Year Abroad

What it is

Many language, business, and international relations degrees include a year abroad. You spend up to twelve months studying at a partner university or completing a work placement overseas while still registered with your UK institution.

Depending on the programme, the year abroad may replace one of your tuition-fee years or extend the course length. Universities provide guidance on travel insurance, accommodation, and academic expectations.

Why it matters

A year abroad can deepen language skills, build global work experience, and make your CV stand out. It also exposes you to different academic styles, which can shape your final-year dissertation or career goals.

For funding, Student Finance England may continue to cover tuition fees during the year abroad, and you might qualify for travel grants if you meet income criteria. Visa requirements vary depending on the destination, so planning is essential.

Common mistakes

• Applying late: Partner universities have strict deadlines, and places fill quickly.
• Ignoring insurance or healthcare: You usually need additional cover beyond the UK’s NHS.
• Not checking visa rules: Some countries require lengthy documentation, so start early to avoid missing departure dates.

How UniStart helps

UniStart keeps a checklist of tasks for your placement, from academic approvals to finance forms. Advisors can share budgeting tools for exchange rates and guide you toward official travel grant information without making promises about approvals.

Next steps

• Express interest in a year abroad through your department and note all deadlines in the UniStart app.
• Book a consultation to review funding options and visa timelines for your chosen country.
• Read our packing and documentation checklist tailored to long-term study trips.