Just curious. The idea of studying in another country really appeals to me, especially for more than just a semester. Obviously there is the language barrier, but it seems that many schools teach classes in English. I also speak some French, too. The tuition may be cheaper, but the cost of living is much higher, and it is obviously harder to fly home. Also, is it harder to find jobs afterwards? I’ve read that it may be difficult to find work after studying in another country, especially for more technical majors, like aerospace of mechanical engineering.
It depends.
What school? Some places are more prestigious than others and will provide you with better opportunities later.
What subject? What career plans do you have? Some jobs or grad school options have specific requirements than overseas schools may not provide. In some ways engineering is similar wherever you are, but you might not get the right kind of preparation for additional certifications you would end up wanting, if you want to come back home to work.
You may find it harder to get internships abroad, or find they are less likely to lead to a post-graduation job offer. It may be tougher to stay on to work after the degree, if you’re thinking of that as a route.
One very specific difference is that most overseas schools offer more focussed, specialised study from the start - you do an engineering degree and study nothing else. It’s difficult and sometimes impossible to change. This may be a plus if you’re very sure it’s what you want, and/or have significant weaknesses in other areas; or it might be a problem. You don’t get to pick and choose in the way you would in the US.
TL, DR: you need to research specific options at home and abroad before making any decisions.
A major advantage of graduating from US colleges if u are seeking a job in the US, is that US colleges have career outplacement services. US employers will be recruiting at US colleges, not at colleges in France where nearly all of the students can’t legally work in the US.
I think a good compromise would be studying abroad. If you want to work in USA, I think there is value in going to an American school people have heard of and consider reputable. The only exception to this is the international schools that are well-known here but this is a pretty short list.
Cost of living may not be more expensive. It really depends on where.
You really need to list specifics, like where, what major, goals, etc.
I’m not sure where, but I was mainly thinking of somewhere in Europe. I want to major in aerospace or mechanical engineering. I’m thinking that I want to work for an aviation or automotive company.
For engineering I’d probably suggest going to an ABET accredited school in the US for best job prospects in this country. If you want to pursue the idea of going to school outside of the country for engineering I suggest you do a lot of upfront research about any school you are considering to determine if (and how many) engineers from that school get hired to work in the US.