In addition, it is becoming increasingly valued and accessible, offering a range of benefits and opportunities that go beyond the boundaries of traditional higher education, allowing you to make a difference.
With that in mind, here are some of the benefits of studying abroad, what the process is like for making this exciting educational journey a reality—step by step—and the resources available to help you learn how to study abroad.
Benefits of studying abroad
Deciding to study abroad is a commitment that allows you to experience new cultures, gain new perspectives, and take advantage of unparalleled opportunities.
Students who embark on this experience enjoy a wide range of benefits, such as:
Achieving a deeper cultural enrichment
Immersing oneself in a different culture is a catalyst for personal and academic growth.
Interacting with people from different cultural backgrounds on a daily basis provides a deeper understanding and a more genuine appreciation of human diversity, broadening the way you analyze, understand, and experience reality.
Still not sure what to study?
Check out all the degree programs at ORT
Improve your language and communication skills
Immersion in an environment where another language is spoken offers a unique opportunity to improve your language skills. In addition to acquiring a second language, fluency in intercultural communication becomes an essential soft skill in your professional career.
- You might also be interested in reading our article: “The Importance of Foreign Languages When Studying in College”
Innovative Academic Perspectives
The foreign universities offer a wide range of programs and academic approaches that may be radically different from what is offered in Uruguay. This academic diversity will challenge you as a student to explore new areas of knowledge.
In this regard, in order to advance its activities in the areas of international cooperation and exchange, Universidad ORT Uruguay in collaborative projects in teaching, research, and academic administration, carried out in partnership with prestigious partners from around the world, such as the Erasmus+ program of the European Union or the agreement signed between ORT and Berkeley Summer Sessionsat the University of California, among others.
Still not sure what to study?
Check out all the degree programs at ORT
Big-picture perspective and adaptability
Studying abroad fosters intercultural understanding and a global mindset, which are crucial in a hyperconnected world. The challenges of living in an unfamiliar environment promote adaptability and resilience, key soft skills in today’s world.
- You might also be interested in reading: “Study Culture: How to Create an Effective Study Group”
Personal development and independence
The experience of studying abroad forces students to step outside their comfort zone, fostering the development of independence and informed decision-making.
- We also recommend reading: “What to do after college: a job, graduate school, or a gap year?”
How to Study Abroad
Preparing to study abroad requires careful planning and attention to detail. Below, we outline the essential steps to make this exciting educational journey a reality:
1. Thorough research
Before embarking on this adventure, students should carefully research the universities and programs available abroad. In this regard, Universidad ORT Uruguay valuable resources for exploring exchange and international cooperation opportunities, the chance to spend a semester in another country, experience different cultures, challenge yourself, and step outside your comfort zone to gain everything an international experience has to offer.
Still not sure what to study?
Check out all the degree programs at ORT
2. Meeting academic requirements
Every exchange program or foreign university may have specific academic requirements for admission. Students should ensure they meet these requirements and consider the possibility of transferring credits.
3. Proficiency in the language
Many foreign universities require a minimum level of proficiency in the language of instruction. Therefore, if you plan to apply to a foreign-language university, you should prepare for this challenge and pass the relevant language exams, such as the TOEFL or the IELTS, in the case of English, can be crucial for admission.
4. Complete documentation
The collection of documents isessential for your application to study abroad, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation and admission essays, is a crucial step toward a successful application.
The process and required documentation vary from institution to institution, as well as among the most common documents are the admission form provided by the foreign university, a copy of the bachelor’s degree, a personal statement written by the applicant, letters of recommendation, and a copy of the applicant’s ID.
- You might also be interested in reading: “Youth Entrepreneurship: How College Can Be a Springboard for Your Startup”
5. Application and Strategic Timelines
Submit your application on time and meeting the established deadlines is essential. Some universities have multiple application deadlines, so it’s important to stay informed.
Support and resources for studying abroad
Universidad ORT Uruguay strong support to students seeking to enrich their educational experience through international exchange programs.
Through its International Office, the university offers expert guidance from the early stages of research through to adjusting to life abroad. In the Costsection, on the other hand, you can find information about scholarships and other expenses.
In addition, the University Language Center offers a wide variety of courses and resources to strengthen language skills and ensure success in an academic setting abroad.