Questions to Ask About Studying Abroad
Essential questions that help you understand the study abroad process, requirements, and opportunities to make the most of your international education experience.
1What are the requirements and eligibility criteria for studying abroad?
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What are the requirements and eligibility criteria for studying abroad?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the academic and administrative requirements you need to meet to qualify for study abroad programs.
2What countries and programs are available for my major?
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What countries and programs are available for my major?
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Why this works
Helps you identify study abroad options that align with your academic goals and field of study.
3How do I apply and what's the application process?
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How do I apply and what's the application process?
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Why this works
Understanding the application process helps you prepare properly and meet all deadlines and requirements.
4What are the costs and what financial aid is available?
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What are the costs and what financial aid is available?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the financial commitment and what resources are available to help fund your study abroad experience.
5How do credits transfer and what courses will count toward my degree?
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How do credits transfer and what courses will count toward my degree?
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Why this works
Ensures you understand how your study abroad courses will apply to your degree requirements and academic progress.
6What's the language requirement and how can I prepare?
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What's the language requirement and how can I prepare?
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Why this works
Helps you understand language requirements and how to prepare for studying in a foreign language environment.
7What support services are available for international students?
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What support services are available for international students?
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Why this works
Helps you understand what support and resources are available to help you succeed in your study abroad experience.
8What's the housing situation and how do I arrange accommodation?
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What's the housing situation and how do I arrange accommodation?
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Why this works
Understanding housing options helps you plan for your living arrangements and ensure you have a place to stay.
9What are the visa requirements and how do I obtain the necessary documents?
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What are the visa requirements and how do I obtain the necessary documents?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the legal requirements for studying abroad and how to obtain the necessary documentation.
10What's the academic calendar and how does it differ from home?
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What's the academic calendar and how does it differ from home?
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Why this works
Understanding the academic schedule helps you plan your studies and ensure you meet all academic requirements.
11What opportunities are there for cultural immersion and local experiences?
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What opportunities are there for cultural immersion and local experiences?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how to make the most of your cultural experience and engage with the local community.
12What are the health and safety considerations and what insurance is needed?
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What are the health and safety considerations and what insurance is needed?
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Why this works
Understanding health and safety requirements helps you prepare for potential challenges and ensure you have proper coverage.
13What's the best time to study abroad in my academic career?
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What's the best time to study abroad in my academic career?
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Why this works
Helps you understand when to study abroad to maximize the benefits and minimize any potential academic disruptions.
14What are the opportunities for internships or work experience abroad?
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What are the opportunities for internships or work experience abroad?
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Why this works
Helps you identify additional learning opportunities and professional development experiences while studying abroad.
15How do I stay connected with family and friends while abroad?
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How do I stay connected with family and friends while abroad?
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Why this works
Understanding communication options helps you maintain relationships and support systems while studying abroad.
16What are the cultural differences I should be aware of?
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What are the cultural differences I should be aware of?
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Why this works
Helps you prepare for cultural differences and understand how to adapt to a new cultural environment.
17What are the opportunities for travel and exploration?
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What are the opportunities for travel and exploration?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how to make the most of your time abroad and explore the country and region.
18What are the academic expectations and how do they differ from home?
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What are the academic expectations and how do they differ from home?
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Why this works
Understanding academic expectations helps you prepare for different teaching styles and academic requirements.
19What are the opportunities for language learning and improvement?
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What are the opportunities for language learning and improvement?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how to improve your language skills and make the most of language learning opportunities.
20What are the next steps I should take to prepare for studying abroad?
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What are the next steps I should take to prepare for studying abroad?
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Why this works
Helps you create a plan for preparing for your study abroad experience and understand what actions you need to take.
Preparing for Your Study Abroad Experience
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Start Planning Early
Begin researching and planning your study abroad experience well in advance. This gives you time to meet requirements and prepare properly.
Research Your Options Thoroughly
Take time to research different countries, programs, and universities. Consider factors like academic fit, culture, and personal preferences.
Prepare for Cultural Differences
Learn about the culture, customs, and expectations of your host country. This will help you adapt more quickly and make the most of your experience.
Question Sequences
The Application and Requirements Sequence
The Academic Planning Sequence
Common Pitfalls
Don't Ignore Academic Requirements
Make sure you understand how your study abroad courses will apply to your degree. Ignoring this can lead to academic problems or delays.
Don't Underestimate Cultural Differences
Be prepared for cultural differences and challenges. Underestimating these can make your experience more difficult than necessary.
Don't Skip Health and Safety Planning
Don't ignore health and safety considerations. Proper planning and insurance are essential for a safe and successful experience.