Studying in Another Language

Students studying abroad find ways to learn in a foreign language.

Studying abroad often means studying in another language.
Students studying abroad must not only learn new material in the college courses they enroll in, but also learn it in their second (or third or fourth) language.
Yes, it can be challenging. But it also can be rewarding if you follow these tips:

  • Keep a dictionary nearby. But see if you can figure out the meaning of a word before you look it up.
  • Highlight keywords. If you bought your required college textbooks, you can underline or highlight the most important words and sections to review when you are studying later.
  • Form a study group. Make sure it includes native speakers of the language you are learning abroad. You can ask other students to clarify what you don’t understand.
  • Expand your vocabulary. Form a list of college terminology and important words to know in the subject you are studying.
  • Organize your notes. Rewriting them will help you remember what you need to know, in the language you need to know it in!
  • Write. And then write some more. If you study by writing essays, you will not only practice your vocabulary but your grammar too.

Some tips are useful for all students, even if they are not studying abroad in another language:

  • Be prepared. Begin studying weeks before a major test instead of waiting until the night before.
  • Use office hours. Visit your professors during their office hours if you have questions or need additional help.
  • Learn! Don’t just memorize facts for your short-term needs. Learn for the long-term.
  • Sleep. Get some rest the night before your test.
  • Eat. You want to concentrate on the test, not on your rumbling stomach!
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If you are taking a standardized test (such as the SAT or ACT) you also will want specialized standardized test tips.
In any case, studying is a normal part of college life no matter what country you are in or what language you are speaking.
You might find that one study technique is best. Or you may want to use a combination. If you are a student studying abroad for an American education, try many (or all!) of our tips to find out which ones work best for you.