What is the best international study destination right now? Where do you have the best chance of getting a world-class education, enjoying amazing life-changing experience, and getting a great job at the end of it all?
The world has changed significantly in the past few years, and so have the opportunities for globe-trotting students. We look at the pros and cons of the most popular study spots around the world in this article.
What makes a great study location?
A recent survey by international education marketing expert Rob Lawrence looked at the key factors affecting student decisions.
When choosing a country to study in, 38% said affordable costs were most important. 33% looked at opportunities to work there after graduation, 25% needed a degree that would be recognised around the world, and 23% were concerned about education quality.
These factors are also reflected in the decisions made about the institution (where ranking, reputation, and city location makes a difference) and type of course (personal interest, job opportunities, salary and affordability).
Many students also wanted to be able to work part-time while studying, so they could at least cover their cost of living or accommodation costs.
So, how do our favourite education destinations measure up on these criteria?
USA
The world’s favourite study destination for a long time, the USA has been severely impacted by the financial crisis.
Pros: More top universities than any other country (57 of the top 200 according to the 2009 Times Higher Education Supplement ranking), universally recognised for quality education, innovation and creativity.
Cons: Visa restrictions on part-time work and post-study work – to stay, you need sponsorship once you graduate, and part-time work is usually restricted to low-paying on-campus roles. Plus work can be harder to come by, with so many more unemployed Americans.
UK
Always a runner-up to the US, the UK has a long history of quality university education and is a great place to learn English and immerse yourself in British history and culture.
Pros: The pound is much weaker now, so even London is a great value destination for work and study. Smaller cities, such as Manchester or Sheffield, are affordable and have a vibrant student culture. Close connections to tourist attractions and other European cities by train or cheap planes. The new Post-Study work permit allows you to work for up to 24 months after graduation.
Cons: The UK employment market has also been severely affected by the global recession, especially in certain industries such as finance. And should we mention the weather? Cold, wet and grey for much of the year.
Australia
Australia has taken a hit this year over student safety issues, but it still offers students a quality education and a relaxed lifestyle that’s hard to beat.
Pros: While you’re studying, take some time out to explore the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, and an abundance of rainforests, national parks and beaches. Cost of living varies widely between regions, with Adelaide ranking as one of the most affordable student cities in the world. Australian degrees are recognised around the world, and the permanent residency visa points system favours recent international graduates. Plus, despite all the recent news stories, Australia is still one of the safest countries to live and study in.
Cons: It’s very far away, which can make it more expensive to get to, and also enormous, which can make it expensive to travel around. There is no automatic right to work after graduation, and you will need to factor private health insurance into your costs.
New Zealand
Just across the Tasman Sea, New Zealand packs a small but mighty punch in the education sector.
Pros: If you specialise in certain subjects, such as marine biology, agriculture, conservation or geology then New Zealand has some of the world’s leading researchers and authorities. And where else could you swim, snorkel or ski within 20 minutes of your university campus? New Zealand is also an affordable alternative for English-language study.
Cons: A small employment market means work opportunities can be limited. And it’s ever further away than Australia!
Canada
Canadians are proud that they have the most educated population and the highest literacy rate in the world. Want to join them?
Pros: One of the simplest visa systems to navigate, you can work part-time and stay after your study. The Post-Graduation work permit depends on the length of your course. The UN consistently ranks Canada as the world’s most liveable country; it’s affordable, naturally beautiful and has great health care. Winnipeg is probably the most affordable student city.
Cons: You’d better pack your thermal underwear, because Canada is pretty cold for much of the year.
Japan
You don’t need to limit your choice to English-speaking countries. Japan offers an amazing cultural experience for international students.
Pros: You can study courses in English, although you should also study Japanese while you’re there – it’s a great business language to have. Japan’s culture is quite unique, and you can make friends with students from around the world while you explore the local regions.
Cons: It can be tougher to find work after graduation – you’ll need excellent Japanese language skills to have any chance. The cost of living (especially in Tokyo) is quite high compared to other Asian cities.
Europe
Always a popular choice for short-term study abroad opportunities. Where else could you hop on a train and be in a completely different country within an hour or two? The travel adventures you’ll have in Europe will make lasting memories.
Pros: A great place to learn another language and live a completely different way of life. Many courses are offered in English (The Netherlands is a popular European destination offering courses in English) as well as the local language, so you can still feel confident in your studies. A wide range of globally-recognised qualifications, with affordable tuition fees as many institutions are subsidised by their governments.
Cons: Unless you have an EU passport, it can be tough to stay and work after graduation – or even work while your study. Every country has a different immigration system, so check first if that’s important to you.
So, where are you hoping to study next year? Which of the criteria is most important to you? Let us know in the comments box below, and be sure to share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter and Google plus.
Further Reading
- 10 Tips for dealing with Culture Shock and Homesickness
- 10 Common Student Visa Questions
- Where to Study? Choosing a Study Destination
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