How To Define Your ULTIMATE “Why” for Study Abroad

There are so many exciting reasons to want to spend a semester (or longer) abroad. The new culture, the chance to try new cuisine, seeing different sights and sounds each day, and of course growing your network, among other things. While these are benefits, all study abroad plans begin with (or at least, SHOULD begin with) a “Why?”. 

Defining your “Why” for studying abroad is vital because it is the guide for everything to come including where you decide to study, how long you would like to go, how much you want to spend, and even how you eventually incorporate what you learn from study abroad into future career plans. 

4 Reasons Why Your ‘Why’ for Study Abroad Matters

1. Time Commitment – The process of applying and securing a spot to study abroad is not an overnight adventure. For most students, the process takes a minimum of six weeks, although realistically, depending on the program you are applying for and the country where you want to study, it is closer to 12-15 weeks from start to finish before you depart. This time frame factors in applications, any required exams, receiving a decision, paying to reserve your spot, and securing a visa.

2. Multi-Step Application Process – For study abroad applications specifically, they are usually multi-step, so you will need patience and strong organizational skills to ensure everything is completed before you officially submit. This may include (but is not limited to): Application, Supplemental Questionnaire, Scholarship Form, Personal Statement, Transcripts, and Letters of Recommendation.

3. Cost of Study Abroad – We will tackle some basic costs of studying abroad on another day of this series, but for now, I can provide a sneak peek: It is expensive. I often joke that while many of us born and raised in the US see studying abroad at the university level as a ‘bargain’ because our tuition fees are so high, but for most students worldwide that come from countries where education is free or extremely low-cost, the sticker price can be quite a shock. 

4. Impact on Future Goals – Most students that I advise always say that they feel that in addition to the ‘fun’ aspects of studying abroad, the impact on their future goals is a driving force in the WHY behind choosing to go overseas. Whether it be an interest in international internships, kick-starting their careers abroad, or dreams of eventually moving abroad full-time, studying abroad was a catalyst to adding more structure to these goals. 

Common Reasons Why Students Choose to Study Abroad 

• Opportunity to learn in a different country 

• Learn a new language 

• Increase global contacts/network 

• Explore career opportunities abroad 

• Gain a competitive advantage 

• Experience a new culture

The reasons above are in no way all-encompassing, but are very common and are likely relatable to you if you are planning to embark on this journey.