Why study abroad? (Top 6 reasons)
See your friends and fellow students choosing to study in another country? You might be wondering – why study abroad? What makes it such an exciting and life-changing decision?
Studying abroad offers more than just an education – it’s a full experience. You’ll grow academically, personally and professionally. You’ll also gain new skills, build friendships from all over the world and learn to see life from different perspectives.
Teesside University International Study Centre welcomes international students from across the world and gives you the opportunity to progress to study at Teesside University. With strong academic programmes, cutting-edge research facilities and a vibrant student community, the University offers a welcoming and supportive environment where you can truly thrive. Students from over 100 countries call Teesside University home – and you could be one of them.
Access top quality education
One of the biggest reasons to study abroad is the chance to access a high-quality education. Many universities abroad – including Teesside University – are known for their high academic standards, expert teaching and up-to-date facilities. Teesside University ranked 23rd out of 131 UK Universities for Teaching Quality (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024).
You’ll be taught by experienced lecturers and you might also work on real-world projects, use the latest technologies or join research groups working on exciting innovations.
Teesside University offers a range of programmes that are designed to prepare you for academic success and your future career. This kind of academic experience may not be available in your home country – especially if you're looking for a specific subject or advanced course. So, if you’re asking, ‘why is studying abroad important?’, think of the knowledge and opportunities for networking that come with it.
Boost language skills
Living in a country where people speak a different language is the fastest way to improve your language skills. You’ll use English every day – not just in the classroom, but also in shops, cafés, public transport and with new friends.
This kind of full-language immersion helps you build confidence and improve both speaking and writing skills. If you’d like extra support, Teesside University International Study Centre offers English Language Preparation courses to help you feel more confident before starting your main academic studies.
Improving your English opens many doors, especially when it comes to your future studies or career prospects. It’s also one of the main benefits of studying abroad.
Build a global network
Meeting people from around the world is one of the best parts of studying abroad. You’ll make friends from different countries, learn about their cultures and celebrate your local traditions from back home together.
This cultural exchange helps you become more open-minded and empathetic. You’ll understand how people from different backgrounds think and feel, which is a valuable skill in today’s connected world.
A global network is also useful for your career. You might meet future colleagues, business partners, or collaborators – all starting from your time at university. At Teesside, student life is full of opportunities to connect, share and grow with others from around the world.
Enhance career opportunities
Another major benefit of studying abroad is that it makes you stand out when applying for jobs. Employers value international experience because it shows that you’re independent, adaptable and ready to face new challenges.
You’ll also develop useful soft skills such as problem-solving, time management, communication and leadership. These are important in any job – from business to engineering, healthcare to creative industries.
Teesside University International Study Centre helps students prepare for work by integrating employability skills in its pathway programmes. Teesside University also offers work placements, CV support and career planning. You’ll leave with more than a degree – you’ll have real-world skills and career confidence too.
Achieve personal growth
Studying abroad isn’t always easy – but that’s part of what makes it so rewarding. Living away from your family, managing money, cooking for yourself and making new friends all help you grow as a person.
You’ll become more confident, more responsible and more independent. You’ll also learn how to cope with change, handle homesickness and find joy in small wins – like navigating a new city or cooking your first meal!
These challenges turn into life lessons that help you in your future studies, your job and your personal life.
Experience travel and adventure
One of the most exciting reasons to study abroad is the chance to explore a new country – or even several! In the UK, for example, it’s easy to visit nearby cities, famous landmarks or even take short trips to Europe.
You’ll create unforgettable memories, try new foods, explore different cultures and maybe even discover new interests and hobbies.
Study abroad at Teesside University
So, why study abroad at Teesside University by joining the Teesside University International Study Centre as your first step? There are plenty of reasons!
Students from more than 100 countries create a friendly and inclusive community on campus at Teesside University where everyone feels welcome. Teesside was ranked 1st in the UK for Overall Average Satisfaction in the International Student Barometer 2023, showing how well-supported international students feel. It also placed 3rd out of 115 UK universities for social inclusion (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024). Known for its high-quality teaching, strong student support, and practical, career-focused courses, Teesside University offers an outstanding environment for international learners.
Teesside offers several tailored pathway programmes for international students to help you succeed:
- International Foundation Year: Gain the academic and English skills needed to start your chosen undergraduate degree in areas such as business, STEM or the creative industries.
- International Year One: Designed to help you progress directly to the second year of an undergraduate degree, this one-year programme offers academic, language and career support.
- Accelerated Pre-Masters Programme: Spend one semester preparing to enter a postgraduate degree in business, humanities, or science at Teesside University.
Before starting your main programme, you can also prepare with our pre-courses to improve your English and academic skills.
Thinking of applying? Here's how to get started: first, check the entry requirements, then view tuition fees, and finally get visa information to begin your journey to Teesside University International Study Centre.
FAQs
Why are you choosing to study abroad?
To gain a global perspective, experience new cultures and access high-quality education that supports both academic and personal growth.
Why is studying abroad better than studying in your country?
It offers unique opportunities such as different teaching styles, cultural experiences and access to specialist programmes not available in your home country.
Is studying abroad good for your career?
Yes! Studying abroad boosts your CV by showing employers that you’re independent, adaptable and able to work in diverse environments.