How to Add Study Abroad Experience to Your Resume

Studying abroad is an incredible experience that offers personal growth, cultural insights, and the chance to learn unique skill sets. When it comes to showcasing overseas study on your resume, it's essential to do it strategically to catch the eyes of potential employers and show them how it has made you better candidate. Here are some key tips for highlighting your study abroad experiences effectively.

Reflect on your study abroad experience

Before adding your study abroad experience to your resume, take some time to reflect on what you gained from it. Think about the challenges you faced, the accomplishments you achieved, and how the experience shaped you. Did you learn a new language? Adapt to a different culture? Develop a global perspective? These reflections will help you pinpoint the most impactful aspects of your time abroad. Remember, employers are not just interested in where you went; they also want to understand how this experience has prepared you for the workforce and made you a more well-rounded candidate.

Highlight the skills you gained

One of the most valuable aspects of studying abroad is the diverse range of skills you acquire. These skills can make you stand out in a competitive job market. For example, you might have developed strong problem-solving abilities by traveling to and navigating a new city, enhanced your communication skills by interacting with people from different backgrounds, or honed your adaptability by thriving in an unfamiliar environment.

Emphasize these skills on your resume, providing specific examples where possible. Mentioning your ability to work in diverse teams, manage cross-cultural communications, or handle unexpected challenges can demonstrate to employers that you have the versatility and resilience they seek.

Tailor your experience to the job

When crafting your resume, it's crucial to tailor your study abroad experience to the job you are applying for. Different roles and industries value different skills and experiences. If you're applying for a marketing position, emphasize any international marketing projects or courses you took while abroad. For roles in education or social services, highlight any volunteer work or community involvement.

By aligning your experiences with the job description, you show potential employers that your time abroad has equipped you with relevant and transferable skills, and this targeted approach can significantly enhance your chances of landing an interview.

Enhance your resume

Integrating your study abroad experience into your resume effectively can make it more compelling. Consider where to place this information for maximum impact. Your professional summary and career history are key areas to highlight this experience. You could also include it in your education section, especially if you completed coursework relevant to your field.

Be sure to use strong, active language to describe your achievements and responsibilities. Phrases like "Successfully navigated cultural differences," "Led a project with an international team," or "Conducted research in a foreign language" can vividly convey the depth of your experience. Additionally, quantify your achievements where possible, such as the number of presentations given, languages spoken, or projects completed.

Leverage your network and provide social proof

Your study abroad experience doesn't just belong on your resume; it can also be a powerful networking tool. Mentioning your international experience during interviews can spark conversations and set you apart from other candidates. Furthermore, don't hesitate to request references from professors, supervisors, or peers you met abroad. These references can provide social proof of your skills and adaptability, further strengthening your application.

You might also consider adding a link to a digital portfolio or a professional social media profile where you share more about your experiences and insights gained abroad. This can provide a fuller picture of your capabilities and global perspective to potential employers.

Andrew Fennell is the founder and director of StandOut CV, a leading CV builder and careers advice website. He is a former recruitment consultant and contributes careers advice to publications like Business Insider, The Guardian, and The Independent.