Choosing a Study Abroad Program: 5 Essential Factors To Consider in 2023

Choose the Right Study Abroad Program!

Studying abroad is an exciting experience, but it can be hard to know where to start when choosing a program. From the country and culture to the academic programs, language of instruction, and housing options, there are many things to consider before selecting a program abroad. Fortunately, with a bit of research and careful consideration of your personal preferences and financial considerations, you’ll be able to choose a study abroad program that will fit your needs and help you make the most of your experience. Read on for advice and tips prepared by Quizplus on how to choose the right study abroad program for you.

Academic Goals

When it comes to choosing a study abroad program, it’s important to think about your academic goals for studying abroad. Do you want to stay on track with your studies and earn credits towards your degree? Or are you looking for an immersive cultural experience that allows you to gain in-depth knowledge of a new country? Research each program carefully to ensure you understand what they offer and whether they meet your academic objectives. You should also consider the quality of instruction, taking into account the university ranking and reviewing past student experiences.

Furthermore, you should think of the type of courses you want to take while abroad and how they may fit into your academic plan. Doing research about the types of credits each program offers will ensure they are transferring back to your home school and speak with academic advisors if you need further advice. Knowing what scholastic topics you wish to study, which school is best for those subjects, and the cost associated with the programs is essential before making a decision.

Cost of Program

It’s no secret that study abroad programs can be expensive so one of the most important factors to consider when selecting a study abroad program is the cost. While there are some scholarships and financial aid available, it’s likely you’ll need to pay out of pocket in some way. Before applying to any program, consider the cost – including tuition fees, accommodation costs, living expenses, and flight costs – to ensure you understand what you’re signing up for financially. Know the full cost before committing so there aren't any surprises later down the line.

Researching different programs will also help you find the one that fits best within your budget while providing you with a quality academic experience. Find out if your chosen school offers scholarships or financial aid that could help cover some of the costs involved with studying abroad. Additionally, make sure to check with your home institution for any study abroad opportunities available to you.

Destination/Location/Culture

One of the most important considerations when selecting a study abroad program is the country/region you’ll be visiting. Before you can even begin to narrow down your options, it's important to consider where you would like to go. Consider the geography, culture, and language of the potential destinations. Think about if you want a big city or a rural area and ask yourself if you would prefer more time to explore or more structured classes. Don’t forget about the weather either!

To ensure that you have a great learning experience abroad, you should also think about researching any social norms or cultural nuances that may be present in different regions, so you can better understand and adjust to life overseas. Different destinations can also provide many different learning opportunities, so consider what and skills would best suit your personal and professional goals.

Quality of Teaching and Course Materials

Once you have settled on a destination, it's important to consider the teaching and course materials you'll be engaging with during your study abroad program. Evaluate the level of instruction offered by individual teachers and assess the materials they use to teach, such as books and online materials. Consider if their teaching method and approach will adequately prepare you for your desired outcome. 

Additionally, look into whether or not the courses offered in your desired study abroad program are transferable to your college or university back home. This is important as your academic success and overall experience will largely depend on this component. Ultimately, you want to make sure you are receiving quality instruction in line with your objectives for studying abroad.

Safety, Health, & Insurance Policies

When choosing a study abroad program, safety should be top of mind. It is important to understand the safety and health requirements of both your destination country and the school you are attending. Research any current travel advisories in place for the region and inquire about any safety concerns that might arise when living in your host city. The major things you need to consider is their health care system, security measures, and availability of emergency services

If possible, try to find out what kind of health insurance is provided by the school and review the school’s student insurance policy to make arrangements for additional coverage if necessary and research any other safety regulations that the school adheres to. This can help you feel confident during your time abroad and determine if you will need to purchase international health insurance. Knowing these policies beforehand will also help prevent unexpected problems while abroad.

While studying abroad, you will need a study app that you can use to prepare for your courses and exams. Quizplus has all the study tools you need to succeed! It’s available on both Android and iOS.