Studying Abroad in the U.S.: Pros and Cons
“Where should I go?” is usually the very first question we think about when planning to study abroad. English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, are among the most popular destinations. The United States ranks as the top study-abroad destination, so what are the pros and cons of studying at an American university?
What are the benefits of studying in the United States?
1. A highly diverse nation means a highly diverse—and enriching—student experience.
The United States, as a nation of immigrants, boasts remarkable cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity. Through studying in the United States, students will be able to interact with other students, professors and friends from different countries, cultures and backgrounds. Through exchanging ideas, students will enrich their understanding of themselves and others. Even more importantly, students will enrich their understanding of the world around them, learn to respect those who share different perspectives, cultures or religions, and become a global citizen.
2. Abundant options in terms of school types and fields of study
The American higher education system is the largest higher education system in the world and offers an abundance of choices in terms of school types. There are large research universities, small liberal arts colleges and community colleges; private or publicly run. Different types of schools may have different focuses in terms of their academic offerings. Students will find an infinite range of academic disciplines and programs at American universities.
3. Quality education programs
American universities dominate international rankings. With highly accredited professors, relatively small class sizes, advanced technologies and research capabilities, and well-developed infrastructure, American universities’ are the best place to get a quality education.
What are some of the drawbacks of studying in the U.S.?
1. Cost of education
Compared to other countries, especially other English-speaking countries, American universities are extremely expensive. Added on to that is the high the cost of living. Most international students cannot study at an American university without some kind of scholarship or assistantship.
2. Culture shock and adapting to a new environment
Students may encounter various difficulties when first arriving in the United States, including speaking a new language, studying in a new environment with unfamiliar academic rules and cultures, loneliness and homesickness. However, these moments can also be considered as an opportunity for growth, learning and self-transformation.
3. Safety concerns
In the past few years, there are increasing concerns about personal safety in the U.S. Students may worry about “unsafe areas”, the COVID situation or violence. While university campuses are generally safe, it is always a good idea to stay vigilant, and follow precautions and advice provided by universities. It is strongly recommended that international students should try to integrate with domestic as well as other international students and stay in their local communities.
How can the ALLEX Scholarship Program help and support students to achieve their study-abroad dream in the U.S.?
ALLEX Foundation and ALLEX Scholarship Program:
A Scholarship Program for Chinese-, Japanese- and Korean-Speaking Students, Covering Tuition Fees, Room and Board (Food) Expenses
Have you ever heard of ALLEX Foundation and its scholarship program?
Since 1988, more than 1,000 ALLEX scholars have earned their Master’s degrees or Second Bachelor's degrees from more than 230 universities in the U.S. through ALLEX.
The ALLEX Scholarship Program is not just a scholarship.
The ALLEX Scholarship Program provides students with the full experience of teaching, learning and living on an American university campus while pursuing their educational goals.
International students sometimes struggle to fully experience “living in the U.S.”. They end up making friends only with students from their home country or other international students. Communicating with native English speakers can be challenging at first, but you can’t move beyond the initial uncomfortableness until you establish relationships with native English speakers and gain confidence through repeated interactions.
ALLEX students get a great head start by teaching their native language to U.S. university students. Through regular classroom interactions with native English speakers you can boost your communication skills and confidence very quickly. Students interested in learning your native language will most likely have other common interests as you, making it easier to build relationships. As you teach, you will be able to share with each other as you both embark on the journey of learning a new language, which is a great way to encourage yourself!
Here is part of a message from an ALLEX scholar, Ai Nakayama (‘17-19)
“I was a teaching assistant for sophomore students for 2 years. All students were very passionate and hard-workers, and I can’t recall how many times they helped me keep going for the 2 years. Even though I wasn't an experienced teacher, all the students relied on me and called me “Sensei” (Teacher in Japanese). That made me so happy and I still remember the moments. There was a time when some students couldn't finish preparing for an oral test and we all worked together until midnight to get prepared. Other times we all sat down and talked at the language table or just tutored each other. I remember laughing together in class as students shared their dreams about going to Japan… I made countless memories with students here at Mississippi, too many to even list here .”
Language students engaged in a class taught by an ALLEX instructor.
Application Deadline for the 2025/26 Academic Year: October 15, 2024
The ALLEX Scholarship Program is accepting applications now for the 2025/26 academic year. The program brochure can be downloaded here.
The program brochure includes information on:
Program details
Criteria of an ideal candidate
Requirements to apply
Testimonials from ALLEX Foundation graduates
FAQs
