3 Differences Between Studying Abroad, Pursuing a Degree Overseas

These two different paths should be carefully considered in terms of cost and curriculum.

For some students, there is a temptation to think that enrolling at an international university for a degree and studying abroad for a semester or year are similar experiences..


In reality, these two options are quite different, and there are a number of important factors that high school seniors should consider if they re deciding whether to spend all or part of their college career in another country. Below are three to start thinking about.


1. Curriculum: The curriculum you will study is one of the largest differences between attending an international university and participating in a study abroad program. Many study abroad programs are constructed with U.S. students in mind – in certain instances, they are even developed by your home school, rather than the international host college. However, if you choose to pursue a degree at an international school, its curriculum may not adhere to U.S. standards. This is not to say that international colleges and universities have inferior curricula – they most certainly do not. They are simply structured differently. ​ Schools in the U.S. tend to allow students more time to explore various academic specialties, as well as to take elective classes outside of their majors. International schools may expect you to select your major early in your college career, and your course load may be tightly focused on your major. If you already know what you wish to study, then this is not a problem. If you are less certain of your career path, attending college or university in the U.S. and studying abroad for a period of time may be a great option for you. 


 2. The sociocultural experience: If your primary goal during college is to immerse yourself in another culture to the greatest extent possible, then pursuing a degree as an international student may be ideal for you. While study abroad programs that are designed for U.S. students provide many advantages, the fact that they are specifically created for U.S. students and will likely enroll a large number of these students may limit the depth of your cultural immersion. On the other hand, if you enroll at a college or university in another country, you will be attending classes that are largely populated by students from that country – and you will likely spend much of your free time with them. An international degree will also enable you to remain immersed for several years, rather than six to 12 months.


3. Cost: Study abroad programs typically vary in cost due to several factors, including the cost of living in the host country and the inclusiveness of the package. Some programs can be quite expensive. Students who feel they must go abroad during their college careers, but who are also budget conscious, may find an international degree appealing. International schools often have considerably lower tuition rates than their U.S. counterparts. But it is also important to weigh the cost of airfare to and from the U.S., as well as lodging, food and entertainment. Traveling abroad during college – in any form – can offer you enormous benefits and an experience that you are unlikely to forget. The particular experience that is best for you will depend on a number of factors. When deciding whether to pursue an international degree or to study abroad, consider the above differences to ensure you make a truly informed decision.