1. Do you enjoy new experiences and meeting new types of people? When you're living in a foreign country, you're likely to be out of your comfort zone – which for many students is the point. Customs, food, and languages are also likely to be different from what you are used to. Does this sound exciting, intimidating, or a little of both?
2. Do you rarely get homesick? Think twice if you rely on frequent communication with your parents or can't imagine not being home for the holidays. Spending prolonged periods of time wishing you were back in a familiar environment can undermine your experience in a foreign land.
3. Are you okay with change and uncertainty? Are you willing and able to change your plans without feeling irritated or anxious? Can you stay calm when things get really confusing? Even doing mundane things like getting a haircut or going to the grocery store can feel more challenging in an unfamiliar place and in another language. Being far from home means you may be largely on your own to resolve any difficulties.
4. Will time spent abroad support your academic goals? Will you get credit toward your major? Or will spending time out of the country delay graduation? If so, you might consider waiting to study abroad (or simply travel) after you get your undergraduate degree.
5. Are you a diligent student who does well in your classes? Instruction in other countries may be very different from what you are used to – and your classes may even be taught in another language. You might also be distracted by the excitement of living in an exciting foreign city – and want to sightsee or take off on weekend excursions. You’ll need to be disciplined about studying and avoid treating your time abroad as a vacation.
6. Can you afford to go abroad? Will the expense of studying abroad put you in debt? While tuition to study abroad may be similar to what tuition is at home, you may have additional expenses studying abroad. Money worries can affect your experience and prevent you from taking full advantage of your time in a foreign country, such as taking side trips to interesting locales, or dining out with local students.
7. Have you talked with people who have studied abroad? Students who have already been through the experience are often in the best position to share the challenges they faced and benefits they experienced and likely have lots of valuable advice.

8. Do you have enough time? If you think spending a semester or two abroad might not be feasible, you can look at short-term programs. Consider using your midterm break or summer vacation to experience professor-guided travel, volunteer opportunities, or cultural immersion programs.

There are many options for college students to study abroad. The question to ask, perhaps, isn’t whether studying abroad is the right decision, but what type of studying abroad program is right for you. We hope considering the questions above will help you find the study abroad experience that fits you best.