How to Study and Travel: Complete Guide to Learning While Exploring the World
Studying while traveling is a golden option for many learners who strive to study and, simultaneously, tour different places. It is possible to achieve such balance if one has all the needful strategies and resources at his/her disposal regardless if he/she is studying abroad doing online courses, or participating in short-term programs. Here, I will take you through several approaches that can be used in learning and also travel with you coming across tips, sources of funds, and application processes for each process you are likely to encounter in your learning process.
Introduction: Why Study and Travel?
Learning while on the move is not just about moving with your eyes, it is about advancing in your learning curves. The knowledge you receive from different cultures, languages, and views may be more enriched than classroom learning knowledge. If you want to acquire a new foreign language, finish a degree program in a foreign country, or learn while on the go, there are numerous strategies and sources on how to make this dream come true.
1. Study Abroad Programs
Study abroad programs are designed for students enrolled in universities who wish to complete part of their degree at an international institution. Many universities partner with schools worldwide, allowing you to study in another country for a semester, summer, or full year.
Top Resources
- Exchange Programs: Many universities have exchange agreements with partner institutions. You pay tuition at your home school, and the exchange program covers your education abroad.
- Third-Party Providers: Organizations like IES Abroad, CIEE, and Semester at Sea offer structured study abroad experiences, covering academics, housing, and excursions.
Requirements and Eligibility
- Academic Standing: Most programs require you to have a minimum GPA (usually around 2.5 or higher).
- Language Proficiency: Some destinations require you to know the local language, especially if courses are taught in that language.
- University Enrollment: Generally, you must be a full-time student at a recognized institution.
Application Process
- University Exchange Programs: Visit your university’s study abroad office to learn about available programs and application deadlines. Thus, almost any application will require one to submit a transcript, a personal statement, and references.
- Third-Party Providers: Apply directly on the provider’s website. You’ll need to submit personal and academic information, and sometimes an interview may be required.
- IES Abroad
- CIEE Study Abroad
2. Online Learning While Traveling
If you’d rather not commit to a specific location, online courses are an excellent option for combining travel and study. Online platforms allow you to take classes from anywhere, giving you flexibility to study while exploring different destinations.
Top Platforms
- Coursera: Provides a wide selection of courses from universities across the globe.
- edX: Features courses from institutions like Harvard and MIT, covering diverse fields.
- Udacity: Known for tech-focused “nanodegrees” in areas like programming and data science.
Requirements and Eligibility
- Basic Tech Requirements: You’ll need a stable internet connection and a laptop or tablet.
- Self-Discipline: Studying on the go requires good time management and a commitment to maintaining coursework schedules.
Application Process
- Sign-Up: Simply register on the website, choose a course, and start studying. Some courses are free, while others require a fee for access or certification.
- Coursera
- edX
- Udacity
3. Working Holiday and Study Programs
A working holiday visa lets you work part-time while studying, giving you a source of income and an immersive cultural experience. The countries provide these visas to youths and such nations include Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.
Top Resources
- Australia’s Working Holiday Visa: Allows you to work and study short courses.
- New Zealand’s Working Holiday Visa: Provides the option to work and take up some educational courses.
- Canada’s International Experience Canada (IEC): Enables young adults to work and study, depending on visa type.
Requirements and Eligibility
- Age Limits: Typically between 18-30, but this varies by country.
- Health Insurance: Many programs require health insurance for the duration of the stay.
- Financial Proof: You may need to show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself initially.
Application Process
- Visa Application: Start by applying for the visa on the destination country’s immigration website. The process generally involves submitting identification documents, proof of funds, and sometimes undergoing a medical exam.
- Australia Working Holiday
- New Zealand Working Holiday
- Canada IEC
4. Short-Term Academic and Volunteer Programs
Short-term programs like academic tours, fieldwork, and volunteer projects can be a great way to travel while focusing on specific areas of study or community work.
Top Aids
- GoEco: Offers volunteer programs in areas like conservation, healthcare, and teaching.
- Global Volunteers: Focuses on sustainable development and community empowerment.
- Earthwatch Institute: Provides scientific field research opportunities around the world.
Requirements and Eligibility
- Age Requirements: Some programs have minimum age requirements (often 18+).
- Specific Skills: Depending on the program, you might need relevant skills, like language proficiency or a background in science.
- Program Fees: Many volunteer programs charge a fee to cover accommodations and project costs.
Application Procedure
- Direct Application: Apply through the organization’s website, where you’ll fill out an application form and submit any required documents or fees.
Useful Connections:
5. Scholarships and Funding Options for Studying and Traveling
Funding your studies while traveling can be a challenge, but scholarships, grants, and sponsorships are available for many programs.
Top Aids
- Fulbright Program: Provides grants for millions of Americans to live, learn, or work overseas as students, teachers, scholars, or researchers.
- Erasmus+: A European Union program offering scholarships for study within Europe.
- Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship: For U.S. International first degree for learners who have financial difficulties.
Requirements and Eligibility
- Nationality Requirements: Some scholarships are restricted by nationality, such as the Fulbright for U.S. citizens.
- Academic Merit: Many scholarships require a strong academic record.
- Specific Program Enrollment: Often, you must be enrolled in an approved study program.
Application Process
- Fulbright: Apply through the Fulbright website, submitting essays, academic transcripts, and recommendation letters.
- Erasmus+: Apply through your university’s Erasmus+ office.
- Gilman Scholarship: Apply on the Gilman Scholarship website, providing proof of financial need and program details.
Useful Connections:
6. Tips for Successfully Balancing Study and Travel
Combining study with travel takes planning and a bit of discipline. Here is the Top 10 working advice that will facilitate the effective working of individuals and organizations:
- Set a Schedule: Create a study plan that includes breaks for exploration, and stick to it.
- Pack Smart: Bring essentials for studying, like a laptop and portable Wi-Fi, and choose practical travel gear.
- Budget Wisely: Save money by using student discounts for transportation, lodging, and attractions.
- Stay Organized: Use apps like Trello or Notion to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and travel itineraries.
- Take Care of Your Health: Traveling and studying can be tiring, so make sure to rest, eat well, and stay active.
Conclusion: Embrace the Journey of Studying and Traveling
International study traveling is an excellent approach to enhance your education and give opportunity to travel simultaneously. In programs, travel, distance, and volunteer learning, the options are available to find a study travel experience that will suit one’s preferences. If you are willing to try and have adequate resources and time to spare, the whole world’s your homeschooling curriculum.
Nevertheless, as you do not care about studying abroad, online classes, or volunteering, it is still important to know that the variety of opportunities is great. So go ahead, submit an application for a program that interests you, and then prepare yourself for learning and discovering – something that may transform you. Bon voyage and good luck with your studies too.
