Study abroad vs study in home country?

The ROI on studying abroad is complex. Consider your field. For international relations or languages, it's almost essential. For engineering or accounting, the location matters less than the program's accreditation and internship opportunities. Talk to alumni in your field who studied both domestically and abroad. Also, research specific programs; some have scholarships or exchange agreements that significantly lower costs.

If you're in CS, the international experience can be valuable, but it's not always essential. I would look into specific programs and universities abroad that have strong CS programs and internship opportunities. See if you can find programs that offer scholarships or financial aid to offset the costs. If the cost is too high, focus on building a strong portfolio here and consider international travel later in your career. The experience can be gained later, so don't force it.

Consider what your academic goals are. If specific research or coursework is only available abroad and directly aligns with your career path, it might be a strong differentiator. Otherwise, if the experience and networking are the primary drivers, explore if similar opportunities exist domestically through intensive workshops, specialized internships, or industry conferences. Don't underestimate the value of building a strong network in your home country first, which can be a solid foundation before potentially pursuing international opportunities later in your career.