Last Updated on January 16, 2023
Are you looking for the best places to study abroad? In a survey of over 20,000 international students, most students when deciding where to study abroad, choose the country first over a university or specific type of program, and other factors. We use these factors to create our list ranking of the best places to study abroad in 2023
The rankings are based on these 7 factors:
- To experience a new culture
- To achieve career goals
- To have an adventure
- To make new friends/widen the professional network
- To access higher-quality teaching
- To study for free
- To attain a visa
Table of Contents
Best Places To Study Abroad
Here are the top countries for international students in 2023:
10. Australia
Ranking number 10 on our global rankings is the home of Vegemite, kangaroos and koalas – Australia! Besides the draw of big cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, Australia is unique in its range of habitats, from rainforests and deserts to alpine mountains and underwater ecosystems, attracting a diverse range of animals and wildlife both on land and in the ocean. Whether you are going on an expedition to the Outback, taking a trip along the Great Ocean Road or diving in the depths of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia has something for everyone!
9. France
As a country famed for its stylish fashions, breathtaking French Riviera and the enchanting Notre-Dame Cathedral amongst so many other attractions, France sits at the top of most people’s bucket list. With a prestigious education system, and more than 3,500 higher education institutions to choose from, more and more students are considering this historic and captivating country to study in. Ranked #3 in the world for culture and #11 for adventure, you can experience everything from the cozy warmth of a snow cabin in the Alps to the glitz and glamour of Cannes.
8. Switzerland
Study abroad in Switzerland and join some of the happiest citizens in the world! Switzerland has so much to offer. Ranked #2 in the world for teaching quality and #6 for career goals. Pretty impressive for a small country, especially as it also boasts two of the worlds highest rated universities! Inside the classroom, critical thinking, interactive learning and active debating will be at the core of your learning, supplying you with skills that will take you far in whichever career you choose. In your study breaks, get ready to ski in the splendor of the Swiss Alps, wander through majestic fairy tale castles and savor the taste of some of the most delicious chocolate you can find! Why not join the Swiss and earn a top degree in this stunning, safe and sweet-filled haven!
7. Netherlands
Ranked number 7, the Netherlands has also scored #3 globally for teaching quality and #4 for career goals. For such a small country, having eight universities in the Top 100 in the world is an impressive accomplishment! Choose from over 2,000 university programs taught in English, and enjoy an interactive and student-centered style of teaching that will set you up with skills for life! Many international students choose to study here and the country enjoys a diverse international community. Plenty of graduates choose to remain in the country after graduation, too. Although excellent government initiatives play a big part in this, it could also be because they don’t want to leave behind the spectacular beauty of the tulip festivals, artistic offerings from the home of Rembrandt and Van Gogh, and the progressive, healthy and balanced lifestyle of the Dutch.
6. The United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is arguably one of the top countries to study abroad for a number of reasons. UK universities consistently rank among the top universities in the world, offering a vast variety of specializations and connecting you with a successful alumni network. Not only that, but the universities here also mentor their students by providing all-around support and offering financial aid.
The UK changed its visa policies recently, allowing students to stay back and work for 2 years after graduation. This led to an increase in the number of international students flying to study in this amazing country.
READ ALSO: Countries with the Best Education System
5. The United States
As a matter of fact, several students have considered the United States as one of the best countries to study abroad for decades. With over 4000 universities scattered across the country, the US has attracted students from a vast variety of cultures and nationalities.
The country is not only home to Ivy League schools but also some of the top universities around the globe. All in all, 12 American universities rank among the Top 20 universities around the globe based on QS rankings for 2019. These institutions offer a wide range of degrees and courses that are recognized and accepted worldwide.
Not only that, universities in the U.S. provide courses for almost every possible line of education that you can think of. This lets you choose your field of interest and also widens your horizon of thinking related to it.
Plus, the US is filled with the best MNCs and is home to most mega-companies around the globe, making it nearly impossible to come back home without any job opportunity.
4. Canada
As the world’s most educated country, Canada proudly features top universities and was rated an impressive #4 in the world for teaching quality and #8 for career goals. Outside of the lecture room, you can get swept away by the beauty of Niagara Falls, trek one of the many mesmerizing national parks or meet a polar bear in Churchill! As a country known for its diversity and inclusive values, studying abroad in Canada will be easy to adjust to, and you’ll get to experience the high standard of living that locals enjoy. Canada is internationally recognized as one of the best countries to live and study in, so what are you waiting for?
3. Thailand
You’ve probably heard of Thailand being a great place for a vacation, but could it be your next study abroad destination? As our #3 study abroad destination in the world (and #1 in Asia), and with top global rankings in culture (#8) and adventure (#8), Thailand offers so much more than a typical beach and resort holiday. Just imagine yourself attending university while taking study breaks enjoying the picturesque scenes of floating markets, gorgeous temples and palaces! With a low cost of living, delicious street food, universities that rank among the world’s best and an amazing climate to enjoy, living and studying in Thailand is a dream come true! Thailand is also home to some of the friendliest and happiest people you could meet (it’s not known as the ‘Land of Smiles’ for nothing!) Whether you are attracted by the legendary and thrilling nightlife of Bangkok, or the tranquil, stunning shores of Koh Samui, you can be guaranteed that you’ll have the time of your life!
2. Spain
Earning the #2 spot in the world (and #1 spot in Europe), Spain makes for an irresistible choice for your study abroad destination! With low living costs, an excellent education system and over 70 universities to choose from, you’ll be spoiled for choice of where to further your education in this sunny, historical and beautiful country! Outside of your studies you’ll never be short of something to do either, which is why we ranked it an impressive #1 in the world for adventure and #3 for culture. Whether you’re sampling tapas on the Spanish sidewalks, admiring the artwork of Picasso and Gaudi or cheering on Real Madrid and Barcelona in their home stadiums, you will be guaranteed to have an amazing experience if you study abroad in Spain.
1. New Zealand
Are the Kiwis onto something? The answer is YES! With so much to offer, New Zealand proudly claims our #1 study abroad destination in the world! You may have already heard of its stunning natural splendor, abundance of adrenaline-filled extreme sports and scenic trails made famous by the Lord of the Rings trilogy. But did you know that you can get a first-class education here as well? With all of its eight universities in the top 3% in the world, New Zealand quite rightly deserved the top spot, along with #2 for career goals and #6 for adventure. Study here and you will always find fun activities to try, whether you want to ski, sail or skydive! Your adventure starts in New Zealand.