Your complete guide to studying abroad

Why should you study abroad?

There are plenty of benefits associated with studying abroad. By venturing out of the United States, you can:

• Grow Academically: Gain access to world-class professors and unique programs that may not be available domestically 
• Immerse Yourself in New Cultures: Live in a new environment and explore diverse communities 
• Unlock Career Opportunities: Build an international network and stand out to future employers who value cross-cultural experiences 

Studying abroad opens doors that can shape your future. The key is to find a destination that aligns with your interests and goals. 

How to study abroad

You can’t just hop on a plane and fly to your dream university. You’ll need to create a detailed plan for your study abroad journey. Here’s a timeline to help guide you:

12–18 Months Before Departure

Start planning a year to a year and a half ahead of time to study abroad. Use this time to identify which countries and universities match your personal and academic goals. Once you create a short list of schools, research tuition, housing, and travel costs. 

9–12 Months Before Departure

Now’s the time to start applying to universities. Gather copies of essential documents like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. Search for and apply for scholarships and grants to offset your tuition costs. 

6–9 Months Before Departure

Approximately six to nine months before your departure, you’ll need to secure on-campus or private accommodation housing options. Some places will have waiting lists, so apply early. You should also apply for your student visa, which can be a time-consuming process. 

3–6 Months Before Departure

Secure your flights and plan your arrival in your chosen country. Start shopping for flights around six months out, and look for the best deal possible. You may also want to purchase travel insurance to protect yourself and your luggage. 

If you need any vaccinations to enter the country, schedule those treatments and get a copy of your vaccination records. 

1–3 Months Before Departure 

Now is the time to make your final preparations. Research cultural norms, purchase any seasonal clothing you’ll need, and join student groups to connect with others heading to the same destination. 

Deciding where to go

So where should you go? Here are some factors to keep in mind: 

Major 

While there are a lot of personal benefits to studying abroad, your adventure is, first and foremost, an academic one. Choose a destination that offers strong programs in your field of study. 

Duration

Prioritize programs that align with your duration preferences. If you want to complete your entire degree abroad, identify institutions that accept international students. If you are looking for a short-term program (i.e., one semester), identify universities that your home school recognizes so that your credits will be transferable. 

Cost of living

Budget constraints can influence your choice. Research the cost of living and tuition in each country on your list. Some destinations are more budget-friendly than others. It’s important to create a realistic list of potential programs. 

Your interests

Let’s say you find a few different host nations with programs relevant to your academic goals. You can narrow down your search by identifying which environments best align with your interests. For example, if you love history and arts, a culturally rich location will be a better fit. 

Language

If you aren’t fluent in any secondary languages, you should prioritize English-language programs. However, immersion in a non-English-speaking country can also be an excellent opportunity to learn. 

Student life

Research the social and cultural scene for international students, including campus activities and travel opportunities. A university with an active student community will help you make the most of your time abroad.

Applying to the school of your choice 

You’ve identified a couple of programs that align with your interests and academic goals. Now, it’s time to apply and prepare for your journey. Here’s what to do next: 

Submit your application

Don’t limit yourself by applying to just one program. Apply to all of the programs on your shortlist of universities. Prepare an application package for each option on your list, which needs to include transcripts and one or more letters of recommendation. You may also want to include a student resume and personal statement. 

Pay close attention to submission deadlines and any other rules set forth by the institution. Submit your application as early as possible so that you have an opportunity to correct any errors or gather additional documentation. 

Find housing

Once you are accepted into a program, it’s time to figure out where you will live during your stay. On-campus accommodations are convenient and typically include utilities and meals. However, you might not enjoy as much privacy. On-campus living can also be quite expensive.

Off-campus housing gives you more privacy and will immerse you in local culture. You may even be able to save money by securing your own accommodations. On the other hand, your housing may be further away from campus. You’ll also have to handle all of the logistics yourself, which can be tedious when interacting with landlords who are thousands of miles away. 

If you plan to arrive before your long-term accommodations are ready, you’ll need to secure temporary housing, such as an Airbnb or hotel room. Some locations book up fast, so reserve your room as early as reasonably possible. 

Costs & scholarships for studying abroad 

There are many different costs associated with studying abroad. It’s important to account for these expenses when planning your international learning journey. Some of the expenses you should consider include:

• Tuition fees
• Housing
• Health insurance
• Transportation
• Miscellaneous expenses

The good news is that there are some scholarship opportunities to help you pay to study abroad. The Fulbright Scholarship is a highly competitive program that covers a significant portion of the costs of studying abroad.(1) It’s designed specifically for U.S. students who want to broaden their horizons by studying or teaching English internationally. 

If you are exploring single-semester study programs, check with your home university to determine whether they offer grants for international students. You should also research scholarships and grants offered by the host nation to which you would like to travel. 

What to look out for when applying abroad

When applying to study abroad, be vigilant about common issues, such as:

• Documentation Errors: Ensure all of your documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays 
• Work Permits: Some countries require additional permits before you can apply for jobs 
• Health and Safety: Familiarize yourself with local healthcare systems, especially if you have any chronic conditions or regularly take prescription medications 
• Scams: Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true (i.e., heavily discounted housing) 
• Myths: Verify information about your chosen program through official sources

Don’t let these common pitfalls discourage you from studying abroad. Be cautious, and always verify information through official channels to protect yourself from scams. 

Best places to study abroad 

According to the U.S. News and World Report’s Study Abroad Rankings, the United States is the number one location in which to study abroad.(2) However, we’ve excluded the U.S. from our list and are focusing on other destinations to expand your learning journey. With that in mind, the best places to study abroad include the following:

1. United Kingdom
2. Spain
3. France
4. Italy
5. Japan
6. Australia
7. Brazil
8. Canada
9. Turkey
10. Germany

Here’s a closer look at the top five countries on our list so you can learn more about the opportunities they offer: 

1. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom includes England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The U.K. is known for its rich history and significant contribution to education and research. As a leading destination for international students, the U.K. offers both traditional and modern educational experiences. 

Top Universities of the UK:

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• Imperial College London

You’ll find programs offering a wide range of majors in the United Kingdom, including business, engineering, medicine, law, and social sciences. U.K. universities are celebrated for their high academic standards and research excellence.(3)

Tuition varies by program and institution. International undergraduate tuition fees vary from 11,400 to 38,000 pounds.(3)

2. Spain

Spain is celebrated for its vibrant culture and Mediterranean climate. The country offers a dynamic environment for students seeking a blend of academic and cultural experiences. 

Top Universities of Spain:

• University of Barcelona
• Autonomous University of Madrid
• Pompeu Fabra University

Some of the common majors in Spain include business, humanities, engineering, and social sciences. Spanish universities are known for their strong emphasis on the humanities and social sciences. Studying abroad in Spain will cost approximately $12,000 per semester. (4) 

3. France

France is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.(5) It’s also an incredibly popular option for U.S. students who want to study abroad. It offers a rich educational environment and an immersive culture.

Top Universities of France:

• Sorbonne University
• École Normale Supérieure, Paris
• University of Paris-Saclay

The most common majors in France include fashion design, culinary arts, engineering, business, and political science. French universities are esteemed for their rigorous academic standards and contributions to the arts and sciences. 

France covers most education costs for public institutions. These benefits extend to EU, Swiss, and long-term residents of France (over two years).(5) If you are not eligible for resident rates, you can expect to pay about €2,850 per year for a public undergraduate program.(5)

4. Italy

Italy has plenty of programs to choose from and some incredible food. It’s also home to prestigious universities and a wide range of majors. 

Top Universities of Italy:

• University of Bologna
• Sapienza University of Rome
• Polytechnic University of Milan

When exploring programs in Italy, you’ll encounter majors such as art history, architecture, design, engineering, and international relations. Italian universities are celebrated for their contributions to the arts, but technical institutions like the University of Milan offer a wide range of modern programs. 

Studying in Italy can also be quite affordable. Your tuition costs will range from approximately $3,850 to $6,950 if you enroll in a program via the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE).(6) 

5. Japan

The fifth destination on our list moves from the European Union to East Asia. The island nation of Japan is known for its technologically advanced culture and rich traditions. It also has one of the world’s best education systems. 

Top Universities of Japan:

• University of Tokyo
• Kyoto University
• Osaka University

The common majors available in Japan include engineering, technology, and business. There is a wide range of niche, tech-related programs, giving you the option to explore your passion for cutting-edge technologies. Japanese universities are esteemed for their research in technology and sciences. 

Studying abroad in Japan will cost approximately ￥600,000 – ￥800,000 per year, which translates to roughly $3800-$5300.(7)

Jobseeker tips for studying abroad 

The Jobseeker team has compiled a few bonus tips to promote the success of your study abroad experience. We recommend:

• Applying Broadly: Increase your chances of acceptance by applying to multiple programs 
• Asking for Advice: Reach out to current or former students for insights about studying abroad 
• Contacting Universities: Speak directly with admissions offices to clarify questions 
• Joining Expat Groups: Connect with expat or student communities in your destination country 

If you need help preparing your student resume or creating an awesome recommendation letter, make sure to check out Jobseeker’s resume and cover letter resources. An engaging letter and crisp resume can make your application stand out!

Sources:

(1) Fulbright U.S. Student Program: Home Page
(2) US News & World Report: Best Countries for Studying Abroad
(3) British Council: Cost of studying in the UK
(4) SSA Education Abroad: How much does it cost to study abroad in Spain?
(5) Campus France: Tuition & Costs in France
(6) Council on International Educational Exchange: How much does it cost to study abroad in Italy? 
(7) Japan Study Abroad Network: Expenses for Studying Abroad in Japan