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Essays on Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is more than an academic pursuit; it's a life-changing adventure that broadens horizons and enriches experiences. Writing an essay on studying abroad isn't just about grades; it's a chance to explore the transformative power of international education. Try writing an essay about studying abroad. 🌍🎓

Studying Abroad Essay Topics 📝

Selecting the right essay topic is crucial for a compelling narrative. Here's how to choose one:

Studying Abroad Argumentative Essay 🤨

Argumentative essays on studying abroad require you to defend a viewpoint or argument. Here are ten thought-provoking topics:

1. Argue for the benefits of studying abroad as a life-changing experience that enhances personal growth and global awareness.
2. Defend your perspective on whether international students should be eligible for the same scholarships and financial aid as domestic students.
3. Debate the impact of studying abroad on an individual's career prospects and future employability.
4. Argue for or against the idea that universities should offer more diverse programs and scholarships to encourage underrepresented students to study abroad.
5. Defend the importance of cultural exchange programs and their role in fostering international cooperation and understanding.
6. Debate the ethical implications of universities partnering with foreign governments to establish branch campuses abroad.
7. Argue for the benefits of international students contributing to the cultural diversity and academic excellence of host universities.
8. Defend your perspective on whether studying abroad should be made a mandatory part of higher education curricula.
9. Debate the role of studying abroad in promoting peace and diplomacy among nations.
10. Argue for or against the idea that studying abroad can lead to a disconnect from one's home culture and identity.

Studying Abroad Cause and Effect Essay 🤯

Cause and effect essays on studying abroad explore the reasons behind decisions and their consequences. Here are ten topics to consider:

1. Analyze the causes and effects of the rise in international student enrollment in universities worldwide.
2. Examine how studying abroad can influence an individual's language proficiency and communication skills.
3. Investigate the effects of cultural shock and adaptation challenges faced by international students in a foreign country.
4. Analyze the causes and consequences of the brain drain phenomenon in countries that lose talented individuals to international universities.
5. Examine how studying abroad can lead to a broader perspective on global issues and a greater sense of social responsibility.
6. Investigate the impact of studying abroad on an individual's career choices and the industries they enter upon graduation.
7. Analyze the causes of international student mobility trends and the influence of destination countries' policies and scholarships.
8. Examine the effects of cultural exchange programs on fostering cross-cultural friendships and global networks.
9. Investigate the consequences of studying abroad on one's personal identity and sense of belonging.
10. Analyze the causes and effects of reverse culture shock when international students return to their home countries after studying abroad.

Studying Abroad Opinion Essay 😌

Opinion essays on studying abroad allow you to express your subjective viewpoints. Here are ten topics to consider:

1. Share your opinion on the personal and cultural benefits of studying abroad, emphasizing the transformative power of the experience.
2. Discuss your perspective on the ethical responsibilities of universities to provide comprehensive support services for international students.
3. Express your thoughts on the importance of integrating global perspectives and international coursework into higher education curricula.
4. Debate the significance of government-sponsored exchange programs in promoting international cooperation and diplomacy.
5. Share your views on the role of international students in enriching the academic and social environments of host universities.
6. Discuss the impact of studying abroad on an individual's understanding of global challenges and their role in addressing them.
7. Express your opinion on whether studying abroad should be considered a privilege or a fundamental right for all students.
8. Debate the merits of universities collaborating with international partners to offer joint degree programs and research initiatives.
9. Share your perspective on the responsibilities of international students to be cultural ambassadors and bridge builders between nations.
10. Discuss your favorite personal experience or anecdote from studying abroad that highlights the value of international education.

Studying Abroad Informative Essay 🧐

Informative essays on studying abroad aim to educate readers. Here are ten informative topics to explore:

1. Provide an in-depth analysis of the history and evolution of international student mobility trends.
2. Explore the psychological and emotional challenges faced by international students during their adaptation to a new culture.
3. Investigate the impact of government policies and visa regulations on international student enrollment in different countries.
4. Analyze the benefits of studying abroad for career development, including increased employability and higher earning potential.
5. Examine the effects of international student exchanges on diplomatic relations and cultural diplomacy between nations.
6. Investigate the consequences of studying abroad on an individual's sense of identity and self-discovery.
7. Provide insights into the challenges and opportunities of international internships and work experiences for students studying abroad.
8. Analyze the connection between studying abroad and the development of global citizenship and cross-cultural competence.
9. Examine the role of support services, such as cultural orientation programs, in easing the transition for international students.
10. Investigate the therapeutic benefits of sharing and documenting one's study abroad experiences through blogs, vlogs, or social media.

Studying Abroad Essay Example 📄

Studying abroad thesis statement examples 📜.

Here are five examples of strong thesis statements for your studying abroad essay:

1. "Studying abroad is not just a chapter in one's academic journey; it's a transformative odyssey that shapes individuals into global citizens with a deeper understanding of the world."
2. "The decision to study abroad isn't merely a choice of education location; it's a pivotal moment in a student's life that fosters personal growth, cultural appreciation, and international perspectives."
3. "In a world increasingly interconnected, studying abroad is no longer a luxury but a necessity, as it equips individuals with the skills and insights needed to thrive in a globalized society."
4. "As we explore the myriad benefits of studying abroad, it becomes evident that this experience goes beyond academics; it's a profound journey of self-discovery, resilience, and adaptability."
5. "The pursuit of knowledge knows no borders, and studying abroad is the embodiment of this belief, transcending geographical boundaries and opening doors to a world of limitless opportunities."

Studying Abroad Essay Introduction Examples 🚀

Here are three captivating introduction paragraphs to kickstart your essay:

1. "In a world where textbooks are just the beginning, studying abroad is the next chapter in the adventure of education. As we embark on this essay's exploration, we peel back the layers of international study—a journey that is not just about knowledge but also about self-discovery, cultural immersion, and global perspectives."
2. "Picture a classroom without borders, where the world becomes your textbook, and every interaction is a lesson. Studying abroad isn't just an academic pursuit; it's a transformative voyage that reshapes how we see the world. Join us as we dive into this captivating narrative of education beyond horizons."
3. "Amid the pages of books and lecture halls, there's a world waiting to be explored—a world of diversity, new experiences, and global understanding. As we venture into this essay, we are reminded that studying abroad isn't just about where you go; it's about who you become along the way."

Studying Abroad Conclusion Examples 🌟

Conclude your essay with impact using these examples:

1. "As we close the book on this exploration of studying abroad, we recognize that the pursuit of knowledge transcends borders, and the journey of self-discovery knows no limits. The adventure continues, with each student who embarks on the path of international education, enriching their lives and our global community."
2. "In the final chapter of our studying abroad essay, we stand at the crossroads of academic exploration and personal growth. The world beckons, and the horizon stretches endlessly, offering boundless opportunities for those who dare to embrace the transformative power of studying abroad."
3. "As the echoes of this essay resonate, we find ourselves at the intersection of education and enlightenment. The conclusion marks the beginning of a lifelong journey—a journey of lifelong learning, cross-cultural empathy, and a deeper connection to the world."

Studying Abroad My Experience and Experiences

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The Challenges of Studying Abroad as an International Student

World education systems: why do you want to study in usa, studying abroad: my decision to study in america, the challenges to face while studying abroad, the advantages of studying abroad, studying abroad: advantages of studying in the usa, studying abroad: its history and aspects, studying abroad: my learning and working experience in england, advantages of studying in a university abroad, a journal on diversity and stereotype in society, lasting impact of study abroad experiences, an unforgettable experience of studying abroad in spain, causes of depression among international students, mistakes made and lessons learned, my personal experience of studying abroad, my life in different nations around the globe, different types of university roommates, international students face greater challenges throughout their study in malaysia, culture shock: stages explained and how to alleviate it, kent state: my internship and studying abroad, relevant topics.

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63 Study Abroad Essay Examples & Topics

Looking for study abroad topics to write about? Studying in another country is one of the most beneficial experiences for students.

🏆 Best Essay Examples
📌 Research Titles
🗺 Topics to Write about

❓ Questions About Studying Abroad

In your studying abroad essay, you might want to write about advantages and disadvantages of being an international student. Another option is to describe the process of making application for a scholarship. One more idea is to share your personal experience. Whether you’re planning to write an argumentative, descriptive, or persuasive essay, our article will be helpful. Here we’ve collected top studying abroad essay samples and research titles ‍‍‍‍for scholarship papers.

🏆 Best Studying Abroad Essay Examples

Why Studying Abroad Results in Better Education For most people, especially in developing nations, the only way to gain an education that will satisfy the demands of the international job market is by studying abroad.
Should Students Study Abroad? Studying abroad offers students an opportunity to travel to new countries and have new experiences that expand their perceptions of the world.
Specifics of Studying Abroad The purpose of this paper is to discuss the most common benefits and drawbacks, as well as overall outcomes that are related to studying abroad and to recommend the ways to handle the drawbacks.
Challenges of Studying Abroad A closer look at the information provided by the majority of the companies specializing in student transfer and the related services will reveal that a range of essential data, especially the information concerning the financial […]
Declining Direct Public Support for Higher Education in USA Partisanship interest in the debate for renewal of the Higher Education Act and a Senate inquiry to validate the governance of the non-profit economic sectors of the United States has demonstrated the complexity of public […]
The Social Role of Higher Education in UK In addition to this, higher education provides a set of values that changes the students to face the existing and the future problems facing the society and the various sectors of work that they operate […]
International Education in Australia China is a good market for Australian education and in the year 2010 a sum of 284700 students from China left the country to further their studies most of them on their own expenses.
The Criteria and Benefits That Allow Students to Work Abroad The most direct experience that a person gets while studying abroad is the understanding of the business world and economics. There is no doubt that the environments and culture of a country are the major […]
Education in Australia as a Tool of Promoting Equality of Opportunity The main objective of vocational education and training is to promote the people, the society, and the economy and to upgrade the labor market.
A Benefits of Education Abroad One of the qualitative aspects of the educational reality in today’s world is the fact that, as time goes on, the number of students who decide in favor of studying abroad increases rather exponentially.

📌 Research Titles about Studying Abroad

Do Study Abroad Programs Enhance the Employability of Graduates
The Effect Of Study Abroad On Studying Abroad
Culture and Study Abroad and Some Drawbacks
How Does Study Abroad Affect A Student ‘s View Of Professional
Analysis Of Some Of The Benefits Of Study Abroad
Do People Who Study Abroad Become More Successful
Increasing Number Of Worldwide People Go Study Abroad
The Lowering Ages of Students Who Study Abroad
Colleges Should Make It Mandatory: For Students To Study Abroad For Specific Major’s
Should Students Spend Lots Of Money For Study Abroad

🗺 Study Abroad Topics to Write about

The Cultural Shock That Students Face When They Study Abroad
Advantages and Dis Advantages of Further Study Abroad
Interlanguage Pragmatic Competence in the Study Abroad
The Study Abroad Trip On Australia
History Of Study Abroad And Exchange Programs
An Analysis of Many Students Wishing to Study Abroad
Most Study Abroad Program Should Be Rename Party Abroad They Are Waste of Time
Why College Students Should Study Abroad
Analysis Of Michelle Obama ‘s Reasons For Study Abroad
Study Abroad Is Beneficial For All College Students
The Journey of Traveling and The Study Abroad
Analysis: Why Student Chose to Study Abroad
The Benefits of Choosing to Study Abroad
How Is Studying Abroad Helps Improve Language Skills?
Which Country Are More Successful for Studying Abroad?
Is Studying Abroad a Good Idea?
Does Studying Abroad Induce a Brain Drain?
Why Is Studying Abroad Beneficial?
How Is the Studying Abroad Effects Learning About Different Cultures?
What Are the Cons of Studying Abroad?
Is Studying Abroad a Waste of Time?
Does Studying Abroad Enhance Employability?
What Are the Positive and Negative Influences of Studying Abroad?
How Capital Accumulation Through Studying Abroad and Return Migration?
Which Country Is Best for Studying Abroad?
What Is Culture Shock When Studying Abroad?
What Is the Impact of Studying Abroad on Global Awareness?
What Are the Disadvantages of Studying Abroad?
Which Country Is Cheapest for Studying Abroad?
Is Studying Abroad Expensive?
What Are Important Reasons for Studying Abroad?
Is It Difficult to Studying Abroad?
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad?
Which Country Is Hard for Studying Abroad In?
What Is the Impact of Studying Abroad?
What Are the Effects of Studying Abroad on College Students?
What Are Main Hardships While Studying Abroad?
Is It Better to Studying Abroad or Locally?
Does Studying Abroad Help Academic Achievement?
Does Studying Abroad Cause International Labor Mobility?
What Are the Differences Between Studying Locally and Studying Abroad?
Do Students Who Studying Abroad Achieve Tremendous Success?
What Are the Pros and Cons of Studying Abroad?
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100 Study Abroad Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Studying abroad is a life-changing experience that allows students to immerse themselves in a new culture, gain a global perspective, and develop valuable skills that will benefit them both academically and professionally. One of the key components of the study abroad application process is the essay, where students are required to articulate their reasons for wanting to study abroad and how they believe the experience will benefit them.

To help students brainstorm ideas for their study abroad essays, we have compiled a list of 100 study abroad essay topic ideas and examples that cover a wide range of themes and experiences. Whether you are looking to explore a specific aspect of a particular destination or reflect on your personal growth and development during your time abroad, these essay topics are sure to inspire you to craft a compelling and memorable essay.

Why do you want to study abroad?
How will studying abroad help you achieve your academic and career goals?
What specific academic or professional skills do you hope to gain from studying abroad?
How do you plan to immerse yourself in the local culture while studying abroad?
What challenges do you anticipate facing while studying abroad, and how do you plan to overcome them?
How will studying abroad help you develop a global perspective?
How do you plan to stay connected with your home country while studying abroad?
What do you hope to learn about yourself while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad impact your personal growth and development?
What impact do you hope to have on the local community while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you become a more independent and self-reliant individual?
What cultural differences do you expect to encounter while studying abroad, and how do you plan to navigate them?
How will studying abroad help you become a more empathetic and understanding individual?
What specific experiences or activities do you hope to participate in while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you become a more confident and self-assured individual?
How do you plan to document and reflect on your study abroad experience?
What advice would you give to future students who are considering studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you become a more open-minded and tolerant individual?
What impact do you hope to have on your host institution while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your communication and interpersonal skills?
How do you plan to balance your academic responsibilities with your personal interests while studying abroad?
What specific cultural traditions or customs do you hope to learn about while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you become a more adaptable and flexible individual?
What specific challenges do you anticipate facing while studying abroad, and how do you plan to overcome them?
How will studying abroad help you develop your problem-solving and critical thinking skills?
What specific courses or subjects do you hope to study while abroad, and why?
How will studying abroad help you become a more resilient and determined individual?
What specific extracurricular activities do you hope to participate in while studying abroad?
How do you plan to make the most of your study abroad experience?
What specific cultural landmarks or attractions do you hope to visit while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you become a more creative and innovative individual?
What specific cultural events or festivals do you hope to attend while studying abroad?
How do you plan to make friends and build relationships with your classmates while studying abroad?
What specific cultural practices or customs do you hope to engage in while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you become a more socially responsible and ethical individual?
What specific volunteer or service opportunities do you hope to participate in while studying abroad?
How do you plan to engage with the local community and make a positive impact while studying abroad?
What specific internships or research opportunities do you hope to pursue while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your leadership and teamwork skills?
What specific career opportunities or networking events do you hope to take advantage of while studying abroad?
How do you plan to maintain a healthy work-life balance while studying abroad?
What specific language immersion programs or courses do you hope to enroll in while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your language proficiency and fluency?
What specific cultural excursions or field trips do you hope to participate in while studying abroad?
How do you plan to document and share your study abroad experience with others?
What specific cultural artifacts or artworks do you hope to study or analyze while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your critical and analytical thinking skills?
What specific cultural cuisines or dishes do you hope to sample or try while studying abroad?
How do you plan to engage with the local arts and entertainment scene while studying abroad?
What specific cultural performances or exhibitions do you hope to attend while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your creativity and artistic talents?
What specific cultural museums or galleries do you hope to visit while studying abroad?
How do you plan to engage with the local music and dance scene while studying abroad?
What specific cultural traditions or rituals do you hope to experience or participate in while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your cultural awareness and sensitivity?
What specific cultural literature or poetry do you hope to read or study while studying abroad?
How do you plan to engage with the local history and heritage while studying abroad?
What specific cultural myths or legends do you hope to learn about while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your historical knowledge and understanding?
What specific cultural landmarks or monuments do you hope to explore or visit while studying abroad?
How do you plan to engage with the local politics and government while studying abroad?
What specific cultural festivals or holidays do you hope to celebrate or observe while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your political awareness and activism?
What specific cultural customs or traditions do you hope to learn about or partake in while studying abroad?
How do you plan to engage with the local religion and spirituality while studying abroad?
What specific cultural rituals or ceremonies do you hope to witness or participate in while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your religious and spiritual beliefs?
What specific cultural beliefs or values do you hope to explore or understand while studying abroad?
How do you plan to engage with the local philosophy and ethics while studying abroad?
What specific cultural philosophies or ideologies do you hope to study or analyze while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your philosophical and ethical perspectives?
What specific cultural debates or controversies do you hope to engage in or discuss while studying abroad?
How do you plan to engage with the local sociology and anthropology while studying abroad?
What specific cultural practices or norms do you hope to learn about or question while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your sociological and anthropological insights?
What specific cultural identities or communities do you hope to explore or interact with while studying abroad?
How do you plan to engage with the local gender and sexuality while studying abroad?
What specific cultural gender roles or sexual norms do you hope to challenge or understand while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your gender and sexuality awareness?
What specific cultural diversity or inclusion initiatives do you hope to support or promote while studying abroad?
How do you plan to engage with the local race and ethnicity while studying abroad?
What specific cultural racial or ethnic issues do you hope to address or confront while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your racial and ethnic consciousness?
What specific cultural migration or diaspora experiences do you hope to explore or learn about while studying abroad?
How do you plan to engage with the local immigration and citizenship while studying abroad?
What specific cultural immigration or citizenship policies do you hope to investigate or analyze while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your immigration and citizenship knowledge?
What specific cultural globalization or localization trends do you hope to study or critique while studying abroad?
How do you plan to engage with the local economy and business while studying abroad?
What specific cultural economic or business practices do you hope to observe or participate in while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your economic and business acumen?
What specific cultural sustainability or environmentalism initiatives do you hope to engage in or support while studying abroad?
How do you plan to engage with the local environment and ecology while studying abroad?
What specific cultural environmental or ecological issues do you hope to address or investigate while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your environmental and ecological awareness?
What specific cultural health or wellness practices do you hope to learn about or adopt while studying abroad?
How do you plan to engage with the local healthcare and wellness while studying abroad?
What specific cultural healthcare or wellness challenges do you hope to address or overcome while studying abroad?
How will studying abroad help you develop your healthcare and wellness knowledge?
What specific cultural technology or innovation trends do you hope to study or experiment with while studying abroad?

These 100 study abroad essay topic ideas and examples cover a wide range of themes and experiences that students can explore and reflect on in their study abroad essays. Whether you are looking to focus on a specific aspect of a particular destination or delve into your personal growth and development during your time abroad, these essay

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Crafting the Perfect Study Abroad Essay

Follow these tips to make your study abroad essay stand out.

Applying to Study Abroad

Whether you just want to do a semester or an entire program abroad, it’s likely a study abroad essay will be required. Students are beginning to realize what a great opportunity it is to take their studies abroad. Not only is it a great way to make new friends, practice your language skills, and travel while studying, it’s also great to put on a resume . So, it’s no wonder students are lining up to pick their top destinations and programs to study abroad.

To make sure they pick students who are ready and serious about studying abroad , most schools will, therefore, require a study abroad essay. The essay is a chance to make a great first impression and show the university administration that you’re ready to make the commitment to take your education even further by going abroad.

Consider some of the following tips to really make your study abroad essay stand out!

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1) Explain Why Study Abroad Will Make a Difference for Your Studies

A lot of students want to study abroad just for the experience and the excitement of living and learning abroad. These are important aspects, of course; however, school administration wants to know why going to your top study abroad destination will make a difference to your education.

Be specific! Explain the impact studying abroad will have on your personal and professional growth. Don’t just highlight how you think you will learn a lot. What do you expect to get from the program specifically? Is there a reason you picked one country over another to study in?

The more specific you are the better. It shows the university that you have given serious thought to your studies and that you are ready for the commitment!

2) Let Them Know Why You Picked Where You Want to Study

Instead of just saying you will study anywhere, as long as it’s abroad, tell the university why you picked your top study abroad destination. Write with enthusiasm and let admissions know what you are excited to see and do in your new home.

Make sure you do the research in advance! Name some museums you would be interested in exploring or some monument you would be interested in seeing. It’s in your favor if you can also tie these back to your study program!

This will show your school that you will not take your study abroad experience for granted, and that you already have things to do to integrate into your new home easier.

3) Describe Why You’re Qualified

Whether you've recently entered college or are ready to graduate, your experience says a lot about what you will accomplish on your study abroad. If you want to make your study abroad essay stand out, make sure to make mention of your previous experience.

Mention major academic accomplishments, work experience, or skills that you might find useful abroad, such as knowledge of a second language.

The university knows you will learn a lot during your time abroad, but the more you can bring to the program, the better!

4) Show Your Personality

The best study abroad essays are the ones with a little bit of personality! Your essay should still sound professional, but don’t be afraid to let yourself shine through as well. Studying abroad comes with challenges, and if the university gets a sense you are ready for them, you will move to the top of the list.

Add a personal story about something relevant to living and studying abroad. Describe a time you traveled somewhere new or met a friend from a different country. A well-rounded individual with some experience is the perfect candidate for studying abroad.

Showing some enthusiasm while also keeping your expectations realistic is the right way to show the admissions team that you have thought long and hard about your decision to study abroad, and that you are ready to pack up and move abroad.

5) Follow Instructions

It might sound simple, but if you don’t want your study abroad essay to be immediately tossed aside, make sure to read and follow all the instructions given. Some universities will ask specific questions or ask students to format their essays in a particular way.

Don’t ignore these instructions! It’s the first step to making a great impression.

If the essay is open-ended — great! Follow our tips to get inspired. But, if there are specific questions, make sure you answer them clearly and concisely. There might not be any right or wrong answers, but your school will still be looking for students who are able to express themselves and get their point across.

The Perfect Study Abroad Essay

If you followed our advice so far, you’ll be looking at the study abroad essay that’s going to get you into the program of your choice at the study abroad destination of your dreams!

Don't forget to proofread before handing in your essay. If possible, it's great to have someone take a look over it as well, especially if it's a professor or someone who has written a study abroad essay before.

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How to Write an Outstanding Study Abroad Application Essay

For some students who wish to study abroad, the statement of purpose can be one of the most daunting components of the program application. The good news: it’s not as difficult as it may seem at first! After all, you’ve come this far in the study abroad research process , so chances are you’ve already given thought to what the essay requires you to write about. As long as you don’t rush and take the time to create a solid outline, your study abroad application statement of purpose will truly shine.

Common statement of purpose requirements

Although each program application may have program-specific essay requirements to address, most will ask students to address the following two components:

Goals for studying abroad (i.e. academic, career, and personal) – Most likely, you will have to briefly describe your goals, outlining specific ways in which studying abroad will help you achieve these goals.
Reason you chose this program/location – This aspect of the statement of purpose is more specific to why, out of all the programs and locations on Earth to study, you’re applying to this one.

Creating an outline

Before rushing into writing out your statement of purpose, make sure you’ve carefully read the instructions and prompts for the essay. The worst way to sabotage an otherwise excellent essay is to miss a key requirement outlined in the instructions. To help keep essay requirements fresh in your mind, consider copying and pasting the requirements at the top of essay document so that they are there for quick reference.

After you fully understand what points you are required to touch on in your statement of purpose, drafting an outline will help keep your essay organized, clear, and succinct. Consider following the steps below to help make this process easy and straight-forward.

Open up a blank Word document, and get down the general essay components:

Introduction

Paragraph 1

Paragraph 2

Paragraph 3

Now that you have the foundation laid out, you can complete your outline by creating a couple compelling sentences for each paragraph. Having these sentences drafted will help you quickly move forward after your outline is complete. Let’s take a look at each paragraph, and sample sentences for each.

Introduction – Create a strong thesis sentence that sums up your overall purpose for studying abroad.

Example: Studying abroad at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid will be a monumental step in realizing my personal, academic, and career goals to my highest potential.

This thesis sentence portrays to the reader that you have identified personal, academic, and career goals in relation to studying abroad in a specific program, and will describe them below.

Paragraphs 1-3 – Draft a sentence that sums up your response to the each point, then a second sentence that provides a specific outcome that this study abroad program will provide.

Paragraph 1 (e.g. personal reason/goal for studying abroad in this program):

Example: My grandfather migrated to the United States from Madrid, and since an early age I’ve wanted to see and experience the city and culture he grew up in. By the end of my study abroad program, I plan to have developed a deeper understanding and appreciation for my family heritage by becoming more fluent in Spanish and familiar with Spanish customs and cultural practices.

Paragraph 2 (e.g. academic reason/goal for studying abroad in this program):

Example: As a history major, I plan to utilize my time in Spain to contribute to my overall academic success and focus within the history program at my home university. Throughout my time studying abroad, I will visit historical sites around Spain relevant to my intended topic for my graduate thesis topic: Moorish architectural and cultural influences in modern Spanish society.

Paragraph 3 (e.g. career reason/goal for studying abroad in this program):

Example: I plan to one day teach Spanish history and culture at the college level, and this program will give me the first-hand experience I believe necessary to be qualified and successful in this position. By being completely immersed in the Spanish culture, and by having access to a large number of relevant historical sites and resources, I will enter this study abroad experience with my career development in mind.

For the conclusion, come up with a strong sentence to sum-up (again) why this program and location is the best choice.

Example: After extensive research of all possible programs, I am convinced that studying history and Spanish culture at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid is an ideal match for my personal, academic, and career goals outlined above.

Drafting suggestions

Now that you have a strong outline, filling in the rest should come easily and naturally. As would be normally expected in college-level essays, it’s important to make sure that each sentence you write relates directly to the main sentences in its respective paragraph you came up with in the outline.

After you’ve written your completed first draft of your study abroad application statement of purpose, save the document and take a break for a week. After you’ve had some time to clear your mind, you’ll likely come back to edit your essay with a fresh perspective and as a result more easily catch mistakes you may not have otherwise caught!

Finally, before you send it off, double (and triple) check to make sure that you haven’t overlooked any requirements for the statement of purpose. Also, consider having at least one other person look at your essay – your campus’s writing center is a great resource you might consider utilizing!

Congratulate yourself

After you’ve sent in your essay, congratulate yourself! You are well on your way to one of the most exciting journeys of your life, and you certainly deserve to be proud of this accomplishment.

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Dave Harriman

Dave Harriman, SHRM-CP, has a background in human resources, anthropology, and international education. His experience teaching English abroad during a gap year as an undergraduate student in Spain ignited his passion and advocacy for student travel. As a human resources professional, Dave is interested in helping students prepare for future career growth, and for helping facilitate social & cultural inclusion in the workplace.

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Studying Abroad Essay Examples

Studying abroad: exploring my motivations.

Studying abroad has become an increasingly popular choice for students seeking a transformative educational experience. The opportunity to live and study in a foreign country presents a myriad of benefits, both academically and personally. In this essay, I will present arguments in favor of studying...

Why I Want to Study Abroad: Exploring New Horizons

Studying abroad has always been a dream that has sparked curiosity and excitement within me. This essay delves into the reasons why I want to study abroad, the personal and academic growth I anticipate, and the invaluable experiences that I believe await me in a...

Why Do I Want to Study Abroad

Studying abroad is a dream I have nurtured for years, and it represents an important chapter in my academic and personal journey. The decision to study in a foreign country is not one I take lightly, and it is grounded in a deep-seated desire for...

Language Barrier: the Challenge of International Students

Language barrier is one specific challenge facing students in transition at the University of Bristol and in this challenges of language barrier essay I will discuss what problems usually arise in the life of an international student. As it is shown in the OECD statistics,...

The Great Debate: Studying Abroad Vs Studying in Your Country

“The art of reading and studying consists in remembering the essentials and forgetting what is not essential.” Adolf Hitler. Studying abroad and studying in your own country both have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Studying in your own country allows you to stay close...

Studying Abroad as an International Student

“So, we know that it’s not enough for us to simply encourage more people to study abroad. We also need to make sure that they can actually afford it.” ―Michelle Obama Good morning teachers and my fellow classmates, today I am presenting a topic of...

Difficulties and Benefits of Studying Abroad

With globalization, more and more students want to leave their home environment to go study abroad. These trips are most often in the form of scholarships and student exchanges. This exercise is so widespread that one wonders whether or not to advocate such a practice....

My Motivation to Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Business in Germany

My name is Sourav Joshi, S/o Mr. Ashok Kumar and Mrs. Shashi. I hail from H NO- 1948, New Aman Nagar Salem Tabri, Ludhiana. I live in a nuclear family. I believe that family is such a strong word which means to feel secure. I...

Studying Abroad in England

If given the opportunity to study abroad anywhere in Europe, the country of my choosing would be England. The university that I would pursue would be the prestigious University of Cambridge, where I would study programming. The university, which is located in the center of...

Studying Abroad in the U.s.a

“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving,” said Albert Einstein who is one of the most famous scientists. As Einstein says, life is a bicycle if you stop, you will fail. Sometimes life opens the doors when least...

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