Putting Study Abroad Experiences on a Resume

Tips on featuring study abroad experiences on a resume

Some students study abroad during their academic careers to increase learning opportunities and establish new skills. During their time abroad, students learn about new cultures and connect with other international students. Frequently, they encounter unique experiences that other job applicants don’t have. That said, the experiences from studying abroad are great to include on a resume. Here is why and how to include study abroad experiences on your resume.

Why you should include study abroad on your resume

You should include study abroad experiences on your resume when it can set you apart from other applicants. First, studying abroad offers several experiences and opportunities that not everyone has the chance to obtain. Additionally, it can showcase unique skills that you can connect with the requirements in the job description. For example, if you participated in a study-abroad program where you learned a foreign language, it can come in handy for a job that requires knowledge of that foreign language.

Next, if you have limited job experience, adding your study abroad experience is a good way to fill in the gaps. Most employers like to see a continuous list of work experiences, but you can list your study abroad experience to “fill in the gaps” and explain any gaps in work experience.

Finally, putting study abroad on your resume can show recruiters and hiring managers your values and characteristics. Not everybody has the skills and characteristics it takes to study abroad. So showing that you do have these skills can set you apart from other candidates. Here’s how to incorporate study abroad into your resume.

How to incorporate study abroad on your resume

When thinking about incorporating your study abroad skills and experiences on your resume, there are a few things to consider. First, you should reflect on your time spent abroad. What did you do, learn, see, apply and accomplish?

Next, think about the experiences you encountered or acquired while you were abroad. Did you learn a new language? What other professional experiences could you include on your resume?

Once you’ve compiled the information you want to include, look at the job description and application for the job you want. What requirements do you need to have to apply for the job? To help you on your job search, try to tailor your resume to the requirements and skills listed within the job description.

Finally, decide where you want to list your study abroad experience on your resume. Let’s go over a few sections of your resume where this experience would be relevant.

Where to list study abroad in your resume

First, you can list your study abroad experience in the education section of your resume. In this section, you can list where you studied abroad under your current education. Additionally, list the name of your school, along with the country and city you studied in. Finally, include the length of your study and any relevant coursework that adds to your resume.

Next, you can list your study abroad experience under the experience section of your resume. Include any internships or programs you were involved in abroad and any relevant international experience. You should also list any work experience you have from your time abroad.

Finally, there are several skills you can list that you may have acquired while studying abroad. For example, if you learned a new language, such as Spanish, or brushed up on language skills, put it in your skills section. Additionally, you can use bullet points to include transferable skills like communication and problem-solving skills.

Should you add study abroad to your cover letter?

While your cover letter shouldn’t be focused on your time abroad, adding a few sentences about your skills and experiences can immediately set you apart from other applicants.

You can briefly explain some of your relevant international experiences and skills that may help you excel at the job you are applying for. Additionally, highlight any work accomplishments or achievements you may have had during your time abroad.