the benefits of studying abroad essay

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

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. (Getty Images)

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

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.

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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Study Abroad Essay Sample

Type of paper: Argumentative Essay

Topic: Education , Study , Experience , Skills , Life , Students , Culture , Politics

Words: 1600

Published: 12/09/2019

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It’s no secret that COVID-19 has caused serious disruption to the lives of young people throughout the world. Many students, who were looking forward to studying abroad, have experienced massive disappointment as they see their dreams dissolve due to pandemic restrictions and canceled courses. However, travel limitations are becoming softer, and, with time, they will be lifted completely. In this blog post, we explore the benefits that studying abroad can bring to college, university, and postgraduate students.

According to NAFSA, over 160.000 American students studied abroad in 2019-2020, marking a 53% decline from previous years due to COVID. The vast majority of students – 57,9% – study in Europe, with Spain, the United Kingdom, Italy, France, and Ireland being the most popular countries. Latin America is in second place, hosting 13,4%; Asia holds the third place, with 9,1% of students attending educational institutions there.

Studying abroad can bring a world of possibilities to college and university students. It is an enriching and life-changing experience that has the potential to transform a person’s personal, intellectual, professional, and social life. The time frame of studying abroad can range from several months to several years for dedicated students in search of knowledge and skills. Apparently, not all participants achieve the same level of success from this experience; some may even find their studies abroad inconsequential. Nevertheless, studying in an international setting offers a unique opportunity that encourages development on multiple levels beyond those provided by traditional learning environments.

On the one hand, studying abroad offers students a unique opportunity to gain valuable knowledge, insight, and experiences from other cultures. On the other hand, studying in a foreign country is inevitably accompanied by tangible struggles, both personal and professional. As a result, some students may question whether this journey is worth taking. The key factor here is that in contrast with studying at home, the cultural diversity in foreign countries can shape a student’s learning process enormously and provide opportunities that are unavailable domestically. Therefore, it is worth considering studying abroad as an invaluable part of any education journey as it can serve as an incentive towards success and future growth. So, let’s take a closer look at the benefits going to another country to study might bring to virtually any student.

For starters, studying abroad may offer students valuable opportunities to gain language proficiency and experience new cultures. Hopkins (1993) claims: “Study abroad programs take many forms, but all share the characteristic that, by their very nature, they provide students with a healthy dose of experiential learning. Immersing oneself in another culture provides new opportunities for learning.” However, this notion was challenged by the NAFSA: Association of International Educators. During the organization’s International Conference in May 2010, it issued a proposal which said that who proposed that simply changing location might not cause sufficient exposure and does not guarantee that local experiences will have an immediate impact on a student’s development. According to NAFSA, motivation and a particular student’s personality are essential for successful adaptation to a new culture. In other words, extrovert students adjust more comfortably, while introverts may have a hard time socializing abroad. As a result, international students’ experiences can be vast in range. Some return home with strong language, cultural and social skills. Others, unfortunately, experience no benefit due to a lack of exposure or an apathetic attitude to local environments. On the positive side, most international students are eager to learn new things and willing to explore – or even embrace – both foreign languages and cultures.

Powerful language learning opportunities become available during studying abroad as it provides both a classroom and cultural context for immediate practice. Instead of relying on a common belief that living situations and contacts with native media are key to improved proficiency, the research by Sieloff Magnan, S. Back, M. (2008) shows that academic settings are a viable option for progress in second-language acquisition. They report that even short, semester-long programs are capable of promoting meaningful language gains through interaction both within the classroom setting and outside it while engaging natives in conversations. As a result, studying abroad provides a unique opportunity to develop language skills in an immersive and practical way rather than simply learning through textbooks or courses.

Next, studying abroad offers a range of intercultural benefits, including increased understanding and appreciation for other cultures as well as one’s own. It further encourages students to view the world in more sophisticated ways and unlocks the potential for long-term impacts on personal development, even if these advantages may not be immediately visible. This benefit is closely connected to the next one – career development.

Empirical research has attested to the fact that studying abroad offers invaluable advantages to a student’s career development. A 2007-2008 study conducted by Trooboff, Van Deberg, and Rayman concluded that the majority of employers strongly appreciate international experience when assessing applicants. Hence, it can be inferred that studying abroad is likely to have an enduring impact on advancing one’s professional journey. One of the factors most valued by prospective employers is that during their studies abroad, students can gain priceless confidence and the necessary tools to become self-sufficient. This experience can make an impact on their CV and help them stand out when applying for postgraduate jobs. Nevertheless, it is true that job opportunities may be scarce due to intense competition from highly qualified candidates in today’s tough economy. The reason behind this is that studying abroad offers many professional development opportunities, such as honing critical thinking and data analyzing skills, adaptability, problem solving, effectively working under pressure, and operating outside their comfort zone. On the flip side, returning home after gaining foreign work experience could make it challenging to resettle in one’s country of origin due to the detachment from local industry standards.

Still, many employers highly value individuals who have studied abroad, as they are typically viewed to be more independent and possess greater career-building skills. A student returning from an overseas experience is often perceived to demonstrate higher responsibility in the workplace alongside increased readiness for any arising challenge. Furthermore, the type of degree attained while abroad may give an individual a competitive edge over peers with similar academic credentials earned domestically.

Another benefit of studying abroad in terms of the job market is cultivating an international perspective and honing skills that differentiate them. For example, living among different cultural groups can equip individuals with interpersonal abilities, which are highly valued by employers.

Ultimately, studying abroad presents numerous advantages that far outweigh any corresponding challenges. Through firsthand experience with the culture, language, and environment of a foreign country, students gain valuable knowledge and skills for their personal development as well as future professional prospects. Consequently, enrolling in an overseas study program is likely to provide worthwhile remunerations on all fronts: social life; academic success; intellectual maturity; cultural awareness, among many other benefits. Studying abroad offers a unique, life-changing experience that cannot be matched by staying home. It allows students to develop independence and confidence while engaging with different cultures and learning from a global viewpoint – skills integral for future success both personally and professionally.

Unfortunately, due to the current COVID restrictions, many students are unable to take advantage of studying abroad and gaining new skills. But the restrictions won’t last forever; they will be lifted sooner or later, giving young people a chance to grab an excellent opportunity to enhance their expertise. In the meantime, college and university students who don’t want to wait can benefit from virtual programs, distance learning, online courses, and other digital-based solutions. Thus, when studying abroad becomes available again, students will have a competitive edge over other contestants.

Hopkins, J. R. (1999). Studying Abroad as a Form of Experiential Education. Liberal Education. P.85, 34-6. Sieloff, Magnan, S. Black, M. (2008) Social Interaction and Linguistic Gain During Study Abroad, Foreign Language Annals. 40/1, p43-61. Pellegrino Aveni, V. A. (1998). Student Perspectives on Language Learning in a Study Abroad Context. (available online): http://scholar.google.co.uk/scholar?hl=en&q=frontiers pellegrino &btnG=Search&as_sdt=2000&as_ylo=&as_vis=0 Trooboff, S., Van Deberg, M., and Rayman, J. (2007-2008) Employers Attitudes Towards study Abroad (available online): http://www.frontiersjournal.com/documents/TrooboffVandebergRaymonFRONTIERSJOURNALXVWinter2007-08-pdf.pdf Just how are Students Different After Study Abroad. NAFSA International Conference (May 2010). Kansas City, MO. (available online): http://proposals.nafsa.org/Abstract_Uploads/1410.61212.GS028.pdf Kim, Y. Y. (1991). Intercultural Communication Competence: A Systems-theoretic View. P.259-275.

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• February 11, 2022
• Education Advice

11 Most Interesting Benefits Of Studying Abroad

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We’re sure that along the years, you may have met people that have studied abroad. They might have described their experience there as an otherworldly study abroad experience. However, having a lovely time in a new country while studying isn’t the only thing you’ll get out of this academic adventure. There are countless benefits of studying abroad that you, as an international student , will be eligible for. So, if you’re asking yourself, ‘why should I study abroad?’., we got some good answers for you to check out.

1. Learn a New Language

Moving to a new country means that you’re not going to be using your native language as much as you did back home. If you look at it, this is quite a benefit. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you should abandon your mother tongue. The beauty of learning an additional language is that you and your brain would certainly benefit from it.

What’s best, the demand for bilingual individuals is increasing with each year that passes. So, with that being said, after getting proficient at a second language, the chances of you landing the job of your dreams will increase moderately.

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2. Give a Real-Life Context to Your Studies

Several countries have programs that incorporate classroom learning with in-field learning experiences. This is done with the intention of complementing and enriching the academic learning experience for international students. Depending on your major and the country you’re studying in, you’re going to be introduced to things that will make it easier for you to grasp different abstract concepts and notions that otherwise you wouldn’t understand.

3. Become a Good Communicator

Living in a country where your first language isn’t spoken will undoubtedly improve your communication skills. You will have to find ways to express yourself even if you don’t speak the official language of the country you’re studying in.

However, being a good communicator isn’t only bridging the language barrier. A new country also means that you will encounter people of different cultural backgrounds that approach life differently. Talking to them daily will give you a hand in becoming a better communicator than you were on your beginnings of moving.

4. Make Lifelong Friends

An impactful experience like studying abroad will certainly get you close to different people. Starting with classmates you’re going to be spending most of the time with. You’re going to be growing and learning with them. It’s inevitable that you spend all this time with them and not make meaningful connections and relationships.

At the beginning of the studies abroad, many might worry that making friends in a foreign country will be challenging. However, you’ll most probably come to realize there was no need in worrying about it. Just like you, many people are just navigating through the new academic life. Through the many social events that the universities organize and school projects you’ll be working on, you’ll get the chance to meet new people who, chances are, might become very close to you.

5. Expand Your Worldview

We talk about perspectives all the time. We mention how we need to look at things from different perspectives. Yet, the ways how one can gain new perspectives aren’t talked about that often. Well, one of the ways you as a person can develop a new perspective is by studying abroad. As the months go by, you’ll see that the way you used to view the world will be continuously challenged.

The chances are that some of your values will shift, whereas the ones that carry weight will be solidified, and as a result, you’ll come out of this experience a more well-rounded person.

6. Impress Your Future Employers

At the end of the day, the reason (besides getting educated) why many people decide to pursue an education, be it in their country or outside of it, is to land a decent job that pays decently. Luckily, the interest for bilingual individuals is only increasing. Studies done on this subject only confirm this advantage.

Many companies who have their headquarters in many different countries are on the lookout for people who speak more than one language. While English as a lingua franca can serve you quite well, in today’s climate, people of all ethnicities and backgrounds must be included. So the more languages you know, the better the chances of you getting hired will be.

Besides being bilingual, another benefit that raises your chances of landing your dream job is your international experience. Nowadays, companies are looking for employees who have international experience and transferable skills like flexibility to challenges, something you can only get from studying abroad.

A recent study found that almost 40 percent of companies couldn’t close deals on international business opportunities because they didn’t have personnel with international experience. So, why not be the one to whom the boss says: “Pack your luggage. We need you overseas.”.

7. Learn About New Cultures and Gain Perspective

Living in our own country for quite a long time makes us forget that many other different cultures exist. However, once you get out of the country, you find yourself completely immersed in a culture that isn’t yours. You’ll get to explore everything the other culture has to offer, starting with the food, local activities, their music, and their social etiquette.

Talking to other people about the country you come from and your culture, you get the chance to see your culture from somebody else’s eyes. You get to learn many things about yourself and the country you come from.

Besides learning about others’ cultures and their way of living, studying abroad also helps you learn about the global market from a different perspective and experience various ways of doing business. Seeing first-hand how different countries approach some aspects of business teaches you new methods of getting things done, and the best thing is that you can take your new business skills and experience back in your home country or wherever you decide to continue your career.

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8. Boost Your Confidence

Moving to another country for an extended time means that you’re going to be on your own for quite some time. The experience of living alone in a foreign country will help you develop a sense of independence as you’re going to figure out everything on your own. From ordering a meal to using public transportation, you’ll be depending on yourself for every single thing. While it can sound overwhelming, this experience will only help you realize how capable a person you are. Consequently, by getting out of your comfort zone, your confidence will only increase.

Another way how studying abroad boosts your confidence is by preparing you with soft skills that will help you a lot in your workplace, such as:

Leadership – While you probably won’t be leading a huge company in your first year of studies, there are a lot of small things that teach you how to lead. Be it a class project with other international students or an internship during the summer, you’ll be developing management skills that are important almost everywhere.

Communication skills – No matter where life brings you, you need to communicate with others. We’re not only talking about speaking the same language and understanding each other; we’re talking about negotiation skills, public speaking, and written communication. Refining these skills allows you to sit at the table with confidence like never before.

9. Find Job Opportunities Abroad

Many students go to study abroad with the intention of going back to their country once they finish their academic journey. However, this isn’t always the case. It happens that you’re presented with a job opportunity that is a once-in-a-lifetime chance, and you can’t turn it down. By this, we want you to know that once you get a degree from an accredited university, it’s recognized in almost every country, including the country you got that degree in the first place.

Once you consider staying in the new country for a long-term period, you can start to evaluate the job opportunities that will come your way and find the one that fits you best.

10. Become a Global Citizen

Being born and raised in a particular country and not having the chance to move out of it time after time can somehow leave someone oblivious of the world surrounding them. While they’re not completely unaware, as we all know the world is a big place, they kind of don’t understand the wider world and their place in it. However, once you move abroad to study for a semester or a year, you find yourself connecting with the rest of the world in a way you couldn’t connect from back home.

Once out of your homeland, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of the issues that affect the world, how different events impact particular countries and know your role in making the planet a more sustainable place. The countries which once felt like they were light-years away now will feel more personal as you’ve lived in those countries and made friends over there.

11. Life Experience

Without a doubt, studying abroad will boost your career and personal skills, making you more ready than ever for whatever the world brings you. However, don’t forget that between your morning and afternoon lectures, between your daily meetings and assignments, between your exams and your thesis, there’s another thing that keeps happening: life!

If you return to your home country after studying abroad, there are a ton of things you can take with you. University books you can look back to, lecture notes you can revise, and research skills that may come to help. But, there’s one thing you can’t relive, and that’s life experiences. So, whenever you get the chance, invite that friend for a coffee, drink that glass of wine in your favorite bar, and take those pictures in the main city square. Trust us, it’s something you won’t regret.

Many times, when not entirely convinced, students are on the lookout for reasons to study abroad. So, if you too are one of them, we hope we have given you enough reasons to even consider an experience abroad. The University of the Potomac is always open to international students who want to study abroad in the U.S.A, more specifically in the capital city of this country, Washington D.C. .

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• Study Abroad

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Studying abroad over the years became a popular program for college students. Where they attend a school in a different state for a limited amount of time. Most students study abroad to get insight on cultural differences, improve their international language and develop skills. Though others find that studying abroad is not worth the time and effort because of financial problems, the language barrier, and fear of being far away from family and friends. The wisdom gain through the study abroad experiences overshadow the student’s concerns about leaving home.

Kronholz and Osborn believe that, “study abroad experience significantly impacts college students’ self-knowledge such as interests, values, and skills, and the capacity to relate self-knowledge to career options” (Kronholz and Osborn 77). That studying abroad helps students identify and develop those decision-making skills to expand their career options, and allow growth and positive outlook on job opportunities that can help some students to develop a strong, stable vocational identity. Kronholz and Osborn quoted Mr. Chapman, who did an investigation on the psychosocial benefits of studying abroad saying:

90% of respondents reported feeling as though their study abroad experience prepared them for the “real world.” This preparation included the belief that study abroad helped participants in the following ways: to gain interpersonal skills required for the workforce…and to have real world experience that serve as performance examples during job interviews. (qtd. in Kronholz and Osborn 71)

To make their results as accurate as possible they used the CIP theory that has been proven effective to apply to career development, explaining that the “CIP has been found an effective theoretical tool in exploring vocational factors for many diverse population” (Kronholz and Osborn 74). The CIP theory backs up evidence that developing one’s skills positively impacts a study abroad student’s decision-making skills and vocational identity.

Going international teaches students independence and self-reliance. There are significant amount of studies that shows evidence of studying abroad helping students increase their independence and becoming self-reliant. Russ Walsh, from the department of psychology at Duquesne University and Monica Walsh, both did a study on students’ perspectives on study abroad experiences by interviewing 8 students, who went to Rome attending Duquesne University.

Was able to find that the students “Following their return from a semester in Rome, all of the participants reported gaining a strong sense of independence and self-confidence as a result of their study abroad experiences” (Walsh and Walsh 143), said Walsh and Walsh, by experiencing and negotiating cultural differences and learning specific travel and organization skills. Though Walsh and Walsh explain that the students went to a school that focuses highly on independence and self-confidence, which could affect the accuracy of the study. They were still able to explain and show evidence using graphs from their research, “that study abroad may have a major role in fostering the development of confident and socially competent adults” (Walsh and Walsh 143).

Also, the study done by Kronholz and Osborn on the effects of study abroad has on vocational identity and career decision-making skills to students’ shows, “that the study abroad experience provides an occasion for vicarious learning, leading to higher levels of self-efficacy, in turn positively impacting career decision-making” (Kronholz and Osborn 80). The students had to learn to adapt and do things on their own in a new environment, forcing them in a situation to gain self-confidence and independence.

Learning cultural differences from studying abroad can be applied in a workforce. Ross Walsh and Monica Walsh noticed a theme, which was the growing friendships and group cohesion experiences with the international students. Through interviewing the 8 students, they came to an understanding that:

The experience of living in close proximity to, traveling with, and relying on students different from themselves…suggests that some of the benefits of the study abroad experienceeven those about openness and cultural differenceresult from the interactions among students within the campus walls. (Walsh and Walsh 144)

The interactions with international students and the direct exposure to a new state contributes in helping the students adapt more easily, and to apply the knowledge they learned. Also, according to Kronholz and Osborn, “the study abroad experience promotes gains in students’ self-knowledge, understanding their fit in the world of work, and contributes to a developing a more positive outlook regarding career opportunities” (Kronholz and Osborn 78). That for most students studying abroad, the environment and the different cultural experience gives students a better understanding of what they want to do, what their career goals are and be more confident in making life decisions or career choices.

Kronholz and Osborn and Walsh and Walsh show that students greatly benefit from studying abroad by becoming independent and self-reliant, developing communication and traveling skills, and help make career decisions. The wisdom gain through the study abroad experiences overshadow the students concerns about leaving home.

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• International Student
• Study Centers
• Study Abroad Center
• Study Abroad Guide

10 Benefits to Studying Abroad

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

1. See the World

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

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

2. Education

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

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

3. Take in a New Culture

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

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

4. Hone Your Language Skills

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

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

5. Career Opportunities

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

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

6. Find New Interests

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

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

7. Make Lifelong Friends

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

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

8. Personal Development

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

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

9. Graduate School Admissions

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

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

10. Life Experience

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

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

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

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

What's Next?

Explore more of our great resources for international students:.

You may also be interested in essay writing tips .

Learn about studying medicine in the US .

Learn about the questions you should expect during your F1 Visa interview .

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Crafting the Perfect Study Abroad Essay

• Applying to Study Abroad

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3) Describe Why You’re Qualified

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

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

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

4) Show Your Personality

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

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

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

5) Follow Instructions

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

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

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

The Perfect Study Abroad Essay

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

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

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15 Benefits of Studying Abroad Essay Tips

This blog post discusses the benefits of studying abroad essay which you can use as a guide or tip for constructing your own essay on the same subject matter or generally learn about the advantages of studying abroad.

Studying outside of your country in a distant land has to be the most adventurous thing you may ever do in life. Going to a place where everything is new and different, the food, culture, language, etc. are new and different from what you’re used to. It is challenging, truthfully, but after a while, you get used to it and it starts to become fun, exciting, and adventurous.

You get to learn new customs and languages, meet new people, taste new foods, see beautiful places, and most of all, gain quality education and degrees. The main reason why a lot of people decide to study abroad is for educational purposes, as in most cases, the abroad education is better than the one in their home country.

Knowledge can be acquired in numerous ways and studying abroad is one of the possibilities. Students get significant experience by studying abroad. It is a fantastic opportunity for students to come into direct contact with a different culture in their daily lives and return home with many fond memories.

For example, students can travel to a place with four seasons and experience four seasons there, which will be the most memorable moments for students who have never experienced the seasons before. There are several advantaged to studying abroad and they are outlined and discussed in this essay.

Benefits of Studying Abroad Essay

Improve your language skills, enjoy top quality education, career opportunities, experience a different style of teaching, it will look nice on your resume, enhance your network, become truly independent, see the world, get ready for an international workplace, discover other cultures and viewpoints, employers will be impressed, you will get motivated, creating life time experiences.

On our list of benefits of studying abroad essay, improving your language skills comes first. Studying in another part of the world or another country offers you the opportunity to hone and develop your language skills. Learning a new language and adding it to other languages you already know how to speak will take you farther in life, especially career-wise.

Having a second language will make your CV or resume stand out and become a key candidate for a highly competitive role such as a diplomat or ambassador. If you are looking to enter into the international or global workforce, a second language will serve as a catalyst as well.

One of the major reasons students travel abroad is to gain top-quality education and degrees that will be recognized internationally. There is no doubt that some schools are better than some and provide internationally recognized degrees while some do not and for this reason, many students live the comfort of their home and abandon the traditional teachings of their local schools to go to another country and pursue a degree that every HR or employee anywhere in the world will recognize and accept.

As an international student, you can broaden your option greatly and for the top choice countries, you may want to consider the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom as they provide top-quality degrees.

Studying abroad will provide you with better career opportunities, no doubt, international universities will provide you with quality education which is highly sought after by employees back at home. With a degree from a university or college abroad you’ve automatically gotten ahead of the workforce competition compared to people who got a local education.

Studying in a new country exposes you to increased career opportunities, depending on your field of study.

If you completed your bachelor’s in your country and decided to complete graduate studies abroad, you’d note the difference in teaching style almost immediately. There are different teaching styles and studying abroad will help you experience them and help you expand your academic horizon and develop your ability to adapt to the different educational settings.

The benefit here will also help you be more versatile in the workplace and you are can easily adjust to different management styles.

It is common knowledge that employers value international experience since it demonstrates that you have dealt with individuals from many cultures and have a greater level of adaptability. If you can travel to a new nation while learning a new skill to land a decent graduation job, that is really impressive.

Employers value individuals with international studies and stand ahead of the workforce competition to add it to your CV.

Enhancing your network is also one of the benefits of studying abroad essay. Studying abroad you must make new friends and build relationships with people from other parts of the world. These relationships will later go on to become a broad network of connections who will come to your aid when needed and you also provide aid to them when required.

Some of these connections can even lead to career opportunities, job offers, business partners, and life-long friends. Universities usually have varieties of students from all walks of life and the community has offered an opportunity for you to meet them, create, and enhance your network.

Attending a local university or a university in your own country, you are still not completely independent because you’ve got your friends and family who could always drive down to your school to visit you. But when you travel out of the country to study, you are very far away from your friends and family, and coming all the way to see you will be a daunting task.

This will surely come as a challenge at first but it will shape you to become an independent, adventurous adult ready to succeed in your future career.

Traveling can be very fun especially when you travel out of your country to another and in this case, you’re acquiring a degree at the same time, talk about taking down two birds with a single stone. Studying abroad allows you to see the world and travel to new places you would otherwise not have visited.

This can be adventurous and exciting as you also get to visit many attractions in the country.

Another benefit of studying abroad is that it opens students to new knowledge and expertise when they study overseas and that knowledge is frequently more easily relevant and adaptable to situations that require international engagement; as a result, in today’s globalized world, one might expect to be more competitive.

While you can always return home at the end of your abroad education, many students opt to stay and apply for a work visa. Even if you decide to return home or look for a job elsewhere, employers are likely to value the foreign experience gained via studying abroad.

This is one of the benefits of a study abroad essay and here studying abroad will expose you to a different culture allowing you to broaden your horizons. You will get new ideas and build cross-cultural awareness by studying overseas.

In your future career, for example, you might have to collaborate with people from other countries. You will be more comfortable with people from other backgrounds, value their unique experiences, and develop a better bond with them if you study abroad.

Our cultural heritage has a significant impact on how we react to certain situations. Getting a diversity of viewpoints can help you see things in a fresh light. You will meet people from all walks of life if you study abroad and have the opportunity to witness a completely new way of life.

This is another benefit of studying abroad and the advantage that comes with this is that it can help you kick start your career and make you more marketable. It allows you to demonstrate potential and present to employers that you have the flexibility, resourcefulness, and ambition to adjust to a new situation. Graduates with foreign experience are in high demand by many employers.

Regardless of where you study, the most essential benefit of studying abroad is that it will continually inspire you on your life’s journey. Immersing yourself in the atmosphere of a new city, nation, or culture is a great way to stretch your mind and learn new things.

Visit art institutions, historic sites, learn a new language, try a new cuisine – the opportunities to broaden your horizons are endless. Long after your studies are through, you will reflect gratefully on all of the fresh memories and lessons you have gained.

On this list of benefits of studying abroad essay, this is the one that crowns it all. Taking classes, staying in a homestay, making new friends, and traveling around a whole other country are all experiences that you will never forget. When it is all said and done, you will be able to recall practically every detail of that time you went white water rafting in Brazil.

You will have a once-in-lifetime experience and make memories that will last a lifetime and the advantages of studying abroad will also last a long time. You can’t put a price on the memories, friendships, and experiences you will bring back from your trip overseas.

These are the benefits of studying abroad essay which should further help you consider studying abroad.

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What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad?

January 26, 2023

Authored By:

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

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

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

EXPLORE CIEE PROGRAMS

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

The Pros  of Study Abroad

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

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

The Top Advantages of Studying Abroad  

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

1. You will learn to think more broadly.    

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

2. You will make lifelong connections.    

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

3. You will gain a competitive edge.    

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

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

4. You will build your language skills.    

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

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

5. You will step out of your comfort zone.    

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

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

6. You will be better for it .    

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

The Cons  of Study Abroad

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

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

The Main Disadvantages of Studying Abroad  

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

1. Studying abroad can be expensive.    

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. There will be language barriers.   

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

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

3. You may experience culture shock.   

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

4. You might get homesick.  

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

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

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

5. Re-integration can be hard.    

This is an adjustment most students don’t anticipate.   

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

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

Learn More: Become a CIEE Student Ambassador  

The Choice is Yours  

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

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

GET STARTED  

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Studying Abroad Essay IELTS: Benefits, Latest Tips & Sample Answers

• Read Time 7 mins
• Updated On April 13, 2023
• Published In IELTS Preparation 💻

IELTS Writing consists of two tasks- Task 1 and 2. The latter requires candidates to write an essay responding to a given statement. For writing task 2, candidates must write an essay of a minimum of 250 words and within 40 minutes. However, writing lower than the stipulated word count will hamper one’s band score.

Table of Contents

Furthermore, the examiner evaluates the essay on different parameters, including coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy and task achievement. The assessment criteria are almost the same for Academic and General Training.Besides, the topics are of various types, the most common being studying abroad essay IELTS. That is why we have compiled a detailed guide on approaching Writing Task 2, sample questions and answers, vocabulary, tips and much more. 

How to Approach Writing Task 2? 

Many candidates find writing task 2 the most challenging, often due to the time constraint and the kind of approach towards this task. However, they can follow the below-mentioned pattern to achieve a higher band score.  It is always best to break the essay into the four-step approach: 

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• Analyse the question 

First and foremost, students must analyse the question and whether it falls in any of the categories: 

• Double Question 
• Opinion- Agree or Disagree 
• Problem Solution 
• Advantages and Disadvantages 
• Discussion 
• Decide the position 

Candidates must decide the perspective they would be presenting in the essay. For example, if it is an opinion essay, students must state whether they agree or disagree with the statement. 

• Brainstorm 

It is important to brainstorm ideas during the essay. Candidates can ask themselves questions like: 

• What is the reason behind this development? 
• What is unifying cultures? 
• What is more important in people’s lives today? 

If one cannot link their ideas logically and sequentially, one may end up losing marks in coherence and cohesion. 

• Linking ideas 

After the process mentioned above is complete, students should develop their ideas in-depth. They can do this by explaining and elaborating each of their ideas and supporting them with examples. 

Vocabulary for Writing Task 2 

Candidates are marked on their lexical resource which in simple words, refers to the usage of vocabulary. This includes using collocations, linking words etc. Here, we have underlined the vocabulary candidates can use in studying abroad essay IELTS:  Introduction 

• It appears that 
• The essay will show that 
• The essay will argue 
• To examine this issue, the article will examine 
• Many people claim that 
• It is often said 
• It is universally accepted 
• However, it should not be forgotten that 
• There is ample evidence 
• Numerous studies have consistently found that 

Listings 

• Firstly, this essay will explain
• Secondly, this essay will describe 
• First of all 
• Second of all 
• For instance 

Consequently As a result 

• However 
• As a result 
• Consequently
• As an effect 
• The reason why

Example 

• For example 
• To illustrate 
• To paraphrase 
• The best example is 
• A perfect example 

Conclusion 

• Finally 
• To summarise 
• In the end 
• To sum up  
• As such, it can be concluded that 

Collocations Collocations are the proper arrangement of words in a sentence or combining words that appear natural. They can be paired in this manner: 

• Verb & noun 
• Verb & adverb 
• Adverb & adjective 
• Adjective & noun 
• Noun & noun 

For easier understanding, some examples are listed below: 

• I prefer reading 
• Make someone’s bed
• I have a preference for continental cuisine 
• Parents can assist their children with financial responsibility 
• I have to take the test if I want to take the course 

Candidates should use this list while writing for studying abroad essay IELTS. 

Sample Question with Answers for Study Abroad Topic 

Studying abroad essay IELTS is one of the most common topics in the exam. However, often students lose marks on this topic because they feel it to be straightforward and easy and hence, do not feel the need to prepare for it.  Subsequently, this approach hampers the overall band score of students. Hence, following underlined samples and answers below is essential that candidates can practise before their exam. 

Many students now have the opportunity to study in other countries. Studying abroad may bring some benefits to some students, but it also has a significant number of disadvantages. Discuss both sides of the argument and give your own opinion. Write at least 250 words.

In the current era, globalisation has had a huge impact on the field of education. Learners now have the choice of studying in a different country and while studying overseas may have certain drawbacks for some students, it also has a substantial number of advantages. In the imminent paragraphs, I will justify why the merits of studying abroad offset the demerits associated with it. One advantage of studying abroad is the opportunity to interact with people from different cultures and to learn about their customs, cuisine and language. To illustrate, when a student travels abroad for study, he will be exposed to the traditions and festivals of the people and have a complete immersion into their language which can be very useful. Moreover, it is undoubtedly true that developed countries have better academic staff and resources through which one has access to a better quality of education. If the student, decides to return to this home country post completion of studies, the immense knowledge and experience that he has acquired will dramatically contribute to the growth and development of his country. 

Tips on Writing Task 2 

One can achieve success in Writing Task 2 by implementing the proper techniques. Therefore, candidates must follow the below-mentioned tips diligently to help candidates improve their IELTS scores. 

• Respond to all parts of the task. 

The candidate must respond to all parts of the task to score well in task achievement. However, to be able to do this, one must practice beforehand. 

• Practice, practice and practice.  

It is always beneficial to practice the common essay topics before the examination. Then, even if the same themes do not appear, the candidate will know how to approach them. 

• Do not memorise an essay.  

Candidates at all costs must avoid memorising essays. For instance, if the same topic does not appear, then the candidate would not be able to write on it. Unfortunately, this can also result in losing marks as well. 

• Use a wide range of vocabulary. 

Candidates must try to use transition sentences in the studying abroad essay IELTS. They can refer to the vocabulary outlined above and describe their ideas. 

• Follow the stipulated word count. 

As mentioned above, Writing Task 2 is 250 words. Candidates must not write lower than this. However, they must not also exceed more than 270 words either. Candidates must employ the correct vocabulary, techniques, sample questions and answers to score well in Writing Task 2. This detailed guide on the studying abroad essay IELTS with vocabulary, structure, and tips will help students nail writing tasks with ease. Pursuing a dream abroad comes with a lot of expenses. However, financing foreign Education now can be hassle-free and uncomplicated with Leap Scholar. Aspiring candidates can get financial assistance with low-interest rates, minimum documentation and convenient terms. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. can i retake the ielts writing .

Ans: No, individual sections of IELTS cannot be retaken. However, if you are dissatisfied with the score, you can retake the test or submit an application for a rechecking of the score. 

2. How is the Writing Task 2 assessed? 

Ans: Writing Task 2 is assessed on four criteria:  a. Grammatical Range and Accuracy  b. Task Achievement  c. Lexical Resource  d. Coherence and Cohesion 

Manisha Angre

Experienced IELTS prep trainer and education management industry veteran. Specializes in public speaking, international education, market research, mentoring, and management.

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Benefits of Studying Abroad Essay Example

Last updated by rubayet al sami on june 14, 2021.

Many of the benefits of studying abroad are difficult to convey in a single essay. In reality, studying abroad can have an impact on your life in ways you can’t even imagine, and certainly in ways that I, the author of this article, can’t even imagine. However, in order to persuade you to embark on this once in a lifetime adventure, I will attempt to capture some of the numerous advantages of studying abroad. Let’s read the benefits of studying abroad essay.

Benefits of Studying Abroad Essay

You’ll almost certainly emerge a better, happier, and more inspiring person. Studying abroad may stimulate your mind, body, and soul, forcing you to discover aspects of yourself that you were previously unaware of.

Even if studying abroad proves difficult at times (and it almost certainly will), you may emerge wiser, more self-assured, and more self-assured as a result of the experience.

The United States differs from every other country on the planet. This means that any country you visit will be different from the United States. You might meet people who grew up in different cultural contexts and, as a result, have different perspectives on the world.

This may help you see local, national, and global issues in new ways and learn that context is everything that different issues, big and small, can present themselves in very different ways depending on the viewpoint from which they are viewed. Studying abroad may give you the opportunity to broaden your horizons and consider new and different perspectives on the world.

There is magic and beauty in having a community that spans beyond the familiarity of your own community, state, and country. Studying abroad means establishing a more global community—one which includes people with perspectives and experiences unique from your everyday ones.

Spending time inside a culture is an important part of learning about it. By spending more time in another society, whether for a summer, semester, or year, you can gain a better understanding of its cultural underpinnings and personality.

You will gain a better understanding of the language, literature, and communication style; its emotional, physical, and soulful expression; and, most importantly, the culture’s personality and how it impacts and informs daily life politically, economically, and socially.

In order to better understand something, it is frequently necessary to leave home and observe it from afar. Spending time in another country and immersing yourself in a different culture can help you better understand how your own history and people are built. To use an analogy, imagine yourself as a fish living in a fish tank before your study abroad experience.

You don’t believe you live in a fish tank; you simply live your life. Then one day you step out of your fish tank and into another. Only then do you realize you’ve been living in a fish tank. Studying and living in a new country may allow you to see the United States as a fish tank.

Many graduate schools prefer students who are self-assured, capable, and dedicated. Most students who study abroad must be self-assured, capable, and dedicated at least once, and most likely for an extended period of time.

Including a study abroad experience in your graduate school application shows that you are not only confident, capable, and hardworking, but also willing to be open-minded and consider different points of view. Each of these qualities is essential for graduate school success.

It’s fascinating to listen to people who have lived extraordinary lives and experienced numerous adventures. You could become one of them by studying abroad. Any study abroad location will provide you with exciting adventures and unforgettable experiences.

You might find yourself exploring new environments, having new experiences, pushing yourself in new directions, and immersing yourself in new atmospheres if you go to one. You could become the proud owner of cool and meaningful stories that uplift and inspire others as a result of all of this.

So although studying abroad can be difficult, you will almost certainly have a wonderful time to look back on your experience with fondness. You will meet new people, see and experience things that will totally change your perspectives, and participate in other adventures that will change, expand, and shine your view on things.

Taking on challenges is a necessary and inherent part of any good adventure. We grow, expand, and burst through old paradigms of thought, action, and direction as a result of our challenges.

By studying abroad and acknowledging the several difficulties associated with it (getting lost, running out of money, handling with language problems, feeling embarrassed, missing home, and so on), you can develop into a stronger, more confident, and capable person who is prepared to handle the many challenges that life throws at you.

There’s no getting around it. One of the many wonderful advantages of studying abroad is the opportunity to grow and evolve as a person. You may emerge from your experiences with the strength, confidence, and certainty of a global traveler, regardless of your experiences.

Even if you face difficulties, disappointment, or failure, you may learn and experience things that you would not have learned or experienced if you stayed at home. This makes you a stronger, more confident, and more certain person in and of itself.

Benefits of Studying Abroad Essay Summary

• You may not return the same person.
• You may obtain a global perspective on important issues.
• You may begin to establish your global community.
• You may become familiar with another culture.
• Your travels abroad may influence your view of life at home.
• You may boost your grad school application.
• You may become a more interesting person.
• You may have a really good time.
• You may be challenged in meaningful, productive, and lasting ways.
• You may become stronger, more confident, and more certain of yourself.

If this essay, helps you to know about benefits of studying abroad essay then share this essay on any social media.

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About Author

Rubayet Al Sami

Rubayet Al Sami is the founder of StudyConnexion. He loves to write about higher education and study abroad. You’ll often find him helping others study abroad.

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Home / Essay Samples / Education / Studying Abroad / An Overview of the Benefits of Studying Abroad

An Overview of the Benefits of Studying Abroad

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