A question that anyone thinking of applying for a master's degree, particularly in a different country, is likely to ask themselves is, "what am I going to get out of this?"

Studying a master's degree abroad can be an expensive business, and from beginning your research into programs and institutions to completing the degree itself, it can take up a significant portion of your life.

So what difference will a master's degree really make to you? What guarantee do you have that your personal investment of time and finances will pay off? And can you measure your return on investment?

Of course, the answers to all of these questions are not straightforward. Each graduate, even if studying the same modules and courses at the same university, is very different. We all have different skills, experiences and personalities and react differently to whatever environment we are in. It's very often these qualities that have the most impact on our ability to secure the best jobs and really make the most of the opportunities that we are presented with.

However, there are some clear and measurable benefits from studying an advanced degree for the majority of those who go through the experience: