Studying Abroad Twice: International Students' Options

International students who are already studying abroad in a country other than their own can often participate in study abroad programs offered by their host institution. This allows them to experience different styles of education, gain a global mindset, and expand their future employment prospects. However, it is important to note that visa requirements and procedures vary depending on the host country and student citizenship. For example, an EU citizen studying in another EU country does not need a visa. International students should also be aware of the potential impact on their student status in their current host country when considering studying abroad.

Funding opportunities

Studying abroad can be expensive, but there are funding opportunities available to help international students afford it. Scholarships and grants are offered by governments, organisations, and universities. Here are some examples of funding opportunities for international students:

Scholarships

• The Scholarship Portal is a free online database that allows users to search for scholarships in Europe by region, country, and discipline.
• FastWeb is a website that helps students find study abroad scholarships and other scholarships to help them through college.
• IIE Passport is a comprehensive search engine for study abroad programs registered with IIE Passport.
• Global Scholarships is a scholarship search engine for international students that aims to provide a transparent and accurate list of authentic scholarships.
• The Australian government provides a database of funding opportunities for international students studying in Australia.
• The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade administers the Australia Awards Scholarship, which provides students from developing countries with the opportunity to undertake full-time study in any participating Australian institution at the undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate levels.
• The Fulbright U.S. Student Program sends recent college graduates and early career professionals to live, study, and conduct research abroad in 140 countries.
• The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program supports U.S. undergraduate students of limited financial means to study or intern abroad.
• The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program provides full funding for intensive summer language programs overseas in fifteen critical languages.
• The Congress Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) offers merit-based scholarships for recent vocational graduates and young professionals to gain professional study and training experience in Germany.
• The Boren Award for International Study provides funding for U.S. undergraduate students to study less commonly taught languages in world regions critical to U.S. interests and underrepresented in study abroad.
• The Fulbright-Hays Doctoral Dissertation Research Abroad (DDRA) Fellowship Program provides opportunities for doctoral candidates to engage in full-time dissertation research abroad in modern foreign languages and area studies.
• The Dr. Nancy Foster Scholarship Program encourages independent graduate-level research in NOAA mission-related sciences, particularly for female and minority students.
• The Ernest F. Hollings Scholarship seeks to increase undergraduate training and multidisciplinary training opportunities in oceanic and atmospheric science, research, technology, and education.
• The Truman Scholarship provides up to $30,000 for graduate or professional school, leadership development activities, and special opportunities for internships and employment with the U.S. federal government.
• The Hubert Global Health Fellowship provides public health experience in a developing country for third- and fourth-year medical and veterinary students.
• The National Science Foundation (NSF) supports international research and education through fellowships, travel grants, summer institutes, workshops, and research and education projects.
• The NextGen Scholarship helps international or American students complete higher education degree programs in the United States, awarding one scholar per year based on merit and financial need.
• The Fund for Education Abroad provides accessible scholarships for students who are traditionally underrepresented, including students of colour, first-generation students, and community college students.

Grants

• IES Abroad provides $5 million in study abroad scholarships and aid, including need-based aid, location and major-focused scholarships, diversity scholarships, and grants for students attending public universities.
• The Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program places recent college graduates in classrooms in 75 countries to help teach English and serve as cultural ambassadors.
• The Language Flagship offers programs at 22 U.S. universities combined with overseas study opportunities at ten Flagship Overseas Centers.
• Project GO provides scholarships to ROTC students in three services for critical language study domestically and abroad.

Visa requirements

The visa application process is one of the biggest obstacles students face when deciding to study abroad. This process varies by country and circumstance. For instance, if you are an EU citizen planning to study in another EU country, you do not need a visa. However, if you are a US student hoping to study abroad, you will likely need a visa. Similarly, if you are an international student hoping to study in the US, you will generally need a student visa.

There are two nonimmigrant visa categories for persons wishing to study in the United States: the F-1 Visa (Academic Student) and the M-1 Visa (Vocational Student). The F-1 Visa allows you to enter the United States as a full-time student at an accredited college, university, school, or other academic institution, or in a language training program. The M-1 visa, on the other hand, includes students in vocational or other non-academic programs, other than language training.

When filing a student visa application, you will be asked to provide proof of enrolment and academic standing from your university. This often comes in the form of a number or document provided by the university's international department. If you are participating in an exchange program with your home university, they will likely guide you through the process and provide you with the necessary steps. It is important to give yourself enough time to complete all the steps, especially those requiring appointments outside of your school, such as medical checks, background tests, or biometrics.

To find out the specific visa requirements for your chosen country, it is recommended to visit the government website of that country or ask your university for guidance. Admissions departments are often able to help prepare for travel and may even apply for the student visa on your behalf.

Choosing a destination

Personal Interests and Lifestyle

Select a destination that aligns with your hobbies and interests. Consider the lifestyle you want during your studies. Do you prefer a big city or a small university town? Are arts and culture important to you, or would you rather have access to top-notch sports facilities? Matching your interests and preferences with your study destination will increase your chances of loving your international experience.

Academic Reputation and Education System

Research the education system and academic reputation of the countries you're considering. Think about the benefits of experiencing a different style of education and whether you want to focus on a specific aspect of your major that may be unique to a particular country. Consider the language aspect as well; would you like to improve your language skills in a non-English speaking country?

Cost of Living and Tuition Fees

Compare the costs of studying in different countries, including both tuition fees and living expenses. Remember that some countries, like Germany and Norway, have no tuition fees. Also, look into the availability of financial aid, scholarships, and other funding opportunities to help offset the costs.

Career Prospects and Safety

Consider your future career goals and choose a country with a good job market in your field. Think about the safety and welfare standards of your potential destinations and how they might impact your overall well-being during your studies.

Visa Requirements

Research the visa requirements for each potential destination. While not all international students need a visa, it's important to understand the specific requirements and restrictions for your chosen country.

Remember, your choice of destination will significantly impact your overall study abroad experience, so take the time to weigh your options and select a location that best suits your academic, personal, and professional goals.

Personal growth

Studying abroad can be a transformative experience for international students, fostering personal growth in numerous ways.

Firstly, it provides an opportunity for students to gain independence and discover themselves. Being in a foreign country alone can be overwhelming, but it also encourages students to step out of their comfort zones, fostering a sense of adventure and curiosity. They must adapt to diverse situations, problem-solve, and navigate challenges, which builds resilience and enhances their ability to manage unfamiliar or difficult circumstances. This experience showcases to graduate school admissions boards and future employers that these students possess diversity, courage, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities.

Secondly, studying abroad allows students to immerse themselves in a different culture and gain a broader understanding of the world. They can explore new traditions, customs, and lifestyles, developing a more global perspective and cultural sensitivity. This cross-cultural learning can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth, challenging preconceived notions and expanding one's worldview. It also enables students to gain valuable language skills, whether through formal language courses or daily interactions, enhancing their communication abilities and boosting their confidence.

Additionally, studying abroad provides a unique chance to pursue academic interests in a new environment. Students can explore subjects in-depth, with more independence, and experience different styles of education. They can take advantage of the host university's strengths and resources, specialising in niche areas or pursuing independent studies under the guidance of faculty sponsors. This freedom to explore academic passions can foster creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of their chosen field.

Moreover, studying abroad offers numerous opportunities for extracurricular activities and personal development. Students can discover new talents and interests, such as sports, outdoor activities, cultural events, and social experiences. They can build lifelong friendships with people from diverse backgrounds, expanding their social network globally. This exchange of ideas, perspectives, and experiences can shape their character, enhance their interpersonal skills, and broaden their horizons, leading to a more well-rounded and fulfilling life.

Lastly, the process of organising and navigating a study abroad experience contributes to personal growth. Students learn valuable skills in planning, decision-making, and time management. They gain cross-cultural communication skills, enhance their adaptability, and develop a greater understanding of themselves and others. This experience can boost their confidence, resilience, and sense of self-reliance, preparing them for future challenges and opportunities.

In conclusion, studying abroad offers international students a wealth of opportunities for personal growth and development. It encourages independence, fosters cultural understanding, facilitates academic exploration, and provides a platform for building a global network. The combination of academic, cultural, and social experiences shapes their worldview, enhances their skill set, and prepares them for a diverse and dynamic future.

Academic and career benefits

Studying abroad offers international students a host of academic and career benefits. Firstly, students can gain academic benefits from the very act of travelling to new places and experiencing new cultures. This can be very educational, offering a unique opportunity to explore new environments and meet new people. The experience of studying abroad can also bring out students' independent nature, encouraging them to become explorers of their host nation and develop their curiosity.

A significant academic benefit of studying abroad is the opportunity to gain cultural and linguistic immersion. Students can develop their language skills and build cultural awareness by engaging with their host community. This firsthand knowledge of living and learning within an international culture is invaluable and can contribute to personal growth.

In terms of career benefits, studying abroad can enhance employability and open doors to diverse career opportunities. The knowledge and skills gained from living and studying in a foreign country are highly valued by employers. Students who study abroad develop traits such as resourcefulness, adaptability, resilience, and empathy, which are advantageous in any job market. Additionally, internship opportunities available during study abroad programs can provide a competitive edge, allowing students to gain industry experience and make global connections.

Studying abroad also enables students to build a strong network of international contacts, which can be beneficial for their careers. They can connect with people in a range of industries and at different career stages, expanding their professional network beyond their home country. Many universities with global alumni networks further enhance these networking opportunities.

Finally, studying abroad can help students discover new talents and interests they may not have explored at home. They might find a passion for sports, outdoor activities, or other hobbies that contribute to their overall well-being and personal development. This discovery of new passions can also translate into career opportunities, especially if they decide to seek work in their host country.

Frequently asked questions