Studying abroad means completing part or all of your education in a country other than the one you grew up in. It is one of the most common ways students around the world improve their career prospects, earn internationally recognized qualifications, and gain life experience.
This guide explains what studying abroad actually means, how the process works from start to finish, and how ApplyBoard can help you get there.
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What Does Studying Abroad Mean?
Studying abroad means you enrol at a university, college, or school in another country and live there while you study. You attend classes, complete assignments, sit exams, and earn a qualification, just as you would at home. The main difference is that the qualification comes from an institution in another country, and it is recognized by employers and universities worldwide.
Students who study abroad are often called international students. Most countries have large and growing populations of international students. Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, and the United States are among the most popular destinations for international students from South Asia, Africa, and other regions.
What Types of Programs Can You Study Abroad?
When people talk about studying abroad, they usually mean one of three things:
Full-Degree Programs
You enrol at a foreign university or college and complete your entire qualification there. This is the most common type of study abroad for students who want a recognized international credential. You might study a two-year diploma, a three- or four-year bachelor's degree, or a one- or two-year master's degree. Some students also do PhDs abroad.
Exchange Programs
You are already enrolled at a university in your home country and you spend one or two semesters studying at a partner university abroad. Your credits usually transfer back to your home degree. Exchange programs are organized between universities and are usually only available to students who are already enrolled.
Short-Term and Language Programs
You study abroad for a few weeks or months, often to improve your English or to complete a short professional course. These programs do not usually lead to a full qualification, but they can be a good first step.
Note: This guide focuses on full-degree programs, since these are the path most students take when they want a lasting career benefit from studying abroad. If you are looking for exchange programs, talk to the international office at your current university.
How Does the Study Abroad Process Work?
Studying abroad involves several steps. Here is a simple overview of how the process works from start to finish.
How Long Does Studying Abroad Take?
It depends on the type of program you choose. Here are the most common timelines:
- Certificate or diploma programs: Usually one to two years.
- Bachelor's degrees: Usually three to four years, depending on the country and subject.
- Master's degrees: Usually one to two years. In the UK, most taught Master's programs take just one year.
- Doctoral degrees (PhD): Usually three to five years.
Who Can Study Abroad?
Almost anyone can apply to study abroad, but the process looks different depending on your situation. Universities look at your academic background, English language ability, and sometimes your financial ability to cover tuition and living costs.
You do not need to be from a wealthy family, have a perfect academic record, or already speak perfect English to study abroad. Many students start with an English language preparation course before their main program. Scholarships and financial aid are also available to help cover costs.
Tip! If you are not sure whether you qualify for the programs you are interested in, talk to an ApplyBoard counsellor. They can review your background and help you find programs that match your qualifications right now, as well as options to strengthen your profile if needed.
What Is ApplyBoard and How Does It Help?
ApplyBoard is a platform that helps international students find, compare, and apply to universities and colleges around the world. Instead of researching each institution separately and managing many different application portals, you can do everything in one place through ApplyBoard.
When you apply through ApplyBoard, you work with an ApplyBoard counsellor who knows the institutions and the process. They can help you choose the right program, prepare your documents, and track your application at every step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not to start. Many students take an English language preparation course (called a pathway or English for Academic Purposes program) before beginning their main degree. These programs are designed to bring your English to the level required for university study. If your English is already strong, you will typically need to pass an IELTS or TOEFL test to prove it to the university.
Yes. Universities look at your existing grades and qualifications when deciding whether to admit you. Your school or university transcripts from home are an important part of your application. In some cases, a university may ask for a credential evaluation (a formal assessment of what your qualifications are equivalent to in that country's system).
Most countries allow international students to work a limited number of hours per week during their studies. For example, Canada, the UK, and Australia all allow international students to work part-time. The exact rules depend on the country and your visa conditions. Working part-time can help cover living costs, but it is important not to let it affect your studies.
Yes, many countries offer post-study work visas that let you stay and work after graduation. Canada has the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), the UK has the Graduate visa, and Australia has the Temporary Graduate visa. These are popular options for students who want to gain international work experience after their degree.
Studying abroad is a big decision, and it is completely normal to have many questions at the start. The best way to move forward is to learn more, talk to people who have done it, and get guidance from someone who knows the process. Your ApplyBoard counsellor is there to help you every step of the way.
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