/

Exploring the Advantages of Studying a School Year in the United States

The idea of ​​studying a school year abroad is an enriching experience that can change the life of any student. One of the most popular options for Spanish youth is to spend a year in the United States. But why the United States? The advantages are many, and many of them derive from the differences between the American and Spanish educational systems. Let’s see them!

Exploring the Advantages of Studying a School Year in the United States: A Look at the Academic System and Its Differences with the Spanish Educational System

1. Cultural Diversity:

One of the most notable aspects of the American education system is its cultural diversity. The United States is a melting pot of cultures, races and ethnicities, which is reflected in its schools. Studying a school year in the United States in this multicultural environment gives those who study the opportunity to interact with people from different backgrounds and perspectives. This fosters tolerance, intercultural understanding and open-mindedness, basic conditions for building global citizenship, so important in our time.

2. Flexibility of the Curriculum:

Unlike the Spanish education system, the American system offers greater flexibility in choosing subjects. Students have the freedom to design their own curriculum, allowing them to explore their interests and talents more deeply. This flexibility can help students discover new passions and vocations.

3. Sports and Extracurricular Activities:

The American education system places a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, art, and student clubs. This provides international students with a wide range of opportunities to develop skills outside the classroom and strengthen their social skills, while boosting their English naturally.

4. Promotion of Autonomy:

In the United States, youth are encouraged in schools to develop their autonomy and take responsibility for their own learning. This allows them to develop organizational, time management and decision-making skills, which are valuable for their academic and professional future.

5. English Language Immersion:

Studying a school year in the United States offers total immersion in English. This constant exposure to the language significantly improves students’ language skills, which we know is a valuable asset in an increasingly globalized world where English is the international language.

6. Networking Opportunities:

You may not be thinking about this yet, but the American education system encourages networking from an early age. Young people have the opportunity to network with faculty, classmates, and professionals from various industries. These connections can be beneficial in the future, both in terms of higher education and in the workplace.

7. Encourage “Critical Thinking”:

The American education system focuses on critical thinking and problem solving. They are encouraged to question, analyze, and find solutions to challenges, which prepares them to effectively deal with problems in their adult lives.

8. Access to Quality Educational Resources:

The United States has a wide range of high-quality educational resources, such as libraries, research laboratories, and advanced technology in its schools. These resources enrich the educational experience and give those who choose to study a school year in the United States access to tools that can help them excel in their studies.

Studying a school year in the United States: a unique opportunity

In summary, Studying a school year in the United States is a unique opportunity to grow academically, culturally, and personally. Differences in the educational system, such as the flexibility of the curriculum and immersion in English, provide significant advantages by encouraging the development of skills complementary to those acquired in our system. In addition, the experience of living in a multicultural and diverse society offers them a broader perspective of the global world in which we live. And it should also be noted that this experience will leave them with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Did you think it was just because of English?

Contact our team and let’s start creating a personalized plan.

Do you think someone might be interested? Share!

Facebook
Linkedin
Twitter
Whatsapp
Email

Categories

I want to study abroad!

We have a plan

BE A CHANGE MAKER

Plans for children under under 18 years of age

Plans for people over over 18 years old

Do you speak english?

Check it out with our free English level test.

DO YOU SPEAK ENGLISH?

You may also be interested in this

Estudiante joven y rubia, sujetando varias carpetas, mirando a cámara. Al fondo, desenfocado, se ven otros compañeros en el aula.
Useful Information

How to write a personal statement for studying in the UK (New from 2026)

Are you going to study in the UK? This is of interest to you. The first thing to remember is that your letter of motivation -also known as your personal statement– will probably be your only chance to “speak” directly to the admissions team about the program you want to study, and to convince them that you are the ideal person for the position. Therefore, it is essential that you write it as effectively as possible. But don’t worry, Plan Zero will help you succeed with it. If you are applying for a degree that includes an interview, the personal statement will serve as a basis for you to prepare for it, because many times the questions revolve around what you have written there. This letter is your time to demonstrate why you would be a good student for your chosen course and why the university should select your application over others. This is primarily an academic statement: it should focus very directly on the area you are interested in studying, although you can also include some of your more general interests. What do universities look for in a personnel statement? They are looking for people who are committed, curious, critically thinking and eager to leave their mark. Therefore, your personal statement must show motivation, clarity of ideas and authenticity. Significant changes at UCAS starting in the 2026-2027 academic year Until now, the personal statement was a free text of up to 4,000 characters where you explained your reasons for studying a career. But as of September 2025, that will change. Starting with the application process for the 2026-2027 academic year, UCAS replaces the single text with 3 specific questions that you will have to answer separately: Each answer must be at least 350 characters long, and between the three answers you may not exceed 4,000 characters (including spaces). This new format aims to make the process clearer and more accessible, especially for those who do not have as much external help to write a long text from scratch. However, universities will read the three answers as a whole, so it is very important that you do not repeat information and that there is consistency between all your answers. How does Plan Zero help you? Although this new format makes it more direct, you will still be competing with thousands of students who want the same place as you. The difference will be the quality, clarity and authenticity of your answers. At Plan Zero we accompany you through the entire process: academic orientation, choice of universities, requirements and preparation of applications. And, of course, we help you write your personal statement so that it really stands out from the rest. Our experience allows us to hone your ideas, help you connect with what universities are looking for and make sure you make the most of this opportunity. Did you know that we have already helped more than 1,000 students study abroad? Ready to start your journey to a British university?Prepare ahead of time, and if you want to do it right, count on Plan Zero. We’re here to help you stand out.

Continue reading
chica joven sentada en el cesped de un gran parque mientras estudia. Al fondo se ve el Tower Bridge de Londres
University

Do you have a plan for the next academic year, discover opportunities abroad?

The end of the 2nd year of Bachillerato and the EVAU test mark a crucial moment for thousands of students. For some, access to university in Spain may be limited by the demanding cut-off marks. But what if the world were your campus? Study in Europe: open and accessible options Fortunately, there are universities in different countries that offer quality education with more flexible entry requirements. Right now, you can still apply to programs in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta, Germany and the Netherlands, destinations with a wide variety of degrees. In Germany, many public universities have no tuition fees, allowing students to access higher education without paying large sums. In addition, finding good and affordable accommodation is much easier than you might think. In the Netherlands, the Universities of Applied Sciences offer practical, job-oriented training, and they still have deadlines open until the end of July. It is an excellent choice for those seeking programs in business, technology, art and many other areas. High-demand careers: Medicine, Veterinary Medicine and Dentistry. If your dream is to study Medicine, Veterinary Medicine or DentistryThere are options open in the Czech Republic, Romania, Croatia, Bulgaria, Latvia and Italy. These countries offer programs recognized throughout Europe, allowing students to train in institutions with great prestige and ample opportunities. Don’t let the cut-off marks stop you: if you are really passionate about these careers, you can still achieve your goal without giving up quality training. Want to empower your future? Try a Gap Year The Gap Year is not only an option for those who have not yet decided what to study, but an experience that provides maturity, personal development and a solid level of English, qualities that are highly valued by university admissions departments around the world. This program combines English language learning, volunteering, work experience and university orientation, helping students develop key skills, gain confidence and discover new opportunities before taking the next academic step. Investing a year in professional and personal growth can make a difference in your access to an international university and in your professional future. Don’t limit your future, expand your possibilities Access to education should not depend solely on a cut-off score. Exploring international opportunities can open doors you never considered before. If you would like more information about studying abroad, deadlines and requirements, contact us – your college path may be closer than you think!

Continue reading
Useful Information

Traveling to the UK as a student: What is ETA and how does it affect you?

If you are thinking of studying in the UK or making a short stay as an international student, you have probably already heard about the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), the new system of electronic authorization to enter the country. At Plan Zero we explain in a simple way what it is, who it affects and how to manage it… without drama and with peace of mind. What is ETA? The ETA is an electronic authorization that the British government has begun to implement as part of its new border control system. It is similar to the ESTA system in the United States or the ETIAS system that will soon be implemented in Europe. From now on, citizens of certain countries who were previously able to enter the UK without a visa will need an ETA before traveling. This also includes short stays for tourism, business or short-term study. Does it affect me if I want to study in the UK? It depends. If you are going to do a short course (less than 6 months) and you do not need a visa, you will need an ETA. If you are going to study for more than 6 months, you have to apply for a Student Visa with a fee of 524 GBP. That is why it is so important to be clear about your study plan before you start any paperwork. What seems like a small detail can completely change the type of documentation you need. How to apply? The application is made online and is a relatively simple process, but like all bureaucratic procedures, it can be a headache if it is not done properly: The value of having Plan Zero by your side At Plan Zero we know that every student is unique, and so is every trip. Our personalized advice gives you peace of mind knowing that you are not leaving anything to chance. We help you understand whether you need an ETA, a visa or both, and guide you step by step so that your only worry is packing your suitcase. Moreover, in an environment of changing regulations and increasingly digitized bureaucracy, having a team that knows how to translate technicalities into concrete actions is more valuable than ever. And as always, we do it with empathy, closeness and clarity. Because it’s not just about traveling, but about living an experience that changes everything. And for that, the best way is to start well. Do you want us to review your case and advise you personally?Book a video call with Plan Zero and get ready to travel without surprises.

Continue reading
Estudiante joven y rubia, sujetando varias carpetas, mirando a cámara. Al fondo, desenfocado, se ven otros compañeros en el aula.
Useful Information

How to write a personal statement for studying in the UK (New from 2026)

Are you going to study in the UK? This is of interest to you. The first thing to remember is that your letter of motivation -also known as your personal statement– will probably be your only chance to “speak” directly to the admissions team about the program you want to study, and to convince them that you are the ideal person for the position. Therefore, it is essential that you write it as effectively as possible. But don’t worry, Plan Zero will help you succeed with it. If you are applying for a degree that includes an interview, the personal statement will serve as a basis for you to prepare for it, because many times the questions revolve around what you have written there. This letter is your time to demonstrate why you would be a good student for your chosen course and why the university should select your application over others. This is primarily an academic statement: it should focus very directly on the area you are interested in studying, although you can also include some of your more general interests. What do universities look for in a personnel statement? They are looking for people who are committed, curious, critically thinking and eager to leave their mark. Therefore, your personal statement must show motivation, clarity of ideas and authenticity. Significant changes at UCAS starting in the 2026-2027 academic year Until now, the personal statement was a free text of up to 4,000 characters where you explained your reasons for studying a career. But as of September 2025, that will change. Starting with the application process for the 2026-2027 academic year, UCAS replaces the single text with 3 specific questions that you will have to answer separately: Each answer must be at least 350 characters long, and between the three answers you may not exceed 4,000 characters (including spaces). This new format aims to make the process clearer and more accessible, especially for those who do not have as much external help to write a long text from scratch. However, universities will read the three answers as a whole, so it is very important that you do not repeat information and that there is consistency between all your answers. How does Plan Zero help you? Although this new format makes it more direct, you will still be competing with thousands of students who want the same place as you. The difference will be the quality, clarity and authenticity of your answers. At Plan Zero we accompany you through the entire process: academic orientation, choice of universities, requirements and preparation of applications. And, of course, we help you write your personal statement so that it really stands out from the rest. Our experience allows us to hone your ideas, help you connect with what universities are looking for and make sure you make the most of this opportunity. Did you know that we have already helped more than 1,000 students study abroad? Ready to start your journey to a British university?Prepare ahead of time, and if you want to do it right, count on Plan Zero. We’re here to help you stand out.

Continue reading

Request more information

Subscribe to our newsletter