The prospect of studying abroad can be exciting and at the same time unpredictable, so we have decided to educate you on some of the pros and cons of studying abroad.
Studying abroad might be daunting since you never know what to expect; you may wonder if the people you meet in this new country will accept you. Will they be good people? How will you meet them? Will you be able to navigate this new country? how will you communicate with people if they don’t speak your language? etc.
Despite these concerns, you’re hopeful that your experience in this new country would be worth it. You would be eager to experience a new culture, meet new people, probably speak a different language, etc.
Well, some of these questions are addressed within this article, so fasten your seat belt and join us as we provide answers to some of these questions.
Table of Contents
Is studying abroad worth it?
A lot of reasons exist why you would want to study abroad, some of them include; Gaining a top-notch education, becoming immersed in a new culture (and frequently a second language), developing a global attitude, and improving future work opportunities probably what attracts the majority of international students.
Although leaving home and venturing into the unknown can be frightening for some, studying abroad is also an exhilarating challenge that frequently results in better professional possibilities and a deeper grasp of how the world operates.
Your study abroad experience can vary greatly depending on where you go, so be sure to choose a location based on both your own interests and the opportunities it offers. You can check out our article on the 10 best countries to study abroad.
How do you get started if you want to study abroad?
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Choose a program and institution
If you haven’t already, you should begin thinking about selecting a program and a university. Once you’ve decided where you want to attend school, the universities should then be carefully examined, along with the locality and way of life, entrance standards, and tuition costs.
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Check how to apply to your chosen school
You should start considering your application once you’ve made up your mind about your program and university.
Depending on the university and the country, application procedures vary, but generally speaking, each institution will provide complete instructions on how to submit your application on the official website.
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Apply to the school
For international students, there may be a two-step application procedure. This calls for the submission of two applications: one for admission to the institution and the other for enrollment in the course.
The university website ought to make this obvious. You should get in touch with your preferred university immediately if you still have questions about the application process.
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Apply for a student visa
In most circumstances, you won’t be able to apply for a student visa until you get a letter of admission from your desired university, so keep that in mind if you believe you might require one.
The 40 Pros and Cons of Studying Abroad
The table below contains the 40 pros and cons of studying abroad:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| You will learn about many cultures | Cost |
| Improved foreign language skills | homesickness |
| Studying abroad can help you become more confident | Language Barrier |
| You have the opportunity to meet a lot of new people | It may be difficult to transfer credits to your home university |
| An opportunity to further your education | Cultural shocks |
| modern methods for teaching and learning | Social exclusion |
| Priceless memories | Mental issues |
| An opportunity to interact with people from all over the world | New Climate |
| You'll venture beyond your comfort zone | Comfort zone pushes & shoves |
| Living life from a different viewpoint | Stress about what to do after graduation |
| exposure to new Learning methods | You may have difficulties to adapt to new cultures |
| You will become more independent | Acclimatization |
| Ample leisure | You may not want to go back home |
| You will discover your own talents and weaknesses | Classes may be too difficult for you |
| Character development | Prolonged study duration |
| Access to scholarships to pay for your education abroad | Studying abroad isn't easy when you have kids |
| It could help your career | Friendships may be lost over time |
| Opportunity to work overseas | You may feel overwhelmed |
| An opportunity to travel more | People |
| Fun Experiences. | Likelihood of getting lost easily. |
We have briefly explained each of these pros and cons below so you better understand them before you begin the process of studying abroad.
Pros of Studying Abroad
#1. You will learn about many cultures
One significant benefit of studying abroad is the opportunity to learn about various cultures.
When you study abroad, you will discover that the cultural values can differ significantly from those in your home country.
This is a significant finding because it demonstrates the relativity of the world and our cultural standards, which we frequently take for granted in general.
#2. You can improve your foreign language skills
The need to learn a Foreign language is becoming more and more crucial.
Some occupations frequently require that employees contact people all around the world due to the rising level of globalization.
Therefore, if you want to pursue a challenging international corporate career, studying abroad for a semester can undoubtedly enable you to advance your language abilities, which will subsequently help you in the corporate sector.
#3. Studying abroad can help you become more confident
Your confidence level will increase because you will constantly be learning new things and encountering difficulties from time to time.
As a result, you will quickly lose the fear of trying new things and your overall level of confidence will probably improve dramatically, giving you an advantage in many other areas of your life in the future. This is because you will always confront new difficulties and experience new things.
#4. You have the opportunity to meet a lot of new people
It’s likely that you will make a lot of new friends during your study abroad because you will meet so many new individuals.
If you enjoy travelling, it is also quite wonderful if you can connect with a variety of people in various locations throughout the world.
As a result, studying abroad offers you a special chance to form many wonderful friendships that might perhaps last a lifetime.
#5. You might be able to further your education
Studying abroad provides you with the opportunity to further your education immediately after you’re done with one level of study, providing you with better career opportunities.
#6. Modern methods for teaching and learning
It is likely that you will benefit from excellent teaching and learning methods if you study abroad at a respectable university.
Many colleges have reacted to the digitization of technology and now provide a variety of supplementary learning platforms, which can greatly enhance your educational experience.
#7. You can create priceless memories
Making a lot of lifelong memories is another benefit of studying abroad. Many individuals say that their semester abroad was one of the best experiences of their lives.
#8. You interact with people from all over the world
You have a good opportunity of meeting plenty of individuals from all over the world, especially if the college is quite focused on providing a wide range of courses also for international students.
#9. You’ll venture beyond your comfort zone
Being driven outside of your comfort zone is another benefit of studying abroad.
We can all agree that we like to remain in our comfort zones since they offer the most convenience.
But we can only experience new things and truly develop as people if we occasionally step outside of our comfort zones.
#10. Living life from a different viewpoint
During your study abroad, you will not only encounter other cultures, but you will also gain an entirely new outlook on life.
People who don’t travel or study abroad frequently think that the values they have grown up with are the only ones that matter.
However, if you travel frequently or study abroad, you will quickly come to see that cultural values are really different everywhere and that what you have thought of as usual is really just a small portion of your personal view of reality.
#11. Exposure to new Learning methodsÂ
There’s a good chance that when studying overseas, you’ll discover innovative teaching methods.
For instance, the curriculum could be very different.
Because of this, you might also need to somewhat alter your learning style. This is not a negative thing at all because it will teach you how to adapt to new educational frameworks.
#12. You will become more independent
Studying abroad has numerous advantages, including teaching you how to be truly independent.
Many students have a severe lack of independence because their parents still do their laundry and prepare their meals for them, especially if they still live at home.
If you fall into this category, you should definitely take a semester abroad because it will teach you how to care for yourself, which is important for many aspects of your future.
#13. Ample leisure Time
You will have plenty of free time throughout your study abroad, which you can use to hang out with your new friends or to take visits to national parks or other local attractions.
I strongly advise you to take advantage of this time to enjoy yourself because, once you have finished your studies, you will no longer have this opportunity because you will have to work long hours at a job and your free time will be considerably reduced, especially if you also start a family.
#14. You will discover your own talents and weaknesses
Organizing everything on your own throughout your semester abroad can teach you a lot more about yourself, including your strengths and limitations.
You should take note of this since everyone has shortcomings, and understanding them will help you make adjustments in the future.
#15. You can develop your character
A lot of people experience considerable character development during their study abroad.
Because you gain so much new information, your perspective on the world as a whole will alter, and you’ll probably also adapt to new information you discovered while studying abroad.
#16. Access to scholarships to pay for your education abroad
In some countries, scholarships are also available to help you pay for your education abroad if you are unable to do so on your own financial resources.
Therefore, if you are interested in studying abroad, see if your country has any programs in place that can assist you in financing your education abroad.
African students who need financial aid to study abroad can go through our article on undergraduate scholarships for African Students Study Abroad.
#17. It could help your career
Many businesses value having staff who have experience with several cultures and recognize the value of learning about new ones.
So, if you want to increase your chances of landing a job at a large firm, you might want to consider spending a semester abroad.
#18. An opportunity to work overseas
If you intend to work abroad in the future, studying there could significantly increase your chances of landing a job because you’ll be able to advance your language abilities and possibly be better able to integrate into the local culture.
#19. An opportunity to travel more
If you have the money, studying abroad gives you the opportunity to travel and explore a lot of cities since you’d be having plenty of leisure time.
#20. Fun Experiences
Studying overseas is an adventure. It’s a way to embrace life- to do something cool and different and memorable.
You step away from the norm, experience something totally different, and end up with unforgettable, fun-filled stories to tell as a result.
Cons of Studying Abroad
#1. Cost
Rent, tuition, and numerous other expenses that are necessary for day-to-day living will all be your responsibility.
As a result, depending on where you plan to study, make sure you have enough money to avoid running out of money in a strange country after a time.
If you’re interested in studying in the USA at a low cost, See our article on 5 US Study Abroad cities with low study costs.
#2. Homesickness
Chances are that you won’t be able to adjust to new conditions right after you arrive at your study destination and that you will miss your family and friends, especially if this is the first time you have spent a significant amount of time away from home.
The first few days or weeks may be difficult for you because you won’t have your loved ones nearby and will have to fend for yourself.
#3. Language Barrier
You can experience serious communication issues if you don’t speak the local language well.
If you don’t speak the local language well enough, it could be fairly challenging to connect with locals, even though you will be able to communicate to some extent.
As a result, you may want to ensure that you learn the language of the country where you plan to study.
#4. It may be difficult to transfer credits to your home university
Some universities might not accept your academic accomplishments from other international institutions, which could make it challenging for you to transfer the credits you earned during your study abroad to your home country.
To avoid any unpleasant surprises when you return to your country, ensure that the credits before taking any courses will transfer.
#5. Cultural shocks
You may experience a cultural shock if there are too many differences in the cultural norms of your home country and the country where you intend to study abroad.
Your overall experience during your study abroad may not be very pleasant if you are unable to mentally adjust to such differences.
#6. Social Exclusion
Some countries still have a negative perception of outsiders.
As a result, if you study in a country that has a negative perception of international students, you can find it difficult to make friends with locals and may even experience social isolation.
#7. Mental issues
It’s likely that at first, you may feel pretty overwhelmed because you will need to manage so many things and plan your life on your own.
While most people will adjust to these new obstacles in a healthy way, a small percentage may even experience considerable mental health problems due to stress.
#8. New Climate
Don’t underestimate the impact of changing climate.
If you grew up in a hot country with plenty of sunshine all year. It might be a major shock to your system in a country where it is always dark, chilly, and raining.
This can affect your mood and make the experience less enjoyable.
#9. Comfort Zone Pushes & Shoves
No one enjoys having to leave their comfort zone. You may feel lonely, isolated, insecure, and unsure of why you ever left home in the first place.
It’s never enjoyable at the time. But don’t worry, it will just make you stronger! Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, you’ll find your inner resilience and emerge feeling more capable and independent.
#10. Stress About What To Do After Graduation
This is one of the downsides that probably applies to everyone (since it’s part of being a college student), but it’s especially true for students who study abroad.
As the semester progresses, you become aware that you are coming closer to graduation and this could stress you out.
#11. You may have difficulties adapting to new cultures
If you choose to study in a remote part of a country, you may find it difficult to adjust to the local culture and way of life.
You may be uncomfortable with some locals, and if you have difficulty adapting to new customs, chances are you will not have a pleasant time during your semester abroad.
#12. Acclimatization
Moving is one thing, but discovering yourself in a new location is quite another.
Even if you rule the party scene and are known among friends as a social stallion, it will take some time for you to adjust completely.
This can last a week, a month, or even many months depending on the individual. Spend some time getting to know your daily routine, changing to a new way of life, and exploring it.
#13. You may not want to go back home
Some people genuinely enjoy going abroad to study, others find it challenging to adjust to life at home since they are simply not accustomed to it.
#14. Classes may be too difficult for you
Some of the classes you take during your semester abroad may be too challenging for you, which could make things difficult.
It’s likely that you will feel overwhelmed if you study in a country with relatively high educational standards, especially if you are from one with relatively low educational standards.
#15. Prolonged study duration
The potential for your courses to take longer if you study abroad is another issue.
While some employers won’t have an issue with this, others might not want to hire you since they think spending an extra semester abroad is kind of lazy or even worthless.
#16. Studying abroad isn’t easy when you have kids
If you already have kids, it’s likely that you won’t be able to manage a semester abroad because you’ll need to look after them, and studying abroad won’t be an option for you in that situation.
#17. Friendships may be lost over time
During your semester abroad, you can establish a lot of great friends, but you might also lose some of those friendships later on.
It is entirely normal to lose touch with a lot of people when you leave a country, so after a few years, you might not have too many friends from your studies abroad left.
#18. You may feel overwhelmed
As a result of all the new experiences, you may feel overwhelmed especially at the beginning of your study abroad when everything is unfamiliar to you and you have to handle everything on your own.
#19. People
Sometimes people can be really annoying. This is common everywhere, but in a new area where you don’t know anyone, you have to sift through a lot of annoying people before you find a good group of friends.
#20. Likelihood of getting lost easily
There is always that likelihood of getting lost in a new country especially if you study in a big city where you don’t fully understand the local language.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Pros and Cons of Studying Abroad
How much does it cost to study abroad?
To calculate the cost of studying abroad, you must consider both the average tuition prices for international students in your chosen country and the cost of living. Tuition fees for overseas students studying in the UK start at £10,000 (US$14,200) per year, with an additional £12,180 (US$17,300) required to cover living expenses (with more needed if you study in London). In the United States, the average yearly tuition charge at public institutions is US$25,620 and $34,740 at private universities, with an additional budget of at least $10,800 recommended to cover living expenses. With these annual figures in mind, keep in mind that undergraduate programs in the United States typically last four years.
Can I get financial aid to study abroad?
Scholarships, fellowships, studentships, sponsorships, grants, and bursaries are funding options available to make studying abroad less expensive. Your selected institution may be the best source of funding information for you, so study the school's website for guidance or contact the school directly. This is also where you may find information about study abroad scholarships offered by the university and other external organizations, as well as specifics about eligibility and how to apply.
Where in the world should I study?
When deciding where to study, consider practical factors such as the costs of studying in that nation (both tuition and living expenses), your graduate career possibilities (is there a good job market? ), and your overall safety and wellbeing. You should also consider what kind of lifestyle you want to lead during your education. Do you prefer living in a large city or a tiny university town? Do you desire world-class athletic facilities or arts and culture on your doorstep? Whatever your hobbies are, be sure they are compatible with your study destination so that you have the best opportunity of enjoying your abroad experience.
How long do study abroad programs take?
The length of time you spend studying abroad will be determined by the program and level of degree you are pursuing. In general, an undergraduate degree will take three or four years of full-time study (for example, most topics in the UK take three years, whereas most subjects in the US take four), whereas a graduate degree, such as a master's degree or equivalent, will take one or two years. A doctorate (Ph.D.) program typically lasts three to four years.
Do I have to speak a second language to study abroad?
This is determined by the country in which you desire to study and the language in which your course will be taught. If you are not a native English speaker but intend to pursue a course taught in English, you must provide English-language exam results to demonstrate your proficiency in the language. This is to ensure that you will be able to follow your course without difficulty.
Recommendations
- Cheapest Countries To Study Abroad For Indian Students
- Study Abroad in Norway
- Top 10 Most Popular Study Abroad Countries for Global Students
- Safest Places to Study Abroad
- Study Abroad in the Netherlands.
Conclusion
Studying abroad can be an amazing experience. However, like any other thing it has its downsides. Be sure to weigh your options before making any decisions.
All the best!