Build global skills, confidence and career readiness while you study abroad
Thinking about taking your degree outside of Australia? A UTS global exchange or global short program allows you to study overseas while earning credit towards your degree — and gaining skills that employers value.
In an increasingly global job market, graduates who can adapt, communicate across cultures and navigate unfamiliar environments stand out and earn higher salaries. Studying abroad helps you develop these capabilities through real‑world experience.
1. Build skills employers look for
Studying overseas demonstrates adaptability, problem‑solving and cross‑cultural communication — skills that cannot be learned in a lecture theatre alone. Living and learning in a new environment builds confidence, resilience and independence that translate directly into the workplace.
Research shows that students with international experience often transition more quickly into employment and report stronger early‑career outcomes compared to non‑mobile peers. According to the Forum on Education Abroad, students who studied abroad earned 6.3% higher starting salaries (≈ USD $4,159 more) in their first job compared to non‑mobile peers. Springer also reports that participation in international mobility programs significantly reduced time to first employment after graduation.
"One of the best ways to kickstart your career is finding an internship. This not only helps you gain relevant hands-on experience but also educates you about workplace culture, which is crucial to be a ‘proper fit’ in the industry."
Tahmim Islam
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Civil (Structures) Engineering
2. Learn in a global classroom
UTS partners with over 240 universities across 40 countries. Global exchange allows you to study at leading partner universities around the world and take subjects shaped by local expertise, perspectives and industry connections.
You can study overseas for one or two sessions and receive academic credit towards your UTS degree, keeping you on track to graduate on time.
3. Grow personally as well as academically
Living overseas challenges you to step outside your comfort zone. From navigating daily life in a new city to building new social networks, you develop self‑reliance and perspective that stays with you long after you return.
UTS also offers tailored support to help students feel safe and supported overseas, including inclusive initiatives such as Planet Pride for LGBTIQA+ students.
“I wondered, am I going to be able to do this by myself? And I think that was an experience of its own because I felt very accomplished by the end of it. It was one of the most life-changing experiences I’ve ever had.”
Arya Lohar
Bachelor of Business
4. It’s more affordable than you think
When you go on exchange, you continue to pay your usual UTS tuition fees rather than international fees at your host university.
However, many students are also eligible for financial support such as New Colombo Plan mobility grants or OS‑HELP loans to help cover travel and living costs.
5. Travel with peace of mind
Your safety is supported while you’re overseas. Students on approved programs are covered by UTS travel insurance and have 24/7 access to medical and security assistance through International SOS.