This study examined the perceived challenges and motivators to studying abroad for university students who had not previously studied abroad. Additionally, this study investigated the experienced challenges and benefits to studying abroad for university students who had previously studied abroad. Results indicated that “lack of interest,”“lack of knowledge of opportunities,”“being too far away from family,” and “course requirements of existing curriculum” were significant perceived challenges, while “overall life experience”,“personal development”,“opportunity to live in a foreign country”, and “support of academic advisor” were significant perceived motivators for participants with no study abroad experience.“Finances” and “language” were the biggest challenges, while “opportunity to live in a foreign country” and “personal development” were the main benefits experienced for those who had studied abroad. Group comparisons on gender, class year, and length of study abroad trip were also examined. Implications and recommendations for educators and study abroad organizers are discussed.