Are the study abroad benefits worth the cost?
If you’re an international student with the opportunity to choose to study in the United States, you might be wondering if the study abroad benefits will be worth the money and trouble. The possibility of studying abroad has been available for quite some time now, however, the hassles involved are reducing as time goes on. That means now is a better time than ever to take up the chance to study abroad.
There are hundreds of schools for international students to choose from and all offer great programs for qualified students. Students can expect tuition to be high, but well worth the cost if you plan to become fluent in the English language. Many of the schools in the US require a minimal level of English ability to enroll. If you are starting as a beginner or if you are looking for English proficiency, you may want to choose an English as a Second Language (ESL) school.
The Benefits of Study Abroad – Intensive ESL programs
ESL schools are typically smaller schools that might share part of an American university campus. You will most likely find that they offer very small class settings and college or university placement services after you finish their intensive program. Students are grouped into classes by their skill level from beginner to advanced. Students who choose an intensive ESL program can expect to study English four hours per day, five days a week for the entire term. Many schools offer 1 month to yearlong programs for students and there are flexible program dates for students to enroll.
This intensive English program will quickly improve your fluency. Students are grouped in classes after taking a placement test which usually takes place on the first day of school. Most programs offer starting terms throughout the year in the fall, spring, and summer, and can accommodate the requirements of F-1 student visas.
Many ESL schools offer classes that target specific English language skills, including conversational, grammar, listening and speaking, and reading and writing. Courses are generally designed to help students reach college-level proficiency.
The costs of an intensive program generally include an application fee, a tuition deposit, tuition, and books. On average, ESL tuition, plus applicable fees can range from $2500 to $3700 per 12-week term. Health insurance, which will be required by your school, is an additional cost. Textbooks and housing fees are added expenses as well. Textbooks range from $150-$200 per book and costs for your Housing can range from $1100+ per month.
There are many community and state colleges that offer intensive ESL programs. Choosing an ESL school on a college campus can expose you first-hand to what life can be like on an American college campus. International students meeting all the requirements can enroll in an intensive bridge-to-university program if they intend to go on to a 4-year college. University campuses in the U.S. are like small student towns that can offer you a chance to socialize and make friends. There are on-campus clubs and groups to join, plus friendships to make. Even if you are living off-campus, you should take advantage of everything offered on an American campus
How do I choose what school to study at?
Choosing to study at an ESL school in the US is a good idea whether you want to go on to a 4-year college or just improve your fluency. There are hundreds of academic agents in many countries who can help you navigate the US admissions process. Many of the agents have local representatives or agents in the US who will offer in-country support as needed to their applicants. Fees to these agents can be high, but well worth it as they will offer complete guidance and complete the necessary paperwork to get an acceptance of your school of choice. They will also offer housing options and help you to make future academic decisions during your time in the US.
Home Housing Options
Some ESL schools will offer homestay housing to their applicants, or the school will supply you with a list of homestay agencies available to place you in housing. If you are not working with an academic agent in your country, you will need to contact the homestay agency on your own. Homestay living is a good and safe choice if you are new to the US. It will offer you an opportunity to live in a family environment and help you to level up your conversational English skills.
If you choose to live in a homestay, you can expect to be placed in a private, furnished room with a qualified local area homestay family. You will eat meals in the family home and have easy access to the school by public transportation each day. Most students choose homestay housing initially when arriving in the US. Once you transfer to a 4-year college, you may want to try out dormitory living or apartment living with friends. Keep in mind that these last two options can be more expensive than homestay living although the trade-off might be worth it because you will be living with other students and be more a part of the college culture.
Learning the culture and language differences in the country you study in is truly valuable. This knowledge and the skills you can develop may be very helpful later in life, whether it’s learning English, or understanding how body language works to better communicate internationally. While in another country, you might find that you discover new interests that were never obvious in your home country. With different cultures exploring different sides of life, it’s always worth it to learn about how other people do things. Not only that, but you can also spread awareness of your home culture in student housing, teaching them how it’s done where you’re from. So, if you have a passion for it, it’s clear that the benefits of study abroad and the costs are completely worth it. Start your journey today and find a reliable service that helps in placing international students in US Colleges and in student housing with local area host families.