The Structure of a Compare and Contrast Essay.

 In a compare and contrast essay students have to compare and contrast two objects, problems or events
and evaluate their similarities and differences.
 If the thesis statement mentions similarities first, then the first body paragraph must explain the
similarities.
 Likewise, if the thesis statement mentions the differences first, then the first body paragraph must
explain the differences.

The following example is an outline for a compare and contrast essay about studying abroad and studying
locally.
Thesis statement:
Although there are similarities between studying abroad and studying locally, studying abroad also differs from
studying locally.

1st body para: similarities

There are many similarities. First, studying in university abroad and studying in university locally are both
places of higher learning.
For example, /instance …
Next………………. In addition, /Besides/Another similarity is ……………….
1. Places of higher education – learn/expose a lot of new things and ideas, increase your knowledge, enhance
your language skills, learn to do research.
2. Require a standardized education for entrance –need to fulfill basic requirements and conditions
3. Require the same number of credit hours
4. Meet, know and make new friends or lifelong friends
5. must study hard to pass their exam
6. Both have to use the internet to search and complete projects.
7. Students can choose the subject which they want to study.

2nd body para: differences

In spite of the similarities, there are some differences between studying abroad and studying locally.
Firstly, studying abroad……. Secondly………. Thirdly……….
1. learn to live independently/ live on your own –do your own washing and cleaning, cook your own food, take
care of your studies and results
2. higher cost/more expensive – tuition fees, accommodation, food and transport
3. conducive environment to learn a new language – hone your language skills –day to day practice
4. see the world from new perspectives
5. expose to different styles of education – new experience and understand the people, its traditions, and its culture
6. study abroad will get certificate which it is better for them to work anywhere
7. feel homesick – miss family and friends/can’t get to see family and friends at all time.
 Studying Abroad or Studying Locally

Everyone wants to have a good career and they believe that if they have a good education, they can find a perfect
job. Thus, education is very important for a person’s future career. For this reason, many students want to get the best
education that they can. Nowadays, studying abroad is also an option for many students. Although there are
similarities between studying abroad and studying locally, studying abroad also differs from studying locally.

Studying abroad and studying locally are similar to each other in some aspects. First, your time at school
or university is the time that you make lifelong friendships. Whether you are abroad or in your own country, you will
have an opportunity to make friends. Second, not only education abroad, but also local education is standardized. For
instance, a student has to reach a level of standardized education to be accepted by a university abroad. Likewise, a
student in his own country has to pass a standardized university exam, so the student has to reach a certain level of
education.

In spite of the similarities, there are some differences between studying abroad and studying locally. Firstly,
studying abroad and studying locally differ greatly in cost. For example, the cost of tuition in many countries is many
times higher than in Turkey. Moreover, the day to day cost of living in foreign countries, especially in big cities where
most good schools and universities are located, is much more expensive than when you study in a local university.
Secondly, educational and social facilities are better in foreign countries. Educational and social facilities, such as
laboratories, computer laboratories, libraries, studios and theatres can be found in almost every educational institution
abroad.

In conclusion, there are both some similarities, such as friendships and standardized education and
differences, such as cost and educational and social facilities between studying abroad and studying locally.
Studying abroad has become very popular recently. However, it is only one choice among many for students. Students
should consider all the possibilities before making their decision.