Why go abroad for your change of research environment?

Broaden your perspectives

  • Research is international – you need to know what is going on in the wider world
  • Gain new tools and perspectives to improve the quality of your own research and education

Have a good time!

  • Expand your network
  • Experience a different culture at close range

Good advice
– six things to consider if you are thinking of going abroad

1. Start planning early to ensure everything falls into place

  • Funding
  • Family
  • PhD plan


2. Have a specific goal

  • Have a clearly defined, professional aim for your stay
  • Establish what your working relationship will be before you leave                          


3. Decide where to go

  • Where does it make sense to go based on your project?
  • Where does your supervisor have a network to draw on?
  • Where do you feel like going?


4. Know where you're going
Do the legwork:

  • Network at conferences to meet interesting people
  • Get to know the research group you're joining
  • Make a preliminary visit
  • Obtain personal references
  • Align expectations


5. Ensure your funding is in place 
The total cost varies depending on:

  • Where you're going
  • The length of your stay
  • Wether you're bringing your family
  • Make a budget
  • Clarify tax conditions
  • Apply for financial support from the Graduate School
  • Apply for external funding


6. When to go?
The progress of your project is crucial to this decision. Most students go when they are half-way:

  • You have produced some results
  • You know the field
  • You still have time to use the knowledge you gain abroad in your project

» Go to ISM for more information about studying abroad, visa, travel insurance etc.