Today it has become increasingly important to open minds to cultural awareness and understanding as the world’s populations become more and more interconnected in the global age. In the American higher education system, participating in a study abroad programme is one way that students can access, learn about, and function within these foreign countries, languages and cultures. This chapter begins by providing an overview of four common reasons for and benefits of studying abroad. Next, it summarises current study abroad trends and statistics, including who is studying abroad, where they are going, and where they come from. Finally, it seeks to shed light on factors, both positive and negative, contributing to current United States college students’ decision whether or not to study abroad, using survey research from students at an American public university. The conclusion will propose future avenues for further research in the field.