First-generation (first-gen) college students—those whose parents or guardians did not earn a college degree—often carry the weight of trailblazing a path through higher education. That journey already involves challenges like navigating admissions processes, understanding financial aid, balancing work and study, and managing family responsibilities. Adding “study abroad” to that equation might seem like an unattainable dream. But it’s not.

While first-gen students often experience imposter syndrome, lack of guidance, or financial pressure, it’s essential to recognize that resources and pathways specifically designed to support them are increasing around the world. Study abroad isn't just possible—it's a transformative opportunity that can empower first-gen students to expand their horizons and access networks and skills that will last a lifetime.

Why Study Abroad Matters for First-Gen Students

The impact of studying abroad goes beyond academics. For first-gen students, it can serve as a powerful catalyst for personal and professional growth. Being immersed in another culture encourages independence, problem-solving, and adaptability—traits that first-gen students already possess in abundance but get to hone on a global scale.

Studying abroad allows first-gen students to access:

• ● Global networks and mentorship opportunities that may not be available locally.
• ● Internships and experiential learning to build international job experience.
• ● Confidence and cultural capital, which can be essential for upward mobility.
• ● Language skills and cross-cultural communication, which are increasingly valuable in the global workforce.

Common Myths About Studying Abroad as a First-Gen Student

It’s important to debunk the myths that prevent many first-gen students from even considering international education.

• ● Myth: It’s too expensive. Many programs offer scholarships, tuition exchanges, or even stipends that make studying abroad financially viable or even cheaper than staying local.
• ● Myth: You need to speak another language. Plenty of programs are taught in English—even in non-English-speaking countries.
• ● Myth: Study abroad is just for wealthy students. That perception is fading fast, thanks to growing advocacy for equity in international education.
• ● Myth: It won’t help your career. On the contrary, study abroad experiences are viewed favorably by employers and grad schools.

Financial Resources and Scholarship Opportunities

Money is often the biggest barrier, but it doesn’t have to be. Many countries and institutions now offer financial support specifically aimed at increasing access for underrepresented students, including first-gen students.

There are government programs like the U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program, which is specifically designed for students with limited financial means. Many universities also have need-based study abroad grants that consider first-generation status as a qualifying factor.

Students should also explore:

• ● Crowdfunding platforms for education expenses.
• ● Local community or civic group sponsorships.
• ● Work-study programs or internships abroad that include housing or living stipends.
• ● Exchange agreements where students pay home tuition instead of foreign tuition rates.

Choosing the Right Program and Destination

The right study abroad program should match your academic needs, budget, comfort level, and long-term goals. For first-gen students, support systems can be a make-or-break factor. Some institutions and countries have more developed support networks for international students than others.

• ● Consider countries with high English proficiency like the Netherlands, Sweden, or Ireland for easier integration.
• ● Look into programs that offer mentorship or peer support specifically for first-gen or underrepresented students.
• ● Short-term programs or faculty-led trips might offer a lower-cost, lower-risk entry point.
• ● Community college partnerships with international institutions are growing and often underutilized.

Building Support Before You Go

Leaving home to study abroad is a huge leap—especially for students who are not only the first in their family to go to college, but also the first to travel internationally. Preparing mentally and emotionally is just as important as preparing financially and academically.

Talk to your advisors, study abroad office, financial aid counselors, and former participants. Many campuses have affinity groups or cultural centers that can connect you with students who’ve studied abroad.

Don’t underestimate the power of having one or two “anchors”—people who know your story and can be your sounding board while you're abroad.

Preparing Family and Community

One of the most common emotional hurdles first-gen students face is the concern of leaving family behind—especially if you're a caretaker or contribute financially at home. Explaining the value of your study abroad experience to family members who may never have traveled outside their hometown can be tough.

Try framing your experience as:

• ● An investment in your future with long-term payoffs.
• ● A source of pride for your family, showing how far you’ve come.
• ● A tool for giving back—by gaining skills, contacts, and knowledge that you can bring home.

When family and friends understand that your study abroad experience isn’t an abandonment but a bold step forward, they often become your biggest cheerleaders.

On-the-Ground Support While Abroad

Look for programs with strong student services, mental health support, cultural adjustment workshops, and 24/7 emergency contacts. Many universities abroad now recognize that diverse students—including first-gen students—require specific kinds of assistance.

Some programs have student mentors, while others partner with global organizations like ISEP or AIFS that provide logistical help and a built-in student community. Joining clubs or student organizations abroad can also ease the transition and provide a sense of belonging.

Using Your First-Gen Superpowers Abroad

First-gen students come equipped with resilience, self-motivation, and resourcefulness—skills that make them naturally successful in study abroad environments. You're used to figuring things out on your own, handling uncertainty, and advocating for yourself.

These experiences not only help you thrive abroad, but also provide rich material for job interviews, scholarship essays, and grad school applications. Learning how to navigate foreign systems and adapt to new cultural norms demonstrates exactly the kind of global competency and emotional intelligence that employers seek.

Making It Count After You Return

The benefits of study abroad don’t stop when your plane lands. First-gen students who study abroad often become role models and change-makers in their families and communities. Your journey can inspire others to think beyond borders—literally and figuratively.

Upon returning, take advantage of:

• ● Resume workshops to translate your experience into marketable skills.
• ● Speaking engagements or mentorship to support other first-gen or underrepresented students.
• ● Alumni networks that can open doors to international careers or graduate programs.

Studying abroad as a first-gen student is not just about academics—it’s about rewriting what’s possible. It’s about building a new story, one that doesn’t end with you, but begins with you. The opportunity is there. The support is growing. And the adventure is waiting.

Are you ready to get started and study abroad? Just browse through more than 110,000 diverse programs worldwide, Educatly offers a diverse array of educational opportunities tailored to your interests and career goals.