Top 5 Myths about Studying and Interning Abroad

Would you love to study or intern abroad but are nervous due to some myths you might have heard? Don’t worry, I was in the same boat as you before I took the leap to study abroad! Was it worth it? Absolutely - I ended up studying abroad twice! Hopefully after reading this, you’ll feel better and more confident about your decision to go overseas.

Some common misconceptions are:

1. Applying to study or intern abroad is complicated.
2. I won’t graduate on time.
3. Studying abroad won’t work for my major.
4. Going abroad is too expensive.
5. I can’t go abroad because I don’t speak another language.

Let’s dive a little deeper into these myths, shall we?

Applying to Study or Intern Abroad is Complicated

You may be nervous about the application process and might believe you have to write an entire essay or fill out extensive paperwork to apply. FALSE! It takes 10 minutes or less to complete. All you need to know is what program you’d like to participate in and then answer short questions about yourself. Not too bad, huh?

I Won’t Graduate On Time

This may be a fear of yours where you think if you go abroad that it will put you behind schedule to graduate. The University System of Georgia recently conducted a study where they discovered that individuals who go abroad are 17.8% more likely to graduate on-time versus their peers who don’t. You are able to receive course credits for the classes you take abroad that aid in making sure you don't fall behind!

Studying Abroad Won’t Work For My Major

I’m sure you have had to take some general education courses or are required to! Some CIS Abroad participants wait to take their gen ed credits abroad. We offer a vast range of programs that match your major or minor requirements. We continue to evolve and add more immersive experiences with credits that further your degree. On our website, you can filter your search by your major too!

Going Abroad Is Too Expensive

It is easy to think that when you think of how much flights are and the fact you’re traveling overseas but truth be told, some programs are less expensive than your home institutions! Your federal and state financial aid can count toward your program cost as well. Some of you may have institutional aid that you can use too, just depends on your university so make sure to double check! CIS Abroad also offers scholarships and grants that make it more affordable to go abroad. You can check out more about that here.

I Can’t Go Abroad Because I Don’t Speak Another Language

To be honest, I thought this too! I studied in Paris, France knowing no French at all. CIS Abroad offers plenty of programs that are English speaking. For example, Scotland, England, Australia and Ireland. Even countries that do speak a native language, have courses taught in English! Don’t let fear of the unknown hold you back.

Feeling Better About Studying or Interning Abroad?

Get started on your application! Once you've applied, you'll be connected to our program coordinator who will guide you through the process.

Have a few more questions before applying? Let me know! As a fellow 2x CIS Abroad alumni & now advisor, I LOVE talking about my experiences and empowering students to start their own journeys abroad. You can email me at kklinger@cisabroad.com or Call/Text 877-617-9090!