Have you ever considered studying abroad? Having a fresh start? UK students are increasingly considering the option of studying abroad. The chance for an adventure attracts many students to international study and a period of time spent abroad has also become an advantage addition to the CV in today’s increasingly difficult graduate employment market.

There are many pros and cons about studying abroad. Some of the pros are that many international universities do not charge exchange students tuition fees, it is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture or environment, and you can improve transferable skills and experience, which can enrich your CV and career prospects. As well as this studies during a term or one year exchange can count towards your final UK degree and many UK universities are now in partnership with universities all over the world and offer exchange programmes. Some cons are that UK residents who apply directly to non-UK universities are not eligible for UK student loans, you may not be able to get part time work to support your overseas studies because of visa restrictions and tuition fees are often higher for international students studying abroad. Furthermore not all universities offer accommodation to UK students studying abroad – make sure you check this out early.

Opting to go to an overseas university for a part of your undergraduate studies will result in completely immersing yourself in a completely new culture. As well as experiencing different ways of learning you’ll experience different ways of life, giving you new cultural experiences, plus opportunities to grown and advance as a person. Whatever you choose or are thinking to do in the future, there are a few important things you need to bear in mind. Don’t just go because you want to go abroad or look “cool”. Focus on choosing the right course and subject for you, that you enjoy. Wisely think about the costs associated with living and studying – both in the UK and abroad. You’ll need to think about course fees too. Students wont have access to financial aid in countries outside the EU, students and normally have to pay higher fees than home students. Also these fees may need to be paid upfront. Scholarships are very competitive but are available to support overseas study.  Another thing is you may need to apply for a student visa, as well as applying to the university to study overseas. These can sometimes several months therefore it’s important to allow as much time as possible.

Just remember going international shows a flexibility and maturity. As well as this it might even give you an edge, since lots of employers look for people with international experience and language skills. Equally, it’s a way of sampling education you wouldn’t experience in the UK, and it’s a way of escaping escalating tuition fees.

Rhea Patel, Farringtons School