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Sara Dumont, who is the director of the Study Abroad Program at American University, provided great information about the ten most common college myths of studying abroad in a U.S. News & World Report article.

Here are a few of the biggest myths and what you can do to avoid them:

1. Can’t afford to go - Yes, many study abroad programs cost as much as a semester in college, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t find financial help. You can always get financial aid from the government and you can see if the program offers study abroad scholarships, grants and fellowships.
2. Don’t know the language - Even if you don’t know the language of the country you are going to visit you’ll be okay. Not only will you be surprised at how many people speak the English language, but you’ll realize just how much fun it is to learn the language from native speakers. Plus, many of the study abroad programs will have classes that teach various levels of the language.
3. Too dangerous - You always need to be safe no matter where you go, so choose a location that is currently not under conflict. Most study abroad programs are not held in dangerous locations anyways, but if you feel unsafe talk to your study abroad adviser and never go anywhere on your own.
4. Too late to go - You should always apply for the study abroad program you want to join at least a semester ahead of time. That gives you enough time to research it and make sure that you’ve made the right decision. If you miss a date check with the study abroad adviser to see if any spaces open up.

Want to read about some more myths? Check out the article on USNews.com.

There are a lot of college myths related to studying abroad that may keep students from joining a study abroad program, but once you learn about the truth you should feel comfortable living and communicating in another country.

Studying abroad is not something that many students get to do, so if you have the opportunity to go then do it! Don’t let a simple myth scare you away from this experience.

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One Response to “Study Abroad Myths for College Students”

1. Renata H. Says:
   May 20th, 2009 at 5:54 am

   As a Newbie, I am always searching online for articles that can help me. Thank you

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