What should students think about when considering the options for study abroad? Length of time is very important, as it affects the student’s entire course of study. The most common times for study abroad are an academic semester or an academic year.
Typically, academic semester programs range from about three to five months, and academic year programs range from eight to even ten months. What are the pros and cons of a semester abroad, and what are the pros and cons of a year abroad?
Pros of a Semester Abroad
A semester abroad has several advantages, including:
The opportunity to take classes in the home country necessary for a student’s course of study, but not available at the university abroad
Less time away from family and friends at home
More time to save money for the trip, especially if it’s in the spring of the junior year
Also, some students may feel more motivated to speak a foreign language and take advantage of cultural opportunities, as there is less time in which to do it.
Cons of a Semester Abroad
While a semester abroad can be a great experience, there are a few disadvantages associated with spending a shorter amount of time away from home:
Less time to gain language fluency and adjust to the foreign culture
Less time to make friends
Less time to travel
Fewer opportunities to take courses not available at the home university
Less time to feel at home in the foreign country
Pros of a Year Abroad
And for those seriously considering a year abroad, but unable to make the final decision just yet, here are a few advantages of living overseas for a year rather than a semester:
More time to gain language fluency and immerse oneself in the culture
More time to travel to new destinations in and around the foreign country
More opportunities to take classes not available at the home university
More time to make friends and keep them
A year abroad is not for everyone. If any of the following seems especially unappealing, a semester abroad may be the better choice:
Cons of a Year Abroad
More time away from home
More juggling might be needed with regard to the program of study
Less time to save money prior to departure
There is also less of a time crunch for learning a language, experiencing new things, and meeting new people, so for some students, the motivation due to a lack of available time may not be there.
