New study shows the life-changing value of education abroad

Students who travel abroad for university study build lifelong relationships, gain valuable educational and internship experiences, and benefit from the cultural immersion that can be life-changing. These adventures come with plenty of spontaneity, but experts say they work better when you have a plan. Nearly half of all parents across the world consider study abroad for their young students, with the number higher among Asian parents, according to data released last week by financial firm HSBC. Top countries also include the United Arab Emirates alongside China, India and Indonesia, with preferred destinations in the United States – more than a million international students go to the U.S. each year – and in Australia and the UK. At 43 percent, American parents are a little less inclined to consider study overseas for their children than others, though their interest is way up over last year’s 29 percent. The new HSBC numbers come after surveys with 8,000 parents in 15 countries who want the same high-quality opportunities for their children. It’s their hope that international study will help with foreign language development, work experience, and exposure to new ideas and cultures. Yet that aspirational vision can be tricky as students navigate financial crises, unfamiliar social norms and more while far away, not to mention the sense of longing if they can’t be home for Diwali or the Dragon Boat Festival. “It’s best to assume that any and all kinds of situations are going to come up,” says Chris Rivett, Travel Expert at