Travel and study abroad

When last were you able to get two birds with one stone so neatly and effectively? Every summer college students are faced with a conundrum: study further to get ahead, or travel and experience the world. 

But what if you could travel and study abroad this summer? What if you could learn useful, practical skills while immersing yourself in a new country, and making lifelong friends?

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How travel and study abroad can broaden your horizons

Your college years are one of the few times in your life when you are expected to learn and experience the world to its fullest. Studying on campus has loads of benefits and can be an amazing experience. But taking yourself off for an adventure to a new country, with new people, to learn new things? There’s nothing quite like it.

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What are the benefits of traveling and studying abroad?

Summer travel abroad is one of the biggest perks of your college years. You’re young, your responsibilities are few, and it’s basically your job to find out about the world and your place in it. Traveling abroad opens your eyes and your mind to new experiences, new perspectives, and new ways of thinking. By combining traveling and studying, you have the opportunity to extend your stay in a new place; make your trip six weeks instead of six days and truly immerse yourself in your home.

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What to consider when choosing a traveling and studying abroad program?

When you’re choosing which program to enroll in, consider the value. Some courses are charged exclusive of housing and activities. Some have recorded, asynchronous, self-paced coursework, while others offer access to industry professionals and live-taught classes.

FAQs

What are travel and study abroad programs?

Travel and study abroad programs combine the best elements of travel to a new place with learning something new. You could take a semester abroad for credit at your home university, or take a complementary, non-credit bearing course that offers you something different to your core degree. You might study a language or a new skill. Many countries and institutions offer travel and study abroad programs. Your job is to find the one that’s right for you.

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Is it expensive to study abroad?

This very much depends. It depends on how long you go for, where you go, and what you study. A semester abroad will cost more than a summer program. Housing costs vary from country to country, and programs vary wildly in what they offer.

Instead of looking at the costs, rather look for the value you will get from a course. Does it offer you more of the same – learning for grades and exams – or practical skills? Does it include immersive activities in your destination? Does it offer access to a network of peers and professionals? Does it include any projects or work experiences you could use on your resume?

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How do I pay for study abroad programs?

There are a variety of ways to pay for study abroad programs. You can save up money from a part-time job while studying. You could ask your parents to help fund your travels, or you could apply for funding from a company like Climb Credit. One of the amazing benefits of combining study and travel is that there are different funding options available for different types of courses too. 

Studying STEM related courses? Look out for grants and scholarships related to STEM courses. In your final year of study? Check out Leif, a company offering income share agreements.

Where can I study abroad?

Depending on where you live, pretty much anywhere. One of the main benefits of studying abroad is immersing yourself in the local culture, so heading somewhere different each time you travel is a wonderful privilege.