University
& College

Study Abroad

Through the international programs office on their campus, undergraduate students from various fields could have access to a wide range of study abroad opportunities.

Exchange programs are a special case of Study Abroad programs. Exchange programs allow you to study at another institution, most likely in another country, while paying tuition to your home university. Exchange opportunities may be available to you through your department, Faculty or external agencies. Other study abroad programs are also available at most universities, but could have different requirements. For example, you may be required to pay a "program fee" or pay tuition and student fees directly to your host university. In addition to tuition and student fees, it is also important to consider the cost of living in your host country (accommodation, meals, local transportation, etc.). Other factors like need for learning a foreign language should also be considered. Not all programs require knowledge of the host country language, and many programs offer courses in English. Beginning language learners wishing to learn a language may seek a language immersion program.

Benefits of Study Abroad Program

Studying abroad is an exciting way to spend a year, semester or a summer. Besides, it has been the topic of much research. In 1988, Hansel surveyed more than 2,500 students and reported that educational exchange was associated with a variety of learning outcomes. Some of these potential benefits are:

• International experience is a great tool for character development and a valuable asset for successful academic life. It expands your horizons, giving you a broader perspective which can open the door to new opportunities and experiences. It provides you with an opportunity to develop a better enriched understanding of the host country, its people, culture, politics, economy, society and role in the world. Students develop the capacity to empathize with people from other countries and identify with the idea of world community.
• Experience and exposure gained from studying abroad could also boost your professional career. This is the age of globalization and companies are establishing markets around the world. Many employers indicate that they value international experience, enhancing the ability of their employees to participate in such a market scene. A large number of recruiters place high value on international skills such as knowledge of a foreign language and cross-cultural competence.
• Study abroad helps students gain skills in creative and critical thinking as well as expanding their knowledge of their home country and culture.
• International study experience is also valuable if you are thinking about volunteering or undertaking an international internship.
• This experience also benefits you by increasing your ability to budget money and time, to make decisions, and prioritize.

"Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness . . . Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one corner of the earth all one's lifetime."

-Mark Twain