Study Abroad Means Faster Graduation?

Posted on Monday, November 21st, 2011 at 2:00 pm

There is no doubt that the world is interconnected globally. As people begin speaking multiple languages, businesses expand internationally, and families hold multiple citizenships – there is no question that education needs to keep pace. Today, many colleges and universities are placing their resources into expanding study abroad programs and recruiting international students.

Not only does this expansion provide a diverse student body, but it gives students the opportunity to gain exposure in a world that requires international experience to succeed. Students will now be able to learn a new language, see how business is conducted over international boundaries, and develop lifelong relationships around the world.

If that is not enough of a benefit, a recent study found that students who study abroad are more likely to graduate on time. At the University of Texas, 60% of students who did a study abroad program completed their degree in four years. Only 45% of students who did not study abroad were able to complete their degree in time.

Ironically, many students choose not to study abroad as they think that it will cause them to delay graduation. However, according to the research at the University of Texas, the data shows the opposite.

While the study did not look into an explanation for this, there are many reasons to explain this. The most compelling is that students who study abroad may spend more time putting together a 4-year outline to make sure that they are able to graduate on time. Studying abroad usually requires foresight, taking into consideration costs, scheduling, and planning.

What are some of the benefits that you’ve experienced while studying abroad? Did you find it hard to finish your degree on time? Let us know your thoughts on this study.

Posted by Jennifer Frankel

Jennifer is the International Director at International Student Insurance. Jennifer is a graduate of the University of Florida where she holds a Masters in International Business and a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration. She has lived and worked abroad in Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica and England, and traveled extensively in South America, Europe and Asia.