How to Study Abroad as an Engineering Major

Many engineering majors believe that their opportunities to study abroad are slim to none — the rigorous course load, the practical components, and any academic requirements set by their home university may simply feel too restrictive.

In reality, there are very few majors for which study abroad is impractical — and engineering is not one of them!

There are multiple types of study abroad opportunities that allow engineering majors to maintain their course load and stay on track for their expected graduation date.

Why Study Abroad as an Engineering Major?

A young woman with long blonde hair sits at a wooden table on the deck of a ship, writing in a notebook. The blue ocean stretches to the horizon beyond the railing behind her.

Studying abroad offers engineering majors a unique blend of academic enrichment, cultural immersion, and personal development opportunities that can profoundly shape their future careers and lives. It’s also a great way to fulfill any elective requirements, especially in a program offered by a third-party provider (as opposed to enrolling directly in an engineering program at a traditional foreign institution).

Here are several more reasons why engineering students should consider studying abroad:

Cultural exposure and global perspective: Like mathematics or the sciences, engineering is one of those fields that transcends geographical borders. Studying abroad exposes engineering students to diverse cultures, languages, and ways of thinking, allowing them to see fundamental engineering principles come alive in different contexts. Cultural immersion also enhances students’ ability to collaborate with people from different backgrounds, which is a crucial skill in our increasingly global economy. Engineers who understand cultural nuances can better navigate international projects and communicate effectively with colleagues and clients worldwide.

Unique learning opportunities: Other countries may offer specialized engineering programs or access to cutting-edge research facilities not available in a student’s home institution. Studying abroad allows students to explore unique areas of engineering, gain hands-on experience with different technologies, and learn from professors who bring varied perspectives and expertise. Exposure to alternative approaches and methodologies can enrich students’ understanding of engineering principles and broaden their technical and interpersonal skill sets.
Problem-solving in diverse environments: Engineering often involves solving complex problems within real-world constraints. Studying abroad presents students with unfamiliar challenges, such as adapting to new academic systems, navigating foreign cities, or addressing cultural differences. These experiences foster resilience, adaptability, and creative problem-solving skills — qualities essential for success in engineering careers. By tackling problems in unfamiliar environments, engineering students can gain confidence in their ability to overcome obstacles and find innovative solutions.
Networking opportunities: Building a global network is invaluable in the engineering field. Studying abroad enables students to connect with peers, professors, and professionals from around the world, which can lead to future collaboration on research projects, internship opportunities, or even job offers from international companies.
Personal growth and independence: Living and studying in a foreign country challenges students to step outside their comfort zones. They learn to adapt to new environments, manage their own finances, navigate cultural differences, and communicate effectively in unfamiliar settings. These experiences not only build resilience but also cultivate qualities such as empathy, open-mindedness, and cross-cultural competency — all of which are highly valued by employers in engineering and beyond.

Best Types of Study Abroad for Engineering Majors

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Studying abroad can mean so much more than simply attending university outside of one’s home country for a semester. Of course, direct enrollment in a foreign university is a great option, if you don’t mind navigating different educational customs or requirements while you pursue your chosen academic track.

However, there are several alternative types of study abroad programs that may be an ideal fit for an engineering major’s unique academic requirements.

University exchange programs: Many universities offer 1:1 exchange programs specifically designed for engineering students. These programs allow students to spend a semester or academic year studying abroad at each other’s respective partner institutions while earning credits that count toward their engineering degree. Exchange programs typically have pre-approved course equivalents, ensuring that students can fulfill their degree requirements while studying abroad. Universities with strong engineering departments, state-of-the-art facilities, and research opportunities provide valuable academic and practical experience for engineering students, regardless of their home country.
Internship or co-op abroad programs: In an internship or co-op abroad program, engineering students can gain hands-on work experience in their field while immersing themselves in a different culture. These programs often offer placements in international companies, research institutions, or engineering firms where students can apply their skills to real-world projects and build their professional network. Internship or co-op programs may also offer academic components, such as seminars or workshops, to complement students’ practical experience and ensure they meet their academic requirements.
Field study or research abroad programs: These programs typically involve conducting fieldwork or research in a specific location, such as studying environmental engineering in a developing country, exploring renewable energy technologies in a remote area, or investigating infrastructure challenges in an urban setting. Field study or research abroad programs provide students with opportunities to apply their engineering knowledge in real-world contexts, conduct independent research, and collaborate with local communities or organizations to address pressing challenges.
Third-party programs with specialized cohorts: Some students opt to study abroad with a third-party company rather than choose from their school’s study abroad offerings. Many of these programs provide an academic departure from students’ major programs, helping them fulfill elective or general education requirements while taking a break from their chosen track. However, some third-party programs offer major-specific courses or cohorts (including engineering), so students can maintain their studies while experiencing new surroundings.
Summer or short-term programs: For engineering students with limited time or flexibility in their schedules, summer or short-term study abroad programs offer opportunities to gain international experience without committing to a full semester or academic year abroad. These programs typically consist of intensive courses, workshops, or projects focused on specific engineering topics or themes. Students can choose from a wide range of short-term programs, such as language immersion courses, engineering-focused seminars, or hands-on workshops in specialized areas like robotics, sustainable design, or aerospace engineering.
Faculty-led programs: These programs are typically led by university faculty members from the engineering department and may include a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory work, site visits, and cultural activities. Faculty-led programs often focus on a particular engineering discipline, such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, or electrical engineering, allowing students to deepen their knowledge in their chosen field while experiencing a new cultural environment. These programs are especially suitable for students who prefer a structured and guided study abroad experience with a strong academic focus.

Study Abroad Scholarships & Financial Aid

Groups of students sit together on the wooden deck of a ship, huddled in discussion or working independently on laptops. The sparkling ocean is just visible in the background behind them.

No matter your course of study, there is study abroad financial aid available. Eligibility can be based on financial need, academic performance, professional objectives, or your chosen field of study — including engineering.

The following are some of the best study abroad financial aid options for engineering majors:

Federal student aid: This type of aid is available to any college student based on financial need, regardless of major. Eligible students can use this aid to study abroad while enrolled in a U.S. school, as long as their home institution accepts the credits they earn during the program. Most U.S. colleges and universities that participate in federal funding programs include an invitation to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) along with their acceptance letters. (If you are filling out the FAFSA form specifically for a study abroad experience, be sure to list your home institution on the application, not the host school.)
Federal loans: Like federal aid, federal loans are available to any eligible student with demonstrated financial need. Over half of all college students in the U.S. take out loans to fund their education; many colleges offer loan options as part of their financial aid package. Repayment is deferred until the student graduates, at which time they must pay the loan back with interest. Federal loans can be applied to any study abroad program affiliated with or approved by an accredited university. Private loans are also an option — but take note of any loans that do not allow you to defer the payments.
Merit-based scholarships: Often furnished by nonprofit organizations or philanthropic foundations, scholarship funds are typically awarded based on academic performance, proficiency in a specific skill set, or intention to study a certain academic discipline. Recipients do not need to pay the provider back (unlike a loan), though they may be limited in how they can use the funds. Always check to see if study abroad is an allowable expense before applying for a scholarship.

How to Study Abroad as an Engineering Major

A small group of students gathers under wooden scaffolding, regarding something or someone out of frame. Tropical foliage, blue sky, and a jagged mountain peak are visible through the open roof.

While it is entirely possible to study abroad as you earn your engineering degree, the intensive nature of the major may require you to get a little creative with your timing. Academic advisors often recommend that college students study abroad in their junior year — after they’ve completed two years in their program but before they begin any senior capstone projects. Engineering majors can certainly take this route, but there are a few alternatives that may work better with their academic track.

Option 1: Taking electives abroad

Rather than trying to complete any core courses, engineering majors can fulfill any elective requirements during their study abroad experience. By carefully selecting elective courses that align with their academic interests and degree requirements, engineering students can potentially free up space in their schedule for core degree courses or other academic requirements upon their return. Studying abroad can also provide unique opportunities to explore interdisciplinary subjects or specialized topics not available at a student’s home university.

Option 2: Extending time in university

While not the most ideal option, engineering students who wish to study abroad for an extended period may choose to extend their graduation timeline. By strategically planning their course schedule and seeking approval for transfer credits, engineering students can ensure that their study abroad credits still contribute to their overall degree, even if they have to take an extra semester to make up core courses.

Option 3: Gap year with study abroad

Engineering students may consider studying abroad during a gap year even before starting their four-year degree. During a gap year study abroad experience, students can explore different countries and cultures without worrying about fulfilling major requirements, while still earning college credits that will contribute to their future degree. This option helps students build interpersonal skills and begin their studies with a deeper appreciation for global issues and perspectives, which can inform their academic and career pursuits.

Best Countries to Study Engineering Abroad

Five young women pose in front of tropical foliage on the edge of a jagged mountain landscape. Two hold a small blue flag that says “Semester at Sea.”

Studying abroad is about more than taking a scenic break from your home turf. Many study abroad participants choose a location based on their academic interests: Environmental science majors may choose destinations heavily affected by climate change, and language majors often choose countries that will help them strengthen their proficiency. Likewise, there are a number of countries that offer ideal academic opportunities for engineering students.

Australia: Australia is a popular destination for international students seeking top-tier engineering education in a multicultural environment. Australian universities are known for their strong emphasis on research, industry engagement, and practical learning experiences, along with world-class facilities, expert faculty, and diverse student bodies.
Canada: Canada is recognized for its high-quality education system and welcoming environment for international students. Canadian universities offer modern campuses and a range of engineering programs with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Germany: Germany is known for its strong engineering tradition and innovative engineering education system. The country is home to several top-ranked technical universities that offer high-quality engineering programs taught in English. German universities prioritize hands-on learning, industry collaboration, and practical training, making it an attractive destination for aspiring engineers.
Netherlands: The Netherlands is renowned for its engineering expertise and innovative approach to education. Dutch universities offer a wide range of engineering programs taught in English, with a focus on hands-on learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and real-world applications. The Netherlands’ strong industrial base, supportive business environment, and high quality of life make it an attractive destination for engineering students seeking a global perspective and practical skills.
Sweden: With a progressive attitude toward sustainability and green technology, Sweden provides engineering students with unique opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and contribute to positive societal impact. Swedish universities offer a wide range of engineering programs taught in English, with a focus on hands-on learning, project-based coursework, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Switzerland: Switzerland is home to some of the world’s leading engineering schools, including ETH Zurich and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL). Swiss universities offer rigorous engineering programs that emphasize innovation, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Due to a strong culture of collaboration between academia and industry, Switzerland provides engineering students with valuable opportunities for internships, research projects, and networking.
United Kingdom: The UK is a hub for engineering excellence; British universities especially are known for their cutting-edge research and strong industry partnerships. World-class engineering programs are offered at such prestigious institutions as Imperial College London, University of Cambridge, and University of Oxford.

If you’re a current or aspiring engineering student thinking about studying abroad, go for it! No matter their major, all college students who study abroad need to plan their academic schedule strategically to stay on track for graduation, so you’re in good company. Talk to your academic advisor at your home university, as well as an advisor at your desired study abroad program, to determine the best option for you.