The Many Options for International Study

Do you have a hankering to study in another country? You are not alone. Each academic year, millions of students apply for abroad programs, some of which last a few months and others for many years. By far, summer programs are the most popular due to their accessibility and low cost. However, international MBA (master's in business administration) degree programs are growing in popularity. Likewise, four-year, full-matriculation programs are drawing a growing number of applicants, especially among young people who want to master a second language. Doctoral students also take up residence in foreign nations to round out their training in prestigious schools that are famed for teaching particular subjects. Here are some of the most popular options for anyone who is interested in venturing abroad to take college-level coursework.

Summer Programs

Check online study abroad opportunities, and you'll soon discover hundreds of summer-only opportunities that offer everything from certificates in business and liberal arts subjects to music, sculpting, dance, biology, foreign language, and mathematics courses. Most are 10-week sessions that allow for plenty of touring and sightseeing in the local area, and costs tend to be quite reasonable. Be sure to also investigate tips for staying safe while studying abroad since you will be bouncing around, you don’t want to sour the experience with an accident or incident.

International MBA Degrees

MBA programs, in which all classroom instruction is in English, are a common international site in dozens of countries and in many cultures. In fact, nations as different as Japan, Saudi Arabia, France, Malaysia, India, and Nigeria all have at least one Global MBA program that's open to anyone who holds an undergraduate degree and speaks English well enough to understand a standard lecture. Prices vary, so be sure to compare program quality, length of time for degree completion, and the reputation of particular schools before choosing your favorite. Fortunately, you can take out a student loan from a private lender to cover some or all of the related expenses for a graduate degree in business in a foreign nation. There are Earnest MBA loans designed to meet the needs of students from any background and with varying financial needs.

Four-Year Undergraduate and PhD Programs

Several international schools in cities like Tokyo, Japan, and Stockholm, Sweden, are designed for English language instruction within four-year degree programs. You'll need to apply about one year in advance and expect to spend the same amount on tuition and fees as for domestic academic degrees at a typical college or university. Students who aim to earn a PhD in a particular subject can usually find English-language coursework in dozens of nations but be sure to contact institutions well in advance to learn about admissions requirements, total costs, and whether the doctoral degree will be recognized in your home nation as a valid credential. The good news is that there are many legitimate, highly respected international PhD programs for serious students who want to earn a doctorate diploma.

Schools to Avoid

No listing of international educational opportunities would be complete without a word of warning about the rare scams that take place. In general, you'll be safe as long as you attend an institution that is regionally accredited by a recognized authoritative body, does not ask for a large upfront payment, and makes no outlandish promises about future employment opportunities.