There’s a Growing Number of Americans Earning Their College Degree Outside of the U.S.
Sure, maybe you plan to do a semester abroad in another country, but have you ever considered pursuing your entire college degree at an international university?
With the rising cost of tuition at American colleges and universities, students are looking outside of the U.S. for a high quality education, for considerably less money. But, how do you know if you’re the type of student who should consider earning your college degree abroad? Ask yourself these questions:
Do you like to travel and are you eager to immerse yourself in other cultures?
Are you independent and open-minded?
Do you have a clear major and academic path in mind?
Are you mature, not afraid to take risks, and thrive on adventure?
Are you comfortable with learning a new academic structure?
If you answered these questions with a resounding YES, then you’re ready to explore your international university undergraduate degree options!
Not surprisingly, the most popular international universities for American students are those where they can speak their native language, bringing universities in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Scotland, Ireland and The Netherlands to the top of the list. Trying to attract more U.S. students, Europe is also becoming one of the top regions offering programs taught in English.
If saving money for a high-quality education isn’t a big enough reason for you to consider pursuing an international education here are a few more.
Students can earn an undergraduate degree in just 3 years (in most programs), or they can add a 4th year to study abroad, do an internship, earn a dual degree, or enroll in an honors program.
The Entry Requirements at an international university are more transparent, taking much of the guesswork and stress out of the college admissions process.
Gaining a global mind-set and possibly a second language expands your future employment prospects.
A chance to experience a new culture and lifestyle with the opportunity to travel to countries all over the world.
Once you determine where you want to study, you can start to think about choosing a program or university. You can research leading universities with the QS World University Rankings and the subject rankings to discover universities that are ranked highest for your course of study.
International colleges/universities require students to select their major (also referred to as program and course) when submitting their application and unlike American universities there is limited flexibility to change once accepted. If a student is somewhat undecided on their major there are a growing number of Liberal Arts Degrees that provide students a chance to study a breadth of subjects, but they will be required to select a major or path in their first year!
The entry (admission) requirements, cost of tuition, language and student visa requirements as well as availability and cost for housing and meal plans vary widely between universities and between countries.
If the country you decide to study in requires a student visa, remember in most cases you will not be able to apply for a visa until you have received a letter of acceptance from your university. This process can take months, so allow as much time as possible.
If you are an American student considering applying to a college in another country there are some things you need to know, including how to prep for entry requirements while in high school.
In general, most colleges abroad are interested in your GPA and test scores, not your necessarily your extracurriculars. Taking APs and/or Subject 2 Exams in the subjects related to your chosen degree and in a foreign language, will of course strengthen your application. And, if you’re applying to one of the more competitive degrees such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, law, engineering, veterinary science, or architecture, you’ll find that the entry requirements are much more competitive, and in many cases require additional testing for admission.
International Universities list the minimum Entry Requirements for admission and any subject requirements for your chosen course of study on their website. Most require a high school degree, a minimum GPA with a combination of SAT or ACT scores, AP and Subject 2 Exams. If you have an IB Diploma you will not be required to submit additional testing beyond your IB Scores. Entry requirements do vary across all countries, so it’s important to refer to the university’s entry requirements for international students before selecting your high school courses.
Many international universities do not have American-style campuses or even on-campus housing at some. Therefore, it’s important for prospective students to do their due-diligence when researching a university. Look to see if there is a residence guarantee and meal options for first- year students and the process and estimated cost of living beyond your first year.
The timetable and application process for admissions vary by country so be sure to check with each university before making assumptions. In some cases, students may be able to apply using the Common App, in other cases universities may require students to apply through a college/university admissions service such as the UCAS (for universities in the UK) and there are some universities who want students to apply directly through their university application system.
There are a few types of admissions decisions students can expect to receive from an international university. A Conditional Offer (which is quite common for international applicants) may require a student’s final scores on testing, such as AP exams and IB tests, proof of Language Proficiency, entrance exams, or they may require a student take a Foundation Year (preparatory program) at the university before they enroll in their program. An Unconditional Offer, which means you’ve been accepted, but still require certain arrangements before enrolling. Or an Unsuccessful or Withdrawn choice for that university, but you may still be able to apply to other universities.
Some universities may require students to apply for a Student Visa or Permit, provide proof of funds and health insurance to study and live in their country, register with social security, obtain a residence permit and/or register with the local police. Be sure you understand the requirements or reach out to a student advisor at the university for clarification.
Usually international students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and full-time during university breaks.
Some universities offer merit scholarships which are available to international students and in many cases American students can obtain financial aid through FAFSA to help pay for school.
Depending on the college/university, students may be required to write a Personal Statement, submit references, or attend an admissions interview.
My final advice to students who are considering earning their college degree abroad:
Start the process early, allowing 9-12 months for the research and the admissions process.
Conduct informational interviews, summer internships/job shadows while in high school to help identify your preferred course of study (remember students are required to apply directly to a program of study and their courses will be specific to that major (right from the beginning.)
Visit the university and spend time in the city/town (maybe on a family vacation) so that you can experience the culture, potential living arrangements, and making sure you feel comfortable in the country and at the university location. If funds allow, maybe attend a summer program or study abroad program at the university, to become better acquainted with their educational structure.
Spend a lot of time researching the Student Services for international students at each university. Contact their student services or advisor to discuss any concerns you may have before you make a decision to attend an international university. You and your family will be more comfortable knowing you have a great support system in place before you embark on this amazing international college journey!
The experiences, the lessons, and the memories will last a lifetime!
