In the context of increasing academic interest in the internationalization of education and the international mobility of university students, this article draws on findings of a recent research project examining students from the UK as they seek higher education overseas before entering the labour market. The discussion is framed around four key themes (the importance of "second chances"; "global circuits of higher education"; "experiences of travel" and "labour market outcomes"), which address the motivations and experiences of 85 individuals who are seriously considering or have recently obtained an international degree. (Contains 1 table.)