The Benefits of Choosing a College with Great Study Abroad

Studying abroad can be the most memorable part of the college experience. Finding a school that supports global placements and provides a rich international network is key for those who want to refine their skills while immersed in new cultures.

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There’s a big world out there.

And while we love Forest Grove — getting your degree in Oregon is truly unique — there’s no denying the personal and professional growth that can come from a study abroad experience.

Study abroad programs allow you to enhance your degree with international scholarship, earning college credits you can use towards graduation while exploring life-changing cultural opportunities.

Pacific offers study abroad programs in a dozen countries and over twenty global cities where you can hone your skills and discover new experiences that can enhance  your degree program.

But choosing to spend part of your undergraduate degree in another country is a big decision, and one that requires a lot of planning to get the most out of that one-of-a-kind experience.

To help you make that decision, let us show you the benefits of studying abroad at Pacific and why choosing a college with a strong study abroad program can leave a lasting impact.

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Why Should I Choose a University with a Study Abroad Program?

If international experience is important to you — or could greatly benefit your chosen career path — choosing a college that understands the value of study abroad programs is crucial.

Any degree program at either the undergraduate and graduate level can profit from a study abroad term, making schools that have robust international study options highly sought-after.

But how important is it to choose the right university for studying abroad? International education can help you:

• Hone language skills. Being immersed in a foreign tongue isn’t just invaluable for world language learners, but for anyone who wants to start a career with an international focus.

  Having dual-language experience can greatly enhance any resume, especially when applying at organizations that have a global presence.

• Establish career connections. Whether through professors, newfound friends or international professionals, the ability to network while studying abroad can have long-lasting benefits.

  Connecting you with those working in fields you’re passionate about is one of Pacific’s strong suits, even while in another country.

• Gain independence. For some students, the study abroad experience will be their first time leaving the country on their own.

  These experiences strengthen students through independence, enabling them to gain life skills easily transferable to a wide range of potential careers.

• Learn about new cultures. Perhaps the most emphasized aspect of study abroad programs is the opportunity to discover new cultures and histories.

  Regardless of where you find yourself, your study abroad experience will leave you with a lifelong appreciation for global cultures.  

How Long are Study Abroad Programs?

Colleges with the best study abroad programs are those that offer flexible timeframes for those wanting to expand their education on an international scale. 

Traditionally, universities offer study abroad programs on a semester-long basis during the normal academic year. 

However, at Pacific we understand that your academic timeline doesn’t always align with those traditional models.

That’s why we also offer short-term and summer session study abroad experiences that allow you to experience an international education without taking too much time out of your on-campus degree program.

Perfect for accommodating professional and personal responsibilities, these limited-duration programs provide a flexible way to gain the benefits of a study abroad program.

Year-long study abroad programs are also available for students especially interested in exploring abroad and making connections across the globe.  

Are There Study Abroad Scholarships?

Pacific offers limited scholarship opportunities for study abroad, though there are several outside opportunities to help fund your international education.

Students can use any of the federal financial aid they’ve received as a result of their completed FAFSA towards study abroad opportunities, making them more accessible to more students.

Even though they take place all over the world, study abroad participants still only pay the standard Pacific University tuition, which is more affordable than many think. 

However, if you don’t satisfy the requisite academic performance and eligibility guidelines, you will not be able to pursue study abroad, regardless of cost.  

Can I Study Abroad and Still Graduate on Time?

At Pacific you can!

For most participants, taking part in study abroad will not lengthen the time it takes to receive your degree and kickstart your career.

Although some international programs can cause delays, Pacific’s Four-Year Graduation Guarantee makes space for study abroad opportunities.

The same is true for transfer students participating in our Two-Year Graduation Guarantee, as all students, regardless of degree path or admissions method, should have the chance to study abroad.

We believe that taking advantage of the unique experience studying abroad should not inhibit your ability to begin your career as soon as possible.

Where Can I Study Abroad?

The best study abroad programs feature a wide variety of locations and experiences where students can expand on their personal and professional goals.

Pacific has spent decades cultivating relationships with universities around the world, creating opportunities to:

• Study abroad in Europe. Build your resume in England, France, Spain and beyond with expert instruction and easy access to travel throughout Europe on breaks and weekends.

• Study abroad in Japan. Pacific has an incredible connection with educational institutions in Japan, with multiple universities housing students throughout the main island.

• Study abroad in Latin America. Not just for Spanish speakers, undergraduate and graduate-level study abroad packages are available throughout Central and South America.

Of course, more sites are available, and Pacific is happy to try and accommodate requests for study abroad experiences outside of countries where it already has a relationship, if possible.

Connect with your personalized admissions counselor today to see how you can become a Boxer and explore the world through study abroad.

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