With 195 countries in the world, choosing where to study might be difficult, so we have created our top ten of best countries to study abroad. We will take you on a trip around the world to compare the perks of studying in different countries. We know that relocating to a foreign country is not an easy choice, but with this list 10 Best Countries to Study Abroad for International Students it will be easier.

Benefits of Studying Abroad

Before we dig into the best countries to study abroad, let’s talk about the pros. We all have friends who always talk  about the benefits associated with studying and living in a foreign country. Now, these talks are backed by data.

The Institute for International Education of Students (IES) conducted a survey to better understand the long-term impact of studying in a foreign country. 95% of the respondents thought studying abroad increased their maturity, 96% reported increased self-confidence, and 95% said it had a lasting impact on their worldview.

Furthermore, as shown by the Erasmus program, living abroad can be a life-changing decision for your private life. Launched in 1987, the Erasmus program focuses on providing learning and training opportunities to EU students among the European Union.

According to a study conducted by the European Commission:  ”Former Erasmus students are more likely to have transnational relationships: 33% of former Erasmus students have a partner of a different nationality, compared with 13% of those who stay home during their studies; 27% of Erasmus students meet their long-term partner while on Erasmus. On this basis, the Commission estimated in 2014 that around one million babies are likely to have been born to Erasmus couples since 1987.” 

Last but not least, studying in a foreign country will increase your chances to be employed. Recruiters and executives are looking for candidates who know foreign languages and can create meaningful connections with people from different backgrounds. All skills that you will master after an experience abroad.

To sum up, studying abroad will change your professional and personal life. Are you ready to discover which country will be your new home?

10 Best Countries to Study Abroad for International Students

The UK

This country hosts some of the most prestigious universities in the world. Oxford, The London School of Economics, and Cambridge rank consistently in the top ten of every ranking. Additionally, London is a truly cosmopolitan and diverse city, home to people coming from more than 270 nationalities and speaking over 300 languages. If London seems too chaotic and expensive for you, you can opt for smaller cities. Brighton, Manchester, Edinburgh or Glasgow are all viable options to further your education in an international environment. However, Brexit is already jeopardizing the international vibe of the country.

Germany

Germany might be a more suitable choice for international students looking for excellent academic opportunities while living right in the center of Europe. Berlin and Hamburg are famous for being cultural centers where everything happens. Moreover, university tuition fees are for free (or almost free), making it one of the favorite places for international students. On top of this, Germany has one of the lowest employment rates within the European Union, with only 4.5% of the working population unemployed. The only thing that you will miss in Germany is the sun.

Spain

Of course, we had to include Spain in our list of 10 Best Countries to Study Abroad for International Students. We we might play favoritism, as our campus is located in Barcelona, but we truly think Spain is one of the best countries in the world. The culture, welcoming hospitality and weather are just a few reasons students and expats choose Spain as their new home. Additionally, there are other perks of living in Spain. If you are an innovation lover, you will find the perfect environment in Madrid. With 1.235 start-ups, the city ranked 5th as top European Innovation Hubs. However, if you want to launch your career while living your best life, then Barcelona is your place. The city ranked 8th in the study “2021 World’s best cities” and placed as the 3rd best start-up Hub in Europe in a survey taken by founders. 

Canada

There is a reason if Canada consistently ranks among the best countries to live abroad for international students. Its universities are famous all over the world for the quality of the education they provide. Moreover, Canada is a welcoming country for immigrants that prides itself on its cultural diversity. Consider that 1 out of 5 people in Canada’s population is foreign-born. Another point particularly appreciated by international students is the possibility to live their experience abroad in close contact with nature.

South Korea

Literally on the other side of the world from Canada, there is South Korea. One of the top destinations for international students. As reported by Statista “in 2020, there were approximately 154 thousand foreign students studying in higher education institutions in South Korea, down from about 160 thousand in the previous year. Undergraduate programs were the most popular study program among foreign students in South Korean higher education institutes.” South Korea is so popular among international students because of its high quality of life and the opportunity to socialize with people from different backgrounds.

New Zealand

These small groups of islands in the Pacific Ocean are what gets closest to paradise. You have seen its stunning landscapes in movies like the ‘Lord of The Rings’. Plus, one of its major cities, Auckland, has been named the world’s most liveable city in 2021. New Zealand’ secret to success is its thriving economy and outstanding job in controlling Covid-19. Its Prime Minister, Jacinda Arden, is an example of modern leadership and women empowerment. Another reason to move to New Zealand is the quality of higher education: all the eight universities featured in the QS World University Rankings® 2019.

Mexico

Our list of 10 Best Countries to Study Abroad for International Students wouldn’t be complete without putting at least one Latin American country in our list. If you opt to relocate on the other side of the Atlantic, we recommend you choose Mexico. The country prides itself on providing high-quality education in a stunning environment. The Ciudad Universitaria (University City) of Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) is a UNESCO World Heritage site and figures in the top 100 universities in the world . Moreover, the rich cultural tradition and cuisine will conquer your heart. Imagine what it would be to have the opportunity to spend Halloween -or el día de los muertos- in Mexico!

South Africa 

As we have explained in our blog post The Future of Africa: Sustainable Development and Innovation, the African continent has seen a stark improvement concerning its economic growth. In particular, South Africa is leading the Fourth Industrial Revolution with 59 tech hubs in the country. On top of this, Cape Town, Pretoria and Johannesburg host some of the Top Universities In Africa. With all this information in mind, it’s not difficult to understand why studying in South Africa could be a smart choice for those students interested in living a different experience.

Singapore

The country is a source of inspiration for nations all over the world. As we have shown in our article ‘Smart Cities: Using Technology for Sustainable Development’ the country is an innovation lab, where pioneering smart and sustainable cities become reality. Apart from that, Singapore is also known for being particularly welcoming to international students and expats. Forget the days in which you struggle to communicate and interact with locals, in Singapore, English is spoken by 75% of the population. Furthermore, as in the case of other countries in our list of 10 Best Countries to Study Abroad for International Students diversity here is highly appreciated and encouraged. 

Japan

The country is a must-go destination for every international student with a passion for the STEM field. Japan is at the forefront of the technological revolution. Imagine that digitization is a top priority for the economic development of the country. However, if you are not particularly passionate about technology, you will find other reasons to study there. Go Overseas awarded Japan with the first place in its list of the 10 most popular places to study abroad. They cite culture, food, innovation and reputation for hospitality as the main reasons. 

And the winner is….

In this list, we have tried to be as much inclusive as possible, so you won’t have problems finding a country that best suits your interest and aspirations. We have taken you on a journey all around the globe, checking how education and life are for international students.

We might be biased, but for us, Spain remains the best country to study abroad for international students. It will allow you to launch your career in a truly international environment while enjoying a Mediterranean climate. Additionally, over the years, Spain has become an important innovation hub, where your ideas can become a reality.

Last but not least, Spanish people are renowned for their welcoming attitude to foreigners. This will make it easier for you to consider the Iberian country your new home. If you agree with us, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at [email protected]  Together we will work to change your professional future.