6 Reasons Why International Students Should Learn Online

Online education has made it possible for students around the world to earn online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from accredited U.S. institutions without leaving their home countries.

While American online universities have a very diverse and global student population, their students share many of the same positive experiences as they learn online. Here are six beneficial features international students can expect to encounter as they learn online.

1. Global perspective

   International students who have decided to earn an online degree benefit from a one-of-a-kind global perspective that only a global university can provide. Online learning offers a rare opportunity to study alongside students and instructors from other countries, each with his or her unique viewpoint. This enables international students to actually experience—and benefit from—that globalization firsthand. What’s more, many employers find great value in having employees who understand and can work successfully with counterparts from different cultures.

2. Continuous support

   Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, starting a new academic venture can often feel overwhelming. The right online university will provide you with the continuous support you need to thrive in your academics, regardless of your unique needs. From help with enrollment to writing and technical assistance, many international students find that online learning provides the support they need to succeed. Faculty members also make themselves available and truly enhance the learning experience.

3. Flexibility and convenience

   No matter where we live, many of us have very busy lives, often balancing work and family commitments. Online learning offers international students a convenient way to pursue higher education with the built-in flexibility needed to thrive—academically, personally, and professionally. While earning an online degree, there’s no need to travel to class. Lectures, discussions, and more can all be completed from any location.

4. Global networking and connections

   While you may not think of networking as you earn your degree, many international students find themselves naturally building relationships with classmates and instructors from across the globe. From class discussions to video chats, online learning lends itself to regular communication and relationship building, which can often lead to professional opportunities around the world.

5. Around-the-clock assistance

   The best online universities offer something few, if any, brick-and-mortar institutions do: IT assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Other support areas may offer flexible hours as well, whether you wish to discuss your academic plans, need help researching a paper, or have a tuition question. Specialists are available by phone, e-mail, or online chat to guide you, regardless of your time zone. This is something that is especially convenient for international students.

6. Resources at your fingertips

   Campus-based universities often require you to physically visit a writing center for writing assistance, a special office for advising, a library for research, and so on. An online university, however, provides international students with an impressive array of resources at their fingertips. From personal advisors (who can help with everything from academic planning to financial aid) and research support to technical assistance and career planning and development, an accredited online university takes the roadblocks out of learning by bringing resources to you.

Ready to experience a true global university? Learn how Walden University provides international students with the tools they need to earn their degree online from an accredited university.

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, www.hlcommission.org.