Students find that a new university and a new approach to their subject have given me a new enthusiasm and interest in my studies, an they have had opportunities they never would have had at their home country. There are some awful moments but the most important thing is not to panic.

Study Abroad is currently undertaken by only a minority of students. Though much has been done to encourage others to take it on, there is clearly a general concern about breaking with tradition and launching out into something less familiar. At the same time, school travel, gap years and globalisation are making the rest of the world much more open and accessible to everyone. The opportunities are clearly there. To be able to realise them, you first need to take stock of what is to be gained. You can looks at the principal reasons which students give for studying abroad and why universities and governments are enthusiastic in offering their support.

When asked to list the principal benefits of studying abroad, students suggest:

• Academic interest

• Learning skills

• Career prospects

• Wider knowledge

• Change of scene

Universities and governments add:

• Quality assurance

• Academic status

• International knowledge

• International understanding

The disadvantages are seen as:

• Unfamiliarity/homesickness

• Possible extra costs