Moving to a foreign country for higher education can open up your learning possibilities beyond the classroom and allows you to embrace the culture and lifestyle of a new destination. Choosing a university course is a milestone for all students, however, taking the leap to study abroad is an even more difficult decision. The university rankings change every year and can seem endless, so we have cherry-picked our favourite opportunities to help you choose the perfect program.
To narrow down the courses available from around the world, we have compiled a list of study abroad programs based on the following criterias:
Flexibility
Some programs can prove to be very academically demanding and for anyone still navigating a new environment, this can be overwhelming. The best programs should allow you to fulfill your academic obligations, without being totally engulfed. Flexible dates and course options also give you the leeway to make necessary adjustments, particularly with the need to travel or changing COVID-19 regulations.
Support
A study abroad program needs to be embedded with an amazing support system. Students living abroad may need help with finance, with housing, with administration and of course pastoral support for their well being; the best study abroad programs will have a wealth of information on these areas and serious support systems in place. Look out for programs that also offer ways to acquire scholarships and financial assistance for your travels.
In addition, think of picking a university with access to an extensive alumni network and career prospects after the program.
Academics
Academia is the purpose of all higher education, and you should be careful not to forget this in the excitement of living abroad. Choose a course which aligns with your goals and expectations. Think about what you wish to achieve and consider a program with the academic structure which will allow you to get there, as well as experience the culture of your destination.
Safety
Your health and safety during any degree should be non-negotiable, and this must be emphasised when considering a program abroad. While many factors are outside of your control as a foreign or international student, you should prioritise a location that you feel is safe and hospitable to foreigners. Research if a location is popular with other international students and check if there are any you could reach out to with questions.
Overall Experience
When you move abroad to study, you’re not just seeking an experience, you want the most unforgettable, rewarding experience of your life. Studying overseas is an investment of time and money, so it should be worthwhile. Make friends from diverse backgrounds and start new activities outside of your studies. Look for programs with field trips, excursions, extracurricular activities and sport, and choose the full package.
Our Favourite Study Abroad Programs
1. Master’s in European Affairs - Lille, France
One of France’s very few Master’s programs taught entirely in English, this course miraculously has the same fees as a regular Master's program taught in French. For international students seeking to travel and sightsee as much of Europe as possible, this destination has a real advantage; located in Lille, the program has a prime location close to Belgium, the UK, Luxembourg and more European countries.
The MEA program offers a multidisciplinary teaching approach with various subjects: Economics, Internal Processes of the EU, Finance, and both International and European Management Studies. Students have the opportunity to participate in a wealth of activities, such as the SUNY Model European Union in Brussels or New York. You can also attend immersion seminars at European institutions in the heart of Brussels, and have the possibility of obtaining a double degree studying for a semester in Wildau, Germany.
2. NZLC Language Program - Wellington, New Zealand
The New Zealand language center, located on the Auckland campus, provides a total immersion language program, offering courses such as General English, IELTS, TESOL, FCE/CAE, and a special pronunciation course. The program also has several support systems, including job placement assistance, internships, volunteering and au pair placements for all their students.
3. Korean & East Asian Studies (USAC KOREA) - Seoul, Korea
The Yonsei University is consistently ranked as a top university and is known for its vast alumni network. It has strong connections with community partners, who offer internships to most of its students following the program and hence improve career prospects. The Study Abroad program offers flexible but impressive courses for international students, with classes in Religion, Philosophy, Economics, Politics, Business and eight levels of Korean language.
Students are invited to join in various extracurricular activities and excursions, including a three-day Korean cultural trip to Mt. Songak, Yong-muhri Coast, Heh-cheon, Jeju Peace Park, and Seongsan Sunrise Peak.
4. Study Abroad & Spanish Immersion - Heredia, Costa Rica
Located in the highlands of Costa Rica, this opportunity is based in a corner of the world famous for its beautiful scenery and hospitality. The program promises a complete immersion into the Spanish culture, as well as boasting an all round support system. This attention to student welfare helps you to find accommodation with host families or on campus, and also to access scholarships to fund your trip abroad. The program offers amazing excursions, including zipline canopy tours of the rainforest and a trip to Boquete, which is the birthplace of gourmet coffee and tropical flowers. There are also cultural activities to experience, for example museum visits, Latin dance classes, coffee tours and many more. Don’t forget about the incredible range of flexible academic programs, such as Business Management, Journalism, Engineering and of course intensive Spanish lessons.
Although the excitement of moving abroad lends itself to spontaneity, thoroughly research courses and destinations when choosing a study abroad program. To prepare for this huge investment and leap into your foreign adventure, navigate the complexities of a Study Abroad program that suits you first.
For additional support in starting your journey, turn to Avvinue’s all-in-one relocation platform.
