Learn Why You Should Study Abroad
- Tuesday, June 14, 2011, 5:34
- Test Prep, TOEFL
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Studying Abroad
Now Is the Right Time to Get the Advantage
In times of economic change, competition increases and higher education institutions and employers seek individuals with the best credentials and skills. A degree from an overseas, English-speaking university can be a big advantage. Plus, international experience is highly valued by employers of multinational companies and firms that do business all around the world.
Taking the First Step
If you’re not a native speaker of English, you will need to show you can use and understand English at the university level. Schools rely on English-language proficiency tests like the TOEFL® test to measure applicants’ English language abilities.
Before you register for the TOEFL test, research application deadlines and score requirements for the institutions you’d like to attend. Then, use the TOEFL Test Planning Calendar (PDF) to plan ahead — from test preparation and test dates through test score mailing dates.
Deciding Where to Study
By studying abroad, you expand your choices to include the world’s top higher education institutions, as well as the opportunity to take courses you may not find anywhere else. You will also have a chance to experience new languages, cultures and lifestyles.
Gaining the TOEFL Advantage
By taking the TOEFL test, you can be sure of having the widest possible selection of schools that accept your scores, including the top 100 colleges and universities in the UK, U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand and more. To learn more about how the TOEFL test can help you go anywhere English is spoken, watch our new video, The TOEFL® Test: Your Passport to the World (Flash).
Search for schools that accept TOEFL® scores (PDF).
Studying Abroad is Life-Changing
- A 50-year study of 3,400 students shows that “studying abroad is usually a defining moment in a young person’s life and continues to impact the participant’s life for years after the experience.”1
- 82% said that “they acquired skill sets that influenced their career path.”
- 70% stated that “it ignited an interest in a career direction that they pursued after the experience.”
Studying Abroad Helps Your Career
A study by the Australian government showed:
- Many employers state that having studied abroad helps job candidates stand out.2
- Employers view studying abroad as evidence of the ability to adapt to new environments.
- It demonstrates exposure to new ideas, philosophies and cultures.
Paying to Study Abroad
Yes, studying abroad has many advantages, but how do you pay for it, especially during challenging economic times? First, the cost isn’t as high as you might think. Many universities offer excellent programs, scholarships, financial aid, grants and other assistance that can help you afford to study abroad.
With the value and the quality the TOEFL test delivers, it is one of the most affordable tools to support your efforts to study abroad.
Join the millions of students who will still study abroad this year and who will make the TOEFL test the first stop on their journey.
1 Institute for the International Education of Students: The Benefits of Study Abroad
2 2006 QETI and IEAA. The Attitudes and Perceptions of Australian Employers Towards an Overseas Study Experience.
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