Feel like going abroad at uni isn’t for you? That’s probably because there are lots of myths surrounding travelling that simply aren’t true! We’re here to debunk them so there’s nothing holding you back from embarking on your next adventure.
X “It’s too expensive to go abroad.”
Whilst you might have to save up some money for your time abroad, you won’t be completely on your own. The Turing Scheme is the UK’s global programme for studying and working abroad and offers funding for students who want to embark on once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.
See how much funding you could be eligible for
X “Employers don’t care if I studied or volunteered abroad.”
More and more employers now actively seek students with international experience of studying abroad or volunteering abroad. Having a new perspective on different cultures, language skills and a willingness to try new things will certainly enhance your CV!
You’ll develop an endless number of skills that will be useful in your career: resilience, independence, time management skills – the list goes on.
X “I don’t want to go abroad for a whole year so there aren’t any opportunities for me.”
If you think a full year is a bit too long to be away from home, that doesn’t mean you can’t have the Go Abroad experience. BCU offer exchange programmes that last for one semester at one of our partner universities across the globe. You will have the opportunity to obtain credits which are then recognised by BCU.
Some of our partnerships are course-specific so exchanges may not be possible for all degree programmes.
Find out more about exchange programmes
X “My course isn’t offered abroad so I can’t have a go abroad experience.”
Not all of our courses are eligible for study abroad, as some of our modules and courses don’t align with those in other countries. Luckily, the BCU Go Abroad team offer 40+ summer programmes to choose from in 30+ destinations around the world – and anyone is welcome to apply!
These include European and international destinations, study programmes, volunteering opportunities and so much more! Our students have been to Europe, Brazil, China, Brunei, India, Mexico, South Korea, and Taiwan in previous years.
X “I’ll struggle because I can’t speak the native language.”
Whilst it’s great to brush up on the native language of the place you’re visiting, it’s not at all necessary to be fluent. You’ll be surprised how quickly you pick up words and phrases.
English is also spoken by lots of people all over the world, so chances are that the people you meet will speak English too.
If you do come across challenging situations due to a language barrier, you’ll overcome these and learn from them – which is what studying abroad is meant to be about!
X “I won’t be able to make friends.”
This is usually a big concern for someone who’s going to work or study abroad but trust us when we say that there’s nothing to worry about. Other students or people volunteering and working will also be new to the country and looking to make friends.
Many cities and universities host international student events, so you’ll be able to meet people in the exact same boat as you.
