The profile of international students has evolved considerably in recent years. The motivation of “living an experience in another country” is no longer enough on its own: today, students seek for their time abroad to align with their academic plans, provide professional value, and not become a financial or emotional burden. For university departments in charge of designing, offering, and promoting study abroad programs, this shift in mindset represents an opportunity: adapting the offer to current expectations not only increases participation but also improves satisfaction and the overall impact of the international experience.

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Although every student is unique, there are clear trends that show which aspects influence their decision-making the most and what common barriers remain. Understanding these helps shape a more attractive and relevant academic offering.

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Academic alignment with degree programs

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One of the most important criteria for international students is how well the study abroad program aligns with their degree path. Many students worry that studying abroad could delay their graduation, so they look for reassurance that the courses they take will be easily transferable. This concern is especially common in areas like business, health sciences, engineering, or topics related to international relations.

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Universities that can clearly communicate how credits are transferred, what courses are available in English (or in a language the student is fluent in), and what academic agreements are in place significantly increase their chances of attracting interest. Including specific examples of course plans, testimonials from past students, or recommended tracks by major helps students see how the experience fits into their academic journey.

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Experiences with professional impact

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More and more students want their time abroad to have a direct impact on their professional profile. They are no longer satisfied with just attending classes—they want to develop skills, explore new ways of working, and return with tangible experiences they can reflect in their resumes. That’s why programs that incorporate internships, volunteer work, local projects, or integrated practical experience are better rated than those focused solely on academic content.

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Having agreements with companies, nonprofits, or local institutions enriches the program without the need for large infrastructures. Universities that offer even short but well-organized experiences (such as three-week projects in collaboration with a local NGO) provide a significant added value that students recognize.

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Accessible, safe, and well-connected destinations

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While the country or city of destination always matters, many students now prioritize more practical aspects such as personal safety, cost of living, local mobility, and ease of travel to nearby countries. Mid-sized cities with good connections and strong university communities are often perceived as more accessible and comfortable than major tourist capitals.

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Universities that provide detailed information about the location, explain how much it costs to live there, show comparisons, or offer practical tools (like monthly budgets or transit maps) help reduce uncertainty and build trust among students. This kind of clear and direct information is especially helpful for students going abroad for the first time.

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Emotional and logistical support

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Studying abroad is always an exciting experience, but it also brings significant challenges. Managing paperwork like visas, insurance, or housing creates constant doubts, and many students worry they won’t know who to turn to if something goes wrong. This is often accompanied by anxiety about cultural and emotional adjustment to a new environment.

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That’s why programs offering comprehensive support (from the moment the student starts researching until after they arrive) make a major difference. Services like personalized advising, cultural orientation workshops, 24-hour assistance channels, welcome groups, or peer mentoring programs are increasingly appreciated. These elements contribute directly to smoother adaptation, lower dropout rates, and higher overall satisfaction.

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In this context, platforms like Abroad by Lodgerin bring added value to university programs. This tool centralizes all key information about the destination, required procedures, and useful services (insurance, transportation, currency exchange, etc.), making the experience more organized and secure for both the university and the student. Through the Arribo app, students gain access to practical resources before and during their stay. Integrating Abroad as a complement to institutional support allows universities to expand their reach without increasing their operational workload.

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Financial transparency and support

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One of the main barriers students still face is the high cost of these programs. Even when some allow them to maintain their home university tuition, the additional expenses (flights, housing, transportation, meals) remain a major challenge for many families. On top of that, the lack of clear financial information often discourages students from moving forward simply because they don’t understand how much the experience will really cost.

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This is why transparency in this area is essential. Universities that show real-life examples of monthly budgets, break down typical expenses, and explain what scholarships or financial aid are available make the decision-making process easier. Including simulators or tools that allow students to estimate their total costs—based on the program length and destination, is also helpful. The more clarity provided, the greater the student’s confidence and willingness to take the leap.

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Clear and adapted communication

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Beyond the program content itself, how it is communicated is essential. Students appreciate clear, direct, and relatable language. Generic or overly institutional descriptions tend to lose effectiveness when compared to materials that include testimonials, visual content, explanatory videos, or specific academic itineraries. It can also be very helpful to highlight the professional impact the program has had on alumni, especially when it has led to internships, jobs, or recognition as a result of the experience.

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Adjusting the tone, answering frequently asked questions, and offering easy contact with past participants or program advisors contributes to a more personalized and persuasive experience. In an environment where students have access to countless information sources, clear communication can be the key that tips the balance.