Study abroad - reopening and impact

Students' studying abroad collapsed as a result of the pandemic. With exposure to other cultures and learning about the interconnected world in which we live increasing in importance, the rebound in U.S. students studying abroad is a welcome trend. The only problem is that studying abroad can cost on average $16,000/semester; who pays for it and how it is financed is an issue that must be addressed if this enriching option for learning is to continue.

After numerous study abroad programs were cancelled in 2020 and 2021, students substituted virtual alternatives or rearranged their academic schedules to include an international experience before they graduate. Virtual engagement is often viewed as a distant alternative to the experience of being and studying abroad. However, virtual exchange may match in-person and it is more readily available for students of a broader economic means. The advantage of virtual exchange is that it can help counter the shift back to Europe and away from countries such as India.

One of the interesting implications of study abroad is that a University of Georgia analysis of 35 U.S. institutions found that those who included studying outside their home country persisted to graduation, and a faster rate, than students who did not. When interpreting or celebrating this result for study abroad students, it's important to recognize that those able to expend the time and money may have advantaging demographic characteristics that would influence graduation outcomes.