Study Abroad Statistics

10 Reasons to study abroad

Save Money While Studying Abroad

Preparing for Study Abroad

Are you thinking about studying abroad during your college years? Or if you are lucky you’ve already been accepted into a study abroad program! Getting ready to study abroad in another country can’t be done properly overnight. Studying abroad is not just an extended vacation… For a semester or sometimes even a year, you will be living in a new city, thousands of miles away from your family and friends.  Here is a list of tips to get ready to study abroad and make the most out of this amazing experience.

1. Research your destination 

Knowing the basic history, culture and customs of the country you have chosen will greatly improve your study abroad experience. Purchase a couple of travel guides and start reading! Check out Tripadvisor to plan the sites you will visit first when you arrive, and plan which cities and towns you would like to explore during your trip. Check out the culinary specialties you need to try.

Learning about your study abroad destination will not only make you more and more excited as your trip gets closer, but it will also keep you out of trouble. Foreign laws can be very different than what we accustomed to in the United States, and what would result in a minor write-up on campus could land you in jail in another country. So before you jet out for what will surely be the best experience of your life, do your research and know what to expect!

www.tumblr.com

2. Learn the Language

If you are travelling in a country where English is not the primary language, learning the basics of the foreign language will come in extremely handy. We definitely recommend getting Rosetta Stone, which is the best language learning software currently out there. Basically, Rosetta Stone combines interactive technology with native speaker voicing and a visual environment to mimic the complete immersion process. You can get through the lessons on your iPhone or your tablet, and it’s actually really fun to do.

We’d recommend completing at least Level 1 in your new foreign language in order to learn the basics. Knowing these can help you to overcome the first few days of adjustment. If you have time before you leave try to get through Level 2 as well to be able to initiate conversation with locals, and have a better understanding of your surroundings. You can even get a student discount at Rosetta Stone to make it an even better deal!

hikeast.tumblr.com

3. Save up.

Creating a savings plan will be your best bet for being prepared financially while abroad. You want to make sure that you will always have money in your pocket for weekend trips, shopping, dining, or in the case of emergency.

You can also search for study abroad scholarships through your school or program for additional aid to use during your time abroad. Creating a plan and knowing your options will allow you to have the most fun with what you have to spend.

funnyand.tumblr.com

5. Get ready for departure

• Check out Immigration requirements

Studying abroad almost always requires a study visa. While your school will assist you through the application process, make sure you are pro-active and aware of all deadlines. Have your passport renewed well in advance if it is close to expiration, as you almost always need a 6 months validity to enter any country.

• Make a doctor’s appointment

Your doctor will be able to advise you with any vaccinations or medications required for traveling to your destination. Keep in mind that you might want to travel to neighboring countries while you are abroad, so it better to be safe than sorry. Getting a full physical before studying abroad is always a good idea as well. Ask your doctor for basic prescription medication to carry with you: upset stomach, antibiotics, an EpiPen if you have any allergies, etc… Navigating the pharmacy aisle is a foreign country can be a very daunting task.

• Get appropriate health and travel insurance.

Even if you are still covered under your parents’ health insurance, you will most likely need your own coverage while you study abroad. Getting a good travel insurance will also pay off in case of trip interruption, loss of luggage, or any travel related unpleasant circumstances.

4. Create a communication plan.

Once you arrive at your study abroad destination, one of your first order of business will be to get yourself a cell phone. Make sure to purchase an unlocked cell before you leave so you can buy a prepaid SIM card to use when you get there. Call your US service provider before you leave to make sure your phone can be used abroad in case of emergency over the first couple of days. The last thing you want is to find yourself stranded on your layover without a phone. For instance, T-Mobile offers unlimitedinternational data and text, so you can use all these tools right at your fingertips to help you stay in touch.

Apps like Viber, Skype or WhatsApp also come in very handy to keep in touch with your friends and family back home. Make sure to use those apps over wifi to save your data. Use Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to give everyone updates on your whereabouts. You could even consider starting a blog where you update everyone on your adventures.

thestylentino.tumblr.com

5. Prepare yourself mentally.

The idea of getting out of your comfort zone and saying goodbye to your friends and family for a couple of months can be very scary. But try to think of all the excitement that is yet to come! Head for this new experience with an open mind. Foreign cultures are different, not weird or wrong. While studying abroad you will meet many amazing people that you will form new friendships with. Never forget that you also have a strong support system at home that will help you get through the challenges. Now start packing, and enjoy the ride!

5 Questions To Figure Out Where to Study Abroad

5 Questions To Figure Out Where to Study Abroad

So you’re eager to study abroad, but not sure where. With so many opportunities available around the world it can be difficult to choose just one. If you’re finding yourself in this exact situation, start by asking yourself the following questions. By taking some time to reflect you’ll be able to conquer this overwhelming process of figuring out where you should study abroad.

Do you want to study in a city or rural area?

If you are more accustomed to urban life, then you know that big cities have it all: lots of people, access to cultural institutions, and endless activities going on day and night.  However small towns can also offer benefits such as a more traditional way of life and extra practice in the local language and customs.

Do you want to study in a common or less conventional destination?

Most students prefer to study in Western Europe, where they are drawn to the enticing mix of history, culture, languages, and food. However some also choose less conventional destinations like, Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America. Any place you choose will offer a wide array of experiences, and each will present its own challenges.  

Do I want to experience a culture that is familiar or completely foreign to me?

You may wish to experience your ethnic heritage in a new culturally meaningful way, and studying abroad is an excellent way to do this. Or maybe you wish to learn more about a culture that is far removed from your own way of life. The “right” choice will be the one that best fits your intentions.

Do I want to challenge myself in a non-English speaking environment?

Many students are multilingual which can offer a wider choice of destinations. However, you are not limited to only studying abroad in countries whose languages you speak. If you are up for a challenge and confident in your ability to communicate, then go for it! If not, stick to countries with your native language or choose one where you know you will be studying the language.

Do I want to live in a warmer or cooler climate?

Remember that you will be abroad for an extended period of time, which means sometimes adjusting to weather you may not be accustomed to. Only consider places where you will be comfortable with the temperature during the time of year you would be going. If your idea of being abroad is on a beach under palm trees, then Europe probably isn’t for you.

By taking the time to think about these questions, you can get a better idea of where you may want to study abroad. Do your research and you will end up being as prepared and confident as possible when making your final decision. And don’t forget that no matter where you study abroad, you experience is sure to be memorable!

24 Apps That Will Make Your Study Abroad Trip Easier

In an increasingly technological world, it's hard to imagine life without a laptop and smartphone. Long gone are the days of internet cafes and international phone cards for study abroad students.

When you pack for your study abroad adventure, don't bother lugging around a huge guidebook. Throw your smartphone in your bag, and with a few handy apps, you'll have all the information you need to create a fantastic study abroad experience!

To make your time abroad the best it can be, we've compiled the ultimate list of apps you need to download before you hop on the plane.

Language

If you're studying abroad in a country that doesn't speak English, there are plenty of apps you can download to practice your language skills or help you translate.

Google Translate (Free)

Download Google Translate: iPhone | Android

If you have a data plan (which is super easy to get in most countries), the Google Translate app will be your best friend during your time abroad. The app has a bunch of special features you can use, depending on the language. For many languages, you can translate a recording of your voice or a piece of text by scanning it, rather than a typed sentence. You can listen to your translations spoken aloud, and even access your translation history when you're offline!

This app is perfect for exploring your host city and translating on the go. You can even use it to help you with your assignments and language classes. Just be sure not to translate an entire assignment. It never ends well.

Duolingo (Free)

Download Duolingo: iPhone | Android

If you're heading somewhere where one of the many languages offered by Duolingo is spoken, this little app will become your best friend while killing time waiting for the train or in between classes. This (free!) app will help you learn new vocabulary and grammar in whichever language you're learning using interactive flashcards and games. Trust me, it can become addictive.

Transportation

Whether you're studying abroad for one month or one year, it's important to learn how to get around your home city. Be sure to check if there are any local bus or subway apps where you can plan routes, check times and get directions.

Uber (Free)

Download Uber: iPhone and Android

While Uber may have had a bit of controversy in the last year, the company is going strong in many cities all over the world. Check to see if your city uses Uber and download the app to quickly catch a cab anywhere. One of the best features? You can pay by credit card and enter your destination in advance -- which is wonderful if you're trying to explain where you're going without a common language.

GoEuro (Free)

Download GoEuro: iPhone and Andriod

This is more for the students studying in Europe, but if you're one of them, it's a really handy app for your weekend travels and figuring out the fastest / cheapest route to get there. It will compare the prices of train, bus, and plane tickets from to/from your destination.

The train might have the best views, but it could be twice as expensive as a flight. And who knows, that bus ride from Madrid to Bilbao might actually be faster and cheaper than a train. GoEuro will help you figure out the smartest option for your trip.

App to help you hail taxis (Varies)

Many cities also have similar apps you can use to hail taxis. Ask a local if there are any taxi apps you can download so that you can always catch a cab whenever you need one. Some places thrive on taxi apps and it's a necessity to download them. For example, where I'm studying in China it's all but impossible to get a taxi without calling one on the app first.

Local public transit app (Varies; Usually free)

Most major cities will also offer an app that helps you navigate the buses, trains, and overall public transportation, using maps and timetables. Some will also let you enter your starting and ending point and guide you through all the steps of getting there, and when!

For example, heading to Paris? Get RATP (it's translated into a dozen languages). London? Then you'll need CityMapper. Going to Madrid? Madrid EMT. Sydney or Melbourne? GetTripView. None of the above? Then do a quick Google search for "public transportation app for __" to see what your city's options are.

Google Maps tends to do a fairly good job of mapping out public transportation, but it's still not as good in some global cities as it is here in the U.S. In Bangkok, for example, if you rely on Google Maps versus Bangkok Transport Map, you won't always be presented with all the route options that are actually available.

Entertainment

When studying abroad you're going to want to explore and enjoy your local city. Need a good restaurant or bar? Want to know where the nearest bank is? FourSquare is great at home (and abroad!) but these apps have you covered.

Foursquare, Yelp, or Zomato (Free)

You likely already have a go-to app for discovering new places to eat at home, and chances are they might work abroad as well. It really depends on where you are, but whether your go to is Foursquare, Yelp, or Zomato, definitely open that app when you first land to see if it's helpful in your host country. They may not have the same comprehensiveness as they do back home, but don't ditch it until you try it!

Where to Go? (Free)

Download Where to Go: iPhone | Android

This app will help you find the closest restaurant, bar, grocery store or historical site using location technology. It will even give you directions from your current location to your chosen destination. If you're a bit spontaneous, you can even use the "Shake to Suggest" feature, which will give you a random destination in your vicinity.

AroundMe (Free)

Download AroundMe: iPhone | Android

This app will give you a complete list of businesses in your area. Everything from restaurants and bars to hospitals and gas stations. You can sort by category and distance, and even add phone numbers to your contact list or email the info to a friend. Best of all, AroundMe also has a map and will route directions for you.

Foodspotting (Free)

Download Foodspotting: iPhone | Android

For all the foodies, Foodspotting is the best app for finding restaurants around you. Using location technology, this app will search all of the nearby restaurants, giving you a large list to chose from with exact locations. This app even provides user-generated photos and reviews so that you can be sure you're picking a good place.

Finance

While it may be tempting to go crazy and buy all the pashmina scarves or macaroons, it's important to budget during your semester abroad. You'll probably be using more cash than you're used to, meaning many currency calculations and messy tabs accumulated through sharing change. Never fear though, these apps will keep your checkbook balanced!

Mint (Free)

Download Mint: iPhone | Android

The ultimate checkbook, this app lets you record your expenses in a ton of different categories. You can set your budget for the month and track your spending in each category to make sure you're on track. You can even link up your credit cards and bank account so that your transactions are automatically tracked or manually enter your cash spending.

Get in a good habit of recording your expenses abroad, and maybe you'll even keep using the app back home. Won't your parents be proud?

Converter Plus (Free)

Download Converter Plus: iPhone

Not only does this app convert currency, it constantly updates to the latest and most accurate conversion when connected to the Internet. If you're American, you may want this app for more than just financial reasons as it also converts temperature, distance, weight, speed and volume.

How fast is 30km/hour? How tall are you in meters? How many kilograms does your bag weigh? How hot is 25 degrees Celsius? Use this app to learn how the rest of the world functions.

Splitwise (Free)

Download Splitwise: iPhone | Android

If you and your friends are notorious for keeping long running tabs on who owes who, this app will be your lifesaver. In this app you can create individual events and list the people involved in each event. The app even lets you select the currency used in the transaction, and will do currency calculations for you.

At the end of an event, you'll end up with a nicely calculated tab of who owes whom and how much. Then, easily pay your friends using Venmo.

So if you and your roommate go on a weekend trip to France, all those Euros your roommate owes you can be nicely added to the long list of pounds she owes from after school pub nights in the UK. No more "forgetting" to pay your friends back with this app.

Photography

There's no better way to cherish your study abroad memories than with a full SD card of photos from your time abroad. Now that smartphones have better and better cameras, there's almost no need to bring a digital camera on your trip. With these handy apps, you can edit and share your photos with your friends back home.

Instagram (Free)

Download Instagram: iPhone | Android

What would our lives be without Instagram? With this app you can edit your photos with the perfect filter, #hashtag them to perfection and make all of your friends back home jealous of your Eiffel Tower or Great Wall selfies.

Adobe Photoshop Express 2.0 (Free)

Download Adobe Photoshop Express: iPhone | Android

This app comes with all the basic editing features you could ever need. Color adjustments, filters, and special effects. Plus, it's free -- which is always nice.

Communication

How do the locals communicate in your host city? Some places use basic SMS texts while others use internet texting apps like WhatsApp and Viber to communicate.

Heading to South Korea or Taiwan? Be sure to download Line so you can chat with the locals using cute emojis.

Studying in China? WeChat will become your life. Not only is it a texting app, but it now also serves as China's version of Facebook with a social media app included included with the texting.

Be Sure to Pack Your Smartphone

It's amazing how technology has turned the smartphone into the world's best travel tool. From language barriers to hailing cabs to balancing your checkbook, the worlds app developers have you covered.

When you're studying abroad, your smartphone can impact your experience in two very different ways. It will be tempting to use technology as a crutch. You may want to cling to apps like Facebook, Instagram and Skype to feel comfortable in a place so far from home. While these apps are great for keeping in touch, sometimes you'll need to put down the phone to really enjoy your study abroad experience.

On the other hand, apps can be great for integrating into the local culture. Use Line to send emojii texts to your new Korean classmates, download the local buss schedule to explore the city or use local entertainment apps to find the best restaurants your city has to offer. Technology is what you make of it, so be sure to try and limit your Facebook time and live in the moment.

Can you think of any amazing apps we're missing? Be sure to let us know in the comments!

Everything you should do before you travel abroad

10 Reasons to Study Abroad

College is a time in your life that will most likely be filled with incredible experiences and memories. It’s a stage in life where EVERYTHING about what you know is changing and this is a good thing, even if it feels challenging or difficult at times.

Embrace the opportunities that arise and let them fill your life with new and unexpected adventures.

Speaking of adventures, one of the best things you can experience during your time as a college student is a study abroad program. You get to travel, feel the liberation of independence and earn college credit.

You will undoubtedly learn a lot during your college years but, there are more important things than studying hard and getting good grades. There are certain things that you will experience while studying abroad that simply cannot be taught in a classroom.

For anyone interested in studying abroad, here are my tips on finding the best study abroad program:

What do you hope to gain from studying abroad?

First, ask yourself what you hope to gain from a study abroad experience. Once you determine what the long-term goals of study abroad are for you personally you will be able to choose a program that’s best suited for your personal interests.

Are you just looking for a good time? Or, is this something you hope to gain professional experience from?

What are your professional and education goals?

You’re going to find that you have a lot of goals that you want to accomplish by the time you’re a college graduate. If you are studying abroad for college credit and professional experience, your study abroad goals deserve the same planning.

Studying abroad in a program and country that compliments your major looks impressive on a resume and makes you a more globally-minded candidate to employers. Especially if you’re adding a second language to your repertoire.

If you have any interest in working for a major corporation, a global brand or maybe even becoming a travel writer *insert wink here* cultural experience is essential.

Your competition includes people from all over the world, not just your community.

Where do you want to study?

Some of us may already have our hearts set on a destination. But, it’s important to realize that not all programs complete course requirements for your major and not all programs are available in every destination.

So, if you have a certain country in mind or a destination that you absolutely have to go to, do some serious research to find out if there is study abroad program there that fits your studies.

Weigh up how important culture, language immersion and the course offerings are for you and make sure you find a program and a destination that will tick all of your boxes.

What program is best for you?

When you’re going to study abroad there isn’t just a one-size-fits-all. There are SO many programs available that can fit in with just about any schedule.

Are you interested in doing a semester abroad, or a full year? Would you prefer a summer program, or perhaps a short-term internship?

I worked full-time through college to pay for school so I couldn’t take much time off to study abroad for a full semester. Instead, I saved up for a month-long Spanish immersion program in Spain between Spring and Fall semesters.

I lived with a local family, became conversationally fluent in Spanish and earned 9 college units to complete my language requirement for my Business Finance degree.

While I would have loved to do something like Semester at Sea, I did what was best for me within my budget and had the time of my life.

Does study abroad benefit your major?

The next step is to determine whether a study abroad program compliments your major or not. At the end of the day, you want to choose something that will benefit your area of study and fulfill your academic requirements. You don’t want to return home and find that your study abroad credits don’t count towards your college degree.

This is an opportunity to make your time abroad fulfilling and worthwhile.

Social and Extra-Curricular Activity Opportunities

Study abroad programs are a fantastic way to get you out of your comfort zone and reach your full potential. While researching the best program for you, take note of what social networking opportunities and extra-curricular activities are available to you.

I was able to enjoy travel excursions on the weekends during my program which enabled me to see a LOT of Spain in one month’s time.

What Type of Housing Would You Prefer?

Things like housing may vary with different programs. You might be living in a dorm with other students or with a local family depending on the program.

Housing can play a big part in your study abroad experience. I was able to live with local families during my time in Spain and it awarded me a culturally enriching experience.

By living with locals, I was fully immersed in the Spanish language and culture.

Consider Costs Involved

Some schools work with exchange programs where there is no additional cost to study abroad than for normal tuition. There are even study abroad scholarships within certain majors and at different schools.

Research the options at your university and also at local community colleges to see what is available to you within your budget. Each program comes with different costs, whether it’s tuition, flights, cost of living or accommodation.

Keep in mind that you are essentially funding what could very be one of the most important life experiences you will ever have and that is priceless.

19 Study Abroad Tips

1. Plan all of your side trips as soon as possible. The earlier you book your flight from England to Paris, or wherever you go, the less it’ll cost!

2. Don’t let sleepiness bog you down. If you have the choice between a nap and a chance to explore, EXPLORE. You won’t regret it.

Loading

View on Instagram

3. Learn a little bit about your new country before you get there, so you’re not totally in the dark when discussing with your new foreign friends.

Loading

View on Instagram

4. And make a valid attempt to learn the language. If you don’t know it before you arrive, try learning once you’re there.

5. Figure out what you’ll need to buy in your new country, before arriving. Will you be given thin sheets and no cooking supplies? You can plan for that in your budget.

Loading

View on Instagram

6. Ask around about awesome resources you might be missing out on, like tour groups that’ll plan your weekend trips for you.

Loading

View on Instagram

7. Learn how to read a map and navigate WITHOUT electronics. It’s a lot safer, and you’ll be quick on your toes.

8. Scan all of your important documents, like your passport and acceptance letter to your university, *just* in case.

Loading

View on Instagram

9. You’ve probably heard this a million times, but it’s gospel: Don’t let your relationship hold you back.

10. Think very hard about what you pack. You want to make sure what you’re lugging around is useful!

Loading

View on Instagram

11. Say “YES” to every damn opportunity. Especially if it sounds silly — you’ll be likely to meet other people who think it’s silly, too, and that’s how you make friends!

12. And don’t be afraid to take some crazy risks. Those make the best stories, after all.

13. Actually go to class, even if the attendance policy is more lax than you’re used to.

14. Hang out and explore with people who aren’t from your home country — make friends from all over the world!

Loading

View on Instagram

15. But you’re also allowed to hang out with people who ~know where you’re coming from~. It can make you feel less homesick.

Loading

View on Instagram

16. If you’re comfortable and feel safe, DO take trips alone — you can decide where to stay, eat, and explore without having to ask anyone else.

17. Document EVERYTHING, from the local hot spots to the bathroom in your homestay. Take pictures so you never forget your home away from home.

Loading

View on Instagram

18. At some point you’ll realize that you’re actually living there, and you will stop doing and seeing as many things. Don’t forget that your time abroad actually ends.

19. And if your schedule allows it, go abroad multiple times throughout college. You don’t know when you’ll get a chance to visit new countries after you graduate.