The present article offers a review of the existing literature on L2 gains arising from participation in a study abroad (SA) experience. The purpose of this article is (1) to provide a general overview of research findings on the influence of time abroad on L2 development and (2) to identify the areas which need further research within the SA literature. This article provides an update on Llanes' (2011. The many faces of study abroad: an update on the research on L2 gains emerged during a study abroad experience. "International Journal of Multilingualism" 8, no. 3: 189-215) state-of-the-art article, focusing on studies published between 2011 and the beginning of 2018. We identify the following as important areas for future research: age of participants, duration of SA programmes, learning contexts and social networks.