Studying abroad can help you gain new experiences, explore the world and enhance your learning. You can do this as part of a UK degree or by studying for a full degree in another country.
Benefits of studying abroad
Studying abroad can help you:
- Build confidence and independence
- Improve communication and language skills
- Experience a different culture
- Develop skills employers value
UCAS has useful information to help you decide if studying outside the UK is for you.
Ways to study abroad
The right option will depend on your course, where you want to go and how long you want to study abroad. Look at UCAS The complete guide to studying abroad for information on studying in different countries.
Study abroad as part of a UK degree
Many UK universities offer courses that include time abroad. This could include:
- A term or year abroad
- Study exchange
- A work placement
You usually apply for your UK degree through UCAS. Your university will explain the study abroad options available.
If your time abroad is part of a UK degree, you may still be able to get support from Student Finance Wales if you’re eligible. You may also be able to get extra help with travel, visa and medical insurance costs through the Student Finance Wales Travel Grant.
Study a full degree abroad
You might choose to complete your whole degree outside the UK.
Plan carefully, as each country has different costs, rules and application processes. Look at UCAS Studying outside of the UK:Consider your options and Applying to study outside of the UK.
You will need to check things like:
- How to apply
- Course fees and living costs
- Visa rules
- Healthcare and insurance
- Language requirements
- Whether the qualification will be recognised in the UK
- What financial support is available
If you start and complete your whole course outside the UK, you cannot usually apply for funding from Student Finance Wales. Check with the university you are applying to, as they may offer scholarships, bursaries or other funding.
Prospects has further information about study abroad.
Funding for studying abroad
Funding depends on where you study and the type of course or placement. For some schemes, your school, college or university must apply for funding on behalf of students. Look at UCAS Scholarships, grants, and bursaries: Funding a placement abroad.
Funding may be available through:
- Student Finance Wales – look at their Extra help for students studying abroad
- Your university or college
- Scholarships and bursaries
- Taith - Taith is Wales’ international learning exchange programme. It supports learners and staff in Wales to take part in international learning experiences and has been extended until 2028
- The Turing Scheme - The Turing Scheme supports international study and work placements. Students cannot apply directly as education providers apply for funding
- Erasmus+ - Some universities may still offer Erasmus+ opportunities through partnerships or projects. Check with your university or college to see if you’re eligible
What you can do next
If you are thinking about studying abroad, start by:
- Talking to your school, college or university about the options available
- Checking if the course you are interested in includes a time abroad or exchange
- Finding out what funding and support you may be able to get
- Checking costs, visa rules, healthcare and insurance
- Researching the country, course and living costs
- Thinking about how studying abroad could support your future plans
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