The Benefits of a Study Abroad Experience in Buenos Aires

Choosing to study abroad may feel like a big decision, but we think it is a rewarding and enriching experience. For a start it can significantly enhance your academic credentials and career prospects in what is an increasingly competitive and globalized job market. But the benefits of study abroad extend far beyond the academic realm – exposure to different cultures and social opportunities will broaden your horizons and enhance your person development.

And if you’re interested in learning Spanish – the third most spoken language in the world - then an immersive study abroad experience in a Spanish-speaking country is truly the best way to level up your language skills. In this article we’ll look at why we think study abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina is a great option for students.

What are the advantages of studying abroad in Argentina?

Argentina is a great choice for international students. As the locals will tell you, it is a country that has it all: tropical forest and high-altitude plains in the North, the majestic Andes mountains to the West, rugged Patagonia to the south and the rolling Pampas grasslands filling out the vast space in between them all. All of these natural wonders are begging to be explored, but if you study abroad in Argentina your base will almost certainly be the nation’s capital, Buenos Aires.

Buenos Aires is one of the region's top metropolitan cities - a colorful and vibrant gem that blends European tradition with Latin American flair. To study abroad is Buenos Aires is to have an adventure, where you can explore Argentine culture, discover the city’s rich history and meet local students while you hone your Spanish skills. It’s no wonder that Buenos Aires is currently ranked by Nomad List as the second-best city in the world for digital nomads!

Let’s look further at some of the key benefits of studying abroad in Buenos Aires:

Buenos Aires is a great place to study Spanish

With a population of more than 13 million, Argentina’s capital is a true melting pot of stories and characters. We're sure you will never be bored in Buenos Aires: on any day or night you can join all kinds of social activities and cultural offerings, meeting locals and other like-minded students from all over the world. This makes Buenos Aires an ideal setting for an immersive language learning experience. Whether conversing with locals in bustling cafes, exploring the city’s historic neighborhoods, or attending fun cultural events, you’ll have countless opportunities to practice and refine your Spanish in authentic contexts.

Develop cultural awareness and communication skills

Studying abroad in Buenos Aires will give you a deeper understanding and appreciation of Argentine culture, broadening your mind and improving your global awareness. Much more so than if you travel through as a tourist, by studying in Buenos Aires you will have an unbeatable opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the local customs, traditions, and way of life. Through navigating unfamiliar environments and engaging with diverse perspectives you will also hone your communication skills, which is great for your personal and professional development.

An affordable way to learn Spanish

Argentina is still really affordable for American or European students. According to comparison website Numbeo, Buenos Aires is the cheapest major city in South America, with typical living costs around 80% lower than New York City or 74% lower than London. From accommodation to dining and transportation, international students can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in Buenos Aires without breaking the bank. This means you can really make the most of the city and of your study abroad experience.

A top place for international students

According to the QS ‘Best Student Cities’ list for 2024, Buenos Aires remains the top Latin American destination for students. It is ranked 34th in the world, comfortably above the next city in the region, Santiago de Chile, which lies in 47th. The University of Buenos Aires (UBA) is also considered to be among the best in Latin America, while the city has plenty of other highly regarded institutes of higher learning.

Personal enrichment and growth

Living in a foreign country will challenge you to step outside your comfort zone, adapt to new situations, and embrace cultural differences. By living in a different language and forging connections with people from diverse backgrounds, you will develop valuable life skills such as problem-solving, relationship building and empathy. These will remain with you for the rest of your life.

Inverted seasons

If you’re still not convinced by the above, then we think that escaping winter in the northern hemisphere is another perfectly reason to choose to “learn Spanish abroad” in Buenos Aires. After all, language and cultural immersion is more fun when the sun is shining, right?

What do you need to study abroad in Argentina?

• The right program: You should spend time research different study abroad in Buenos Aires programs to find one that aligns with your academic interests and personal preferences. You might consider factors such as how long the program lasts, the academic options available, opportunities for cultural immersion, and support services provided. Always check that you meet any academic requirements for your study abroad program.

• A willingness to use Spanish: The best way to make the most of studying abroad in Argentina is to fully immerse yourself in the Spanish language. This will make it easier to move around, get things done, and will allow you to have more meaningful interactions with locals. Don't worry too much about your current level of Spanish - even if you're starting as a beginner, you will advance quickly in Buenos Aires if you're willing to learn and use the language on a daily basis. One sure way to quickly improve your language skills is to sign up for a Spanish course in Buenos Aires – this will allow you to learn the local Spanish dialect, gain confidence using it in class, and then put it into practice with fellow students in the city’s bars, restaurants and parks.  

• Documentation (if required): Make sure you have all the necessary documentation for a study abroad experience in Buenos Aires. This may include a passport (valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Argentina), a visa (depending on where you are traveling from), and proof that you have been accepted onto a study abroad program. You should also ensure you have comprehensive health insurance.

• A place to stay: There are plenty of options for accommodation if you choose to study abroad in Buenos Aires. These include student residencies, homestays with local families (the best option for full immersion!), and private or shared apartments. Here at Expanish we offer students all of these housing options within easy reach of our language, with flexibility to adapt to different needs and preferences.

• An open mind: Above all, you should go into a study abroad experience ready to try new things, engage with unfamiliar settings and connect with diverse people. It can be challenging at time, but it is also the secret to a most rewarding experience.

Is English common in Buenos Aires?

In a city as large and cosmopolitan as Buenos Aires you will undoubtedly come across some English. Moreover, due to its quality education system and global outlook, Argentina has the highest English proficiency in Latin America, with Buenos Aires one of the main areas where it is spoken and understood.

However, while this can be helpful at times, your overall study abroad program will be much more fulfilling and interesting if you learn Spanish in Buenos Aires. Using Spanish will unlock new experiences, opportunities and relationships. It will also help you dig deeper into the local culture, giving you a better understanding about what makes Argentina tick. And this is what can make studying abroad in Buenos Aires a transformative life experience.