Study Abroad Programs

Go Overseas is here to take the guesswork out from finding you the best study abroad programs.

Guide to studying abroad

The world is your classroom—and you don't have to figure it out alone. Whether you're dreaming of a semester in Italy, pursuing your degree in Germany, or a summer language program in Japan, Go Overseas makes it easy to find and compare study abroad programs that fit your goals, budget, and schedule.

Browse thousands of verified programs across 170+ countries and find the one that's right for you.

What is studying abroad?

Studying abroad means enrolling in an academic program in a country other than your own—usually for a semester, a summer, or a full academic year. You get real course credits, real cultural immersion, and (let's be honest) real personal growth that's hard to find anywhere else.

Programs can look very different from one another, so it helps to know the different types before you start searching:

  • Semester programs: Take courses at a local university or through a provider for 3–5 months. The most common option, and a great balance between immersion and commitment. 
  • Year-long programs: The full academic year immersive experience. 12 months abroad gives you time to truly settle in, build relationships, and get past the tourist phase entirely.
  • Summer programs: Shorter, more focused, and great if you can't commit to a full semester. Often 4–12 weeks long.
  • Language immersion: Built around learning a language in-country, sometimes combined with homestays.
  • Field research or internship abroad: Programs that mix academics with hands-on work experience in your field.
  • Gap year programs: Longer-term options that may combine coursework, travel, and community engagement.

How to find study abroad programs

There are hundreds of providers out there, and it can get overwhelming fast. Here's what to focus on when comparing your options:

What to look for in a program

  • Credit transferability: will your home school accept the credits? Confirm this before you apply.
  • Accreditation: is the program or partner institution accredited? This affects your financial aid eligibility.
  • Support services: look for visa guidance, on-site staff, housing assistance, and emergency support.
  • Program reputation: read real reviews from past students, not just the provider's marketing copy.
  • What's included: some programs bundle housing, meals, and excursions; others don't. Know what you're paying for.

Questions to ask before you apply

  • Can I use my federal financial aid for this program?
  • What happens if I need to leave early for a personal or medical reason?
  • Is housing on- or off-campus, and is it guaranteed?
  • Will I be in classes with local students, or mostly other internationals?
  • What's the application deadline, and is there an early decision option?

Benefits of Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is one of those experiences that has a way of changing you—in the best possible way. Here's what students consistently say it gives them:

  • Access to courses, research, and academic environments you won't find at home
  • A serious confidence boost—navigating a new country does that
  • A global network of friends, professors, and peers you'll actually keep
  • A new lens on how the world works, from the inside of a different culture
  • Real language skills, even if you're starting from scratch
  • A résumé that stands out—employers notice international experience

Where to study abroad

Not sure where to go? These destinations are consistently popular for good reason—each one offers something a little different.

  • England— great for world-class education: Home to Oxford, Cambridge, and some of the world's top-ranked universities. English-speaking, easy to navigate, and full of history—it's a natural fit for international students who want a rigorous academic experience without a language barrier.
  • Japan — great for STEM: A global leader in tech, robotics, and biomedical research. If you're in a science or engineering field, Japan's academic and industry access is hard to beat. Whether you're into aerospace, electronics, or biomedicine, you'll find serious opportunities here.
  • Ireland — great for arts and culture: The country that produced Oscar Wilde and W.B. Yeats isn't short on inspiration. Stunning scenery, rich literary history, and a genuinely warm welcome for international students make it a standout pick for anyone in the arts, humanities, or creative fields.
  • South Korea — great for business, tech, and pop culture: Seoul is one of the most dynamic cities in the world, and its universities are catching up fast in global rankings. South Korea is a strong pick for students interested in business, international relations, K-pop and media industries, or East Asian studies. 

How to choose the right destination for you

A few questions to ask yourself to help you research your options:

  • Does the program offer courses that count toward your degree?
  • Do you want to learn a new language, or study in English?
  • Are you looking for a big city experience or something more rural and immersive?
  • What's your budget—and does the destination's cost of living fit it?
  • Is safety, LGBTQ+ inclusion, or accessibility a factor in where you feel comfortable going?

Cost to study abroad

Your tuition and program costs will vary depending on where you go, how long you stay, and what's included in your program. Here's a general breakdown by region for a single semester: 

Region Estimated cost per semester (USD)
Southeast Asia $5,000–$7,000
Latin America $6,000–$9,000
Eastern Europe $7,000–$11,000
South Korea $8,000–$12,000
Western Europe $10,000–$15,000
England / Ireland $11,000–$16,000
Australia / New Zealand $12,000–$18,000

Estimates include tuition, housing, and basic living costs. 

Scholarships

The good news? Many students don't pay full price. There are a large variety of study abroad scholarships available for international students, offered by universities, government organizations, and even program providers!

You can also look for scholarships specifically for your host country or reach out to your program advisor to see if there is any aid offered.

If you identify as a BIPOC student, be sure to take a look at this list of scholarships specifically for students who identify as BIPOC.

A few other ways to bring costs down:

  • Choose a program in a lower cost-of-living country.
  • Look for programs that include housing—it removes one of the biggest variables!
  • Consider a summer program if a full semester isn't feasible right now.
  • Ask your home university about direct exchange partnerships, which are often cheaper than third-party providers.

How to use Go Overseas

Go Overseas is your go-to source for trusted travel programs. Explore thousands of vetted options and get the guidance you need to feel confident and excited about culturally-immersive experiences abroad.

Here’s how to use GO to plan your next adventure:

  1. Explore 16,000+ programs: Narrow your search results by using filters, such as program type, location, and length.
  2. Compare 46,000+ reviews: Real people have gone on these programs, and have unique experiences to share. Read their reviews to learn what it’s truly like to live and learn abroad!
  3. Read alumni interviews: Hear personal stories and in-depth accounts from fellow travelers just like you!
  4. Browse community photos: Dive into photos of real experiences from our community of travelers. From mouthwatering meals and cozy accommodations, to breathtaking adventures and new friends, our galleries bring the journey to life. Start picturing your story abroad!
  5. Wish list 💙: Not ready to commit to a program? Click the Wish List heart icon to bookmark programs and save them for later. Then, compare programs side by side.

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Frequently Asked Study Abroad Questions

  • How much does it cost to study abroad?

    Although costs will vary based on the location, length of program, and enrollment type, a semester abroad through a third-party provider will generally run between $12,000-$15,000 USD.

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  • Can I study abroad for free?

    It’s possible to study abroad for free or low tuition! Countries such as Germany, France, Austria, and Iceland offer free tuition for international students. You should still budget for additional fees, like housing.

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  • What are the requirements to study abroad?

    For most countries, students will need to submit a completed application form, official academic transcripts, and a personal statement. There are usually minimum GPA requirements which typically range from 2.5-3.0.

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  • What are the benefits of studying abroad?

    Studying abroad is a great opportunity to open your mind to new perspectives and ways of living, make lifelong friendships, establish a global network, and potentially earn another language!

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  • What is the best country for studying abroad?

    Australia, Spain, Ireland, Sweden, and Japan are a few popular destinations for studying abroad. However, the best country for studying abroad depends on your field of study, academic goals, and your personal interests.

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  • Why earn your MBA abroad?

    Earning your MBA abroad is a great way to break into the world of international business and cultivate your global connections. Earning your MBA in countries like Germany or Spain may also save you money on tuition.

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  • What does it mean to study abroad?

    Studying abroad means taking classes at a university in a different country for academic credit that will count towards your degree. International students can take a wide range of classes both in a foreign language and/or English.

  • How long is a study abroad program?

    Study abroad programs vary in length from a few days to an entire academic year. Many students choose to study abroad for a semester but short-term summer programs are also popular.

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