Facts About Attaining A Graduate Degree Abroad

On the surface, studying abroad for graduate school seems complicated. For some students getting into graduate school is difficult enough let alone doing it abroad. However it does not have to be. Here are some fast facts about graduate degrees abroad:

Time: Graduate programs in many foreign countries are shorter than U.S. programs. Universities in other countries have different academic systems. Many European countries have one year graduate programs which could dramatically cut your cost by half.

Cost: In addition to having shorter programs, many graduate schools abroad are less expensive than programs in the U.S. In some countries. colleges are free or have low tuition rates for its nationals. Cost for foreigners admitted to these programs is not much higher than the base cost for student nationals.

Funding: Financial aid is available for graduate school abroad. The Federal government has allotted financial aid to be used for certain non-U.S. graduate programs in foreign countries. To find out more, check the FAFSA website.

Career Opportunities: Many students fear that getting a graduate degree abroad will have less weight than a U.S. degree. The truth is a degree from a recognized foreign institution could actually increase career opportunities for students. Not only will employers be impressed by the degree holders international experience, but students will also expand their career opportunities in two markets, their home country and degree holding country.

Language Requirements: English has become the “lingua franca” of the global economy. Currently, many graduate schools around the world, even in non-English speaking countries, offer programs instructed in English.

Adjusting to Program: Adjusting to a graduate program abroad is not as difficult as some students think. Many foreign graduate programs have adopted the American program model. Furthermore, the education that students get at a university in the U.S. is often comparable, in some cases more advanced than similar programs in other countries.

Accreditation: To find out if the program you are interested in is accredited check FAFSA to see their international programs listing. You can also do an internet search and compare foreign and U.S. graduate programs.

Now that you know that graduate school abroad is possible, consider the following questions to help you decide is it is for you:

• What are the requirements to receive a graduate degree from a foreign institution?

• Is there funding available for my chosen program?

• How long will it take to complete the program?

• Am I able to live abroad for an extended period of time?

• What is the cost of living in the country of study? How much does the program cost?

• Is the program equivalent to one in the U.S? Will the degree be accepted in the U.S.?

• Is the program in English?

To find the right program for you, visit our graduate program opportunities page.