Considering new study abroad destinations

Students will have to weigh up many factors when researching university options. For those who are willing to take a leap into new areas, here are some destinations that offer English-speaking bachelor programmes beyond the top three international student destinations of the US, UK and Canada. 

The benefits of completing a degree in these different locations includes a deep understanding of a new culture and potentially additional language fluency that will raise your profile for future employment as well as impact your personal growth as a global citizen. 

Students with strong academic profiles may also have more competitive advantage by standing out in a smaller pool of international applicants.

International students usually follow application requirements based on their high school diploma, rather than needing to take the national entrance exams of the university country. Additional testing such as SAT or English testing may be required for general admission, or specific scholarships.

East Asia and Oceania

The following four destinations offer not only amazing cultural experiences but tuition is lower compared to the US or UK. However, the cost of living may be high. 

Most universities in Japan offer English-taught bachelor degrees. There are often several admission rounds for international students and programmes may start in August/September or April (the typical start of the academic year). Students can apply directly to universities and will also need to apply for a visa to attend. Tuition fee costs for one year are usually around USD$5,000. 

Click here for more information on applying to university in Japan

Universities in Hong Kong have a global reputation for research. Universities are interested in encouraging international student enrolment, especially from countries underrepresented on their campuses. This may mean generous scholarships for academically strong students. The academic year usually begins in September. 

Click here for more information on applying to university in Hong Kong 

In South Korea, there are fewer but excellent options for studying in English. Underwood International College at Yonsei University and SUNY Korea are examples of international programmes designed to build global leadership skills for international and Korean students. As in Japan, it may be possible to start in the Spring (April) or Autumn (September) term.

Click here for more information on applying to university in South Korea

Universities in New Zealand offer welcoming and safe campuses. The eight public universities usually admit students for February (semester one) or July entry. Most universities will outline minimum grade/score expectations required for entry. One-year foundation courses are available for students who need to improve their English level or are missing other entry requirements.

Click here for more information on applying to university in New Zealand

Europe

Looking outside of the top European country destinations for international students will offer more choice and potentially lower tuition fees and lower cost of living. In the following countries, there are good public and private university options. Medical school for international students is also a possibility.

Czechia is an up and coming destination for international students. In Prague alone there are at least six public universities and two American curriculum universities offering English programmes. Programmes taught in Czech are free, however tuition is low for English-taught ones. The overall cost of living will also be quite reasonable compared to other European destinations. 

Students can apply online directly to each university.

Click here for more information on applying to university in Czech Republic

In Hungary, University of Pècs offers a range of bachelors degrees in English. The government offers a generous scholarship for students from specific countries, which includes tuition, partial living expenses and medical insurance. The overall cost of living in Pécs is low compared to many other European cities.

Click here for more information on applying to university in Hungary

In Spain, there are a number of private and public universities offering English-taught bachelor degrees. In addition to private universities such as IE University and Universidad de Navarra there are more options in public universities, business schools and art schools. In Spain there is usually a process called homologation to officially validate your high school diploma or leaving exam certificate.

Click here for more information on applying to university in Spain

Italy is another European destination to consider. There are a number of private and public universities that teach programmes in English including Bocconi University and Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore. Some programmes may ask you to take an entrance exam, which can sometimes be replaced by an SAT or ACT score.

Click here for more information on applying to university in Italy

When looking at new destinations, be sure to carefully research entry requirements, timing of applications and when the academic year begins. Your high school counsellor or teacher may not be familiar with some of these university systems so devote extra time to research and discuss your plans. 

You can use the THE World University Rankings to explore the universities in your chosen destination and find the best fit for you. 

Also consider additional travel costs or limited ability to travel home often.