
Arseniy Ovchinnikov
The Academy of Tourism Antalya
AlumniI was inspired to go abroad because I wanted to gain international experience, improve my English, and learn from professionals in the hospitality ind...
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MAXIMO NIVEL
55
Get practical work experience in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru with Maximo Nivel’s professional International Internships. Gaining high-impact hands-on experience abroad sets you apart in competitive job markets and can help define long-term career goals. Maximo Nivel internships elevate your re
See All 2 ProgramsCIEE College Study Abroad
17
CIEE offers the most extensive network of internship programs. Are you a U.S. college student looking to study and intern abroad? We have full-time and part-time placements across 40+ locations worldwide and in diverse fields, from AI and engineering to public policy and business administration. Fi
See All 8 ProgramsAIFS Abroad
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Study abroad in Athens, Greece with AIFS Abroad and earn college credit in a city where ancient history is part of everyday life. With semester, summer and academic year options at The American College of Greece (ACG), you can choose from a wide range of courses taught in English while experiencing
See All 5 ProgramsIES Abroad
21
In Cape Town, every day will be like a choose-your-own-adventure book: imagine hiking Lion's Head at sunset, strolling through the African market at Greenmarket Square, attempting to finish a Gatsby sandwich, visiting beaches-there's even a beach with penguins!-and more. We want you to feel at hom
See All 5 ProgramsSemester at Sea
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Semester at Sea offers a one-of-a-kind study abroad experience that spans multiple countries and continents. Over 100 days, students live and study aboard a ship, traveling to 10+ destinations across 3–4 continents. With a focus on interdisciplinary coursework and real-world field experiences, the p
IFSA, Institute for Study Abroad
22
DESIGN YOUR DREAM SEMESTER IN BUENOS AIRES Tackle research. Accelerate Spanish language progress. Take classes alongside Latin American peers. Whatever your goals, this program has the flexibility to make it happen. Craft your semester with classes in Spanish, taught by IFSA faculty or at one of th
See All 4 ProgramsUniversity Studies Abroad Consortium
3
If you’re looking for a unique study abroad experience, USAC offers a program that will take you to Växjö – a town that boasts beautiful glassworks and a high-tech furniture and paper manufacturing industry amidst picturesque natural surroundings. The Växjö (pronounced Vĕck-qŭh) /Kalmar program i
Go Abroad China Ltd.
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Launch your global career with a paid internship at a Fortune 500, multinational, or high-growth startup in China — matched to your field, backed by 20+ years of placement expertise. Go Abroad China guarantees access to 2,000+ positions across 20+ sectors in Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, and six othe
Forum-Nexus Study Abroad
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Experience an unforgettable summer taking classes and traveling through Europe! The Ultimate Summer in Europe program is a multi-city summer study abroad program that visits some of Europe's top cities. Classes are taught by an international team of professors who travel with you. In the evenings an
See All 3 ProgramsThe American University in Cairo
97
With more than 35 undergraduate and 40 graduate programs, you are sure to find the right one for you. At AUC, we offer a wide and diverse range of U.S. and globally accredited academic programs, designed to meet the needs of all types of learners. Explore sociology, Egyptology, gender and women’s st
WorldStrides
80
Explore Bangkok, Thailand’s dynamic capital and a global hub for culture, commerce, and cuisine. Study at Mahidol University International College (MUIC), the English-speaking arm of Mahidol University, while taking courses alongside Thai and international students. Enjoy an affordable semester abro
See All 3 ProgramsSIT Study Abroad
21
Explore rainforests, coral reefs, highland canopies, and mangroves while studying tropical conservation, marine ecosystems, and ecology. Conduct seven weeks of field studies in Panama and Costa Rica, gaining skills in biodiversity estimation, coral reef evaluation, mangrove carbon calculation, and s
See All 15 ProgramsCGEE
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Visit South Africa and Namibia, two countries with unique and multifaceted histories not often explored in depth in U.S. curricula. Each of these nations has struggled against the lasting impacts of colonialization, apartheid, the fight for liberation, and ethnic and racial tensions. This program
HEX
51
The 6-week online program is designed for university students and gap year students who are seeking workplace experience to build a portfolio for a successful career in innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology, across a wide range of industries and verticals. **Industry-Backed** Supported by r
See All 2 ProgramsUniversity of Sussex
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Discover a study abroad experience that blends academic excellence, stunning scenery, and global connections. Whether for a summer, semester, or year, you’ll gain new skills, fresh perspectives, and lifelong memories. Our campus is situated in the beautiful South Downs National Park, providing a we
Siena Italian Studies Program
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Participants are immersed in the Italian language and culture during a semester, academic year, or summer program. Courses include Anthropology, Art History, Cinema, Medieval History, Sociolinguistics, History of Italian Cooking, Business, and Creative Arts. Students live with local host families
Academic Programs International
25
Seville, the capital of Andalusia and Spain’s 4th largest city, is between the Sierra Morena mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoying culture from the Romans, Visigoths, Muslims, Jews, and Christians throughout the ages and serving as the focal point of the Spanish Renaissance, the city is rich in
See All 9 ProgramsMente Argentina
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Embark on a dynamic academic journey in Buenos Aires with Mente Argentina’s Academic Semester Program. Designed for students eager to delve into Argentine culture and academic excellence, this program allows you to study at one of four prestigious universities. Whether aiming for a semester or a ful
See All 2 ProgramsInternational Sustainable Development Studies Institute
14
ISDSI’s semester is a rich, hands-on learning experience exploring Thailand's diverse cultures and landscapes, learning directly from the people involved in creating a more sustainable world. Based in Chiang Mai, ISDSI semester students spend significant time immersed in Thailand's cultures and eco
See All 2 ProgramsCES Maastricht
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Maastricht, the Netherlands, forms a unique environment for studying psychology and neuroscience. Maastricht University (UM) specializes in cognitive and biological psychology; its unique research infrastructure enables a groundbreaking study of the brain and behavior. It is home to a European Centr
While every nation deals with their own set of economic and infrastructural problems, at large development remains a global issue to be confronted. Development study abroad programs can help educate you about the real challenges that our generation will face as globalization continues to soar into the 21st century. If you study development abroad then you will learn much more than you ever could by staying at home in a comfortable classroom environment; you will experience directly the pressing issues that we need to unite and address as a global community.
You can study development abroad most places in the world, but if you really want the most out of your experience then you should strongly consider studying within the developing world. The opportunity to engage development challenges firsthand will provide an unparalleled education within the subject matter, while giving a real world face to many concepts you may have only been learning about second-hand thus far.
The global south is disproportionately underdeveloped when compared to the global north, which is a major issue that development groups currently try to address. Regions such as Central America, Africa, and Southeast Asia for example face the highest levels of poverty in the global community. These are the areas where many development efforts are currently most strongly focused, and thus where development study abroad programs tend to have the largest presence.
Some specific countries where development study abroad programs are most popular include Brazil, India, Tanzania, Thailand, and Costa Rica. The entire world is at your doorstep, so try to choose a location where you take a deep interest in the culture and language as well. You never know what future opportunities may sprout up down the road when you study development abroad!
Most development study abroad programs will either offer you the opportunity to enroll full time at a foreign university and select development courses, or else engage in a smaller subject-specific program which is tailored for development studies.
Some common courses that students of development enroll in abroad include community development, economic development, human rights, urban studies, and sustainable development. Because it is an interdisciplinary field, even if your host university does not offer subject-specific courses while you study development abroad, odds are high that they will offer courses in related subject matter which can transfer back for academic credit
Many students also opt to study development abroad through a subject-specific program. These programs usually entail taking classes at a local university or satellite school and are commonly supplemented by additional internship, volunteer, or service learning opportunities. Action is what is most important when it comes to development studies, and these programs can be a great way to further engage local communities.
Development degrees are most commonly conferred at the postgraduate level, although more and more universities around the world are beginning to offer development studies as an undergraduate degree track as well. Development study abroad programs are typically available during summer sessions, single semesters, or full academic years.
The Real World. Studying development abroad is a great way to get out there and apply what you have learned thus far in school to reality. Especially if you have never travelled to a developing country, it will be a tremendously humbling experience.
Community Action. Even if your development study abroad program does not include specific opportunities to supplement your studies with service, seeking out such ways to engage the community will enhance your experience tenfold.
Exploration. You do not have to limit your study development abroad experience to just one location; travelling extensively throughout a region is just one of the many perks of studying abroad!
Hear what past participants have to say about their experiences
The instructions were clear and expanded my understanding of Spanish. The teacher was great and helped with any problems with expertise I made many friends and tge cultural trips added to the overall quality of the program
¡Hola, Barbara! Thank you so much for your comments! We’re so glad to hear you enjoyed your time with us and that your classes helped you take your Spanish to the next level. We’ll be sure to pass your kind words on to your teacher! We hope to see you again soon for another Spanish adventure! ¡Un fuerte abrazo!
Forum-Nexus was incredibly well organized from start to finish. Travel between cities was efficient, and I still had the freedom to explore on my own. The Independent Cultural Visits pushed me to get out and discover each place. Laura did a great job in International Business, and I learned a lot. The teachers and staff were nice and caring, and Adam was the best! It was the adventure of a lifetime, and it showed me I can do new and scary things. I’d recommend it 100%. You won’t experience anything like it.
Program: Decolonizing the Mind: Racial and Environmental Justice
It might be cringe but my time in Southern Africa was genuinely life changing. I not only learned so much from the faculty and staff, but I learned from the members of the cohort, Yango drivers, locals, community leaders, and so much more. With the experiential learning aspect, I was able to engage with community members, speak to activists, and analyze the impacts and legacies of imperialism and settler colonialism in real time. The field trips we go on are actually helpful and connect to what we've been learning in the classroom and expands our scope in a way that you can't get from a textbook or a lecture. The excursions we go on are full of awesome adventures, from Table Mountain, Dune 7 (tallest dune in the world), dune buggies, and seeing beach penguins to museum trips, soccer games, and safaris. The staff and faculty are the nicest human beings in the whole entire world and I'm so grateful that I had their support, especially being miles upon miles away from home.
Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides
My study abroad experience in Seville, Spain was truly unforgettable. I had the opportunity to explore a new culture, meet people from different backgrounds, and experience everyday life in another country. I loved being able to travel around Spain and visit places like Barcelona and Madrid, while also making memories in Seville. Studying abroad helped me become more independent, confident, and open to trying new things. I would definitely recommend studying abroad to other students because it is an experience you will remember for the rest of your life!

The teachers were fabulous! Using games mixed with instruction made learning interesting. I especially enjoyed our assignment of going to the high market across from our hotel. We learned how to order what we wanted, and interviewed the proprietor. Ours was a bull fighter before buying his stall in the market! The cultural activities were fun and the hotel where we stayed was very comfortable.
¡Hola Joanna! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience! We'll be sure to pass your kind words on to our teaching team. We hope to welcome you back soon to keep learning and exploring together. ¡Un fuerte abrazo!
The Expanish 50+ study abroad program in Malaga was amazing! The instructors were awesome and made the lessons engaging and fun. The cultural activities were really interesting and allowed for an excellent opportunity to learn about and experience the local history and culture. I highly recommend it!
¡Hola, Dana! Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear you had such an amazing time on our 50+ study abroad program in Málaga. Thank you for recommending us. That means a lot to our whole team, and we'll be sure to share your kind words with our instructors. We hope to see you back in Málaga soon for another adventure. ¡Un abrazo y hasta pronto!
Forum-Nexus was an amazing experience. I made many new friends, enjoyed the professional and cultural visits, and loved the balance between school and fun. The staff was amazing, and I would definitely recommend it.
My time in Italy was one of the most amazing, life-changing, and enjoyable experiences I have ever had. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to visit Italy for the first time, especially since it was also my first time flying on an airplane. I loved how affordable the program was for everything that was included. We traveled throughout Central Italy, enjoyed amazing food and accommodations, and were guided by caring faculty and tour guides who truly wanted us to have the best experience possible. This trip gave me unforgettable memories, new friendships, and experiences that I will always be grateful for.
Grazie, Samuel! We are so glad to hear this trip made such an impact on you, and we can't wait to hear about your plans moving forward!
I had an unforgettable time in Italy with Molise Italian Studies. It was my first time visiting a country outside of the United States, so I was a little worried at first. However, the program was so well run and smooth that I soon had no worries whatsoever. Our guide, Andrea, was excellent and our trip would not have been what it was without him. I would highly recommend Molise Italian Studies to any one who is interested in Italian culture, history, or exploring another country.
Grazie Jay! We are glad you had a great trip and we passed along your gratitude to Andrea!
My study abroad experience to Italy was incredible. I had met so many new amazing people and new connections. Our tour guide, Andrea, was very helpful, patient, and kind throughout the whole trip. I am very grateful to be chosen to attend this trip.

Grazie Luisana! We are glad you had a great trip and we passed along your gratitude to Andrea!
Program: Decolonizing the Mind: Racial and Environmental Justice
Through studying abroad with Augsburg, I was able to meet life long friends and gain a home away from home. In addition to learning about cultures, people, places, and historical events I had no idea existed, the community welcomed me with open arms. Cohort style learning meant hands-on experiences with my peers and opportunities to explore/tailor learning to best serve us. The Augsburg team has become family.
My time as a University of Sussex student was a life changing opportunity. I got to grow and connect with people who I was able to explore with. I constantly reminisce on my time there and all that I got to do and for that I am grateful!
Studying at the University of Sussex as a Spanish exchange student has been one of the best experiences of my life. I felt welcomed from the very beginning, and the lecturers were always supportive and approachable. The campus is beautiful, the facilities are excellent, and Brighton is an amazing city full of culture and opportunities. I also met incredible people from all over the world, which helped me grow both personally and academically. This exchange has improved my English, broadened my perspective, and given me unforgettable memories. I would highly recommend the University of Sussex to any international student looking for a high-quality education and a truly enriching experience.

I did a year abroad from Australia at Sussex and it was genuinely an amazing year. Sussex is so progressive and community based, that there’s no ‘upper echelon’ groups or unapproachable people. Everyone at the uni is easy to talk to and friendly. Making friends was so easy. I joined the Salsa society; one out of literally a million choices of societies. Also, I’d argue that Sussex is as good as it is because you get to be abroad in Brighton. There’s no other city like it, so full of love and quirk. There’s ALWAYS something going on too, be it live music or festivals or arts or community activities. So bloody good and I’d go again in a heartbeat. Everybody really is in the same boat in Brighton and at Sussex, you’ll never feel judged.
My four months in Brighton were amazing! The university had organised a great reception for all visiting students, which made it easy to get to know people from all over the world. While living on campus, I also made close friends with the people I lived with. I was mostly happy with all my selected modules, and found the teachers to be friendly and dedicated! Brighton itself is the perfect size for a semester abroad and full of lovely cafés, restaurants, pubs, and clubs. I definitely recommend Sussex for your exchange!

Choosing to study at the University of Sussex was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that has completely changed how I see the world. Within the first week there, I found myself surrounded by such an incredible group of people, making friends from Australia, the United States, Mexico, Malaysia, and England. Each of whom generously shared their cultures, perspectives, and ways of life with me. Some of my fondest memories were simple ones, such as evenings spent laughing at Falmer Bar, surrounded by good company, good food, and an atmosphere that always felt like home. Sussex's location made it the perfect place to explore new destinations. Not only was it close to countries across Europe I'd dreamed of visiting, but it also placed me within easy reach of some of England's most charming destinations including London, Lewes, Cambridge, and Bath among my favourites. Between coursework, I found myself constantly learning both academically, and experientially, gaining a broader appreciation for the world and my place in it. Brighton, just a short bus ride from campus, became my favorite escape when I needed a break. I spent countless afternoons discovering new coffee shops and catching up on coursework, or wandering along the waterfront. By May, Brighton was in full swing, its pier buzzing with visitors enjoying games, rides, and seaside food. As someone living with Celiac Disease, I was especially grateful for how seamlessly I could navigate both grocery stores and restaurants with an abundance of gluten-free options that made me feel safe, cared for, and included throughout my time there. Academically, Sussex exceeded my expectations. My favorite course was Positive Psychology with Rona Hart, where small class sizes allowed real connections to form and made participation feel natural rather than intimidating. We didn't just study psychological theory, we got to practice them by participating in techniques like goal setting, stress management, and resilience building in ways that I've carried with me well beyond the classroom. Overall, my semester at Sussex gave me more than education, it also gave me the most memorable experiences that I’ll cherish forever.

I had an amazing time during my study abroad at Sussex. Brighton was such a lovely town, with a lot of kind and interesting people. There is so much to do and so many cool experiences to have. I highly recommend coming to Sussex!
I had a great time at Sussex. I lived in Brighthelm and was able to be around my friends all the time. We would have little dinner parties and watch movies and it was so nice because everyone lived so close to eachother! Sussex also offered tons of activities for students I particularly loved trivia nights, and all the clubs were so open and welcoming which made meeting people easy!
As part of my studies, I spent a semester at the University of Sussex and I had a truly wonderful experience there. There were many differences compared to my home university. What I enjoyed most was the campus life. There were countless activities and events that made it easy to meet new people and try new things, which helped students connect with one another. I also really appreciated the support I received before and throughout my stay. Whenever I had questions or encountered any problems, there was always someone available to help. The lecturers were very welcoming, supportive, and genuinely cared about their students. In addition, the university’s location gave me the opportunity to explore Brighton and visit other English cities, such as London. Overall, I really enjoyed my semester at the University of Sussex and it was an enriching experience both academically and personally.
I absolutely loved my time at Sussex Uni and in Brighton. It's such a special place that you can't find anywhere else and a place that stays with your for a long time. It's hard to pinpoint exactly why as it is in the air, in the style and in the feelings you feel. The people were so cool and amazing, the town so fantastic and the university and campus such a cozy and familiar place that I felt like I belonged and had been there longer than one semester. I miss it a lot and look back on it with nostalgia and love. Definitely recommend going on an exchange there.
Alumni and staff share what it's really like to go abroad

Arseniy Ovchinnikov
The Academy of Tourism Antalya
AlumniI was inspired to go abroad because I wanted to gain international experience, improve my English, and learn from professionals in the hospitality ind...
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Anastasiya Vinogradova
The Academy of Tourism Antalya
AlumniGrowing up, I lived in Thailand and practiced tennis, so travel and new cultures always felt natural to me.
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Maria Huerta
European Centre for Career Education
AlumniWhat inspired me to go abroad was not just curiosity, but the need to understand the systems that shape people's lives beyond borders.
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Andrew Messersmith
College Year in Athens
AlumniWhat inspired me to go abroad was all of the different opportunities that my university provides. I believe that spending a semester abroad can be an ...
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Jonathan Ulicny
CES Maastricht
AlumniI was inspired to travel abroad because of my commitment to learning more about international cultures and interacting with individuals across Europe....
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Vanessa Chairez
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
AlumniI was inspired to go about because it truly is a once in a lifetime experience and we are only this young once, so why not take advantage of that. It ...
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Bethel University Global Studies
AlumniMy family has been my motivation and inspiration to go abroad. I come from a family where most of us are complacent with small, everyday life. My fami...
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Kesa Ferguson
Academic Programs International
AlumniMy brother was my primary inspiration to go abroad; seeing his transformative experience in China showed me how much a global perspective can change a...
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Lia-Mara Bösch
StudyInBali
AlumniWhat inspired me to go abroad was partly a requirement of my university, as we have to either complete an internship or study abroad for one semester.
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John Peterson
Instituto Hemingway
AlumniGoing abroad was inspired by my desire to step outside my comfort zone and experience life from a different perspective. I wanted to improve my langua...
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José Gonzalo Solís Baca
European Centre for Career Education
AlumniTraveling has always been a passion of mine, and the opportunity to experience other cultures deeply inspires me. Going abroad allows me to build genu...
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Amal Azabova
European Centre for Career Education
AlumniAlthough I graduated some time ago and currently live in Prague, I felt a strong desire to return to a structured academic environment. I wanted to re...
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Elise Monroe
Academic Programs Abroad (APA)
AlumniI was always determined to study abroad because of the stories my dad told me about his own time living overseas. He once spoke French fluently, and I...
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Mikhail Mikhaylov
Learn Russian in the European Union
AlumniI wanted to deepen my understanding of the post-Soviet region through direct immersion, especially given my academic focus on conflict mediation. The ...
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Makayla Ross
IES Abroad
AlumniStudying abroad was not a part of my original 4-year plan. I'd anticipate joining campus clubs, meeting new people and making lifelong friendships, an...
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Grant Dockery
IES Abroad
AlumniThis was not my first experience studying abroad. I have always loved traveling and experiencing new cultures (I'm a big foodie). I also adore languag...
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Eddie Kaake
CES Maastricht
AlumniI had known from a young age that I wanted to study far from home, but due to the illness of one of my parents, I was afraid to make that jump. After ...
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Jon Shepherd
Bethel University Global Studies
AlumniMy first trip abroad was to Mexico when I was in college, studying Spanish. That experience changed everything for me; it brought the language to life...
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Anika Freestone
Phezulu Pre-Vet
AlumniI’ve always wanted to go to Africa, or specifically South Africa, to experience and work with its wildlife since I was a little girl. I’ve wanted to e...
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Janie Kilby
Forum-Nexus Study Abroad
AlumniAll three of my older brothers participated in study abroad, and from their experiences and adventures, I discovered my inspiration to have similar ad...
Read Full InterviewExplore the destinations and program types travelers search for most
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