Explain why you are applying to study in a specific country. How does it apply to your studies? If you are going to study a foreign language, talk about what courses you have taken in preparation for study and life abroad. If the university in the city you are applying to offers a subject your home university doesn't, explain why studying there would supplement or improve your university education. If you are studying a foreign language, explain why you would like to be in a particular country. For example, if you want to study in France, explain why you need to be in France rather than another Francophone country. Candidates who describe clear, specific reasons for studying in the country they apply to have a better chance of acceptance than those who don't provide such reasons.
Illustrate how you plan to integrate your study abroad time into your degree in order to graduate on time. Explain how the classes you complete while abroad will allow you to fulfill your major requirements. The successful study abroad candidate will plan to take classes abroad that will go directly towards their major. If the classes don't fulfill your major or general education requirements, describe how you plan to fulfill them during summer school or by taking extra credits during the school year.
Describe any past experience you have had in other countries. International programs are more inclined to accept those into the program who have displayed resiliency and will successfully complete the program. If you have experienced culture shock and homesickness, describe how you overcame these problems and that you feel the benefits of living abroad for an extended period of time outweigh the negative aspects.
Focus on your personal strengths. How will your studies, experiences, talents or interests enhance the lives of those in the program and in the country you are studying? Describe your ideas for how you would like to become integrated into the community where you will be. Consider volunteering, teaching, organizing performances or cultural events within your host university. Mention local organizations in your prospective host city where you would like to pursue an internship or research project. Be creative. The more specific you can be about your plans for living and studying in the country, the higher your chance of being accepted.