How to Study Abroad

There are many reasons why study abroad programs are becoming so popular. For most international students, the appeal is likely to be a combination of gaining a high-quality education, experiencing immersion in a new culture (and often a second language), gaining a global mindset and expanding future employment prospects.

When it comes to studying abroad, you should be worrying about how to squeeze all that awesomeness into one semester, not about how to pay for it. Since studying abroad for free isn’t realistic (unless you have a full scholarship), we’ve compiled seven ways to study abroad for cheap.  

For some, the prospect of leaving home and heading off into the unknown is daunting but studying abroad is also an exciting challenge that often leads to improved career opportunities and a broader understanding of the way the world works.

The kind of experience you have during your time abroad will vary hugely depending on where you go, so make sure to pick a study destination based on your own personal interests as well as the country’s academic reputation, in order to keep a healthy work/play balance.

1. Browse through scholarships and financial aid options

There are a ton of study abroad scholarships out there. Some are specific to a location, field of study, or international program provider. 

But before you start a broad search for study abroad scholarships, don’t forget to ask your university or academic institution at home about your eligibility for financial aid that can be applied toward a study abroad program (yes, it actually exists!).

Also, once you select the study abroad program of your dreams, be sure to ask if they offer any type of scholarship opportunities for program participants; many third-party program providers (like IES Abroad) offer scholarships of their own for eligible participants.

2. Find an affordable program

Your college or university might offer its own study abroad programs or provide direct exchange opportunities abroad where you only have to pay your home school tuition to take courses overseas. You can also look into more cost-effective study abroad programs, such as those in what are considered cheap study abroad destinations; there are plenty of them out there

3. Pay attention to what’s included in your program

Some third-party study abroad program providers is more inclusive than others. Always check to see what’s included in the program costs and what extra costs there may be so you can compare programs equally. A program fee that only includes tuition may seem like the best way to study abroad cheaply, when in reality a slightly more expensive study abroad program may provide housing, meals, health insurance, and field trips, that add up to less than you would pay for those items a la carte with the cheaper program.

4. What are the entry requirements for study abroad programs

Entry requirements vary widely between universities and between countries, so are sure to check the information provided by your prospective university before submitting anything.

Speaking generally, however, if you are applying for an undergraduate degree you will be asked to show that you have completed your secondary education to a standard that is in line with the required grades (e.g. your GPA, A-level grades or equivalent) for the program you’re applying to. If you have an international qualification and are unsure whether this is accepted, you should contact the admissions department of the university.

For non-native English speakers wanting to study in English-speaking countries, it is also highly likely that you’ll need to provide proof of your English-language proficiency by taking an English-language test such as TOEFL or IELTS. Similar tests may be required for those studying in other languages. For more information about language tests, refer to question eight.

5. Use your student discount

Most study abroad students are required to purchase an International Student Identity Card (ISIC), or it may be included in program fees. These ISIC cards provide student discounts on transportation, museums, hostels, books, etc. in 130+ countries. Also, don’t be afraid to ask local students where they hang out or what kind of deals do they take advantage of as students. For more