Studying overseas can be life-changing. With the plethora of international study programs on offer as well as the enticement of true independent living and the opportunity for real adventure, studying abroad has become increasingly popular with students every year. Many young people who wish to pursue higher education without following the conventional educational avenues available in their home country find themselves traveling overseas to start the next chapter of their lives.

Why study overseas?

There are countless reasons why you might choose to embark on an international study program. However, fundamentally it boils down to life experience. You have the opportunity to see and feel what it is like to live in a totally different country and culture, to broaden your horizons, and develop a brand-new perspective on life. You have a chance to see the world, meet new people, have adventures, and create stories that you’ll tell for the rest of your life.

What is also important to remember is that studying and living overseas gives you an increased global awareness and new perspectives on how we function on a worldwide scale. Likewise, overseas studies opens up several new career opportunities as employers and graduate school admission boards are always on the lookout for candidates with unique life experience and who have courage and a commitment to their education.

Where to study?

If you think that international education is right for you, the next question that you need to ask yourself is, where do I study?

Whatever your chosen field or subject may be, there are institutions on every continent across the globe with study programs that may be right for you. However, the same subject taught in two different institutions in two different countries will differ hugely, and you will receive a totally different academic experience.

Each institution is different and will provide you with a degree course that is totally unique to them. Take, for example, Stamford American international school; this institution offers its students the opportunity to prepare for their chosen degree course by studying the full International Baccalaureate qualification, which is taught in line with US educational standards, while actually being located in Singapore, South East Asia.

It is vital that when you are choosing your degree course, you are thorough in your research of prospectuses and curriculums to find the course that is right for you.

Preparing your trip overseas

When studying overseas, it is incredibly important that you do extensive pre-travel planning. Many countries require visas for visitors who are planning to study there. Make sure that you have read all the consular information available regarding your destination country and have registered with your native embassy.

Similarly with regards to your international school, make sure to find out whether they have an insurance plan for their students or if you have to individually purchase your own travel insurance. Also find out if your destination country has any required or recommended vaccinations.

Likewise, research your destination country to make sure you adhere to their laws and codes of conduct. Read as much information as you can regarding cultural practices and the current political climate as this will be crucial in keeping you safe while you are away.

Studying overseas is the opportunity to experience a completely new wave of life while you learn. By ingratiating yourself in a new country and culture, you broaden your horizons, and your perspective on life will change forever and for the better!