SUPPORT
Support
We list 3 kinds of opportunities on the Departure Board and the level of support varies with each one:
- External Listings. These are opportunities we signpost towards because we think they’re particularly interesting for our audience. You’ll need to seek support yourself in relation to these opportunities.
- Direct Listings. These are companies who have created a listing themselves on the Departure Board and have signed our Company Charter. You’ll need to seek support yourself in relation to these opportunities.
- Providers. These are structured opportunities with hands-on support. We conduct due diligence on all providers with listings on the Departure Board. These programmes are the way to go if you’re looking for a high level of assistance with things like visas, accommodation and emergency support. View our list of providers here.
Funding
The Turing Scheme
The Turing Scheme
The Turing Scheme is the UK government’s global mobility programme for students. It provides funding to support international opportunities, including work placements, internships, and traineeships, as well as study and research abroad.
Launched in 2021, the Turing Scheme replaced the UK’s participation in the Erasmus+ programme following Brexit. Unlike Erasmus+, the Turing Scheme is not limited to Europe — students can apply to go anywhere in the world.
For students interested in gaining international work experience during their degree, the Turing Scheme can help cover the costs of living abroad, making overseas placements more accessible.
Who Can Apply?
You do not apply to the Turing Scheme directly as an individual student. Instead:
- Your UK university, college, or education provider applies for Turing Scheme funding
- If your institution is successful, they allocate funding to eligible students
To be eligible, you must:
- Be studying at a UK education provider
- Be enrolled in a higher education course (e.g. undergraduate degree, integrated master’s)
- Undertake the placement while you are still a registered student
- Meet any additional criteria set by your institution
Widening Participation
The Turing Scheme places strong emphasis on widening access. Students from lower household income backgrounds, care leavers, students with disabilities, and those from underrepresented groups may be eligible for additional financial support.
What Types of Work Placements and Internships Are Funded?
The Turing Scheme supports a wide range of work-based international experiences, including:
- Work placements (often part of a sandwich year or year abroad)
- Internships (paid or unpaid)
- Traineeships or professional placements
- Industry or sector-based placements
- Research placements where the primary activity is work-based
Placements can be:
- With companies, start-ups, NGOs, charities, research organisations, or international institutions
- In any country worldwide, subject to UK government travel guidance and institutional approval
Placement Duration
For higher education students, placements must last:
- Minimum: 14 days
- Maximum: 12 months
This flexibility makes the scheme suitable for:
- Short summer internships
- Semester-long placements
- Full-year industrial placements abroad
What Does the Funding Cover?
The Turing Scheme provides non-repayable grants, meaning you do not pay the money back (unless you return early)
Funding typically contributes towards:
- Living Costs
- Monthly grant to help with:
- Accommodation
- Food
- Local transport
- Day-to-day expenses
The amount depends on:
- Destination country (higher-cost countries receive more funding)
- Length of placement
- Student background (higher rates for students from widening participation backgrounds)
- Travel Costs
- Contribution towards international travel
- Additional support for:
- Long-distance destinations
- Environmentally sustainable travel
- Students with additional needs
- Additional Support
Extra funding may be available for:
- Students with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or learning differences
- Students from low-income households
- Costs related to visas, passports, or required vaccinations (where approved by the institution)
What the Turing Scheme Does Not Cover
It’s important to understand the limits of the scheme:
- Funding may not reach the student in advance and students may need to front some expenses
- It may not fully fund all costs — students should budget carefully
- Tuition fees are not affected (you continue paying UK tuition fees as normal)
- It does not guarantee a placement — you usually need to secure the placement yourself, with university support
How Do You Apply as a Student?
The process varies by university, but typically:
- Check your university’s international or careers webpages
- Attend information sessions or briefings
- Apply for an overseas placement or internship through your department or careers service
- Once accepted, apply for Turing Scheme funding through your university
Deadlines are often earlier than students expect, especially for placements starting the following academic year.
Key Things to Do Now
If you’re considering an overseas work placement:
- Start researching placements early
- Speak to your careers service, placement office, or international team
- Ask whether your course supports overseas placements
- Check whether your institution participates in the Turing Scheme
- Plan finances realistically, even with funding support
Erasmus+
Erasmus+
In a major policy reversal since Brexit, the UK has agreed to rejoin the EU’s Erasmus+ student exchange programme from 2027, opening the door once again for British students to study, train, and gain work experience in Europe as part of their degrees. Expectations are high, and the programme should benefit up to 100,000 people in its first year, including university students, apprentices, and further education learners.
Check out Jan’s full post about why the UK rejoining Erasmus+ matters when it comes to making experience abroad more accessible.
Butex Scholarships
Please visit https://butex.ac.uk/scholarships/ for full information and the current application deadline.
The Butex Sustainability Abroad Scholarship is a unique opportunity that merges the critical themes of sustainability with the enriching experience of international study.
In a world where travel is increasingly accessible, this scholarship emphasises the importance of sustainable practices and environmental awareness alongside cultural exchange and education.
Who is it for?
This scholarship is designed for undergraduate students who aspire to study or work abroad with a focus on sustainability. It encourages a deeper understanding of global environmental challenges and fosters the exchange of innovative ideas across cultures.
Recognising that sustainability is a global issue, this scholarship promotes diverse perspectives and cross-cultural collaboration.
What are its aims?
The Sustainability Abroad Scholarship aims to broaden students’ horizons, immersing them in new cultures while exploring different approaches to sustainability. It fosters a global network of individuals dedicated to creating a sustainable future both locally and internationally.
By supporting students in this endeavour, Butex empowers them to consider the environmental impact of their actions and to contribute to making travel more sustainable and viable for future generations.
Scholarship Value
Each Butex scholarship is valued at £600. The award will be disbursed once the recipient has arrived and registered at their host university, or upon confirmation of a completed placement.
Additionally, Butex honours the memory of our late Treasurer with the Tony Emmerson Award, a special £600 scholarship presented to a successful American Studies student.
Eligibility
The Butex Scholarship is only open to undergraduate students affiliated with a Butex Full Member institution, whether you are an incoming or outgoing study abroad student.
If you are not sure if your home or host university is Butex affiliated, please check their list of members.
To be eligible to apply you must:
- Be offered, currently undertaking, or have already completed a study abroad or exchange placement, or a summer school/work/internship/traineeship placement.
- Your placement must take place within the calendar year of your application.
- Study abroad placements must be for either one semester or a full year.
- Summer School, Work, Internship, or Traineeship placements must be overseas and can vary in length.
- Be enrolled in your undergraduate course when you apply for and receive the scholarship.
- Graduated students are not eligible.
Please visit https://butex.ac.uk/scholarships/ for full information and the current application deadline.
Departure Board Scholarships
We launched in 2026. Our ambition is to establish our platform, grow our audience and then build a non-profit arm of the Departure Board which provides scholarships and mentorship which contribute to our mission of increasing the number of students taking part in life-changing work and volunteer experience overseas.
We think that the UK is currently stuck between the ‘US model’ and ‘European Model’ of funding overseas experiences for students. In the US these experiences are seen as part of the cost of higher education and students from less priviledged backgrounds tend to access scholarships funded by foundations and private donors. In Europe, as part of the Erasmus programme, experiences abroad are funded by the taxpayer and seen as a fundamental part of higher education for those who want to gain experience abroad.
In the UK, the constant change in funding mechanisms and public debate over whether international experience should be funded by the taxpayer creates uncertainty and is another factor that will put students off from taking up these opportunities. We hope that by building a transparent and focused scholarship and mentorship programme, and reporting clearly on the associated positive student and societal outcomes, we can contribute to positive change. Watch this space!
Scholarships & Grants
Numerous scholarships and grants are available to support UK students who are looking to study or work abroad. These can come from a variety of sources, including governments, private organizations, and educational institutions. Here are some types of funding options to explore:
Government Scholarships:
Chevening Scholarships: Funded by the UK government, Chevening provides full scholarships for postgraduate students from around the world to study in the UK. While primarily for non-UK students, there are also opportunities for UK students looking to engage in international placements or internships as part of their course.
Commonwealth Scholarships: These scholarships are available for UK students studying in Commonwealth countries, including those offering opportunities for academic exchanges or placements.
University-Specific Scholarships: Many UK universities offer their own scholarships to help students studying abroad. These can be for specific destinations, subjects, or types of placements (like internships). Check your university’s study abroad or international office for details on available funding, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
International Organization Grants: Organisations like the British Council offer grants for cultural exchange, language immersion programmes, and research-based placements abroad. Many of these opportunities are aimed at enhancing mutual understanding between the UK and other countries.
Private Foundations & Non-Profit Organizations: Several private organizations provide funding for overseas study. Notable examples include the Rotary Foundation and the Fulbright Commission. Their grants can cover various international educational experiences, from short-term internships to full-year study programmes.
External Databases: Websites like Postgraduate Funding and Scholarships.com provide comprehensive databases of international scholarships and grants. Use these to search for opportunities that suit your field of study and destination.
Top Tips for Securing Funding:
Start Early: Funding opportunities often have early application deadlines, so plan ahead and begin your research as soon as possible.
Stay Organized: Keep track of all application deadlines, required documents, and funding sources. Staying organized will help you avoid missing any crucial opportunities.
Apply for Multiple Sources: Don’t rely on just one funding source. Apply for as many relevant scholarships, grants, and funding opportunities as possible to increase your chances of receiving financial support.
Check with Your University: Your university’s international office is a great resource for advice on funding opportunities. They can help guide you through the application processes and provide information on available resources.
Funding can significantly ease the financial burden of studying or working abroad, allowing you to focus on your academic and personal growth. By exploring the options available through government schemes, scholarships, and your own university, you can find the financial support you need to make your overseas experience a reality.
Funding from your University
In addition to external scholarships and government schemes, many UK universities offer financial support specifically for their students going abroad. Here are some of the funding opportunities you can explore:
- Study Abroad Funding: Many UK universities have dedicated funds to support students participating in study abroad programmes. These funds can help with travel costs, living expenses, or tuition fees if you’re studying at an overseas partner institution. Contact your university’s international office for details on how to apply.
- Travel Grants: Some universities offer travel grants for students participating in internships, work placements, or voluntary work abroad. These grants can vary in amount, so it’s important to check with your institution about the application process, eligibility, and deadlines.
- International Research & Projects Funding: If you’re undertaking an academic project, research, or placement abroad, your university might provide funding to help with travel, accommodation, and materials. Speak to your faculty or department to find out if there are specific research grants available to support your international work.
- Partner University Funding: If you’re studying at a partner university abroad, your UK university may offer additional financial support, often linked to exchange agreements. This could include funding for tuition fees, accommodation, and other academic-related costs.
- Emergency Funds: In some cases, students who face unexpected financial challenges while abroad can apply for emergency funding from their university. This support can cover unexpected medical costs, travel disruptions, or other urgent expenses. Check with your university for the procedures to access emergency funds.
- Work-Study Opportunities: Some UK universities offer work-study placements that allow students to earn money while studying or working abroad. These can provide valuable work experience while also helping to support your living expenses.
Costs to consider
Working abroad offers incredible opportunities, but it’s essential to be aware of the costs involved. These can vary significantly depending on your destination, the duration of your stay, and the nature of your overseas programme. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs you may encounter when planning an international experience.
1. Tuition Fees (if applicable)
For Study Abroad: If you’re participating in a study abroad programme, you may still need to pay tuition fees to your home institution, or you may pay directly to the overseas university. Some exchange programmes allow students to pay home fees while studying abroad, while others require paying the host institution’s fees.
For Internships or Work Placements: If you’re undertaking an unpaid internship or work placement abroad, there are typically no tuition fees. However, you might need to cover associated costs like visa fees or any formal programme fees through your university or placement provider.
2. Flights and Travel Costs
Flights: The cost of flights to and from your destination is often one of the largest expenses. Prices vary depending on the distance, time of year, and airline. It’s often cheaper to book flights in advance and to look for deals through flight comparison websites.
Local Transportation: Depending on where you are going, you’ll also need to consider how you’ll get around once you’re there. This might include public transport, taxis, or hiring a car. If you’re studying in a large city, transportation costs can add up quickly, so it’s important to budget for metro, bus, or tram fares.
3. Accommodation
University Accommodation: Some students choose to live in university-managed housing. While this can be convenient and social, it can also be expensive depending on the location. In major cities, university accommodation prices may be comparable to or even higher than those of private rentals.
Private Accommodation: Renting privately (such as in an apartment or shared house) can be cheaper, especially if you are studying in a less expensive area. However, this will come with its own set of challenges, including finding a place, signing contracts, and possibly dealing with additional costs like utilities.
Homestays: Some programmes offer homestays, where you live with a local family. This can be a more affordable option and also a great way to immerse yourself in the culture, but it’s important to consider how much it will cost compared to other accommodation options.
4. Living Expenses
Food: Your food costs will vary depending on where you’re living and your lifestyle. Cooking at home is generally cheaper than eating out, but in some cities, grocery prices can be high. If you’re living in a major city, you might want to budget for both occasional restaurant meals and grocery shopping.
Other Daily Expenses: Things like toiletries, cleaning products, and mobile phone bills will add up over time. You may also need to account for social activities, entertainment, and leisure spending.
5. Visa and Immigration Costs
Visa Application Fees: Most countries require a visa for students, workers, or interns, and the application process often involves a fee. Visa fees can vary widely depending on the country and type of visa you require.
Visa Documentation: You might need to pay for documents such as official translations of your academic records, health checks, and travel insurance, as part of the visa application process.
6. Travel Insurance
Medical and Emergency Insurance: Travel insurance is essential for your health and safety abroad. It typically covers medical emergencies, cancellations, lost luggage, and emergency evacuation. The cost of insurance depends on the length of your stay, the country you’re in, and the level of coverage you need.
Additional Coverage: Some countries or universities may require specific types of insurance, so make sure to check if there are any mandatory insurance policies for your destination.
7. Health and Vaccinations
Medical Costs: Some countries may require proof of health coverage or vaccinations before you enter. If you’re studying or interning in a country with high medical costs (e.g., the US), you may need to pay for private health insurance in addition to any public healthcare system fees.
Vaccinations: Depending on your destination, you might need to pay for specific vaccinations or medical check-ups before departure.
8. Miscellaneous Fees
Course Materials and Supplies: Depending on your programme, you might need to buy textbooks, equipment, or specific materials for your course. For internships, this could include work-related items like uniforms, tools, or transport costs.
Emergency Fund: It’s a good idea to have an emergency fund set aside for unexpected situations such as medical expenses, travel delays, or unforeseen financial difficulties. This helps provide peace of mind during your stay abroad.
Pre-Departure Course: COMING SOON…
The Departure Board’s Global Work Placement Preparation Course
Our course aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in an international work placement, adapt to diverse cultural environments, and represent
themselves and their institutions professionally abroad.
The course consists of 10 modules, each featuring recorded lectures, interactive materials, and assessments. Each module will also feature a live workshop and Q&A. Our course is designed to be flexible so students can complete it alongside their regular studies. At the end of the course, students will prepare a final reflective portfolio, and completion certificates
will be awarded to students who pass all modules.
Module outline
Module 1: Introduction to Global Work Placements
Module 2: Researching Your Host Country and Employer
Module 3: Dealing with Culture Shock and Intercultural Communication
Module 4: Workplace Professionalism Abroad
Module 5: Language Basics and Workplace Language
Module 6: Health, Safety, and Wellbeing
Module 7: Accommodation and Integration
Module 8: Managing Finances Abroad
Module 9: Transferable Skills and Employability
Module 10: Returning Home and Reflecting
Course Outline
Module 1: Introduction to Global Work Placements
This opening session introduces students to the purpose, expectations, and opportunities of international work placements. Students explore how global mobility enhances personal growth, employability, and intercultural competence. The session sets the tone for the programme, clarifies responsibilities, and encourages students to approach their placement with professionalism and curiosity.
Content
- Overview of course structure and placement timeline
- Benefits of international work experience
- Expectations from students, host employers, and institutions
- Professional conduct and representation abroad
- Common challenges and opportunities
Practical Element
Students write a short personal goal statement outlining three professional goals and three personal development goals for their placement. They share in small groups and receive peer feedback.
Intended Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session, students will be able to:
- Describe the purpose and structure of their global work placement
- Identify personal and professional goals
- Understand expectations and responsibilities
- Recognise potential benefits and challenges
Module 2: Researching Your Host Country and Employer
Preparation is key to a successful placement. This session equips students with research strategies to understand their host country’s culture, economy, workplace norms, and the specific organisation they will join. Students learn how informed preparation builds confidence and professionalism.
Content
- Key aspects of country research (culture, laws, customs, politics)
- Understanding workplace structure and sector context
- Researching employer mission, values, and expectations
- Identifying cultural differences in work practices
Practical Element
Students complete a structured research worksheet on their host country and employer, then present one key cultural insight and one professional insight to the group.
Intended Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
- Conduct effective background research
- Identify key cultural and workplace norms
- Demonstrate knowledge of their host employer
- Anticipate potential cultural differences
Module 3: Dealing with Culture Shock and Intercultural Communication
Living and working abroad often involves adapting to new cultural norms and communication styles. This session explores the stages of culture shock and builds students’ intercultural awareness to help them navigate differences constructively.
Content
- The stages of culture shock
- Cultural values and communication styles
- High-context vs low-context communication
- Strategies for managing misunderstandings
Practical Element
Students analyse short case studies involving intercultural misunderstandings and role-play appropriate responses.
Intended Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
- Identify stages of culture shock
- Apply strategies to manage cultural adjustment
- Demonstrate intercultural communication awareness
- Respond constructively to misunderstandings
Module 4: Workplace Professionalism Abroad
Professional standards vary globally. This session examines workplace etiquette, hierarchy, punctuality, dress codes, and communication expectations in international settings. Students reflect on how to adapt while maintaining authenticity.
Content
- Professional behaviour expectations
- Dress codes and etiquette
- Workplace hierarchy and feedback culture
- Digital professionalism and social media awareness
Practical Element
Students review workplace scenarios and identify appropriate and inappropriate professional behaviours in different cultural contexts.
Intended Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
- Recognise varying professional norms
- Demonstrate appropriate workplace behaviour
- Adapt to different feedback and hierarchy systems
- Maintain professional digital presence
Module 5: Language Basics and Workplace Language
Even when working in English, understanding key local phrases enhances integration and professionalism. This session focuses on essential workplace vocabulary, polite expressions, and strategies for communicating clearly in multilingual environments.
Content
- Key greetings and polite expressions
- Workplace-specific vocabulary
- Clarification strategies and active listening
- Communicating professionally in writing
Practical Element
Students practice short workplace dialogues and draft a professional email introducing themselves to their supervisor.
Intended Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
- Use basic workplace phrases appropriately
- Apply clarification strategies
- Write a professional introductory email
- Communicate clearly in multicultural settings
Module 6: Health, Safety, and Wellbeing
Ensuring personal health and safety abroad is essential. This session covers practical safety planning, health systems, insurance, mental wellbeing, and emergency procedures to prepare students for responsible independence.
Content
- Travel insurance and documentation
- Emergency contacts and procedures
- Workplace health and safety regulations
- Mental wellbeing strategies abroad
Practical Element
Students create a personalised safety and wellbeing plan, including emergency contacts, local healthcare details, and coping strategies.
Intended Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
- Identify essential health and safety preparations
- Understand emergency procedures
- Develop strategies for maintaining wellbeing
- Take responsibility for personal safety abroad
Module 7: Accommodation and Integration
Adjusting to new living arrangements and building social connections are central to a positive experience abroad. This session explores housing expectations, co-living etiquette, and strategies for social and cultural integration.
Content
- Types of accommodation
- Tenant rights and responsibilities
- Living with others and resolving conflicts
- Building social networks and community involvement
Practical Element
Students develop a “first two weeks integration plan” outlining actions they will take to settle in socially and practically.
Intended Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
- Understand accommodation responsibilities
- Demonstrate respectful shared-living behaviour
- Develop strategies for social integration
- Build confidence in establishing networks
Module 8: Managing Finances Abroad
Financial management is crucial during international placements. This session helps students budget effectively, understand currency exchange, manage banking, and anticipate hidden costs.
Content
- Creating a realistic monthly budget
- Banking and currency considerations
- Understanding taxes and stipends
- Managing unexpected expenses
Practical Element
Students create a sample monthly budget based on their host country’s cost of living and identify potential financial risks.
Intended Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
- Construct a realistic budget
- Identify key financial considerations abroad
- Plan for unexpected expenses
- Manage finances responsibly
Module 9: Transferable Skills and Employability
International work placements develop highly valuable transferable skills. This session helps students identify, articulate, and evidence these skills for future job applications and interviews.
Content
- Identifying transferable skills (adaptability, teamwork, problem-solving)
- Recording achievements during placement
- Using reflective models (e.g., STAR method)
- Updating CVs and LinkedIn profiles
Practical Element
Students write a draft CV bullet point and a STAR-based example describing a potential placement scenario.
Intended Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
- Identify transferable skills gained abroad
- Articulate experiences using structured examples
- Enhance employability documentation
- Recognise the career value of global experience
Module 10: Returning Home and Reflecting
Re-entry can be as challenging as departure. This final session addresses reverse culture shock, structured reflection, and leveraging the experience for academic and professional growth.
Content
- Reverse culture shock
- Reflective practice techniques
- Presenting international experience to employers
- Maintaining international networks
Practical Element
Students complete a structured reflective exercise and draft a short personal statement summarising their international experience.
Intended Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
- Recognise reverse culture shock
- Reflect critically on their learning
- Communicate the impact of their experience
- Plan next steps for academic and career development