Studying abroad can be a life-changing opportunity for several international students. As an international student studying abroad, you get to see the world from a whole different perspective, you gain access to qualitative education, you explore and adapt to new cultures and as well as several career opportunities.
As an international student, studying abroad can sometimes be a daunting challenge. Statistics generally indicate that; rigorous admission processes, language barriers, high cost of living and culture shock have all been instrumental to the challenges International students face across the globe. Notwithstanding these challenges, we have curated the best countries to study as international students.
List of 15 Best Countries to Study Abroad
If you study abroad in any of the countries listed above, you get to explore new cultures and learn in the best universities around the world from any of these countries.
1. Poland
Officially known as the Republic of Poland, situated in central Europe. Poland is one of the best countries to consider when applying for international studies. Holding a foothold as one of the most economically developed countries in Eastern Europe, according to Wikipedia, Poland boasts an adult literacy rate of 98.74%.
Thus, the standard of education in the Republic of Poland is at an all-time high. Studying in Poland is relatively cheap compared to the rest of Europe. As reported by the Masters portal, For a Bachelor’s degree, tuition fees range from 500EUR-6000EUR and 1000EUR-8000EUR for a Master’s degree.
Although the official language of the Republic of Poland is Polish, 30% of the Polish population speaks English fluently. Most Schools in Poland teach in the Polish language. However, a few universities such as the University of Warsaw, Adam Mickiewicz University, and the Gdansk University of Technology amongst others use English as a medium of communication.
An additional benefit you get as an international student studying in Poland is that you can work with your student visa without applying for a work permit. The weather in Poland is quite favourable, January and February account for the coldest months of the year. So, don’t forget to grab your winter jacket when migrating to Poland.
2. Austria
Home to ancient Architecture, Castles and Cathedrals. The Republic of Austria is a landlocked country in the southern part of Central Europe, located in the Eastern Alps. According to the United Nations Development Program, Austria sits comfortably in the 25th position in the world education index.
Austria is the number one destination for international students this is due to its relatively cheap educational system compared to other destinations in Europe. This is no surprise as the literacy rate in Austria is about 99.00% as reported by Wikipedia. As an international student, the cost of education varies from one study program to another. However, according to the Master’s portal, the cost of studying in Austria ranges from 3000EUR to 23,000EUR per academic year.
Additionally, the cost of living for an average student in Austria is relatively cheap. For an average student, you are expected to spend at least 950EUR per month. Although, this varies from location to location. Furthermore, language should not be a barrier when considering migrating to Austria for education. In Austria, as stated on Wikipedia, about 73% of the population speaks English fluently. In the educational system, the majority of degree programs are taught in German. Subsequently, German is used as a means of communicating with students. However, some degrees are also offered in English.
It is important to note that the Austrian government is very receptive to international students. As an international student, the Austrian government allows you to work and start a business after you complete your degree. You can extend your residence permit for a maximum of 12 months. This applies to graduates of Bachelor’s, master and PhD programs.
3. Denmark
Denmark is one of the countries to look into when seeking to study abroad. Currently ranked 12th on the world education ranking. The Kingdom of Denmark as it is officially called, houses cosmopolitan, well-educated and open-minded people. Denmark is known for its high-quality designs and architecture.
As an international student, seeking education in Denmark could be the best decision you would make educational-wise. Currently, As reported by Wikipedia, Denmark boast of a 99.00% education literacy amongst its citizens. This is very evident in the standards of education in Denmark.
The Danish language which is the official language of Denmark serves as the primary mode of communication. However, language should not pose a threat to international students as about 86% of Danish citizens speak English fluently.
Primarily, the Danish Language is used to teach across several schools in the country. However several degrees are taught in English. Just as the Master’s portal reports, the average cost international students pay for tuition is about 6000EUR to 16000EUR per academic year. Additionally, international students need about 800EUR to 1200EUR to survive per month. Although, this is just a rough estimate. In Denmark, you’re allowed to work with your student visa. However, you can’t work more than 4 hours per day. Breaking this rule would result in problems with the Danish Immigration services when renewing your visa. Upon completion of your degree, the Danish authorities allow you to remain in Denmark for about six months, allowing you to seek employment in Denmark.
4. Norway
Seeking no tuition fee? Look no further, Norway to the rescue. The Kingdom of Norway is home to phenomenal Fjords, lakes and magical skies. Boast of free education to all her citizens and international students. For a relatively small country like Norway, you can expect to experience the best education as the standard of education is pretty high in Norway. A large number of degree programs are taught in English in contrast to several countries that teach in their native language. Officially, the acceptable medium of communication in Norway is the Norwegian language. Fret not, as reported by Wikipedia, 90% of Norwegians speak fluent English. Asides from free education, you can travel to 26 countries in Europe, thanks to your Norwegian student visa under the Schengen agreement.
However, schooling in Norway can come with a minor problem. Various statistics generally indicate that the high cost of living is a major issue international students face while schooling in Norway. For instance, as reported by the Master’s portal, an average student has to spend about 1000EUR to 1500EUR per month. However, This varies from location to location.
Generally, a student visa automatically permits them to work part-time. Students are usually allowed to work 20 hours per week during their first year of study. Additionally, you can stay in Norway for up to a year after graduation. In terms of weather, the weather is not exactly friendly. In winter, the temperature drops to sub-zero level and snow cover much of the country. So, remember to stock up for winter.
5. Sweden
The Kingdom of Sweden is another great country to study. Currently situated in Eastern Europe, Sweden is a force to reckon with In terms of education. As claimed by Wikipedia, with a literacy rate of about 99.00% you can expect to get the best out of studying in Sweden.
With flexible government policies, international students are allowed to work and earn in Sweden. The official language spoken in Sweden is known as Swedish. However, most Swedes have advanced English skills. According to Wikipedia, 80% of the Swedish population speaks English which means you can communicate and socialize with ease.
Tuition fees in Sweden are relatively high. As claimed by the Master portal, an international student can expect to spend about 7500 EUR to 25500 EUR depending on the university and course of study. Upon completion of your degree, the Swedish government allows you to apply for a post-study visa that is valid for 12 months. This means that you can conveniently job hunt after your education in Sweden.
6. The Netherlands
The Netherlands, as it is fondly called, is situated in North-western Europe and ranked the 7th best country in terms of education, studying in the Netherlands can be a stepping stone for many international students. As stated on Wikipedia, 90 to 94% of Netherlands citizens speak English. This translates to easier means of communication for international students.
Additionally, the Dutch environment and people are friendly towards foreign students. Studying in the Netherlands can be relatively cheap in contrast to other English-speaking countries like the United States and the United Kingdom. As reported on the Master portal, as an international student, you’re expected to pay about 6000EUR to 15000 EUR per year for Tuition. However, this varies among programs and schools. Many programs in the Netherlands are taught in English so, the language barrier shouldn’t be a problem. Furthermore, you can work with your student visa. However, there are certain restrictions. You’re only allowed to work a maximum of 16 hours a week. Full-time jobs are only allowed during June, July and August(seasonal labour).
7. Spain
With her rich culture and lifestyle, home to several popular tourist attractions and famous football clubs. The Kingdom of Spain is a preferred destination for international students. Per Wikipedia, Over 60,000 international students select Spain as their preferred country to study every year.
As reported on Wikipedia, with a literacy rate of 98.44%, The Kingdom of Spain boasts of the best educational attraction in Europe. The official language spoken in Spain is Known as Spanish. However a little over 25% of Spaniards speak English as reported by Wikipedia. Hence, Most degrees are taught in Spanish. A few universities such as the University of Barcelona, Autonomous University of Madrid, and the Autonomous University of Barcelona offer degrees in the English Language.
Studying in Spain is quite modest for an international student. Master’s Portal suggests that an international student is expected to pay at least 150EUR to 3500EUR per year for a Bachelor’s program and 300EUR to 3500EUR for a Master’s degree program.
Living in Spain is quite cheap. For an average student, you’re expected to spend at least 900EUR to 1100EUR. As reported by the Master’s portal. Living in Madrid or Barcelona can quite be expensive as these are the most expensive Spanish cities to live in. If you are okay with exploring a new language and culture, Spain is the best pick for you.
8. Germany
The Federal Republic of Germany is another great destination to study. Studying in Germany is free for international students as Public Universities in Germany do not charge tuition except if you plan to study for a Master’s degree that focuses on a different course than the one you studied as a Bachelor’s student. Recent research suggests that 56% of the German population speaks English. This might pose a slight threat as most schools in Germany teach in German. However, some schools offer degrees in the English language. The cost of living in Germany is relatively low compared to other European countries. According to the Master’s portal, an international student can spend an average of 700EUR to 1000EUR per month. This however varies from location to location
9. France
The French-speaking country is another popular destination for international students. The high quality of education, low tuition fees, and high standard of living have been a catalyst for the high influx of international students in France. Learning French would come in handy for international students as only 39% of the French Population speaks English as reported by Wikipedia.
However, several schools in France offer degrees in the English Language. Schooling in France is relatively low. For an international student, Master Portal suggests that the average tuition range from 2000EUR to 5000EUR. Additionally, Living in France can be quite pricey. On average it cost about 700EUR to 1400EUR to live in France per month as reported by the Master’s portal. Another perk of studying in France is that you can combine working and studying as your student visa allows you to work in France. However, you’re only allowed to work 20 hours per week.
10. New Zealand
Applying for a student visa in New Zealand is quite easy. New Zealand is another preferred destination for schooling in Europe. Situated in the Oceanic. New Zealand houses about 5 million friendly and welcoming citizens of whom 99% are literate as reported by Wikipedia.
Schooling in New Zealand is quite cheap. According to the Master’s Portal International students are expected to spend at least 4000EUR to 10500EUR per academic year. This is not exactly cheap but it is better than schooling in the United States or the United Kingdom. In New Zealand, living costs for international students range from 800 EUR to 1300 EUR per month. Weather is relatively cold in New Zealand as the oceanic region is notable for its cold temperature.
11. China
Yes, China. The People’s Republic of China is fast becoming a popular destination for international students. As the world’s most populous country, it houses several of the best universities in the world. Schooling in China enables you to explore a fascinating culture and learn the Chinese language. Officially, the language spoken in China is known as Mandarin.
To be on the safe side, it is important to learn the Mandarin language as only 1% of the Chinese population speaks English as reported by Wikipedia. Studying in Chinese can be high for International students but for students that want to catch up on the ever-changing technology in the world, China is the best fit. Per the Master portal, Schooling in China can cost an international student about 5000 EUR to 15000 EUR per year. Another perk of studying in China is that you get to work part-time Jobs and also apply for internships.
12. The United Kingdom
Over the years, the United Kingdom has been home to several international students. According to Wikipedia, Over 300,000 international students apply for education in the United Kingdom every Year. With her rich cultural heritage, beautiful and serene environment, and top-notch education, it is no surprise that several students apply to study in the United Kingdom.
Studying in the United Kingdom comes with its perks. The United Kingdom has a long history of housing the best schools across the Globe. The official language of the United Kingdom is English. Thus, communication and socializing aren’t supposed to be a barrier when considering the United Kingdom.
Living in the UK is modest. International students spend an average of about 750GBP to 1700GBP per month as reported by the Master’s Portal. However, this is a bit high in contrast to other European Countries. Schooling in the UK for international students is quite high. Tuition fees range from about 5000GBP to 17000GBP per year according to the Master portal.
13. The United States
Home to hippy cultures and a boiling point of different nationalities. The United States of America is one of the top destinations for international studies. According to research, about 1.1 million international students applied for international studies in the United States in 2019 and 2020. one of the greatest perks of studying in the United States is getting open to international exposure and diverse culture.
The official language spoken in the US is English. However, being the home to diverse ethnic and cultures, you can expect to come across several other languages. The Cost of tuition in the United States is relatively high. For an undergraduate program, as reported by the Master portal you can expect to pay about 20000 USD to 40000 USD per year.
For a Master’s degree or Graduate degree as it is usually called in the US, you can pay a whooping sum of 20000 USD to 45000 USD per Year. Living in big cities in the United States can result in a higher cost of living. On average, it cost about 900 USD to 1500 USD to survive per month. Usually, you can always work with your student visa. However, this is restricted to about 20 hours per week. Additionally, after graduation, you are allowed to remain in the United States for a period of 60days.
14. Canada
The Dominion of Canada popularly known for its diverse culture, open-minded citizens and serene environment is fast becoming a household name among international students. Canada is a force to reckon with In terms of education. In the year 2020 Canada reportedly admitted over 545,000 international students from different countries. With a literacy rate of about 99.00% as stated on Wikipedia, you can expect to get the best out of studying in Canada.
English and French is the official language spoken in Canada. According to Wikipedia, 75% of Canadians speak English while another 22.8% speak the French language. The cost of living in Canada is quite considerable. As an international student, living in Canada can cost you about 700CAD to about 1300CAD per month as reported by the Master’s portal.
15. Italy
The beautiful south-central European country is fast becoming a favourite amongst international students wishing to study abroad. For an international student, studying in Italy would be a life-changing opportunity as Italy is home to several of the best schools in Europe.
As reported by the World population review, Italy was ranked 14th in terms of education standards across the globe. In Italy, tuition fees are relatively cheap for international students. As reported by Top universities, an international student is required to pay at least 900 EUR to 4000 EUR per year.
Living in Italy is quite modest in a contrast with several other European countries. According to the Master’s portal, it cost between 700EUR to 1000EUR to survive per month in Italy. The freedom of international students to work is another prerequisite to studying in Italy.
As an International student, you’re allowed to work 20 hours per week. However, studying in Italy might quite be a daunting challenge when it comes to the language spoken. For an international student, it is advised to learn the Italian language. Based on Daily orange, it is argued that a meagre 29% of the Italian population speaks English.
Conclusion
There, you have it, 15 best study abroad locations for international students. It is sure you will have the best experience of studying abroad if you make your pick from this list, not only will you have access to learning in a conducive environment with outstanding lecturers, you will be exposed to different cultures and beautiful serene locations. Also, all the above study locations have prestigious universities that offer Fully-funded and Partial scholarships.