Studying abroad with IES Abroad is a world-shaking discovery that has long-lasting benefits—just ask our alumni. Our research findings show how their academic interests, cultural development, personal growth, and careers are impacted by their one-of-a-kind IES Abroad experiences. 

New research from the Forum on Education Abroad draws on insights from nearly 500 IES Abroad alumni to shed light on the impactful career benefits of studying abroad. The survey findings reveal how global experiences contribute to the development of in-demand workplace skills, facilitate job placements, and pave the way for career advancement. Notably, 92% of IES Abroad alumni said their experience helped them build job skills, while nearly half reported that it helped them secure their first job after graduation. These insights underscore the lasting impact of international experiences on professional success, even after students return home. 

NOTE: Any and all uses of survey results conducted by IES Abroad, Institute for the International Education of Students, must be accompanied by proper citation. 

Top Skills Alumni Attribute to Their IES Abroad Experience

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Communication
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Adaptability
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Interpersonal Skills
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Problem Solving
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Collaboration

Recent Graduate Survey Highlights

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96%
of IES Abroad alumni assigned some degree of importance to their study abroad experience
92%
of alumni said the IES Abroad experience directly helped build job skills
89%
believe that education abroad is an important asset for career success
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65%
of alumni named study abroad an extremely or very important influence in their career path

During the graduate school admissions process, I emphasized the work I did abroad. This was one of the highlights of my application, and I was told that the experience was so unique that it made me standout as a candidate.

Michelle W. • Penn State University • Rome Summer – Internship

Discover Alumni Spotlights

Our Alumni Spotlights feature highlights the impact that studying abroad has had on the careers of alumni.

See Alumni Spotlights
Students in Vienna in the late 1900s.