The price of studying abroad depends on your enrollment choice and where you decide to study abroad. Direct enrollment typically has cheaper tuition costs, while third-party providers may be pricier but handle logistics such as housing and insurance. On average, a semester abroad will run you about $14,000, with certain locations like New Zealand running on the high end and Costa Rica on the low end. Your day-to-day budget will be influenced by your country's cost of living, how long you're studying abroad for, and your personal spending habits.
Study Abroad Programs
Go Overseas is here to take the guesswork out from finding you the best study abroad programs.
How to Study Abroad
Navigating the study abroad process doesn’t have to be a challenging task. Start preparing to study abroad by following these steps.
- Research locations and universities.Start by thinking about what you’re planning to study and the countries that interest you. Then research the universities in that country, by comparing rankings, course offerings, and admission requirements for international students.
- Choose a program. There are many ways to study abroad, but the two most popular options are direct enrollment and third-party programs. With direct enrollment, you can apply through your home university and let their program facilitate the process, or directly enroll into a university overseas. Although a more costly route, a third-party provider can provide you with extra support with visas and the application process, arrange your housing, and even organize travel excursions.
- Prepare your application. While requirements may vary depending on the university, in order to study abroad, you’ll typically need to complete an application form, submit copies of your transcript and letters of recommendation, and write a personal statement.
- Apply for a visa. Once you’ve been accepted into your program, depending on the country, you may need to apply for a student visa.
- Secure housing and book your flight. If you booked your program with a third-party provider, they likely arranged housing for you already. However, if you applied directly to your host university, you’ll need to secure accommodations, whether it’s a homestay, on-campus dorm, or private apartment.
- Start packing and prepare to travel overseas. You should also make sure you’re up-to-date on necessary vaccinations and consider purchasing travel insurance.
- Enjoy your study abroad experience! Make the most of your time abroad! Take advantage of academic and cultural-immersion opportunities, make new friends, and don’t be afraid to leave your comfort zone!
Why Study Abroad
There are many different reasons thousands of students decide to study abroad every year!
Here are a few reasons why you should study abroad:
- You can attend unique classes you wouldn’t normally take at your home university
- Builds self-confidence and improves your independence
- Allows you to build a global network
- Gives you a new perspective, through learning how a different society lives and functions
- Can experience being in the country like a local, rather than a tourist
- You’ll develop life-long friendships with people around the world
Where to Study Abroad
Take a look at a few popular destinations for studying abroad.
Great for world class education: England
Academics in England are top-tier, with world-renowned universities such as Cambridge and Oxford leading in university rankings around the world. For many international students, especially English-speakers, it’s an ideal location for studying abroad since the streets are easy to navigate and there are fewer language barriers.
Great for STEM: Japan
Known for its extensive list of technological advancements and big-name industries, Japan is the leading country when it comes to innovation. As a global leader across many science and technological fields, Japan is a great country especially for students in STEM. Whether you’re interested in robotics, aerospace research, biomedicine, or electronics, you’re sure to benefit from all of the academic and career opportunities Japan has to offer for international students.
Great for arts and culture: Ireland
From lush green cliffs to dreamy castles, how can you not feel inspired to create something great in a country as scenic as Ireland? Home to many famous authors like Oscar Wilde, arts and culture students can explore literary masterpieces and learn about traditional Irish arts during their semester abroad.
Cost to Study Abroad
The cost of your study abroad tuition will be based on the country and university, and whether you apply through direct enrollment or a third-party provider.
Below are average third-party program fees per semester for popular study abroad countries.
- England: $10,000 to $30,000 USD
- Japan: $8,000 USD to $25,000 USD
- Ireland: $5,000 USD to $20,000 USD
- South Korea: $5,000 USD to $10,000 USD
- Spain: $10,000 USD to $13,000 USD
See the costs breakdown by region: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad in 2023?
Scholarships
Applying for scholarships and travel grants can be a great way to offset the costs of your study abroad program. 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.
Popular Places to Study Abroad
Featured Study Abroad Programs
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Frequently Asked Study Abroad Questions
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How much does it cost to study abroad?
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Can I study abroad for free?
While it may not be completely free, you can apply for a work-study program or grants and scholarships. You can also opt for less expensive programs or enroll directly in a foreign university.
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What are the requirements to study abroad?
Many countries and their universities have varying requirements that students must meet to study abroad. Generally, you should expect to meet an academic standing requirement, obtain a valid passport and student visa, and complete the application.
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What are the benefits of studying abroad?
Studying abroad is a great opportunity for students to open their mind to new perspectives and ways of living, learn foreign languages, and study in locations that complement your classroom learning or specific field of study. You'll also make lifelong friendships, expand your global network, and gain transferrable skills, which can set you up for success as you enter the workforce.
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What is the best country for studying abroad?
Some popular destinations for study abroad include Australia, Spain, Ireland, Sweden, and Japan. 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 business world and expand your global connections. Earning your MBA in countries like Germany or Spain may also allow you to save money on tuition, versus the normal price you'd pay back home.
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