From a study holiday to university: how to build a competitive CV

How can you go from a study holiday to university by building a strong CV? With the right choices, certifications and international connections can open the door to top universities and future opportunities.

When you consider a study holiday for your child, you probably think first about language progress and cultural exposure. But have you ever stopped to consider how this experience can become a genuine investment in their academic and professional future?

For young people today, international experiences are no longer a simple “extra”. They are increasingly becoming a decisive factor in CVs and university applications. That is why a well planned study holiday can act as a powerful springboard for your child’s future.

A CV that stands out: how to present an overseas experience

Among the countless CVs reviewed by universities and employers, what helps your child’s stand out? Very often, it is experiences that show initiative, open mindedness and adaptability.

For this reason, a study holiday should never appear as a generic line under “extracurricular activities”. To maximise its value, it needs to be presented with care and intention.

Avoid vague phrases such as “I attended an English course in London”. It is far more effective to specify the course level, the skills developed and any projects completed. Saying “I completed an advanced English course at C1 level at a language school in London, where I produced and presented a research project on urban sustainability entirely in English” creates a very different impression.

Encourage your child to document the experience. A digital portfolio with photos, videos or work produced during the stay can complement a traditional CV in a meaningful way.

It is also worth highlighting cultural, sporting, volunteering, or creative activities undertaken during the programme, not just the language component.

Language certifications: a passport to future opportunities

One of the most concrete benefits of many study holidays is the chance to gain internationally recognised language certifications. These qualifications carry real weight and can open important doors.

Certifications such as Cambridge English, IELTS, TOEFL or Trinity College London are recognised worldwide. Achieving them during a study holiday adds extra value, as full language exposure increases the chances of success and many overseas schools offer targeted exam preparation of a very high standard.

Why do these certifications matter so much?

• They are often required for admission to certain degree courses at Italian universities or to skip internal language tests.
• They are mandatory for almost all English speaking universities abroad.
• They make applications for exchange programmes such as Erasmus far simpler.
• They are frequently recognised by secondary schools as additional academic credits.

Before choosing a study holiday, check whether the programme includes exam preparation and whether the school is an authorised exam centre. Some courses offer combined packages with both tuition and the final exam, which can be a smart and efficient choice.

Soft skills: the unseen abilities that make the difference

“You might think it’s too early to worry about a CV at fifteen.” In reality, adolescence is exactly when transferable skills begin to take shape, and these are increasingly valued by universities and employers.

During a study holiday, your child naturally develops abilities such as cultural adaptability, learning how to move confidently within different social norms and expectations.

They also build intercultural emotional awareness, learning to recognise and respond appropriately to emotions in unfamiliar settings. Creative problem solving becomes part of everyday life, as they deal with unexpected situations far from home.

Clear communication grows too, especially when language skills are not yet perfect. So does tolerance for uncertainty, alongside independence and personal initiative.

These abilities, often referred to as 21st century skills, are exactly what selective universities look for beyond grades alone. International experience provides concrete examples your child can draw on in personal statements, interviews and assessments.

Why international experience matters in university admissions

Universities, particularly in the UK and the United States, place strong value on international experience for good reason.

Students who have already adapted to unfamiliar environments tend to show greater resilience and flexibility once at university. They also contribute to a richer academic community, bringing diverse perspectives into classrooms and discussions.

This approach is increasingly visible in Italy too, especially for international degree programmes and selective courses. Curiosity, initiative and openness to the world are qualities admissions teams actively look for, and can help a student go from a study holiday to university!

International networking: connections that last

One of the most overlooked aspects of a study holiday is the chance to begin building an international network.

Encourage your child to stay in touch with classmates from other countries through social media or professional platforms as they get older. Maintaining relationships with teachers or tutors can also be valuable, as they may later provide references or advice on study opportunities.

Over time, these connections can turn into real opportunities. They might share information about universities abroad, lead to reciprocal visits, or even support future internships and placements.

In today’s world, who you know often matters as much as what you know. An early international network is an asset that grows in value over time.

How to maximise the value of a study holiday

As a parent or educator, you can play an active role in helping your child make the most of this experience.

• Before departure, help them set clear and realistic goals, not only for language learning but also for personal growth. Encourage them to learn about the host country’s culture, history and current affairs in advance.
• During the stay, suggest keeping a reflective diary. This helps them process what they are learning and builds material they can later use in applications. Encourage participation in all activities, even those that seem outside their comfort zone.
• After returning, take time for structured reflection. Help your child articulate what they learned and how those skills apply to future study or work. Support them in documenting the experience clearly for future applications.