Spending part of your degree course abroad
Whether it’s studying the aurora in Norway or music in Vienna, spending time abroad as part of your degree can give you an international perspective and help you to stand out from the crowd when it comes to applying for jobs.
Benefits to studying abroad
Studying abroad represents an incredible opportunity to broaden your horizon, get a new perspective on your subject and gain experience and skills that are valued by employers. Employers are increasingly looking for people with experience of living abroad, cultural awareness and knowledge of another language.
If you're currently studying or working overseas or on an Erasmus+ placement, or considering taking up overseas placements, see the latest travel advice.
Your options
Spending time abroad will help to show that you are adaptable and willing to take on a challenge. If you’re thinking about studying abroad, your options are to:
- do a whole degree course abroad
- study abroad as part of your UK degree
Doing your degree with an overseas university
There’s plenty to think about if you’re considering doing a full degree course abroad, including finding the right course and funding your studies.
Studying abroad as part of a UK degree
Most universities offer students the opportunity to spend a semester or year studying or working abroad, either through an exchange agreement with a university overseas or through a dedicated scheme.
Although you will usually spend time studying abroad if you are taking a language degree, studying abroad isn’t just for language students. Many European universities offer a range of courses in English even if you can't speak a foreign language (although learning the language will help you in everyday life).
The Turing Scheme / Erasmus+
Alongside the UK and EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement reached on 24 December 2020, it was confirmed that the UK would not take part in the EU’s next Erasmus+ programme for 2021-27. The UK government will instead replace some of the educational mobility elements of the Erasmus+ programme through the Turing scheme.
Further information can be found at the following links:
Study USA programme
The Study USA programme provides students attending a college or university in Northern Ireland, with the opportunity to study for one full academic year in the USA.
Students must be enrolled in full-time education college or university in Northern Ireland.
Students classified as having International or EU (excluding RoI) residency are not eligible for Study USA.
Applications are now open for the 2027-2028 academic year.For more information about the programme, including how to apply, eligibility and costs, visit:
University-run schemes
Many international study options, for example, in the USA, Australia and outside the European Union, are based on two-way arrangements between particular universities and colleges. To learn about options available to you, contact the International Office or Study Abroad office-at your college or university.
Academic recognition for your studies abroad
If you study for a period in a European Union country as part of your UK degree, your studies should receive full academic recognition from your home institution under the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).