Study a language

Studying a language abroad will give you a significant professional advantage - it could even land you a new job! Not only will being able to speak another language give you the edge over other job-seekers, it proves to employers that you're still capable of learning new things.

Language study will also help you develop your general communication skills, social skills and improve your confidence.

Language study abroad programmes generally involve learning about a country's culture as well as its language. Programmes usually combine classroom learning with cultural and practical activities. You can also stay with a host family, so you're speaking the language all the time, and getting under the skin of a place.

Before you choose your language study programme, ask yourself these questions:

Why am I doing this?

If it's for professional reasons, obviously that's going to have a strong influence on what language you learn. If you're doing it for personal pleasure, you've got more flexibility.

Where do I want to go?

If you're on this page, you've probably already decided which language you want to study. But remember that you can study some languages in more that one country, eg Spanish in South America.

What kind of experience do I want?

Are you after an intense language course which will get you proficient in as short a time as possible, or do you want to spend time absorbing the culture, history and traditions of a nation?

What else do I want to do?

Many language study programmes offer other activities, from cookery classes to dance lessons. You might also use your language course as a starting point for the rest of your career break (working or volunteering abroad, or simply travelling).