Language Study Abroad or a Degree Abroad? My Experience from a Language Program in the Philippines to a Degree in Canada

Language Study Abroad vs. Degree Study Abroad: My Experience and Planning Advice

Studying overseas has long been how many young people dream of improving themselves and broadening their international perspective. But once you start planning seriously, you often run into a question: what exactly is the difference between a short-term language program abroad and studying abroad for a degree? Both count as going abroad to study, but they differ a lot in length, learning goals, budgeting and the life experience they offer.

This post draws on my own experience with a language program in the Philippines and a degree in Canada, plus what I’ve learned gathering information for friends over the past few years. I want to explain in the plainest terms what language study abroad actually teaches, who it suits, and how to choose a country and a program. In the next post I’ll go deeper into planning and preparing for a degree abroad, to help you find the path that suits you best.

What Is Language Study Abroad? The Best Mix of Short-Term Learning and Cultural Experience

If you’re still a bit unclear on what it is: language study abroad is a short-term way to learn a language overseas and experience local life. Popular destinations include the Philippines, Australia, Canada and Ireland. Programs are very flexible, from two weeks to a year, depending entirely on your needs and budget.

My Language Program in the Philippines: Better English and Much More Confidence

I chose the Philippines mainly because it’s relatively cheap and offers a lot of one-on-one speaking classes. I was really nervous when I first arrived, because every day I had to communicate in English with teachers and classmates. Making mistakes was fine, though; the teachers patiently correct you. Over time, I found I was much less afraid to speak English, and my brain started getting used to thinking in English.

The best part was that outside class there were lots of chances to chat with classmates from different countries and do activities together. That kind of cultural exchange is really not something you can learn at a prep school in Taiwan.

Benefits and Budgeting: How to Choose the Right Language Program for You

Four Big Benefits: Why More and More People Choose Short-Term Language Programs

1. Flexible timing, suits both students and working people

2. Varied courses, study and fun all in one

3. Flexible costs, choose a country and program to fit your budget

4. Many possible goals, suits people with different needs

The biggest advantage is how flexible the timing is: two weeks, four weeks, six months or a year. I went to the Philippines during summer break, so it didn’t affect my schoolwork at all. Friends who are already working can use annual leave or take time off for a short program to improve their language skills quickly.

Language programs usually include more than language classes; there are also all kinds of extracurricular activities and cultural experiences. When I was in the Philippines, I went island hopping and snorkeling with classmates on weekends, and on weeknights there were cooking and dance classes. That mix of “study + travel + cultural exchange” made the whole experience incredibly full.

Costs vary a lot between countries and schools, so you can choose based on your budget. Tuition and living costs in the Philippines, for example, are much cheaper than in Europe or North America, and the teaching quality is still good. With a bigger budget, you could consider Australia, Canada and similar places for richer learning resources.

Some people go to warm up before a degree abroad, some just want to experience life overseas, and some want to strengthen their English for a test (like IELTS or TOEFL). Language programs are very flexible, so you can pick the course that best fits your goal.

How Much Does It Cost and How Long Is Enough? Budget and Timing at a Glance

What you pay for: tuition + accommodation + living costs + flights

The total cost breaks down into four main items: tuition, accommodation, living costs and flights. Prices vary by country, school and program length. Here are the average costs I put together for four weeks:

• Philippines: about NT$50,000–70,000; cheap tuition, intensive speaking classes, a closed environment good for a final push

• Australia: about NT$110,000–160,000; lots of freedom, multicultural, you can study and have fun at the same time

• Canada: about NT$100,000–150,000; good education quality, safe and comfortable

• Ireland: about NT$90,000–140,000; an all-English environment, a strong European culture, lower living costs than the UK

These costs usually already include tuition and accommodation; if you join a group tour, there’s also a group leader and planned activities. Of course, living costs depend on your spending habits, so I’d suggest leaving some extra room in your budget.

Timing: anywhere from two weeks to a year

How long you go depends entirely on your needs. Students mostly choose 2–8 weeks during winter or summer break; working people go for 2–4 week intensive courses. Some who want to improve their English thoroughly choose six months to a year, or even switch to applying to a local school.

Choosing a Program and Comparing Countries: Find the Best Way for You to Study Abroad

Types of Programs: Find the Learning Style That Suits You

• Going independently: for people who want to plan their own courses and accommodation. It’s very flexible; you can choose your school, courses and where you stay based on your interests and needs. Better suited to people who already have some experience abroad and upper-intermediate English.

• Group tours: led by a teacher or group leader, with the itinerary and activities all arranged. Good for first-time travelers abroad or younger students, and parents feel more at ease.

Three Styles of Language Schools in the Philippines: Spartan, Semi-Spartan and Free-Style

• Spartan: intensive classes all day, strict rules, fast progress. For people who want to improve their English a lot in a short time.

• Semi-Spartan: classes during the day, free to go out in the evening, a balance of study and life. Better for people who want some freedom but don’t want things too loose.

• Free-style: the most flexible schedule, study while having fun. For people who want to experience life and make friends.

Varied courses, from basic to advanced

Most schools place students in classes by level, with everything from basic English, conversation, business English and test prep (IELTS, TOEFL) to specialized courses. Before you go, assess your needs and pick the course that suits you best.

How to Choose a Country: Three Questions to Ask + A Comparison of Common Choices

1. Which skills do you want to improve? (speaking, tests, cultural experience)

2. What learning atmosphere do you like? (intensive training or relaxed exchange)

3. Can you accept the budget and living environment?

Comparing common destinations

• Philippines: about 40,000–60,000; small classes, lots of one-on-one lessons; for those who want a short, intensive English push

• Australia: about 80,000–120,000; many top schools, you can work; for those who want to combine work and study

• Canada: about 80,000–120,000; bilingual culture, safe and friendly; for those interested in North American culture

• Ireland: about 80,000–120,000; an English-speaking country with low living costs; for those who want to experience Europe on a budget

Looking back on my own language program, I really feel the trip was about more than learning English. More importantly, I learned to be independent, got to know different cultures and made friends from all over the world.

If you’re still unsure whether to go, I’d suggest starting with a short program and trying it for yourself. You might find you adapt to life abroad better than you expected, and feel braver about taking on a future degree abroad!

In the next post I’ll share how I planned and prepared for my degree in Canada. Hope you’ll keep reading!