Selecting the correct country for studying abroad is crucial as it can completely make or break the end results. Each country has its own good assistance and points, while some are challenging for certain things like budget and cultural exposure.
Are you considering studying abroad but finding it overwhelming to choose the perfect country for your educational journey? Look no further! In this article, we have carefully analyzed six countries based on six crucial criteria for studying abroad. From academic reputation and cost of living to language requirements, student safety, student life, and cultural experiences, each country excels in a specific area.
Whether you're looking for top-notch education, affordable living, language immersion, a safe environment, vibrant student life, or diverse cultural experiences, we've got you covered. Join us as we delve into these six exceptional countries, unveiling the remarkable qualities that make them ideal study destinations. Get ready to start an unforgettable experience of learning, growth, and exploration.
Selecting the right country for studying abroad is crucial as it can completely make or break the end results. Each country has its own good assistance and points, while some are challenging for certain things like budget and cultural exposure.
If you have been working on picking the country, we have previously worked on six criteria for you that could be studied for selecting the right country. This article contains the best six countries selected on the basis of those six criteria for selecting a foreign country for education.
1. United States of America
Academic Reputation: The United States of America has some of the world's best universities, including Harvard, MIT, and Stanford. Besides these, other universities also sport one of the best curriculums that also include collaborating with researchers at the international by providing chances to work with professors from different countries and institutes. You will get the best academic reputation but also a very long course of education. Bachelor's degree duration depends on the stream (Medical being one of the longest), master's is a full-time two years course, and a Ph.D. takes more than four years to a maximum of six years. Universities in the United States consistently dominate and rule the top-ranking academic list, making them the world's most esteemed and respected business, medical, and legal institutions. Among the well-known top 50 universities in the world, there are Universities that show the best research impact and employability, like Johns Hopkins University, Columbia University, and UCLA. The US education system is highly flexible, with multiple pathways for students to achieve their academic and career goals. There are many excellent universities, community colleges, vocational schools, and online learning programs available across the country. There have been many inventions and discoveries in the USA, like Telephone, Internet, Polio Vaccine, etc.
Cost of Living: The US is generally more expensive than other countries, but there are affordable options in cities like Pittsburgh and Austin. The monthly rent for a student in New York for a student ranges from $1200/month to $1800/month, which also changes according to the facilities and location. The cost is around $1000/month for one bedroom with minimal facilities. This cost is around $984 per installment/per person at Chestnut Square, Philadelphia, near Drexel University. You should write down your tuition expenses in the university, find the nearest accommodation and basic facilities needed for better and sustainable living and then calculate the budget.
Language Requirements: English is the primary language, and proficiency is required for most courses. The TOEFL and IELTS tests are accepted for entering most universities. Some universities do not ask for IELTS or TOEFL language proof, like California State University, Drexel University, and State University of New York. These universities require Duolingo and PTE, which are comparatively quite affordable and easy, and the State University of New York requires the student to undertake the Intensive English Language Program (IELP).
Student Safety: Universities prioritize student safety, and crime rates are relatively low in most areas. This is one of the major student safety factors influencing a student's stay, as the student will not be aware of the new culture, behavior, and areas.
Student Life: There are numerous opportunities for extracurricular activities and social events in the country because of the high cultural diversity in the country. American universities often have a distinct campus culture that includes traditions, clubs and organizations, and social events. Students can participate in activities such as sporting events, concerts, theater productions, and club meetings.
Cultural Experiences: The US is culturally diverse, and students can experience a wide variety of traditions and customs. The country has some of the best fests, like the Jazz And Heritage Festival, Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival, Kutztown Folk Festival, New Orleans Mardi Gras, and Groundhog Day. Apart from the festivals, the Universities have their own annual festivals like Spring Fling by Yale University – New Haven, CT, and Movin' On by Penn State – State College, PA.
2. United Kingdom
Academic Reputation: The UK has a long history of academic excellence, with universities like Oxford and Cambridge. According to the reputed Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2021, the UK has 28 universities in the top 200. Many universities have lower fees and higher education quality.
Cost of Living: The cost and budget of living can be high, but there are affordable options outside of London. There are also opportunities for scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid to help offset the costs for international students.
Language Requirements: English is the primary and prominent language of instruction in the UK, so international students are typically required to demonstrate proficiency in the language through standardized tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS.
Student Safety: The United Kingdom is generally considered safe for students, but every single student should take personal measures. There are certain numbers and contacts that one should know for a Gas emergency; one should call 0800 111 999; for a 24-hour health helpline, one should call NHS Direct at 0845 4647.
Cultural Experiences: United Kingdom being an amalgamation of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, present a culture that welcomes international students and provides the best services. In the UK, you can easily go out to attend a music concert and many festivals like Glastonbury, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and the Notting Hill Carnival.
3. Canada
Academic Reputation: The Canadian education system is known for its high-quality education and emphasis on student-centered learning. However, like any education system, it also has its unique good and bad points. The Canadian education system provides a student-centered educational experience and invests heavily in high-level research. It also offers a competitive fee structure for the students and better quality of education. While Canada offers post-graduation work permits that allow international students to work in Canada post graduation, the job market can be and is mostly competitive, and there may be limited opportunities available in certain fields or regions.
Cost of Living: The calculated cost of living in Canada for international students can change depending on the location, lifestyle, and personal preferences of the individual. However, in general, Canada is considered to be an affordable study destination compared to other popular destinations like the US, UK, and Australia. Canada is a cold-weather country and can extend the cost of living for the international students who cannot cope with the extreme cold weather conditions.
Language Requirements: In Canada, English, and French are the two official languages, and many universities and colleges require international students to demonstrate proficiency in one or both of these languages. The universities generally accept IELTS or TOEFL scores as language assessment tests.
Student Safety: Canada is generally considered a safe country for international students, with low levels of crime and a high standard of living. However, there are certain precautions that international students should take to ensure their best safety and well-being. One should keep and remember the emergency numbers in Canada for different provinces like; 1-800-272-9600 Alberta Transportation, 911 (or local police), or Canadian Coast Guard (1-800-565-1633) New Brunswick.
Cultural Experiences: Canada hosts several festivals and celebrations like Toronto International Film Festival, the Montreal Jazz Festival, and the Calgary Stampede. Canada has a diverse range of cuisine influenced by its multicultural population. From poutine in Quebec to seafood in Vancouver, there are many delicious and unique culinary experiences to enjoy. For the pure music junkies, from indie rock in Toronto to electronic music in Montreal, there is something for everyone.
4. Germany
Academic Reputation: Germany is known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation, and many German universities are world leaders in scientific research. Germany is home to several research institutions, including the Max Planck Society and the Fraunhofer Society, which conduct cutting-edge research in a variety of fields. The private universities in Germany usually cost around €24,000 - €40,000, but the public universities have zero to negligible fees and usually involve only the "semester fee" ("Semesterbeitrag") or "administrative fee" that could be around €250 or €400.
Cost of Living: The calculated cost of accommodation can vary depending much on the city and type of housing. Shared apartments or student dormitories are usually the most affordable options, with rent ranging from €300 to €600 per month. Private apartments or studios can be more expensive, with rent ranging from €500 to €1,000 per month. Health insurance is mandatory and important in Germany for all international students and can cost around €80 per month.
Language Requirements: German universities mostly use English as their primary language for teaching purposes in higher education and hence require IELTS or TOEFL tests for proficiency tests. Most universities in Germany require international students to take a German language proficiency test, such as the TestDaF or DSH. On the other side, if your degree is taught in German, you have to present a certificate of German language proficiency that should be at least at the B1 level. This certificate can be produced from a prominent institution for your Visa.
Student Safety: Although Germany is a safe nation, students should always follow certain simple safety measures. In the well-known 2020 Global Peace Index, Germany is ranked 16th out of 163 countries. The emergency number in Germany is 112, which can be dialed from nay in Germany for free.
Cultural Experiences: Germany has a rich history, with plenty of castles, museums, and historical landmarks to explore. Some must-see destinations include the Brandenburg Gate, Neuschwanstein Castle, and the Berlin Wall. One of the major festivals in Germany includes Oktoberfest, the Karneval in Cologne, and the Christmas markets. German cuisine is hearty and delicious, with plenty of traditional dishes to try, such as schnitzel, sauerkraut, and pretzels. Some of the well-known festivals include Bayreuth Festival, the Berlin International Film Festival, and the Wacken Open Air heavy metal festival.
5. Australia
Academic Reputation: Australian education is considered academically of higher quality and experience based. Additionally, the country is also considered expensive in regard to its tuition fees and other academic charges.
Cost of Living: Accommodation costs can vary depending on the location and type of required accommodation, but generally, rent in Australia is expensive. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in Sydney can cost around AUD 2,000 per month, while a shared room in a student dormitory may cost around AUD 500 per month. Healthcare in Australia for international students is of a high standard, but it can be expensive. International students are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover, which can cost around AUD 500-700 per year. Public transportation in Australia can be expensive, with a one-way ticket on the train or bus costing around AUD 4-5. However, students can save money by purchasing a student concession card, which provides discounted fares.
Language Requirements: The language requirements may vary depending on the preferred level of study and the university or institution that the student is applying to. Generally accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Cambridge English tests like the Certificate of Advanced English (CAE).
Student Safety: According to studies by Wisevoter, Australia has a GPI of 1.57, ranking it as the 27th safest nation in the world. Australia is ranked 80th out of 142 nations in the Crime Index, as determined and published by Numbeo. Australia is placed eighth in terms of quality of life, ahead of Canada. Australian emergency number is 000, and for 27/7 healthcare assistance, one can call 1800 022 222.
Cultural Experiences: With more than 10,000 beaches, Australia is known for its beach culture. Students can enjoy surfing, swimming, or just relaxing on the beach. Australia has a diverse culinary scene, with influences from around the world. Students can try traditional Australian foods like meat pies, Vegemite, and lamingtons, as well as international cuisine. The country also hosts and organises some of the most awaited biggest festivals and celebrations like Adelaide Fringe, Melbourne International Comedy Festival, and National Multicultural Festival.
6. Japan
Academic Reputation: Even by international standards, Japanese education is of a high standard. Japanese students scored highly in the OECD's Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), which is aimed at fifteen-year-olds, notably in subjects connected to science. International recognition prevails for the quality of Japanese institutions and higher education. The University of Tokyo is rated 23rd, and Kyoto University is ranked 36th in the 2023 THES - QS World University Rankings, including other 50 Japanese universities.
Cost of Living: Renting an apartment in a major city can be expensive, with prices varying depending on the size, student's need and location of the apartment. A typical one-bedroom apartment in Tokyo can cost around 100,000 to 150,000 yen (around $900 to $1,350 USD) per month. The cost of important utilities such as electricity, gas, and water can change depending on the size of the apartment and usage. The average monthly cost for these utilities can range from 10,000 to 20,000 yen (around $90 to $180 USD). Compared to the studied cost of living in the United States, the cost in Japan is 17.7% cheaper on average. The average rent in Japan is 58.1% less than it is in the US.
Language Requirements: Most universities in Japan require international students to demonstrate proficiency in Japanese or English, depending on the chosen language of instruction for the concerned program student is applying to. One of the tests that Japanese universities accept includes the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) and English language proficiency.
Student Safety: For international students, Japan is regarded as a safe place. Japan has rigorous rules and regulations that contribute to the country's low crime rate and serve to maintain a secure environment. The police emergency number of Japan is 110 and 119 for fire or ambulance.
Cultural Experiences: There are cultural traditions in Japan that have endured the test of time & influenced the country's traditional features. You can practice the tea ceremony (sado), calligraphy (shodo), ikebana (flower arrangement), origami (the art of folding), taiko (drums), kimono, and many other arts at a variety of locations. Japan has a variety of festivals and celebrations throughout the year, such as cherry blossom festivals, summer fireworks festivals, and traditional festivals like the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto. International students can participate in these celebrations and experience the lively and festive atmosphere. Other festivals include Obon Festival, Sapporo Snow Festival, and Sanja Matsuri.
THE FINAL SELECTION
This might get you slightly overwhelmed, but it's just part of the process. If you have at least figured out your top two preferences, you are quite close to selecting the right country. This one right decision can change your future, your income, and life your life with the best standards.
The above-mentioned countries have their own benefits and downsides, and the students have their own preferences for living and spending. Some students have a higher budget and are looking for a much higher cultural experience, and some have a moderate budget and prefer the best academic reputation. There could be many preferences, and one should be honest with selecting the budget and other things.
