Five reasons why you should study abroad

There are many benefits to studying abroad and it’s something more and more students are choosing to do. While it may seem daunting to move to another country, often without your family and support network, the skills and experiences you’ll gain will be worth it.

You’ll be able to travel, meet new people and gain lots of qualities that employers will value when you come to apply for jobs. Here are five reasons why you should study abroad.

1. It teaches you independence

Moving abroad on your own teaches many skills such as independence and resilience. It will often be the first time that students move out of their family homes and live away from their parents. As well as adjusting to a new type of learning and taking responsibility for their education, students will also have to learn how to manage their own schedules and homes without parental help, which can really help to build independence.

2. You experience new cultures

Moving to another country allows you to immerse yourself in a new culture and experience new ways of living. Living in a new country is not only great for trying new food and sightseeing in a new place – it also allows you to see how people in countries different to your own live.

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3. You don’t have to spend your entire degree abroad

Some students may choose to undertake their entire degrees abroad, which is a great choice. However, if you aren’t quite ready to be away for three or more years, most institutions will offer a year or semester abroad at a range of universities. This is a great way to try studying abroad without making as big a commitment as moving to a new country for three years.

4. You can gain a high-quality education

Deciding to study abroad means you instantly broaden the choice of universities at your fingertips. There are so many universities across the world with prestigious reputations, expert teachers and state-of-the-art facilities that you’ll be sure to gain a great education wherever you choose to study. 

5. It enhances job prospects 

As well as considering your grades and experience for a job role, recruiters will sometimes look at aspects such as where you want to university and your extracurricular activities. It’s well known that studying abroad is looked upon positively by employers because it shows you can take initiative and are confident. These are qualities that recruiters will value in a new employee.