The Foreign Service Journal, June 2022

68 JUNE 2022 | THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT topics. In those situations, the four-year degree might be a better choice so that they have more time before making a commitment, especially since changing a course of study (or what is referred to as a “major” in the U.S.) is difficult. Check also to confirm that the university of choice offers an “undeclared” option. Further, professions that require licensure or certification might be problematic, since the credential would be earned abroad whereas in the United States, licensure is always local. Always investigate before pursuing degrees in such areas as teaching, psychology, medicine, dentistry and veterinary medicine. That said, an undergradu- ate law degree earned in the U.K. could streamline the path to a law degree through a one-year Master of Laws program followed by the bar exam in the U.S., potentially saving years of study and tuition dollars. Let’s talk money … Given the cost today of higher educa- tion in the U.S., many students consider studying overseas to save money. Over- all, the cost may be equivalent to attend- ing an out-of-state university in the U.S. What families should consider, however, is the additional travel expenses and student housing if searching options on the local market. For example, London or Paris are exciting places to study, but housing and living expenses would clearly drive up the cost of attendance. There is good news, however. Federal student aid programs, except Pell Grants, can be used at accredited programs overseas. There are 529 plans that can also be used abroad. Many uni- versities offer full or partial merit-based scholarships, and some have set aside scholarships and even no-interest loans just for international students. Each university website will have specific information for international students. International students are also usu- ally allowed to work while in country, sometimes as much as 20 hours per week. Once again, verify with the indi- vidual university and country before creating a budget, as laws and regula- tions can be subject to change. Where do students live, work and eat? Most universities that want to attract international students will guarantee housing, or accommodations, for first- year students. But that is not a given, and students are often expected to find their own housing on the local mar- ket and commute to school. Students attending a university in an urban setting can often expect to find more affordable housing farther away from their centrally located campus. So, once they leave for the day, they should not expect to return to their accommodation between classes. Yet other universities do offer dormitories with single rooms and kitchens on each floor, and some are even located on green, leafy cam- puses like many in the U.S. Additional Resources Here are some additional resources that will help students and families explore some of the English-instruction degree options available. StudieLink — This is the application system for Dutch universities. Dutch Research University Consortium — Information about study options and sys- tems in the Netherlands. Study in Holland —Website with links to resources related to studying in the Nether- lands. Education in Ireland — About education in Ireland, with application. UCAS, University and College Admissions Service — Information about how to choose courses of study in the U.K., as well as links to the actual application. Study UK — Information related to studying in the U.K. European Universities Consortium — A group of European universities that offers degrees taught in English and wishes to recruit international students. Study in Sweden — For students exploring options in Sweden. American Universities Abroad — A group of American universities abroad that pro- motes study at their member institutions. Common App — Designed mostly for American universities in the United States, this application tool has a growing number of international member institutions. Admissions requirements can vary by program or course of study (degree) and need to be researched university by university.