kinds of financial aid and provide information about some of the scholarships you can apply for to help defray some of the costs of studying or interning abroad.

Sponsoring Department, Office, or Organization:

Office of Education Abroad

For more information, contact:

Erik Kulke: LH 326, [email protected]  

IMAGES

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  5. Study abroad Essay Example

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  6. 014 Essay Example Studying Abroad ~ Thatsnotus

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COMMENTS

  1. 10 Study Abroad Essay Tips

    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!

  2. ≡Essays on Studying Abroad: Top 10 Examples by GradesFixer

    Essays on Studying Abroad Essay examples Essay topics 45 essay samples found 1 Cultural Diversity and Personal Growth in Germany as an International Student 1 page / 581 words

  3. How Study Abroad Can Benefit College Students

    Sept. 8, 2023, at 10:22 a.m. Getty Images Students can develop various personal, interpersonal and cognitive skills by studying abroad, studies indicate, including adaptability, self-awareness,...

  4. 63 Study Abroad Essay Examples & Topics

    In your studying abroad essay, you might want to write about advantages and disadvantages of being an international student. Another option is to describe the process of making application for a scholarship. One more idea is to share your personal experience.

  5. Crafting the Perfect Study Abroad Essay

    Sep 26, 2018 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.

  6. Scholarship Essay Samples and Tips

    The Writing Center The Writing Center Email: [email protected] Phone: (608) 263-1992 Location: 6171 Helen C. White Hall / 600 North Park Street Scholarship Essay Samples Scholarship Essay Sample A Scholarship Essay Sample B Scholarship Essay Tips Here are some great scholarship essay tips!

  7. How Do I Write a Personal Statement for Study Abroad?

    Step #1: Identify Your "Why" The best way to start a study abroad personal statement is by identifying what you're truly passionate about. This should be an easy start - if you've always been enthusiastic about history, explain why. If you love Japanese manga, explain how you got into it.

  8. How To Write a Good Personal Statement for Study Abroad Applications

    A personal statement is a short essay that explains why you want to study at a university and why you're suited to your chosen program. It's your chance to prove you're a worthy applicant and shout about your interests, achievements, experience, and aspirations. How to start a personal statement

  9. How to Write a Winning Study Abroad Scholarship Essay

    Studying abroad is a dream opportunity that can have so many benefits, some of which you may not even realize as you head into your application or daydream about having the chance to go. The most obvious benefit is that you get to experience a different culture, different people, or a different way of life.

  10. How to Write Impactful Admission Essays for Study Abroad?

    Mentioned below are the various types of admission essays for study abroad: Admission essays for undergraduate programs. Admission essays for MS programs in different universities. Admission essays for MBA or master's programs in Management and Business. Admission essays for financial aid or also known as Scholarship essays.

  11. How to Write an Outstanding Study Abroad Application Essay

    The study abroad application essay is an important part of the college application process.It is a great opportunity to provide valuable information about yourself and your career interests.

  12. How to Write an Outstanding Study Abroad Application Essay

    Consider following the steps below to help make this process easy and straight-forward. Open up a blank Word document, and get down the general essay components: Introduction. Paragraph 1. Paragraph 2. Paragraph 3. Conclusion.

  13. Student Exchange Program: Study Abroad Essay Examples + Flex Essay Topics

    You'll be specific later in your exchange application essay. Here, be sure to include: why you want to participate in a study abroad program. what interests you have in going abroad. anything else that seems relevant. Try to express your ideas in as few words as possible. ️. STEP #3. Describe your goals.

  14. Writing About Your Experiences Abroad

    Reading Time: 2 minutes Writing About Your Experiences Abroad You studied, worked, or volunteered abroad. Now you want to include part of this in your personal statement as part of an undergrad, AMCAS or other application.

  15. How to Use High School Abroad to Boost Your College Application

    Boost the impression you make on admissions officers to the next level with these five ways to position your high school abroad experience. 1. Focus on Cross-Cultural Understanding. In an ever diversifying world, cross-cultural understanding is more and more important as businesses (and academic institutions) become further globalized. Use your ...

  16. Top 18 Study Abroad Tips

    The essay is an integral part of the CIEE study abroad application. Note a few of our study abroad essay tips to help you craft a meaningful narrative - you got this! Read More: How Do I Write a Personal Statement for Study Abroad? Tip #5: Find your why. Before writing your study abroad essay, identify what you're truly passionate about.

  17. Should Students Study Abroad?

    Studying abroad refers to the act of pursuing primary, secondary, or post-secondary education in a foreign country. In the United States, foreign students comprise approximately 1 percent of the student population (Byram 34). Many students study aboard especially for their post-secondary education that includes university and postgraduate studies.

  18. Seven Reasons Why College Students Should Study Abroad

    Government and Politics student Sullivan D. Padgett recently reflected on his transformative study abroad experience in Rome. "While I initially held a strong interest in American politics, being surrounded by Rome's rich history and engaging in fascinating coursework like Middle East policy and European warfare truly opened my eyes to the broader global arena."

  19. How to Write a Great Scholarship Application Essay

    Earning a CIEE Global Navigator Scholarship is a prestigious honor that can help you stand out for years to come, especially on college applications! Plus, these scholarships give hundreds of students like you access to study abroad opportunities each year. Whether you are applying for a merit scholarship or a combination merit and financial need, our essay writing portion is a vital part of ...

  20. Advantages of Studying Abroad for College Students

    Conclusion. In conclusion, studying abroad offers college students a myriad of benefits, including cultural immersion, personal growth, and improved career prospects. The opportunity to live and study in a foreign country provides invaluable experiences that can shape individuals into more globally-minded and adaptable citizens.

  21. An Introduction to Study Abroad

    Studying abroad is an enriching experience to add to an undergraduate education. This article will give you some tips on what to look for in a study abroad program. The Academic Benefits of Studying Abroad Studying abroad not only offers a new country to learn from everyday but also unique academic opportunities.

  22. Application Essay: Types, How to write Application Essays for Study Abroad

    • Study Abroad Application Essay: Types, How to write Application Essays for Study Abroad 669 Reads 3 min Read By: CANAM Group Updated On: Aug 11,2023 10:55 AM IST Admission Essays or Application Essays are necessary part of application process and serve as a clear picture of candidate's personality and interests.

  23. essay help? need inspiration! : r/studyAbroad

    I'm applying to study abroad in Paris, France. I am absolutely stumped on one of the essays - literally the SIMPLEST one! The essay topic is this: "How do you think this study abroad experience will benefit you personally, professionally, and academically?". I know this sounds silly, and I have about a million reasons, but I feel so generic!

  24. Beyond the classroom: a student's study abroad experience

    Tell me about your summer 2022 study abroad experience in South Africa! I went to an info session and was sold on the trip. The purpose of this trip was to study social and racial justice in South Africa. My experience was amazing! I was able to greatly expand my knowledge of the pre-and post-apartheid society from those with lived experience.

  25. Where to Study Abroad: Top 10 Destinations for U.S. Students

    About 10.3% of study abroad students went to Latin America or the Caribbean, 5.3% did a program in the Middle East or Africa and 4.7% studied in Asia, the report found.

  26. Feature: CHC's Study Abroad Programs in Berlin, Oxford and London

    The Clark Honors College study abroad program in Berlin isn't limited to just that city. Students also visit Erfurt, where the Merchants' Bridge, first recorded in the 12th century, is the longest inhabited bridge in Europe. (Berlin photos courtesy of Ian McNeely)

  27. College Study Abroad

    For more than 75 years, CIEE has set the standard for study abroad programs. Academics: Our rigorous academic programs extend outside the classroom walls, offering you the experience and skills you need to succeed in your college career and beyond. Cultural Immersion: We offer you the life-changing opportunity to travel abroad and live like a local, rounding out your experience with exciting ...

  28. CAS Archaeological Field School

    All applicants must apply online to travel on CAS Study Abroad courses. You can begin your course application with the apply button on the individual course pages. ... College of Arts and Sciences . Diversity and Inclusion Oklahoma State University. 213 Life Sciences East Oklahoma State University Stillwater, OK 74078 405-744-5658 | Contact Us ...

  29. Attend a Study Abroad Information Session Feb. 26! • Carthage College

    In honor of Study Abroad Day, Carthage will hold an informational session at 4 p.m. Monday, Feb. 26, in Lentz Hall 318. During the session, you will learn how you can use financial aid to help pay for your study abroad experience.

  30. Duke Stops Assigning Point Values to Essays, Test Scores

    Dean of undergraduate admissions Christoph Guttentag told The Chronicle, the university's student newspaper, that the choice to stop assigning points to applicants' essays is largely due to the rise of AI-generated writing among current high school and college students as well as concerns about ghostwritten essays from highly paid college ...