Top 10 study abroad myths

study-abroad-myths

 

Top 10 study abroad myths

 

There are a lot of myths surrounding studying abroad. It’s an important life decision and you shouldn’t be making it based on stereotypes, assumptions and hearsay. That’s why in this post we are debunking the most popular study abroad myths!

 

Myth no. 1: Studying abroad costs too much

It can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be! The costs of spending a semester (or more) abroad vary depending on the country and school you choose to study at. Sometimes the courses are free and you only need to pay for living costs. The costs of studying abroad can be comparable to studying in your home country. Check if you are eligible for study abroad funding.

 

Myth no. 2: Studying abroad is like a vacation in a foreign country

Studying abroad is not all about partying and fun. Of course you can and will have fun spending a semester abroad, but your main goal is to study, learn and develop valuable skills, which will be useful in your future. You actually do need to study and you will be required to do so. If you spend too much time partying you can be disappointed when you come back home only to find out that you don’t have enough credits.

 

Myth no. 3: You can’t study abroad in your last year

Actually studying abroad is for any student. A lot of people choose to study during their junior year because it tends to be the easiest option. However that doesn’t mean that studying abroad in your last year is impossible. You definitely need to consider the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad at different times of your studies.

 

Myth no. 4: You can only study abroad in Europe

It’s true that the most popular study abroad destinations are in Europe. But you can study abroad almost anywhere in the world. Currently the trend is shifting away from Europe and student are starting to choose countries such as China or Brazil.

 

Myth no. 5: Studying abroad is mostly for language majors

Studying abroad is for students of all majors. Such an experience can help you develop skill which will be useful for any kind of major and will be valued by future employers. With a globalized employment market experience in international education can only be an advantage.

 

Myth no. 6: There’s no funding for studying abroad

There are different study abroad funding options available in different countries and colleges. Most schools are included in studying abroad programs or student exchange programs and fund at least some costs of such journeys. Talk to your school’s representative to find out more. Maybe you’re just unaware of your options!

 

Myth no. 7: Studying abroad will prolong your graduation

That entirely depends on you and your choices. If you choose to only party abroad and do no academic work than prolonged graduation it is. But if you approach this reasonable you can get the best of both worlds, have fun abroad and actually learn some valuable things. Talk to your study abroad counselor to find out what you can do to make sure you graduate on time.

 

Myth no. 8: Traveling on your own is the same as studying abroad

Studying abroad is a very unique experience and is not at all like traveling solo. When you study abroad you can do some traveling but your main focus is on studying in an international environment. In general you have to remember that studying abroad is more about studying than about being abroad, but that’s not a bad thing. Studying abroad is very much sought for in the employment market.

 

Myth no. 9: Studying abroad is dangerous

That depends on your choice of the destination. Some regions will be more dangerous and others and that highly depends on current events. Be aware of what is going on in the world and talk to your counselor about the best choice for you.

 

Myth no. 10: I don’t know foreign languages so I can’t study abroad

There are a lot of study abroad programs which don’t require prior foreign language preparation and provide an intensive language course. Also even if you study in Spain your classes may be in English. Choose a program that is suitable for you and your skills.

 

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