Abstract:
This paper explores expectations and outcomes for outbound students in Sweden, comparing their
expectations with what they actually experienced. Based on an initial sample of 143 students 57
answered both surveys, before and after having the experience of studying abroad. The aim is to
investigate to what extent the expectations of outbound exchange students are being met in a
population of students who had temporarily studied abroad. In this study, Umeå University, Sweden, is used as a case. This study highlights what incentives students have to become exchange students and most importantly, how they value this experience. The respondents had positive expectations before departing as exchange students and they returned with even more positive attitudes.
