Last Updated on August 28, 2023
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Top 10 Places in the World to Study Abroad – 2022
Welcome to our official 2022 rankings for the Top 10 Places in the World to Study Abroad!
This year’s survey reached 10,000 responses from students across 181 countries who are currently thinking about studying overseas. Using the top reasons for studying abroad, ranked by students who prioritize finding the right destination country over program or school, we’ve created our ranking of the best places in the world to study abroad in 2022!
The rankings are based on these 7 factors:
- To access higher-quality teaching
- To achieve career goals
- To develop myself personally
- To experience a new culture or lifestyle
- To make new friends or for professional networking
- To learn a new language
- To have an adventure
Top 10 Places in the World to Study Abroad – 2022
#10 -Spain
🌍
Ranked #6 in Europe
💃
To experience a new culture or lifestyle
Ranked #1 in the world
🎒
To have an adventure
Ranked #4 in the world
If you can imagine enjoying daily siestas, sipping sangria, and exploring never-ending tapas bars, España might be the place for you. There are plenty of unique markets and museums to keep you occupied in the capital, Madrid. Or, you can explore architectural masterpieces like La Sagrada Familia and elements of Catalan culture in vibrant Barcelona. Catch a train to discover Basque culture in the north, with surfing in San Sebastián and hikers following the legendary Camino de Santiago. In the south, Andalucia reflects a history of Flamenco music and Moorish influence. Granada, Sevilla, Málaga, and Cádiz are sure to impress. And that’s not even to mention the friendly people and buzzing social scene throughout the country! With universities founded as far back as 1218 along with a multifaceted culture, studying abroad in Spain is truly a unique experience. ¡Olé!
#9 -New Zealand
👨💼
To achieve career goals
Ranked #5 in the world
💖
To develop myself personally
Ranked #7 in the world
🎒
To have an adventure
Ranked #7 in the world
Whether you prefer mountains, fjords, beaches, forests, or plains, New Zealand holds something for you. The island nation hosts a variety of landscapes that are often considered to be some of the most stunning in the world. Otherworldly, even, as the Lord of the Rings was filmed here! However, Middle Earth didn’t include the wine regions’ vineyards, which make New Zealand world-famous for its red and white wines. Up for adventure outside of storybooks? You can take a helicopter to the peak of the Franz Josef Glacier, dive into ancient glowworm caves in Waitomo, trek to Lake Tekapo to watch the southern lights, and bungee jump in Milford Sound. Beyond the scenery, the people are the best thing about this country. Kiwis are widely known to be extremely kind and diverse. Everything from language to cuisine is multicultural, with the indigenous Māori culture a strong part of New Zealander customs to this day. Haere mai, ngā manuhiri tūārangi!
#8 – France
🌍
Ranked #5 in Europe
🏰
To experience a new culture or lifestyle
Ranked #2 in the world
🎒
To have an adventure
Ranked #6 in the world
La République française is truly the crème de la crème for those looking for living history. You’ll find artistic and architectural influences across several centuries in any French city or town. Visit charming fairytale villages in the Alsace region, soak up the Mediterranean sun in Marseilles, and view the dramatic landscape of Mont Saint-Michel – culture is at your fingertips! History is documented in world-class museums like the Louvre, and fashion is immortalized in the modern-day fashion scene in Paris. And don’t forget about the food! French cuisine transcends expectations every time, with a sommelier ready to match your taste to the perfect bottle of French wine. With each region as distinct as its wine, there are countless places to explore, like Lille, Toulouse, Grenoble, or Lyon. So, if you see yourself watching the sunset behind the Cathédrale Notre-Dame or taking a walk through the lavender fields of Provence, consider France as your next destination.
#7 – The Netherlands
🌍
Ranked #4 in Europe
💖
To develop myself personally
Ranked #4 in the world
👩💼
To achieve career goals
Ranked #4 in the world
If you’re picturing bicycles, canals, and cozy cafes on the streets of Amsterdam, you already have a good sense of what life is like in the Netherlands. The Dutch dedication to efficiency and sustainability is reflected in their alternative approach to life. From the busy cities of Utrecht and Rotterdam to the more peaceful student towns of Groningen and Leiden, you’ll find that people here are quite diverse, especially environmentally conscious, and very accepting of others. Studying in the Netherlands is an easy decision. They have some of the most English-speakers in the world, though a primarily Dutch-speaking country, and many English university programs to go along with it. There are also plenty of things to do in your downtime. Take a walk through history at Zaanse Schans, head over to the Van Gogh Museum, or marvel at the tulips blooming in the Garden of Europe. All while enjoying some stroopwafel, of course!
#6 – United Kingdom
🌍
Ranked #3 in Europe
🎓
To access higher-quality teaching
Ranked #1 in the world
🏰
To experience a new culture or lifestyle
Ranked #3 in the world
It’s well known that the United Kingdom hosts some of the most prestigious universities in the world. That’s why the UK takes the top spot again on this year’s ranking for high-quality teaching. Yet, there is so much more to do in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland beyond academics. You could spend years in just London itself and still not see the entire city! Imagine yourself sipping some afternoon tea and grabbing pints in the pub, or maybe exploring world-class museums and walking through the ruins of Stonehenge. An intriguing mix of centuries of history alongside 21st-century modernity is embedded in each city, whether that’s Edinburgh, Cardiff, or Belfast. The rolling countryside of England and Wales along with the rugged highlands of Scotland and geologic wonders of Northern Ireland are more than enough to keep you occupied outside studies. International students are guaranteed a thrilling experience in the United Kingdom.
#5 -Switzerland
🌍
Ranked #2 in Europe
💖
To develop myself personally
Ranked #3 in the world
👩💼
To achieve career goals
Ranked #1 in the world
If you’re interested in natural beauty, look no further. Switzerland is known for its stunning landscapes, with scenes so beautiful that it’s hard to believe it’s all real. There are countless hiking trails all over the country that will lead you to panoramic views of lakes, forests, and lush mountains. If you’re an avid skier, you’ve found your paradise! Besides Swiss cheese, chocolate, watches, or knives, this country may be the most famous for the Swiss Alps, which offer incredible sights and opportunities for mountain sports. Prepare to be stunned by the cities as well. Enjoy the cosmopolitan cities of Zurich and Geneva, hang-glide over Interlaken, or wander the medieval Old Town of Bern. The highly international population and easy access to travel as the heart of Europe make Switzerland the perfect place to satisfy your inner adventurer. If you’re a language enthusiast, you’ll be thrilled to hear Swiss-French, Swiss-Italian, Swiss-German, and maybe even Romansh on your strolls through the city. Bainvegni!
#4 – United States
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Ranked #2 in North America
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To access higher-quality teaching
Ranked #2 in the world
🗽
To experience a new culture or lifestyle
Ranked #5 in the world
There’s no doubt that the US is one of the most multicultural countries in the world. Spanning from the Atlantic to the Pacific, each state hosts a variety of landscapes, subcultures, and histories that you’ll never get bored of exploring. Discover forested mountains, rolling plains, sparkling coastlines, and majestic canyons all in the span of one American road trip. Whether you visit Vegas, New Orleans, Miami, or Honolulu, you’ll find endless sources of entertainment exploring the unique vibes of each city, and of course, the American, or ‘Americanized’, food! Search for the best tacos in California, munch on fried chicken in the South, and don’t forget to take an opinion on the pizza rivalry between Chicago and New York. As a student in one of the many high-quality schools in the States, you’ll notice that even the universities are a melting pot of cultures, with domestic and international students alike coming from completely different backgrounds. Sounds like the perfect learning experience? Make your new home the Land of Opportunity.
#3 – Germany
🌍
Ranked #1 in Europe
🎓
To access higher-quality teaching
Ranked #4 in the world
👨💼
To achieve career goals
Ranked #7 in the world
Deutschland is ranked third in the world and first in Europe for many reasons. Stretching from the beaches along its Baltic coast to the mountains of Bavaria, Germany seems to be home to almost every European landscape imaginable – perfect for all seasons. Even if you’re not a history buff, you’ll notice strands of the past woven throughout the country, from the Berlin Wall and Holocaust memorials in the city to the magical Eltz and Neuschwanstein Castles in the countryside. Visit the Black Forest for some fairytale inspiration, lose yourself among the many picturesque canals of Hamburg, and enjoy the biergartens of Munich during the yearly Oktoberfest. You’ll find that Germans may be the biggest bread enthusiasts in Europe and that the currywurst, schnitzel, and döner kebab are in fact pretty brag-worthy. If you decide to study at some of the world’s oldest and most well-known universities in Germany, you’ll surely get the experience of a lifetime!
#2 – Canada
🌍
Ranked #1 in North America
🎓
To access higher-quality teaching
Ranked #5 in the world
💬
To learn a new language
Ranked #4 in the world
Oh, Canada! Known for its vast expanse of natural wonders, Canada’s diverse landscape is unmatched. With rocky coasts, snowy mountains, forested lakes, and arctic glaciers, a good camera is absolutely necessary. As a bilingual country, French and English are widely spoken – making Canada one of the best places to learn a new language in the world. Though, as an extremely multicultural country, you’re guaranteed to hear many more languages beyond that, including the languages of the Indigenous peoples of Canada. Regardless of language, you’ll find warm welcomes and friendly smiles here. Feel free to explore the cosmopolitan cities of Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal, and be awestruck by the captivating surroundings of Banff, Whistler, and Halifax. Sounds like the ideal place to study, eh?
#1 – Australia
🎓
To access higher-quality teaching
Ranked #3 in the world
👨💼
To achieve career goals
Ranked #3 in the world
💖
To develop myself personally
Ranked #8 in the world
Australia, or Straya as the Ozzies call it, takes the top spot from Canada this year as the Top Destination in the World to Study Abroad in 2022. With nine distinctive regions and twenty UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Great Barrier Reef, the Tasmanian Wilderness, and Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park, there’s so much to explore. Visit the world’s oldest rainforest in the Daintree, see red sand beaches and turquoise waters in Broome, and marvel at the limestone cliffs along the Great Ocean Road. Want to learn how to surf? Hop over to Manly after class in Sydney, or become a regular in Margaret River or Perth for some of the best waves in the world. City life greets you in Brisbane, Adelaide, and Melbourne, the latter being the heart of Australia’s music scene. You’ll find a passion for pubs and cafes all over the country, and a diverse mix of cultures, including the Australian Aboriginal heritage. Grab your sunnies and head to Australia to see for yourself why the Land Down Under is our #1 this year!
5 Ways to Study Abroad for Free or Cheap
Want to study abroad without breaking the bank? Here are some helpful ways to study abroad for free – or at least for cheaper than full tuition!
1. Choose a country with an affordable cost of living
You don’t have to break the bank just to take your studies overseas. By setting a clear budget, picking an affordable study abroad program, and opting for a destination with a cheap cost of living, you can make your study abroad dreams a reality!
Get started by exploring some of these popular and affordable study abroad countries, based on average cost of living and tuition.
ARGENTINA
- Average monthly cost of living (with rent): $550-$750
- Average cost of a semester (without housing) through direct enrollment:$200-$3,000
- Average cost of a semester (with housing) through third-party provider: $14,000-$17,500
If you’re looking for culinary delights, adventure, and art all wrapped in one, Argentina would be a great place to study abroad! There’s so much to do and see, from exploring the vibrant city of Buenos Aires to hiking the stunning Iguazú Falls.
Plus, studying in Argentina can be more affordable than attending a university here in the states! Your typical everyday living expenses, such as groceries, going to the movies, buying a latte, and even paying rent, are much cheaper in Argentina.19 REVIEWS
IFSA – Argentine Universities Program
10 REVIEWS
CEA Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina
38 REVIEWS
IES Abroad Buenos Aires
CHINA
- Average monthly cost of living (with rent): $800-$1700
- Average cost of a semester (without housing) through direct enrollment: $2000-$7000
- Average cost of a semester (with housing) through third-party provider: $7500-$12000
For students looking to immerse themselves in ancient history, art, and wisdom, taking your studies to China can be a great low-cost option, compared to many other popular study abroad destinations.
While studying abroad in China, you can budget and keep costs low by enjoying food from local markets, applying for scholarships, and utilizing the local public transportation.
Shanghai, China – Chinese Language and International Business
156 REVIEWS
Semester at Sea: Study Around the World
8 REVIEWS
IFSA Study in Shanghai: Social Science
BRAZIL
- Average monthly cost of living (with rent): $550-$850
- Average cost of a semester (without housing) through direct enrollment: $1,000-$5,000
- Average cost of a semester (with housing) through third-party provider: $7,000-$19,000
If you’re looking for to enjoy a country with a buzzing social life Brazil can be a great option for your upcoming study abroad adventure. Not only is Brazil a country with plenty of lively music, delicious food, samba dancing, beaches, and more, but it can also be quite affordable, depending on the program or university. While your tuition costs may seem high, the rent and cost of living will likely be much lower compared to studying abroad in a country like Japan or France.156 REVIEWS
Semester at Sea: Study Around the World
14 REVIEWS
Brazil: Florianópolis – Business, Environmental Studies
13 REVIEWS
18 Months – Fighting Shoulder to Shoulder with the Poor
2. Enroll directly in a foreign university or language school
While universities in the United States tend to be quite expensive, many countries offer free or low-cost schooling… even for foreign students.
How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad in 2022?
Paris’ La Sorbonne, for example, has no tuition fees and only a modest registration fee — about $200. The only downside? French universities teach in French so there is a language prerequisite to enroll. For non-francophones, Australia’s University of Tasmania comes with a reasonable price tag hovering around $6,000 dollars, while New Zealand’s University of Auckland is a touch more expensive at just under $9,000.
And English-language programs aren’t confined to English-speaking countries. The University of Nottingham’s campus in Ningbo, China offers programs in English with tuition coming in at just under $7,000.
Consider making a shortlist of five countries where you would like to study abroad. Next, check public university websites in those countries to see if the cost of tuition is manageable for you. Also, bear in mind cost of living in these countries: Norway’s public universities are free, even to international students, but the high cost of living might make this option less enticing than some others.
3. Complete a work-study
Working while studying abroad is often complicated for international students, who don’t have the requisite visa to be employed in a foreign country. But some programs afford the ability to bypass this sticky situation so that you can offset the cost of your study abroad program by earning a paycheck. Consider enrolling in a course to become a teacher of English as a foreign language or choosing a country that allows you to work during your program, such as Australia or New Zealand.
Also bear in mind that many E.U. countries will allow you to work part-time, depending on the length of your stay overseas. In the UK, for example, you can work part-time if you’re staying longer than six months, while in Spain, you can work as long as it’s in a job relevant to your field of study. Our handy guide will help you find out more about labor laws in various study abroad locales.
4. Opt for a cheap study abroad program
If you want to spare yourself the headache of concocting your own study abroad experience, you can always simply opt for a study abroad program on the less expensive side. Here are just a few with a much more reasonable fee:
- Lorenzo de’ Medici, Florence, Italy (starts at $5,500)
- FuBIS, Berlin, Germany (starts at $2,000)
- Equine Summer Program, Edinburgh, Scotland (starts at $4,895)
- Hutong School, Various Cities, China (starts at $881)
- John Cabot University Summer Program, Rome, Italy (starts at $2,830)
5. Apply for scholarships & grants
This is an obvious one, but we couldn’t leave it off the list. Study abroad scholarships and grants are the easiest way to cut your study abroad costs. Of course, they’re also more competitive than some of the other options we’ve recommended, so they might not work for everyone.
Here at Go Overseas, we have an extensive list of study abroad scholarships and grants across different subjects, countries, and programs. Google is another great resource to find scholarships specific to your study abroad program, the subject you’re studying, or the country where you want to study abroad.
