15 Life-Changing Benefits of Studying Abroad

Over the years, you’ve likely encountered people who have studied abroad. They may have shared stories of their unforgettable experiences in foreign countries. However, the excitement of studying in a new place isn’t the only advantage you’ll gain from this unique academic journey. 

In fact, there are numerous benefits of studying abroad that can have a profound impact on your personal and professional life. So, if you’re wondering, “Why should I study abroad?”—we’ve got some compelling answers to help you understand the incredible opportunities that await you as an international student.

Key Takeaways

• The benefits of studying abroad extend beyond academics. It helps build essential skills such as adaptability, communication, and problem-solving while fostering personal growth and independence.
• Immersing yourself in a new culture allows for a broader worldview and a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives. It also provides the opportunity to form lifelong friendships and professional connections.
• Many international student scholarships and financial aid options are available to make studying abroad more affordable.

Key Advantages of Studying Abroad

Studying abroad offers a wealth of opportunities that go far beyond just academics. From gaining a world-class education to enhancing your career prospects, the advantages are numerous and life-changing.

1. Access world-class education

One of the most significant benefits of studying abroad is the opportunity to access world-class education. Many universities and institutions around the world offer cutting-edge programs that are recognized globally for their excellence.

In addition to the classroom experience, studying abroad also opens doors to valuable internships and externships. These practical learning opportunities allow you to gain hands-on experience in your field, work with professionals, and apply what you’ve learned in real-world settings. Many international programs have strong ties with leading companies, offering students the chance to intern or extern at globally recognized organizations. These experiences not only enhance your academic knowledge but also help you build a competitive resume that will stand out to employers worldwide.

2. Secure scholarships and financial aid

Studying abroad can be more affordable than you might think, thanks to a wide range of scholarships and financial aid options available to international students. University of the Potomac aims to make a post-secondary degree accessible to everyone, offering various financial aid options and a variety of scholarships, while governments, private organizations, and non-profits also provide funding opportunities. 

These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition fees and living expenses, making a global education more accessible. By securing financial aid, you can focus on your studies and make the most of your international experience without the added financial stress.

3. Discover new interests

One of the biggest pros of studying abroad is the exposure to new cultures, perspectives, and activities that you may not have encountered at home. Whether it’s exploring local traditions, learning a new sport, or picking up a new hobby, living in a different country encourages you to step outside your comfort zone. This experience often leads to discovering new passions and interests that can shape your personal growth and even influence your future career path.

4. Learn a new language

One of the most rewarding benefits of studying abroad is the opportunity to learn a foreign language. Immersing yourself in a country where the language is spoken allows you to practice in real-life situations, which accelerates your learning.

Not only does this open up new communication channels, but it also helps you better understand the culture and people, enhancing your language skills far beyond what textbooks can offer.

What’s best, the demand for bilingual individuals is increasing with each year that passes. So, with that being said, after getting proficient at a second language, the chances of you landing the job of your dreams will increase moderately.

5. Build lifelong friendships and connections

Studying abroad offers a unique opportunity to form lifelong friendships and valuable connections with people from all over the world. You’ll spend significant time with your classmates, collaborating on projects, attending social events, and navigating the challenges of academic life together. These shared experiences create a strong bond, and it’s likely that some of these relationships will last long after you return home. 

At first, it might feel intimidating to make friends in a foreign country, but you’ll soon realize that many others are in the same boat, eager to connect and build relationships. Through university activities, group work, and social gatherings, you’ll meet diverse people, and some of them may become close friends or even future professional contacts.

6. Develop personal growth and independence

Studying abroad is a powerful catalyst for personal growth and independence. Living in a foreign country pushes you to navigate daily tasks on your own, from ordering food to using public transportation, helping you build confidence in your ability to handle challenges. Stepping out of your comfort zone and adapting to a new environment accelerates personal development.

7. Enhance soft skills

In a foreign country, you’ll be exposed to diverse cultures and perspectives, helping you improve communication, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. Navigating daily life in a new environment requires you to think on your feet, negotiate, and collaborate with people from different backgrounds.

Additionally, working on group projects or participating in internships abroad sharpens leadership and teamwork skills. These experiences not only make you more effective in a professional setting but also help you build confidence in handling challenges. The soft skills you develop while studying abroad are invaluable benefits of studying abroad that can set you apart in today’s global job market.

8. Become a good communicator

Living in a country where your first language isn’t spoken provides a great opportunity to enhance your communication skills. You’ll learn to express yourself more clearly and effectively, even if you’re not fluent in the local language, improving both verbal and non-verbal communication.

However, being a good communicator goes beyond overcoming language barriers. Studying abroad also exposes you to people from diverse cultural backgrounds, each with their own unique ways of thinking and interacting. Engaging with them daily helps you refine your ability to communicate with people from all walks of life, making you a more effective and adaptable communicator.

9. Enjoy unique travel opportunities

One of the most exciting benefits of studying abroad is the opportunity to travel and explore new places. Living in a foreign country often puts you in a prime location to visit nearby cities, countries, and cultural landmarks that you might not have otherwise considered. Whether it’s quick weekend getaways, discovering hidden gems locally, or taking longer trips to explore neighboring countries, studying abroad offers countless travel opportunities.

These travel experiences allow you to immerse yourself in different cultures, try new cuisines, and gain a deeper understanding of the world. The ability to travel and explore while studying abroad makes this experience even more enriching and memorable.

10. Experience cultural exposure and a global mindset

Living in a foreign country offers an invaluable opportunity to experience cultural exposure and develop a global mindset. You’ll immerse yourself in a culture different from your own, exploring new foods, activities, music, and social customs. This experience broadens your perspective and deepens your appreciation for cultural diversity.

Through conversations with people from different backgrounds, you’ll also see your own culture through new eyes. It’s a chance to reflect on your heritage and gain insights into how others view your country and its traditions.

Studying abroad also provides a unique perspective on the global market and business practices. By observing how different countries approach business and problem-solving, you’ll learn new strategies and methods that can enhance your professional skills and make you more adaptable in a globalized world.

11. Expand your professional network

Another advantage of studying abroad is the opportunity to expand your professional network on a global scale. While studying in a foreign country, you’ll meet professors, industry professionals, and fellow students from around the world. 

You will have the chance to attend university events, network with local businesses, or participate in international conferences and workshops, providing the avenues to build relationships that extend beyond your time abroad. These connections can lead to collaborations, internships, job opportunities, and valuable mentorship that can shape your career.

12. Increase your earning potential

Studying abroad can significantly boost your earning potential in the long run. The international experience, language skills, and cultural competence you gain can make you a more attractive candidate to employers worldwide. Companies value candidates who are adaptable, globally-minded, and capable of navigating diverse work environments.

In addition to your academic qualifications, having international experience on your resume shows that you have the ability to thrive in challenging and dynamic settings. This can lead to high-earning career offers, both at home and abroad.

13. Gain career opportunities worldwide

Many students study abroad with the intention of returning home after graduation, but it’s not uncommon to be presented with a unique job opportunity that leads to staying in the host country. Earning a degree from the University of the Potomac means your qualifications are recognized globally, opening doors to career opportunities not only in your host country but in many others as well.

If you decide to stay in the country where you studied, you’ll have access to a range of job prospects that may be harder to come by at home. The international experience and network you build while studying abroad can make you a highly sought-after candidate, giving you the flexibility to explore career paths worldwide and choose the one that best aligns with your skills and aspirations.

14. Gain a competitive edge in the job market

One of the primary reasons many individuals seek education, whether at home or abroad, is to secure a rewarding career. The job market is becoming increasingly competitive, and there is a growing demand for candidates who are bilingual and have international experience. On average, individuals who are fluent in multiple languages earn 5% to 20% more than their monolingual peers.

Your international experience itself gives you a competitive edge. Employers increasingly value candidates who have lived and studied abroad, as this experience demonstrates adaptability, problem-solving skills, and the ability to navigate complex challenges. By studying abroad, you position yourself as someone with the global insight and transferable skills that employers are actively seeking.

15. Embrace once-in-a-lifetime experience

Studying abroad will undoubtedly enhance your career and personal skills, preparing you for whatever challenges lie ahead. But beyond academics and professional growth, the true benefit of studying abroad is the life experience you gain along the way.

Amid your daily lectures, assignments, and exams, don’t forget to embrace the moments that make this journey truly unique. The friendships you form, the cultural experiences you have, and the adventures you embark on will stay with you long after you return home.

When you look back, it won’t just be about the notes, textbooks, or grades. The memories you create—the coffee dates with new friends, enjoying a drink at your favorite local spot, or capturing photos in iconic city squares—are the moments that will remain with you forever. These experiences are irreplaceable, and they’ll shape your worldview in ways that nothing else can. Make sure to cherish them, as this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

How to Maximize the Benefits of Studying Abroad

To make the most of this incredible experience, it’s important to approach it with intention and an open mind. Here are a few tips to help you maximize the benefits of studying abroad:

• Get involved on campus and in the community: Take part in university events, clubs, and activities to connect with both local and international students. Volunteering or joining local community organizations is another great way to integrate into your new environment.
• Learn the language: Being able to communicate effectively in a foreign language will enhance your experience and broaden your career opportunities.
• Travel and explore: Traveling allows you to experience different cultures, meet new people, and develop a more global perspective. Take advantage of the opportunity to learn about new traditions, foods, and ways of life.
• Build a professional networ: Network with professors, industry professionals, and fellow students as well as attend career fairs, workshops, and internships to gain valuable experience and make professional contacts that could open doors for future job opportunities.
• Step out of your comfort zone: The more you challenge yourself to try new things, the more you’ll grow. Embrace the unknown by participating in activities or learning about aspects of the culture you might not have considered before. 
• Document your journey: Capture your experiences by journaling or taking photos. This will not only help you reflect on your journey but also provide you with lasting memories that you can look back on for years to come.

Conclusion

From gaining a global perspective and enhancing your communication skills to expanding your career opportunities and building lifelong connections, the advantages of studying abroad are undeniable. Whether you’re seeking to grow personally, explore new cultures, or jumpstart your career, the experience of studying abroad will shape your future in ways you can’t even imagine.

Many times, when not entirely convinced, students are on the lookout for reasons to study abroad. So, if you too are one of them, we hope we have given you enough reasons to even consider an experience abroad. The University of the Potomac is always open to international students who want to study abroad in the U.S.A, more specifically in the capital city of this country, Washington D.C..

Frequently Asked Questions

Is studying abroad worth it?

Yes, studying abroad is worth it. It offers life-changing experiences, broadens your cultural understanding, and opens up global career opportunities.

Does studying abroad look good on a resume?

Absolutely! Studying abroad demonstrates adaptability, cultural awareness, and global experience, all of which are highly valued by employers.

What is the hardest thing about living abroad?

The hardest part of living abroad is dealing with homesickness and adjusting to a new culture, language, and lifestyle. However, these challenges help foster personal growth and resilience.