The top 10 benefits of studying abroad [2024]

Studying abroad is an exciting chance to explore new cultures, enrich your academic life and transform your personal growth and career prospects. In this blog post, we explore the top 10 reasons why every student should consider taking their education overseas.

Table of Contents

Understanding studying abroad

Benefits of studying abroad

Key facts about studying overseas

FAQs

Understanding Studying Abroad

Whether you choose to complete a full university degree abroad, a semester abroad, or just spend some time advancing your language skills, there is no doubt that studying abroad is a life-changing opportunity.

Not only does it open students' eyes to different ways of life and promoting understanding and tolerance, but it also develops key skills that are increasingly important in today’s globalized world.

Top 10 Benefits of Studying Abroad

Here, we look at ten benefits of foreign study in more detail.

1. Discover new places around the world

• Travelling to a new country in any capacity is like opening a treasure chest of opportunities. By studying abroad, you get to immerse yourself in new landscapes and natural scenery, and see famous sights. Whether it's the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Great Wall of China, these experiences will leave lasting impressions.
• Exploring new places also gives you the chance to learn about the history and culture of your host country. Museums, art galleries, and local tours offer a wealth of knowledge that textbooks can’t provide. Plus, you can venture into neighboring countries during weekends or holiday breaks, broadening your global perspective.
• Finally, living in a new place will help you develop essential life skills. Navigating public transportation, understanding different currencies, and adapting to new environments are invaluable skills that will serve you well throughout your life.

"Los Angeles is the most beautiful city I’ve ever been to. I fell in love with the beautiful beaches and the nice and warm weather.

The people are so friendly, and you can do a lot e.g. going on a hike to the Hollywood sign, visiting the Griffith observatory, going surfing (which I recommend), Universal Studios, typical restaurants, Santa Monica pier, Venice beach, San Diego, cinemas and so much more.

Those 6 weeks in LA really showed me that I want to study here in my year abroad at college because I feel so comfortable in this city."

Konstanze, Vacation English Course at Kings Los Angeles

2. Learn more and get smarter

• Studying abroad offers a unique academic experience that can enhance your educational background. Different countries have different teaching methods, which can provide new insights and perspectives on your field of study. This diverse learning environment can stimulate your intellectual curiosity and improve your problem-solving skills.
• Additionally, being in an academic setting with students from all over the world fosters collaborative learning. Group projects and discussions with peers from different cultural backgrounds can broaden your understanding and spark innovative ideas.
• For many ambitious international students, the best universities for their intended area of specialisation may not be in their home countries. By studying abroad, students have the chance to learn from expert faculty, build professional networks, and access state-of-the-art campus resources and facilities.

3. Explore different cultures

• One of the most enriching aspects of studying abroad is the opportunity to experience a new culture first-hand. From the food to the festivals, every day brings something new and exciting. You’ll learn about local customs, traditions, and social norms, which can deepen your appreciation for diversity.
• Participating in cultural activities and events is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in your host country’s way of life. Whether it's celebrating local holidays, attending cultural festivals, or simply trying new foods, these experiences will make your stay memorable and fulfilling.
• Living in a new culture can also challenge your preconceived notions and broaden your worldview. You'll develop a more nuanced understanding of global issues and become more empathetic towards people from different backgrounds.

4. Get better at speaking other languages

• Living in a foreign country is one of the most effective ways to learn a new language. Daily interactions with native speakers will help you improve your language skills quickly and naturally. Whether you're ordering food, asking for directions, or chatting with classmates, every conversation is an opportunity to practice.
• Many universities and specalist language schools offer language courses for international students. These courses provide a structured learning environment and help you build a strong foundation in the new language. Additionally, language exchange programs can pair you with local students who want to learn your language, creating a mutually beneficial learning experience.
• Being bilingual or multilingual is a valuable asset in today’s globalized world. It can open up more job opportunities, enhance your travel experiences, and allow you to connect with people from different cultures on a deeper level.

Find out more about English language programmes with Kings

5. Open up more job opportunities

• Studying abroad can significantly boost your employability. Employers value candidates with international experience, as it demonstrates adaptability, cultural awareness, and a willingness to step out of their comfort zone. These qualities are highly sought after in today’s competitive job market.
• Additionally, the skills and experiences you gain from studying abroad can set you apart from other candidates. Problem-solving, critical thinking, and cross-cultural communication are just a few of the transferable skills that employers look for. By highlighting these skills in your cv/resume and interviews, you can make a compelling case for why you’re the right fit for the job.
• Many universities abroad have strong connections with local and international companies. This can provide valuable networking opportunities and increase your chances of landing internships or job placements. Attending career fairs, workshops, and networking events can help you build professional relationships and gain insights into your chosen field.

"The reason I picked NYU is firstly, that New York City is the best city you can find – possibly in the world. If you go downtown, you can find the financial district, where Wall Street is located, where many headquarters of the multinational companies are located.

You can also find the international World Trade Center, so in terms of business opportunities, this is a like a goldmine to most students, and compared to a lot of other cities, and countries, here there are tonnes, millions of start-ups, which provide different internship experiences that some students definitely have to explore in order to progress smoothly into their professional pursuits."

Ho Man Wong majored in Economics and East Asian Studies at New York University after transferring from Kings in Boston

6. Find new things you like

• Studying abroad is an excellent opportunity to discover new interests and passions. Whether it's picking up a new hobby, joining a club, or participating in sports, there are countless ways to explore and grow outside the classroom.
• Many universities offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, from music and arts to sports and volunteer opportunities. These activities can help you meet new people, develop new skills, and find new passions that you may not have discovered otherwise.
• Exploring new interests can also enhance your personal growth and well-being. Engaging in activities you enjoy can reduce stress, boost your mood, and increase your overall happiness. It can also provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment, making your study abroad experience even more rewarding.

"During my time at Kings Brighton, I had a chance to participate in a wide range of charity and volunteering activities which aided me with my personal statement and work experience pathway. It’s a good idea to include relevant experience related to the course you are applying in the personal statement. However, UK Universities would also like to see the skillset that we may have gained during our high school studies.

For me giving something back to my community has been a lifelong passion of mine. I volunteered to be a marshal for the Brighton Half Marathon and took part in the beach cleaning events at Brighton Palace Pier. Both of which have helped me to improve my interpersonal and communication abilities."

Solaleh Nasri, Advanced Level Foundation student at Kings Brighton

7. Make friends you'll keep forever

• One of the most valuable aspects of studying abroad is the opportunity to make lifelong friends. Living and studying in a new country creates a unique bond with fellow international students who are going through similar experiences. These friendships can provide support, companionship, and memories that will last a lifetime.
• Participating in social events, clubs, and activities is a great way to meet new people and build meaningful relationships. Many universities and language course providers organise orientation programs and social events to help international students connect and feel welcomed.
• Having friends from different parts of the world can also broaden your network and provide valuable connections for your future career. These friendships can open doors to new opportunities and experiences, making your study abroad journey even more enriching.

“My mother wanted me to have a good level of education and internationally recognisable qualifications, which were offered here at Kings. Originally I was afraid of studying abroad alone, yet coming here was one of the best choices I could have made. I’ve met countless new friends and made life-long friendships. Along with the social benefits, I dramatically improved my level of English and developed the confidence to speak out and voice my opinions.

My main argument against going to Kings was being terrified of not getting along with people and not finding any friends. But on the very first day, I was welcomed with bright smiles from students and staff members. Here at Kings we have students from all over the world, which I think is a perfect environment to get to know and embrace other cultures, and practice tolerance and acceptance - after all, we are all different, yet all human.”

Eva, GCSE student at Kings Bournemouth

8. Grow and become a better person

• Studying abroad is a transformative experience that can help you grow and develop as a person. Living in a new country challenges you to step out of your comfort zone, adapt to new environments, and overcome obstacles. These experiences can build resilience, independence, and confidence.
• Being exposed to different cultures and perspectives can also enhance your understanding of yourself and the world around you. It can help you develop a more open-minded and empathetic outlook, making you a more well-rounded and compassionate individual.
• Personal growth is a lifelong journey, and studying abroad is a significant step in that process. The challenges and experiences you encounter will shape you in ways that will benefit you for the rest of your life.

9. Get ready for more school

• If you plan to pursue further education, studying abroad can provide a strong foundation for your academic and career goals. Many universities abroad offer advanced programs and research opportunities that can prepare you for graduate school or professional studies.
• Studying in a different academic environment can also enhance your learning experience and provide new perspectives on your field of study. This can make you a more competitive candidate for future academic and career opportunities.
• Additionally, the international experience and skills you gain from studying abroad can make you a more attractive candidate for scholarships, grants, and fellowships. These opportunities can help you continue your education and achieve your academic and career aspirations.

10. Have new and exciting experiences that make you happier

• Studying abroad is an adventure filled with exciting and memorable experiences. From exploring new places to trying new foods to meeting new people, every day brings something new and exciting.
• These experiences can enhance your overall well-being and happiness. Engaging in activities you enjoy, exploring new interests, and building meaningful relationships can provide a sense of fulfilment and joy.
• Living in a new country also provides opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery. The challenges and experiences you encounter can help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you, making you a happier and more well-rounded individual.

“You just need to have a great mindset and be excited for every day. You are here to learn, you are here to be inspired and you are here to explore, so just be ready to have excitement in your heart!

Debbie, English for Fashion student at Kings New York

Key Facts About Studying Overseas

According to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), around 10% of students go abroad to learn higher education. From 5 million in 2014, it is estimated to rise to 8 million by 2025.

As we have already explored in this article, there are many benefits to studying abroad. Here, we look at some of the specific facts and figures which demonstrate its value further.

• 64% of companies are more likely to offer broader job roles to students who finished their education abroad based on the Erasmus Impact Study.
• The same study indicated that, compared to individuals who do not study abroad, young people who study abroad have a 50% lower chance of experiencing long-term unemployment.
• Based on responses from 13,0000 hiring managers and CEOs, the 2020 QS Global employer survey found that 25% of respondents said that international experience was a recruitment priority.
• According to the World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report (2020), employers rated critical thinking and analysis, problem-solving, and self-management as the most critical skills for the global workforce moving into 2025.
• An analysis by the Consortium for Analysis of Student Success through International Education (CASSIE) found that those who studied abroad were 6.2% more likely to graduate in 4 years and had an average GPA 0.16 point higher than those who did not study abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about studying abroad.

Q1. What exactly is studying abroad?

Studying abroad is an immersive learning experience that involves pursuing academic opportunities in foreign countries. It typically involves a student leaving their home country for a specified period and enrolling in a school, college or university in another country. Language plays a crucial role in studying abroad, as students may need to learn a new language to effectively communicate with locals or participate in classes. Hence, studying abroad allows students to gain mastery of foreign languages, be exposed to new cultures, and broaden their educational horizons. Besides offering the opportunity to learn and connect with people from different countries, studying abroad is a valuable personal growth experience that equips students with exceptional skills in problem-solving, independence, and adaptability that are essential for today's global economy

Q2. How do I apply for a study abroad program?

Before you start applying, make sure to research the requirements for the study abroad programme of your choice. Consider factors such as language requirements, cultural differences, and visa regulations. Don't be afraid to contact current or past study abroad students for advice and insight. With careful planning and preparation, studying in a foreign country can be a life-changing experience that broadens your perspectives and boosts your career prospects.

Q3. Can I study abroad if I don't speak the local language?

in most cases, you can still study abroad even if you don't speak the local language. If you are an English-language speaker, many universities in foreign countries offer courses taught in English. However, if you need to improve your language skills before you enrol on a course, there are many language programs available to help you reach the required standard.

Q4. How can studying abroad enhance my future career prospects?

Studying abroad is a life-changing experience that can offer numerous benefits when it comes to advancing your career. By studying in a foreign country, you not only gain an in-depth understanding of a different culture, but you also develop valuable skills that are highly sought after by employers. For example, you gain cross-cultural communication skills, which allow you to communicate effectively with people from different cultural backgrounds. Additionally, you become more adaptable to change, which can be valuable in any industry that is constantly evolving. Furthermore, studying abroad gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new and different learning style and broaden your educational horizons. All these skills and experiences make you a more desirable candidate to future employers and can set you apart from other applicants.

Are you planning to study abroad?

We hope that this article has highlighted some of the many benefits of international study, whatever capacity it's in. Further articles about life and study as an international student can be found on our blog, Kings Life.

International study programmes with Kings

• In the UK, we offer a range of pre-university programmes at our four UK colleges, from A-levels to specialist foundations for international students, such as the Advanced Level Foundation.
• Through our Guaranteed Outcome programs in the US, students begin a bachelor’s degree at one of our partner universities in Boston, New York, California, Oregon and Wisconsin. After 2 years they are then able to transfer to a Top 50 or Top 100 university, from where they will graduate. Our expert advisors will guide each and every student through the entire transfer process from target university identification, course selection to transfer university applications.
• We also offer semester abroad programs (in Boston, California, New York and Oregon), for those who would like to experience American College life without taking a full degree.
• For those who require English preparation, we also offer a range of English language programs, from general English tuition to exam preparation courses and specialist English for career success.

If you would like more information about programmes with Kings in the UK or USA, you can send us a message using the Live Chat or Enquiry Form.

Alternatively, you can send us an email enquiries@kingseducation.com

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