13 answers
Bella
Student
Miami, Florida
3
Questions
Updated
2707 views
Is it worth it to study abroad?
I'm a high school student who is starting to think about where and what I want to do in college. So far, It seems like getting a major in psychology is the best option for me. With many of the colleges I have considered, they offer options to study abroad in many different countries. Traveling has always interested me ever since I went to London. If possible, I would love to go back to London, or really any new country to study psychology. I do have some things I am worried about, however. How much will it effect my student debt, and is the price worth it? Also, is there any other cons to doing it? In theory it sounds great but I do know there could be some things to consider. If it helps, I am planning to complete 4 French classes by graduation to hopefully receive a seal of biliteracy.
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12 answers
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
833
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
One of my regrets from college is not studying abroad. Learning a language is one thing, but immersing yourself in a culture can offer a perspective that many people don’t get an opportunity to experience.
All things being equal, those I know who did study abroad have really good experiences!
All things being equal, those I know who did study abroad have really good experiences!
Thank you!
Bella
Kristina Du
Enterprise Technology Solutions Associate at PwC
50
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Kristina’s Answer
Studying abroad can absolutely be worth it, especially if you're passionate about travel and gaining a global perspective—both of which are valuable in psychology and many other fields. It offers academic enrichment, cultural exposure, and personal growth. However, it’s important to weigh the costs, including tuition differences, travel expenses, and how it might impact your student debt. Financial aid, scholarships, or exchange programs can help reduce that burden.
Since you're already studying French and aiming for a seal of biliteracy, you’re on a great path to thrive abroad. If you plan carefully—financially and academically—studying in places like London could be both fulfilling and worthwhile. Just be sure to consider the logistics and how it aligns with your long-term goals.
Since you're already studying French and aiming for a seal of biliteracy, you’re on a great path to thrive abroad. If you plan carefully—financially and academically—studying in places like London could be both fulfilling and worthwhile. Just be sure to consider the logistics and how it aligns with your long-term goals.
Jo Schock
Business Development
2
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jo’s Answer
Hi Bella
Studying abroad is an amazing experience, especially for a psychology major. You get to explore another culture, meet new people, and gain a global perspective—which is super valuable in your field.
As for cost, it’s often more affordable than people think. Many study abroad programs are built into your regular tuition since you’re still earning class credit. You might have to cover travel and housing, but there are scholarships and financial aid options to help with that.
Just be sure to check that the classes you would take abroad count toward your major so you stay on track to graduate.
Also, don’t pick a college only for its study abroad options, make sure it’s a good fit overall! But if you do find the right school and program, I definitely think the experience is worth it.
Good luck, and I hope you get to explore London again or somewhere just as exciting! Maybe Paris since you'll be proficient in French
Studying abroad is an amazing experience, especially for a psychology major. You get to explore another culture, meet new people, and gain a global perspective—which is super valuable in your field.
As for cost, it’s often more affordable than people think. Many study abroad programs are built into your regular tuition since you’re still earning class credit. You might have to cover travel and housing, but there are scholarships and financial aid options to help with that.
Just be sure to check that the classes you would take abroad count toward your major so you stay on track to graduate.
Also, don’t pick a college only for its study abroad options, make sure it’s a good fit overall! But if you do find the right school and program, I definitely think the experience is worth it.
Good luck, and I hope you get to explore London again or somewhere just as exciting! Maybe Paris since you'll be proficient in French
That's a very good point with Paris, I haven't considered going there yet! As for picking my colleges I want to apply to, I'm lucky enough that a lot of the ones I'm interested in offer the program anyway. Thank you so much for replying.
Bella
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Bella! The UK has some of the best universities on the planet. For a rank of the top 100, SEE https://www.topuniversities.com/student-info/choosing-university/worlds-top-100-universities ALSO it seems that Massachusetts Institute of Technology is hard to beat, and has maintained this number one ranking since 2012. This is the best UK Universities for Psychology:-
https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/best-universities/best-universities-psychology-degrees-uk
Best universities for psychology in the world according to recent rankings are:-
Stanford University - Ranked first in the 2025 Psychology Subject Rankings.
Harvard University - Consistently ranks high, noted for its teaching quality.
University of Cambridge - A top contender in both 2024 and 2025 rankings.
Princeton University - Noted for its strong psychology program.
University of Chicago - Also recognized in the top rankings.
These universities are recognized for their exceptional psychology programs and research contributions.
https://edurank.org › psychology
World's 100+ best Psychology universities [2025 Rankings]
Mar 2, 2025 · Below is a list of 8 of the best universities for Psychology in the World ranked based on their research performances:- a graph of 750M citations received by 24.9M academic papers … ● Germany ● Denmark ● India ● Switzerland ● Netherlands ● China ● Belgium ● Finland
GOD BLESS!
https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/best-universities/best-universities-psychology-degrees-uk
Best universities for psychology in the world according to recent rankings are:-
Stanford University - Ranked first in the 2025 Psychology Subject Rankings.
Harvard University - Consistently ranks high, noted for its teaching quality.
University of Cambridge - A top contender in both 2024 and 2025 rankings.
Princeton University - Noted for its strong psychology program.
University of Chicago - Also recognized in the top rankings.
These universities are recognized for their exceptional psychology programs and research contributions.
https://edurank.org › psychology
World's 100+ best Psychology universities [2025 Rankings]
Mar 2, 2025 · Below is a list of 8 of the best universities for Psychology in the World ranked based on their research performances:- a graph of 750M citations received by 24.9M academic papers … ● Germany ● Denmark ● India ● Switzerland ● Netherlands ● China ● Belgium ● Finland
GOD BLESS!
That's great to hear that they have such great colleges there! Thank you!
Bella
Yes, nutrition can place you at the forefront of academic and professional development Bella! HIGH DISTINCTION > 95% MARKS.
James Constantine Frangos
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1093
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Bella,
If it is worth it depends on your definition of "worth" and, unfortunately, your ability to afford it. On the plus side, studying abroad can be an amazing, life-changing experience. Studying in a different country allows you to learn/perfect your language skills, immerse yourself in a different culture and just get a different outlook on things, personally and professionally. On the other hand it usually comes with some costs. You want to look for programs and scholarships that help you finance a semester or year abroad. You might also lose time on your program and stay in school longer. If the program is well aligned and you can get credit for all your international classes, that might not be an issue.
If you want to study abroad during your undergrad studies, look for a university that has an established partnership and exchange program with an international university. There are also dual programs that allow you to get a degree in 2 different countries. I left some links for you below.
Another option would be to complete your bachelors in the US and do your masters and/or PhD in a different country or choose a research project that requires some time abroad, e.g. for data collection but still gets you a US degree.
In summary, I think it's absolutely "worth it" in terms of professional and personal growth, but I wouldn't go into crushing debt for it either.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
https://www.en.u-pec.fr/en/international-policy/international-dual-degrees
https://www.unyp.cz/dual-degree/
If it is worth it depends on your definition of "worth" and, unfortunately, your ability to afford it. On the plus side, studying abroad can be an amazing, life-changing experience. Studying in a different country allows you to learn/perfect your language skills, immerse yourself in a different culture and just get a different outlook on things, personally and professionally. On the other hand it usually comes with some costs. You want to look for programs and scholarships that help you finance a semester or year abroad. You might also lose time on your program and stay in school longer. If the program is well aligned and you can get credit for all your international classes, that might not be an issue.
If you want to study abroad during your undergrad studies, look for a university that has an established partnership and exchange program with an international university. There are also dual programs that allow you to get a degree in 2 different countries. I left some links for you below.
Another option would be to complete your bachelors in the US and do your masters and/or PhD in a different country or choose a research project that requires some time abroad, e.g. for data collection but still gets you a US degree.
In summary, I think it's absolutely "worth it" in terms of professional and personal growth, but I wouldn't go into crushing debt for it either.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Thank you so much! I haven't really thought of getting a PhD later in another country. I could definitely see that being a possibility!
Bella
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1209
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Bella,
Great question! That you're already considering your future, particularly something as exciting as studying abroad, is amazing. I can see that you are someone who enjoys learning and exploring, and this attitude will help you succeed in psychology and in life in general.
It can be an amazing experience to study overseas. It offers you the opportunity to meet individuals from many origins, gain a fresh perspective on the world, and truly develop personally. It makes perfect sense that you would be drawn to the idea, given your already existing interest in travel and your positive experiences in London. And it may be really eye-opening to discover how different cultures regard mental health, whether you're studying psychology or something similar.
Now, as for the concerns, they are very valid. Depending on the curriculum, studying abroad might occasionally be costly. Some universities offer grants meant especially for study abroad students, and others allow you to travel overseas while still paying your usual tuition. When the time comes, make sure to speak with the financial aid office to find out what kind of assistance they provide. Making a plan in advance can significantly impact the amount of debt you take on.
There are a few more considerations as well. It can be difficult to stay away from home for an extended period of time, particularly if you value routine or close relationships with family and friends. It's very normal to experience homesickness or cultural shock, and many people come from the experience feeling stronger and more self-assured. Maintaining communication with an academic advisor will be important in ensuring that traveling overseas won't interfere with your graduation schedule or course requirements.
In all honesty, studying abroad may be one of the most memorable and significant college experiences you have if you put your all into it and make good plans. And that you're already pursuing a Seal of Biliteracy and learning French? That's a big positive. No matter where you travel, it will open many doors for you because it shows your seriousness about making connections with the world.
Best wishes!
Great question! That you're already considering your future, particularly something as exciting as studying abroad, is amazing. I can see that you are someone who enjoys learning and exploring, and this attitude will help you succeed in psychology and in life in general.
It can be an amazing experience to study overseas. It offers you the opportunity to meet individuals from many origins, gain a fresh perspective on the world, and truly develop personally. It makes perfect sense that you would be drawn to the idea, given your already existing interest in travel and your positive experiences in London. And it may be really eye-opening to discover how different cultures regard mental health, whether you're studying psychology or something similar.
Now, as for the concerns, they are very valid. Depending on the curriculum, studying abroad might occasionally be costly. Some universities offer grants meant especially for study abroad students, and others allow you to travel overseas while still paying your usual tuition. When the time comes, make sure to speak with the financial aid office to find out what kind of assistance they provide. Making a plan in advance can significantly impact the amount of debt you take on.
There are a few more considerations as well. It can be difficult to stay away from home for an extended period of time, particularly if you value routine or close relationships with family and friends. It's very normal to experience homesickness or cultural shock, and many people come from the experience feeling stronger and more self-assured. Maintaining communication with an academic advisor will be important in ensuring that traveling overseas won't interfere with your graduation schedule or course requirements.
In all honesty, studying abroad may be one of the most memorable and significant college experiences you have if you put your all into it and make good plans. And that you're already pursuing a Seal of Biliteracy and learning French? That's a big positive. No matter where you travel, it will open many doors for you because it shows your seriousness about making connections with the world.
Best wishes!
Thank you so much for replying! Its great to hear from someone who went into psychology themselves.
Bella
You're welcome!
Chinyere Okafor
Amanda Clary
Pharmacist
6
Answers
Johnston, Iowa
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
100000% absolutely! You only live once, and the more other cultures you are exposed to the more likely you will have a better understanding and appreciation of both the cultures YOU create and all the other cultures that exist around you in your own personal life. Studying abroad ALSO REALLY helps you decide what you are really passionate about if you don't know what you want to do with with your life yet, or what profession, or jobs you really want to dedicate the next, you know 30 plus years doing. And, again. You only live once. Opportunities to study abroad are once in a lifetime opportunities that if you miss? Honestly, you will never get those opportunities ever again. Out there in the real world ACTUALLY "adulting," its actually VERY hard to basically travel ANYWHERE, let alone WITHIN the country, let alone OUTSIDE the country, so if you have the chance to study SOMEWHERE **OUTSIDE THE COUNTRY** do it *NOW* while you still have the chance to do it. I can 1000% GUARANTEE you will be both love it like it's the best thing that ever happened to you, because you will likely have a different perspective on EVERYTHING when you come back home after that experience, and it will ALSO be one of the most ENJOYABLE experiences of your entire LIFE too. So if it were ME, I would DEFINITELY do it and I WOULD NOT *THINK TWICE* about it, sign up for it, don't look back, pack your bags, get excited and go for it 1000%! You only live once and this is the BEST opportunity you will EVER have and the BEST and ONLY chance to do it is NOW! PLEASE trust me when I say this golden opportunity that's knocking on your door right now, and never TURN BACK, because it will be both the BEST decision youve ever made AND BOTH the BEST THING that's EVER HAPPENED to you TOO.
If you have any other further questions of me PLEASE FEEL free to ASK!
Sincerely
Amanda Clary, Pharm.D.
If you have any other further questions of me PLEASE FEEL free to ASK!
Sincerely
Amanda Clary, Pharm.D.
Phill Pezo
Industrial Design
103
Answers
Nutley, New Jersey
Updated
Phill’s Answer
Hello Bella,
It is great to hear that you’re considering many different things while going to university, including studying abroad. I myself studied abroad for my graduate studies, and I can personally say it was the best decision I’ve ever made. If you’re considering it, there’s a good chance you will enjoy it as well, but there are many different things to consider.
Financially, education tends to be cheaper in the United Kingdom and Europe. Even with accommodation, it might be just about the same if not cheaper than how much it would be in the United States. Make sure to look into this and to look at all your options on how to pay and if you’re taking loans that it can be used for that.
There are also different styles of teaching and learning that can be very beneficial to you. London is a great place because it is very international so you have people from all over the world there, and most likely will in their class, depending on where you go. The general vibe is the calmer one compared to United States, but that’s just about any other country. England/London is different from United States, but is also familiar as they speak the same language. If you were to go to another country, you might have to consider the language barrier and how that might affect your learning. You should also consider what kind of degree you’re getting in to make sure that you can use it there and/or here. You don’t have to decide this now, but you can also consider if you want to work there afterwards or not but again that will come as you go.
Best of luck on your to travel, while you study abroad or not!
It is great to hear that you’re considering many different things while going to university, including studying abroad. I myself studied abroad for my graduate studies, and I can personally say it was the best decision I’ve ever made. If you’re considering it, there’s a good chance you will enjoy it as well, but there are many different things to consider.
Financially, education tends to be cheaper in the United Kingdom and Europe. Even with accommodation, it might be just about the same if not cheaper than how much it would be in the United States. Make sure to look into this and to look at all your options on how to pay and if you’re taking loans that it can be used for that.
There are also different styles of teaching and learning that can be very beneficial to you. London is a great place because it is very international so you have people from all over the world there, and most likely will in their class, depending on where you go. The general vibe is the calmer one compared to United States, but that’s just about any other country. England/London is different from United States, but is also familiar as they speak the same language. If you were to go to another country, you might have to consider the language barrier and how that might affect your learning. You should also consider what kind of degree you’re getting in to make sure that you can use it there and/or here. You don’t have to decide this now, but you can also consider if you want to work there afterwards or not but again that will come as you go.
Best of luck on your to travel, while you study abroad or not!
That's great to hear it would not affect the price too much. My family has already saved a lot for me to go to college so I'm very lucky. Thank you!
Bella
Mike Tolbert
Vendor Manager / RF Engineer
7
Answers
Canton, Georgia
Updated
Mike’s Answer
I think it is worth it to see other cultures and how they do things in the field of study to compare to the U.S. It will add to your student debt as there will be a cost.. but sometimes schools over scholarships or you can try to do fund raisers to generate some funds for the trip.
That's true, thank you! It would be great to experience new cultures.
Bella
Alissa Combs-Draughn, Ph.D.
Psychologist
2
Answers
Catawba, VA
Updated
Alissa’s Answer
Studying abroad is an excellent opportunity for a variety of reasons: it gives students the ability to develop cultural competence and understand their own biases prior to entering the workforce; it also exposes many students to new experiences, cultures, and opportunities they otherwise may not have been afforded. In terms of the cost, there are grants, scholarships, and other forms of aid available for those who need it.
That's great to hear, I had no clue there were scholarships for it. I do think the different culture could help a lot with wanting to do a job in psychology. Thank you!
Bella
Jason White
Lead Product Manager- Network Security
179
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hey Bella,
Great question. As someone that wanted to study abroad but didn’t have the money. I’ll say that I’ve never met a person that did study abroad and didn’t love the experience. So i would say if you can DO IT!
Great question. As someone that wanted to study abroad but didn’t have the money. I’ll say that I’ve never met a person that did study abroad and didn’t love the experience. So i would say if you can DO IT!
Annah Edmonds
Licensed Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist
221
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Annah’s Answer
Bella, I think any kind of traveling and especially abroad is a great thing to do for a number of reasons! It may also be the best time to do it as universities are offering more scholarships than ever due to the rising cost of a US education. One thing to consider is taking a year or semester abroad (from a US college/university) vs attending fully abroad. In some countries, education is much more affordable. In addition, you will be having an opportunity you might never be able to replicate later on in life. Because of licensing I suggest you be careful about graduate school credits to make sure your coursework will be recognized in the US- if you plan to return. You can learn more about this by looking at the association websites- in the US this will be the American Counseling Association, Americal Psychological Association, etc. Social work and psychology (doctorate) degrees may be more transferable. But read the fine print. On the whole, it sounds like this is something you have a passion for and that is amazing! Speaking a second language is also great; In some situations, you may be paid extra for being bilingual (in the US) and it means not having to utilize a translator which is always somewhat of a barrier to rapport. Being able to understand different cultures and perspectives is critical to the work of a therapist; any time you can get hands-on experience is useful. Follow your bliss!