Why do we need foreign language schools abroad?

So what makes foreign language schools abroad so valuable, and why do millions of people travel each year to learn a foreign language in another country?

According to statistics, 2% of those who study a foreign language choose to study abroad annually. This rate can be explained by several factors.

Firstly, financial reasons. Even a short-term trip requires payment for airfare, accommodation, and language courses, not to mention other expenses. Moreover, obtaining an education abroad through a long-term program can be quite expensive.

Secondly, studying in a foreign country requires time. Yes, you can dedicate only your vacation to studying, but this presents a tricky choice: study or relax.

However, those who choose to study a language abroad are not deterred by these reasons. Students set specific goals, and to achieve them, they are willing to bear the costs and sacrifice their time. This is why language schools offer numerous exam preparation courses, university admission programs, and specialized courses. In these cases, the outcome of the study impacts future career, financial well-being, and life prospects. So why is the idea of studying at a foreign language school abroad not without merit?

So, what makes foreign language schools abroad so useful, and why do millions of people travel each year to learn a foreign language in another country?

• Immersion in the language environment

  It's one thing to attend a one-and-a-half-hour class, immediately after which you send messages in WhatsApp in your native language and go for coffee with friends, discussing the latest news. It's another thing when there is no choice but to speak in the foreign language. Ordering coffee or asking about ingredients in a dish? Showing directions to a stranger? Reading a sign at the zoo? For this, you use the language you are learning.

• Focus on learning

  Life in the modern world moves at a frantic pace. We are constantly rushing somewhere. When you go abroad to learn a language, you have the chance to stop and focus on your studies.

• Effectiveness

  Of course, everyone is unique, but generally, everyone understands that a couple of weeks of study abroad are equivalent to, at least, 2-3 months of attending language courses in your hometown. Classes at a language center are beneficial if you have specific goals, such as scoring well on an exam.

• Rest

  If rest is considered a change of scenery, studying foreign languages abroad is one of the best options. An unfamiliar country, new acquaintances, a flexible schedule allowing you to study and explore attractions.

• Children

  As strange as it may seem, studying abroad allows you to spend more time with your children. Language schools offer so-called “family programs.” This means that the schedule for parents and children looks similar—you start and finish your studies at about the same time. What does this look like in practice?

  For example, if the class time is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., this level corresponds to a standard workload. At 1 p.m., you have lunch with your child, and then spend time exploring the city, sightseeing, sunbathing on the beach, or even going to the theater or a concert in the evening.

As you can see, the number of arguments in favor of studying a foreign language abroad is impressive. It is an enriching experience that contributes to personal and professional growth.