Choosing a country to study abroad in can be challenging. With so many qualified colleges and universities across the globe, your choices can seem endless! In the end, the question of which country is best to study abroad in will depend on different factors.
Using ApplyBoard is the easiest way to start your study abroad journey. Our platform offers above-average acceptance rates, as well as access to 125,000+ programs worldwide. We’ve compiled a summary of what each of our five destination countries offers international students. This way, you can make the best decision for your needs.
So, which country is best to study abroad in?
From Australia to the United States, read on to discover the benefits our destination countries can offer you!
Want a more interactive way to learn which country suits you best? We’ve come up with a quiz to help you with your decision!
Australia
Get ready to dive in and explore the Land Down Under! Beyond its top institutions and quality education, Australia also offers international students incredible wilderness. The country has vibrant cities, biodiversity, and warm weather year-round.
Here’s a breakdown of what living as an international student in Australia looks like:
Location
Australia’s six largest cities are Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. All six are consistently ranked as top student cities. The scores are based on their affordability, quality of education, and working opportunities. These subtropical cities have warm weather, with hot summers and mild winters.
Cost
Living on or off campus, or choosing a rural or urban area, all impact your cost of living in Australia. Other expenses, such as food and personal hygiene items, remain the same throughout the country. The average rent range is:
On-Campus Housing: A$440–A$2,000/month
Off-Campus Housing: A$380–A$2,000/month
Please refer to our blog for an in-depth cost-of-living breakdown in Australia.
Academic Institutions
Australia is home to world-renowned education systems, and scores in the top 10 on the U.S. News’ Best Countries for Education list. Australia is also home to:
Professional Opportunities
Post-graduation options in Australia include:
- The Temporary Graduate Visa via the Post-Study Work Stream or Graduate Work Stream
- The Australia Global Alumni Engagement Strategy connects graduates with international alumni to support professional growth
Canada
Want to know your options in the Great White North? Canada is known for its high-quality education, quality of life, and post-graduation work opportunities. Its winters might be cold, but Canada is one of the hottest study abroad destinations for a reason!
Here’s a breakdown of what living as an international student in Canada looks like:
Location
Canada has ten provinces and three territories. The central provinces of Ontario and Quebec and the west coast provinces of British Columbia and Alberta are the most populated provinces. The climate varies by region, with a colder climate in the north, a milder climate in coastal regions, and a moderate climate throughout.
Cost
Residing on or off campus, the province or territory you live in, or choosing a rural or urban area all impact your cost of living. The average rental range is:
On-Campus Housing: ~C$1,150–C$2,000/month
Off-Campus Housing: ~C$1,150–C$2,000/month
Please refer to our blog for an in-depth cost-of-living breakdown in Canada.
Academic Institutions
Canada is recognized as the fourth-best country in the world for education thanks to its world-renowned education systems and well-established post-graduation work opportunities. Canada is also home to:
Professional Opportunities
Post-graduation options in Canada include:
- Upskilling programs
- The popular Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP)
One of the many advantages of studying in Canada is eligibility for the country’s Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP). Learn more about it on our blog!
Ireland
Experience the Emerald Isle, with its breathtaking landscapes, smaller communities, and top-ranked education. With great graduate employment rates, students will set themselves up for success by studying at some of the world’s most respected universities.
Here’s a breakdown of what living as an international student in Ireland looks like:
Location
Ireland is located on the western edge of Europe and is well known for its charming green hills and breathtaking ocean views. The climate of Ireland is mild and rainy. Temperatures are consistent, due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf Stream.
Cost
Residing on or off campus, or choosing a rural or urban area, all make a difference in cost in Ireland. Average rental costs are:
On-Campus Housing: €300–€900/month
Off-Campus Housing: ~€650–€2,500/month
Academic Institutions
According to the Irish Universities Association, all Irish universities rank within the top 3% worldwide, and some Irish research fields rank within the top 1% globally. Ireland is also home to:
Professional Opportunities
The benefits of graduating from a college or university in Ireland include:
The United Kingdom
With a rich cultural history and a high-quality education system, the UK is a highly popular study abroad destination for many reasons! The UK is known for their flexible courses and pathways. International students also may be eligible for post-study work visas.
Here’s a breakdown of what living as an international student in the UK looks like:
Location
The UK is composed of a group of islands situated in northwest Europe and has four constituent states: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Much of the UK has a temperate climate. That means that most winters are cool and wet, while summers are warm and wet.
Cost
Residing on or off campus, or choosing a rural or urban area, will all affect your cost of living in the UK. Other expenses, such as food and personal hygiene items, remain the same throughout the country. The average range of rent is:
On-Campus Housing: £300–£800/month
Off-Campus Housing: £600–£2,200/month
Please refer to our blog for an in-depth cost-of-living breakdown in the UK.
Academic Institutions
The UK is ranked as the second best for education in the world and is also home to:
- The University of Edinburgh
- INTO Manchester – University of Manchester
- University of Glasgow International College
Professional Opportunities
Post-graduation options in the UK include:
- The Graduate Immigration Route
- Short-term programs
Have your sights set on the UK, but want more information on where you should choose to study? Our blog has you covered.
The United States
The US is considered #1 in many study abroad rankings for its world-leading innovations and top institutions. With well-respected degrees and an excellent education system, it’s a great choice for many international students. Plus, there’s a lot of exploring to do across all 50 states!
Here’s a breakdown of what living as an international student in the US looks like:
Location
The US’s most popular study abroad destinations include the states of New York, California, and Texas. The climate of this country is very diverse, ranging from tropical conditions in southern Florida and Hawaii to arctic conditions in Alaska.
Cost
Residing on or off campus, the state you live in, or choosing a rural or urban area will all make a difference in cost in the US. The average range of rental costs are:
On-Campus Housing: US$1,325–US$2,000/month
Off-Campus Housing: US$500–US$3,500/month
Please refer to our blog for an in-depth cost-of-living breakdown in the US.
Academic Institutions
The US is a central hub for the world’s innovations, with many opportunities for students to advance their careers. The US is also home to:
Professional Opportunities
Post-graduation options in the US include:
- Upskilling programs
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) extensions
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We hope this article helped narrow down your choices. The real answer to which country is best to study abroad in is: there is no right or wrong answer! Everyone is unique and has their own goals and reasons for studying abroad. That’s why you should choose a country that’s the best fit for you.
