So you’re thinking about studying abroad. Congratulations! Traveling to a new country to learn about a different culture and earn college credits is an amazing opportunity. But before you book your plane ticket, there’s one important step you need to take: meeting with your study abroad advisor.
Your study abroad advisor is there to help you navigate the process of choosing and applying to study abroad programs. He or she can answer all of your questions and help connect you with resources. To get the most out of your meeting, it’s helpful to come prepared with a list of questions. Not sure what to ask? Here are a few questions to get you started.
63 Questions to ask your study abroad advisor to help you decide:
- How do I know if studying abroad is right for me?
- What are my program options?
- How do I choose the right program of study?
- How do I apply for a study abroad program?
- What are the eligibility requirements for programs?
- Do I need to be fluent in a foreign language to study abroad?
- How much does it cost to study abroad?
- Are there scholarships available to help fund my program?
- How do I know if I’m eligible for financial aid/scholarships?
- Will my financial aid cover the cost of studying abroad?
- When is the application deadline for programs?
- How long does the application process take?
- When will I know if I’ve been accepted to a program?
- What housing options are available for study-abroad students?
- What kind of support will I receive while abroad?
- Who can I contact if I have more questions?
- What countries are available?
- Can I study abroad more than once?
- How do I transfer credits back to my home university?
- What should I do if I have a medical emergency while abroad?
- What kind of insurance do I need?
- Will my cell phone work in another country?
- How much money should I bring with me?
- What’s the best way to convert currency?
- Should I learn a foreign language before I go?
- What are the benefits of studying abroad?
- Will studying abroad help me find a job after graduation?
- Can I still graduate on time if I study abroad?
- What if I get homesick or have other problems while away from home?
- How should I prepare for my trip?
- What are the differences between short-term and long-term programs?
- What are the most popular programs?
- What’s the best way to protect myself while traveling?
- What are the housing options?
- Is there a language requirement?
- What classes are offered?
- Can I get credit for classes taken abroad?
- How many students participate in the program?
- What’s the ratio of students to faculty?
- Are there any extracurricular activities offered?
- What’s the climate like in the country where the program is located?
- What’s the culture like in the country where the program is located?
- What are the safety concerns in the country where the program is located?
- Will I have the opportunity to travel during the program?
- What challenges might I encounter during the program?
- What types of cultural activities are available?
- Will I have the opportunity to interact with local students?
- Can I do an internship or work while I am in the program?
- Is there any service-learning or volunteer opportunities available?
- What kind of medical insurance is provided?
- What should I do if I get sick during the program?
- What kind of visa do I need to participate in the program?
- How much free time will I have?
- What can I do in my free time?
- What’s the food like?
- Will I be able to find familiar foods?
- What’s the best way to keep in touch with my family and friends back home?
- What’s the academic calendar for the program?
- What’s the average age of students in the program?
- Where will the program be located?
- Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
- What’s the refund policy for the program?
- Can I change my mind after I have been accepted to the program?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of studying abroad?
Studying abroad has many advantages: You expand your cultural knowledge, learn about other ways of thinking, and become more independent. When we travel to foreign countries and immerse ourselves in new cultures, we gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of the world and learn how people from other countries live, think and interact with each other.
In addition to these cultural benefits, studying abroad also allows us to develop our critical thinking skills and improve our understanding of academic topics. By exploring new ideas and concepts in a foreign environment, we can gain a greater depth of knowledge and find better solutions to problems.
Living in a foreign environment requires us to be more self-reliant and responsible for our own success. This fosters independence and resilience and helps us develop into more well-rounded individuals.
What are the disadvantages of studying abroad?
A major disadvantage of studying abroad is the cost associated with moving to another country. Not only do students have to pay for tuition, room, and board in the host country, but they also have to pay for visa and immigration fees, as well as airfare and moving expenses.
In addition, many students have difficulty adjusting to a new culture and environment, which can be emotionally taxing and isolating. Finally, living in a foreign country often means being away from family and friends for extended periods, which can lead to homesickness and loneliness.
Despite these challenges, many people choose to study abroad because it offers them unique educational opportunities, and living in another country is culturally enriching.
Conclusion
Meeting with your study abroad advisor is an important first step in planning your study abroad experience. By coming prepared with a list of questions, you can get the information you need to make an informed decision about whether studying abroad is right for you – and if so, how to ensure you have the best experience possible.
