For many students and families, education is the path to new or better careers and, ultimately, to a better future. This expectation is a key driver of demand for education at all levels, and research in the field clearly demonstrates that employability is both a major motivation for study abroad as well as a significant factor in selecting an institution.

Studying abroad guarantees a plethora of course your school doesn't offer, giving you an opportunity to branch out beyond your requirements.

You are guaranteed to be met with new challenges during your time abroad. Overcoming unforeseen obstacles in a foreign country will teach you more about yourself and the world than you can imagine, giving you confidence, Independence, and Other Life Skills. A benefit to studying overseas is the opportunity to discover yourself while gaining an understanding of a different culture. Being in a new place by yourself can be overwhelming at times, and it tests your ability to adapt to diverse situations while being able to problem solve

There is no greater personal accomplishment than learning a new language, and there is no better way to become fluent in a new language than by immersing yourself in its home country.

Most study abroad programs offer the opportunity to participate in an internship during your semester. If you plan on working at an international organization post-graduation, interning abroad will teach you how to effectively conduct business in a different country and will develop your cross-cultural communication skills; making you a more competitive employee in today’s globalized economy.

The biggest reasons you should consider a study abroad program is the opportunity to see the world. By studying abroad, you will experience a brand-new country with incredible new outlooks, customs and activities. The benefits of studying abroad include the opportunity to see new terrains, natural wonders, museums and landmarks of the host nation.

When you finish your overseas education program and return home, you will return with a new perspective on culture, language skills, a great education, and a willingness to learn. Needless to say, all of these are very attractive to future employers. Many students find that they love their host country so much that they decide to seek work there. If you can relate, you will find that a local education will be very valuable when searching for a potential job in that country.

Studying overseas is an ultimate test in self-reliance. When you move back, you’ll likely rely on others less and you’ll take more responsibility for yourself.

Studying abroad usually means you have even fewer possessions than the average student, and being that much further from home can really make you miss those familiar comforts you’d taken for granted. Welcome to a new-found appreciation of everything from your parents’ cooking to having more than two pairs of shoes to choose from

Even if your friends back home get bored of hearing about it, your study abroad experience will stay with you long after it’s over

While you can always go home at the end of your time as an international student, many choose to stay and apply for a working visa. Even if you return home or decide to seek work elsewhere, the international experience provided by studying abroad is likely to be looked on favorably by employers

One of the biggest takeaways from your semester abroad will be the diverse group of lifelong friends you make along the way. Join a local club or sports team, attend local events, or explore outside your city to build close relationships with locals and other international students