It is in the best interest of all students to live beyond the familiar and to be introduced to the international community. Not only does it provide a greater, more contextualized understanding of all subjects, but it also encourages diversity and international dialogue at a grassroots level.
Students learn so much more than just the subject at hand when they complete a degree in a country they are not from, but many of those same benefits can be seen in short-term study opportunities, as outlined below:
Erasmus
The Erasmus program is one of the largest and most established of the options to study in the EU. 34 European countries participate in the Erasmus program, which works to connect students with partner institutions in their degree. Unlike exchange programs most students may be familiar with, the Erasmus program covers tuition for their time abroad, with the additional option to apply for living and travel expense relief. Unfortunately, the student’s higher education institution must be a part of the Erasmus scheme for students to apply.
Summer School
There is a huge collection of short, summer-break appropriate courses for students of all ages to complete. Most students would not require a student visa to attend these, either. Americans can apply to and attend short term courses that are six months or less in the UK without a visa, for example. You will need to get your passport appropriately stamped upon arrival, however, so bringing the acceptance letters, proof you can fund yourself during your stay, and the date you are going home.
Integrated Short-Term Learning Opportunities
A very easy, simple way for international students to study in the EU, albeit for a brief period, is through integrated short-term learning opportunities like the one offered by New England College. Unlike exchange programs, these short-term learning opportunities allow students to travel to countries like Ireland, Belgium, or Italy to learn from experts in their field in subjects like communications, regional politics, or art. As it is an integrated opportunity, the cost is entirely covered within their tuition, enabling more students the opportunity to study internationally and expand their understanding of the world. Typically, these opportunities are conducted over winter or spring breaks and provide additional context and information for their degree.
Language Courses
Another short term course that is better to study internationally in the EU than it is to study in the home country is a language course. Students looking to study a European language can do so in the mother country and become immersed in the language and culture.
Studying internationally, even for a brief period, is a boon for employers. It shows independence, confidence, and a true entrepreneurial spirit. With so many options, particularly integrated study abroad opportunities, more students can enjoy learning abroad without being barred due to a lack of additional finances. Universities that offer this integrated study abroad opportunity open doors so that more students can use their tuition loans to get the full educational experience at home and abroad.
