The minute you said “Maybe I want to go to grad school abroad.” The Greek chorus of your life started singing all the possible downfalls of that decision. Now you’re confused, you can’t stop singing about who put the “glad” in gladiator, and at the end of the day you haven’t moved forward on whether or not getting your masters degree abroad is what you should do. That’s what we’re here for!
We’re the REAL Greek chorus you should listen to, not all those Pains and Panics telling you that masters programs overseas aren’t a viable option. If you want to pursue graduate studies overseas we. Are. HERE FOR IT! And the rest of our meaningful travel experts are, too. They’re busting myths left and right so you’re only getting the truth about getting a masters degree abroad. Check out what they’ve got to say in the video and transcript below.
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT of 4 Common Myths About Getting Your Masters Abroad
HEY, YOU!
You are one of three types of people tuning into this video:
- You’re ready to take the next step in your education, and exploring your options for graduate school abroad; which is something you’ve heard about, but didn’t really know if it was real.
- You applied for a master’s degree program abroad, and now the anxiety is settling in.
- Somewhere between the first two—or a curious parent of a student going abroad.
Whatever brought you here—HI! It’s so nice to see you. I’m sure you have a tooonnnn of questions about getting a degree abroad. So feel free to leave those in the comments below. [And we’ll be here to answer them!]
But, let’s get to the REAL reason why you’re here.
Have you been hearing mixed reviews about getting your masters degree abroad? You want the TRUTH. Well, call us the Myth Busters! (Except, don’t, because we don’t want to get sued…) ANYWAY. We’re here to dispel some common myths about getting a masters degree abroad. So, stick around. *WINK*
Oh, yeah, you’ll definitely want to take notes for this.
1. Earning a degree at home is more valuable than a masters degree abroad.
Okay, okay, listen up. Does the difference between education systems make it hard to evaluate degree programs and compare them with programs in the U.S.? Sure. It doesn’t mean it’s automatically better.
In fact, plenty of international institutions are actually higher than U.S. institutions in global rankings. Seriously, Google it! So, don’t go knocking off international degree programs before trying them.
Now, if you’re a local Goldie Locks struggling to find a program that fits you just right, you might want to expand your search to include international universities and programs. Get out there and explore a whole new world of international opportunities.
Not sure where to start your search for masters programs overseas?
Our online advisors will help you out with custom program recommendations.
2. Classes are classes are classes—no matter where you are.
Don’t judge a book by it’s cover or compare U.S. school to international ones… Yeah. That still applies here.
The hidden truth behind this myth, is that you might find similar course material—like, a math program in Holland will probably cover the same theories as a program in the U.S.
But more importantly, in addition to any new material, you’ll be exposed to new ways of thinking and learning informed entirely by your host culture. HOW COOL IS THAT?! Maybe 2+2 doesn’t equal 4???
3. A graduate degree abroad costs too much $$$$$$
Definitely not the case. I’m about to blow your student-loan fearin’ mind. While cost-of-living in-country might be a little steeper than you’re used to, your degree itself might actually be CHEAPER.
Let me repeat that just a little bit slower: Getting your masters degree abroad will likely be CHEAPER than a degree in the U.S. That’s probably the most jaw dropping thing you’ll hear today.
Not only will tuition fees be a little lower, but there is so much funding and scholarships for masters degree abroad programs just waiting to be scooped up. Plus, a lot of international graduate programs are one year, rather than two, saving you a whole year’s-worth of tuition!
All the dollar signs might have you doubting whether or not it’s a good idea. Just remember, your education is a long-term investment in your future! And it’s ultimately worth every penny.
4. You have to be fluent in a language to make it work
Well, that’s just a bold-faced lie. There are plenty of universities offering full masters programs abroad in English—University of Tokyo, Free University of Berlin, and University of Bergen (in Norway), just to name a few. They have a lot of great options and courses for you to choose from.
That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t challenge yourself to learn a second language during your graduate studies abroad, however. What a wasted opportunity that would be! Many students actually choose to get a masters degree abroad specifically to brush up on their foreign language skills, and we think that’s a maaahvelous idea! Don’t let the language barrier hold you back.
Defending Our Thesis
Now that we’ve debunked some myths and misconceptions about getting a degree abroad, you can be more confident in your decision to apply for masters degree programs abroad—or, broaden your search to include international universities!
Because while it might feel a little awkward at first, stepping outside of your comfort zone always makes meaningful travelers shine. Develop yourself personally and professionally, and—Man! All this sounds really, really good. Maybe I should sign up for something?!
Who knows? You might stay there forever! You’ll actually have to do it to learn the rest of the reasons why getting your masters degree abroad is AMAZING!
Next steps to getting your masters degree abroad
Now that you know you want to pursue your graduate studies overseas, you’ve got a little homework to do.
- Contact an Online Advisor to get your custom program recommendations
- 8 Criteria to consider as you shop for universities abroad
- The world's best countries to earn your masters abroad in 2018
- If cost is your biggest barrier:
- Get that paper without $pending it: 3 countries with free tuition
- Paying for your degree abroad: student loans, savings, & more
- If you’re worried about foreign degree accreditation in the USA:
- If the potential language barrier freaks you out:
- 9 best international universities for American students
- 7 reasons we all want to get degrees in Germany
What did we tell you?! Getting your masters degree abroad has never been easier!
Masters programs overseas are having a MOMENT—hop to it!
WE WANT YOU TO GO TOO!!!
There has never been a better time for getting a masters degree abroad. If you ask me, it might be the best form of self-care out there. Invest in your future while going on an international adventure? Sign. Me. Up.
Don’t get too bogged down in your fears and anxieties about language barriers and the “value” of that piece of paper. With so many masters programs abroad in English, foreign degree accreditation in the USA, plus your own powers of selling your experience, only a dumb-dumb employer would sleep on the value of your graduate studies overseas. Me thinks that’s an employer you don’t need to be working with.
Getting your masters degree abroad is SO worth it. How many more times do we have to repeat it before you stop reading this and start working on your personal statement? Go on! Get!
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