Why It’s a Good Idea to Study Abroad Your Freshman Year
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Many students dream of traveling after high school but face pressure to start college right away.
The good news? You don’t have to choose between college and adventure. It's totally possible—and a totally good idea—to study abroad during your freshman year.
Every college has unique study abroad programs and policies, and if studying abroad directly after high school is important to you, it’s good to explore your options early. One excellent option is CIEE First Year Abroad, a study abroad program designed specifically for incoming freshmen that allows you to earn credits through a U.S. university while living abroad and having the time of your life.
We'll talk more about CIEE's program at the end of this blog, but first—why is it such a great idea to study abroad as a freshman?
1. You’re Taking General Education Classes Anyway
Most freshman-year courses at U.S. colleges are designed to meet general education requirements, making them easily transferrable. CIEE First Year Abroad partners with Dean College so you can take freshman-year courses and earn general ed college credits while living abroad. You’re not falling behind. You’re moving forward in your college career in a much more exciting way!
2. You Won’t Delay Graduation
For students pursuing highly structured majors like engineering, nursing, or pre-med, it’s often difficult to study abroad later. Many upper-level major requirements can’t be completed at another university, making freshman year the best window of opportunity. If your career path requires multiple degrees, staying on track for graduation is key—and this program lets you study abroad without pushing back your timeline.
3. It’s a Refreshing Change From Just Four More Years of School
High school is intense and jumping straight into another four- or five-year academic journey can feel overwhelming. Studying abroad still keeps you in school, but the change of scenery, culture, and daily routine makes it a refreshing and eye-opening experience.
You’ll return to your U.S. college energized, with a broader perspective on the world, and with college credits under your belt.
4. It’s a Chance to Explore Your Interests Before Declaring a Major
If you’re unsure what you want to major in, travel is a powerful tool for self-reflection. Being in a new environment exposes you to different people, cultures, industries, and ways of thinking, which can help you figure out what you’re passionate about. Many students struggle with choosing a major—this experience can give you a clearer sense of direction before committing to a path.
5. It's a Huge Advantage for Language Learners
If you studied a language in high school, freshman year is the best time to immerse yourself. If you've already spent two to four years in the classroom learning a language, the best way to improve your fluency—and the only way to become truly fluent—is through immersion.
That means traveling to a place where everything is in that language, and everyone is speaking it. Instead of starting over in a classroom, you’ll live the language, making it easier to test into advanced college courses when you return. This can fast-track your language learning, allowing you to major or minor in a language with fewer required classes.
How CIEE First Year Abroad Works
Imagine kicking off college in an incredible global location, like Barcelona, Berlin, Kyoto, London, Rome, Sydney, or Monteverde (Costa Rica), without missing a beat academically. CIEE First Year Abroad enrolls students at its academic home institution, Dean College in Franklin, MA, while living and learning in an exciting new country.
You'll take courses with local CIEE instructors, but don’t expect to be stuck in a lecture hall all day—your learning goes beyond the classroom!
From cultural excursions to hands-on experiences, you and your peers will dive into your host country’s history, traditions, and everyday life. With high-quality housing in homestays, dorms, or apartments (depending on the location), onsite support from local CIEE staff, and a built-in community of fellow study abroad students, CIEE FYA makes sure you’re safe, supported, and set up for an unforgettable first year of college.
You can choose to study abroad for one or two semesters, and when the year’s over, you’ll have options—transfer to the college of your choice or stick with Dean and continue your degree path. Either way, you’ll come back with a global perspective, new friends, a ton of memories, and the kind of confidence that sets you apart on any campus. Learn more about what to expect with CIEE First Year Abroad.
Graduating High School Soon? Start College Abroad!
Freshman year is one of the best times to study abroad—and with CIEE First Year Abroad you can stay on track for graduation while gaining once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Whether you want to travel, learn a language, explore your interests, or experience a fun change of pace before four more years of college in the U.S., this is your chance time to do it all.
Explore CIEE's First Year Abroad programs and start planning today!