Alot of students dream about studying abroad but shy away from the opportunity due to cost-related issues or are scared of leading life alone in a foreign country. But, with the availability of financial support, study abroad programs have become more affordable and accessible. Study abroad can mean different things to different people. Although it is an educational program taken in a foreign country, some individuals study abroad to enhance their foreign language skills or to improve their professional skills to work with other cultures. Students enroll in these programs for a semester or a year or seek to earn an entire degree in a foreign country.
Types of Study Abroad Programs:
There are different kinds of study abroad programs available to students. Although they may vary, there are similar layouts of programs across institutes with different levels of support depending accordingly. You can choose whichever program suits your goals and interests best.
Here are some types of study abroad programs available to university students:
In recent years, short-term programs have become very popular among students who are applying for study abroad programs. These programs have at least eight weeks duration, usually depending upon the institute or university they are applying to.
- Summer Semester Programs with Program Providers:
These programs are usually pre-packed with housing options, optional weekend and day trips, an on-site program staff, in-depth site orientation and much more. They also have robust student services such as internships, cultural exchange and volunteer opportunities. This program aims at ensuring a positive and valuable experience for the students.
These programs have a faculty member from the home university accompanying the students. Some institutes send a provider or a faculty on short-term programs/semester-long programs as on-site support. Mostly, these programs are short-term programs led by a current faculty member that provides resident credit at the home university.
- Exchange Programs at a University or Institute:
In these programs, there is a signed agreement between two or more schools that allow students to study at the partner institution. In these agreements, details like housing, credit transfer, the application process and support for students are discussed. In most cases, students pay the tuition fees and program fees to their home university and only pay for housing, personal expenses and food in their host country.
These programs are similar to exchange programs but don’t require a formal relationship between the home and the host school. Students can get in contact with the host university’s office and enrol as visiting students for a semester. They will directly connect with the students and forward the details about courses, housing, visas, application process and other necessary details.
A lot of students look for programs and internships that will make their summer productive. They choose to participate in these programs to get a resume-worthy experience and improve their interviewing skills.
Even though students are aware of the perks and process of studying abroad, it is still an entirely different experience. Not only do they interact with different cultures but also get a chance to develop their social and professional life on a global level.
Sharda University is one of the top universities in India. With a highly qualified faculty across their disciplines and world-class facilities, it offers a variety of programs to international students. For more information, you can visit the official website of Sharda University and know how to apply for study abroad programs.
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