Choosing where to spend your semester or year abroad is an incredibly exciting time—but it can also feel overwhelming. There are so many amazing places to explore, so how do you decide? Here are some tips to help you find the perfect destination that matches your passions, lifestyle, and goals.
Key notes
- Follow Your Passions
- Consider Your Lifestyle: Weather, City vs Country, Food
- Don’t let a Language Barrier Stop You
- Evaluate Costs
Follow Your Passions
Think about what you love doing and what excites you. Your time abroad is a unique chance to immerse yourself in a place that aligns with your interests.
- Are you outdoorsy? Consider countries in Europe with access to beautiful hiking trails, national parks, or ski resorts.
- Love fashion? Paris, Milan, or Tokyo might be your dream destinations.
- Obsessed with technology? Look at tech hubs like Seoul, Singapore, or Silicon Valley.
This is your chance to live somewhere that fuels your passions and inspires you every day!
Consider Lifestyle: Weather, City vs. Country, and Food
Lifestyle plays a big role in shaping your study abroad experience, so think about what makes you comfortable and happy.
- Weather: The time of year and climate matter! Northern countries might have long, dark winters with little sun, which could affect your mood if you thrive in sunny weather. If that’s a dealbreaker, consider southern Europe, Australia, or Southeast Asia.
- City vs. Countryside: Do you prefer the energy of a bustling city or the quiet charm of a small town? Big cities offer endless activities and conveniences, while smaller towns can give you a more intimate and relaxed experience.
- Food: Let’s be real—food is a big part of life! Choose a destination where the local cuisine excites you. For example, if you love pizza and pasta, Italy might be heaven for you. One American student I met in Korea didn’t enjoy Korean or Asian food much, so they ate mostly pizza and chicken. While they still had an amazing time, it’s worth considering how much you’ll enjoy the local food!
Don’t Let Language Stop You
Learning or practicing a new language can be one of the most rewarding parts of studying abroad, so don’t let language differences hold you back.
- Want to improve a language? This is the perfect opportunity to practice Spanish, French, or any other language you’ve been studying. Immersion is the best way to learn!
- Worried about the language barrier? Don’t stress! Exchange programs are designed to support students, and you’ll likely find plenty of resources and people eager to help you. Plus, modern translators and even body language can bridge communication gaps in surprising ways.
- Love your native language? If you’re truly passionate about a country’s history and culture where your native language is spoken, go for it! But don’t limit yourself to familiar places just because of language concerns. You might fall in love with a new language (and culture) along the way.
This opportunity is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for most people—don’t let fear hold you back!
Evaluate Costs
Budgeting is another important factor when choosing your destination. The cost of living can vary widely depending on the country and even the city.
- Country vs. City: Some countries, like Norway or Switzerland, are known for higher costs of living, while others, like Thailand or Poland, are much more affordable. Even within the same country, living in a smaller town or suburb can be significantly cheaper than living in a major city.
- Scholarships and Funding: Check if your program offers financial aid, scholarships, or affordable housing options to help with expenses.
Keep your budget in mind, but don’t let it deter you from exploring creative options—like studying just outside a major city for a more affordable lifestyle.