Studying abroad can be challenging, especially when you are applying to universities, planning your finances and preparing to live in a new country. It can also give you the chance to study a subject you love, meet people from different backgrounds and become more independent. How hard it feels depends on your destination, programme, budget and the support available to you.
Why do students choose to study abroad
An international degree can offer access to courses, teaching approaches or professional connections that suit your goals. Living in another country also gives you opportunities to practise a language, learn from different perspectives and manage everyday life on your own.
You will have plenty of company. International student mobility has continued to grow across OECD countries, according to the OECD’s Education at a Glance 2025. That does not mean every student finds the move easy, but it does show that studying abroad is an established path with many possible destinations and formats.
What is the hardest part of studying abroad
For many students, the first challenge comes before departure. You may need to compare programmes, meet entry requirements, prepare an application, arrange funding and find accommodation. Depending on your nationality and destination, you may also need a student visa. Requirements and timelines vary, so check the university’s guidance and the destination’s official rules early.
Read: Study UK
Cost is another important consideration. Look beyond tuition fees when comparing universities: include housing, food, transport, insurance and other likely expenses. Research scholarships carefully, too. Some cover only part of the total cost of studying and living abroad.
Read: EducationUSA
Once you arrive, the difficult part may be more personal. You might miss home, feel uncertain speaking another language or need time to get used to unfamiliar customs. Culture shock is a common experience for international students. Give yourself room to adjust, get involved in student activities and use your university’s support services when you need them.
How can you make studying abroad easier
Start with the course rather than a dream destination. Ask yourself what you want to learn, how the programme is taught and whether it fits your longer-term plans. Then compare the full cost and the practical requirements of each option.
A few steps can make the move more manageable:
- Build a realistic budget. Include living costs as well as tuition and check exactly what any scholarship covers.
- Work backwards from application deadlines. Allow time for documents, language tests, accommodation and visa procedures where applicable.
- Speak to current students or alumni. Ask what surprised them about the course and daily life.
- Find support before you need it. Check what academic, wellbeing and international student services your university offers.
If a full degree abroad feels like too large a commitment, consider a shorter study experience first. Erasmus+, for example, offers eligible students study mobility options through participating institutions, including longer exchanges and shorter blended formats.
Learn more: Erasmus+
Is studying abroad worth it for you
Studying abroad is not guaranteed to transform your career or make you more confident. Its value depends on the course you choose, what you can afford and how you use the experience. Equally, finding the prospect intimidating does not mean it is the wrong choice.
So, is it hard to study abroad? It can be. The application takes work, and settling into a new place takes time. But once you know what the challenges are, you can plan for them and decide whether the academic and personal opportunities make sense for you.
Originally published: 27 October 2021
Updated: 7 October 2026
