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10 Best Countries for International Students in 2023

We have the lowdown of the 10 best countries to study abroad in 2023 to help you on your path to success. Read on to find out about student life in the USA, UK, Switzerland, Singapore, and more – and start planning your epic 2023 educational adventure now.

Aug 30, 2022
  • Study Abroad
10 Best Countries for International Students in 2023

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: United Kingdom

Whether you want to study theology at Cambridge, law at Oxford, architecture at UCL, or mathematics at The University of Edinburgh, the UK boasts a plethora of impressive institutes ready to welcome international students with open arms. Discover famous London landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben or iconic heritage cities such as Bath, Canterbury, or Salisbury. While away an afternoon tucking into a sumptuous slice of cake with a hearty cup of tea or gather your friends for a fun evening at the pub. Head to Manchester or Bristol for epic live music or visit Edinburgh for a weekend of foodie delights. Wherever you choose to study in the UK, a dynamic and vibrant culture awaits you. But just how expensive is it to study here? Compared to some other countries, the UK is not necessarily a budget option. UK and EU students can expect to pay an annual fee of up to £9,250 for full-time courses, while students from outside the UK or EU will likely pay more. Add to this the cost of living – rent, food, and the rest – and the sums quickly add up. However, there are a number of great UK cities with top universities and more affordable accommodation to help students make their budget stretch further: Manchester, Sheffield, Glasgow, and Cardiff all tick this box, as do many more.

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: UK

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: USA

Come and experience the American dream when you study at one of the country’s many prestigious universities. Harvard University, California Institute of Technology, University of Chicago, and Yale University are just some of the world-famous institutes celebrated by U.S citizens and international students alike. But what makes America such an attractive destination for furthering your education? With so many different cultures, backgrounds, beliefs, sports, arts, and public holidays to its name, this land of opportunity prides itself on giving people the freedom to choose how to live. So, just how easy is it to get by financially in a country with such varied lifestyles and living expenses? Tuition will vary wildly from state to state and school to school, but in general public universities and community colleges will offer the most affordable tuition to both domestic and international students, whether you are studying for a bachelors or masters program. Like tuition, living expenses also vary from state to state. Some of the priciest states to reside in are Hawaii, New York, and California, while Texas, Wyoming, and Mississippi all offer affordability for students. If you are studying on a budget, do your research and compare the average rent prices and tuition costs across the nation to find the right combination for you and your wallet. Full of rich history, this thriving part of the world is a haven for ambitious students who want to work hard and make their future dreams become a reality.

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: USA

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: Switzerland

Explore the great outdoors when you choose to study in Switzerland. Boasting a number of fantastic universities like ETH Zurich, University of Zurich, University of Bern, University of Geneva, and many more, Switzerland offers students a breadth of traditional and modern culture to experience. Once exam season has finished, why not spend your spare time swimming in the stunning alpine lake of Caumasee near Flims? Try hiking to the summit of Allalinhorn in the Swiss Alps during the summer months, or spend warmer days whitewater rafting through the Giarsun Gorge on the Inn River. If outdoor pursuits aren’t your thing, take a trip to some of the country’s vibrant cities. Visit Bern and discover mesmerizing medieval history as well as world-famous modern art. Party all night in Zurich with friends or feast on delicious street food in Basel. But just how costly is it to study in this beautiful part of the world? While Switzerland is notoriously pricey and often takes the number one spot for being the most expensive country in the world, tuition fees for international students can be more reasonable than expected, with some nationalities qualifying for low or free tuition. So, make sure to do your research - and your math - and get a sense of your budget in advance.

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: Switzerland

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: Singapore

With a string of top-rated universities like the National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore Management University, and more, this buzzing metropolis is a must for curious students looking to experience new cultures. A number of strict laws help to keep crime rates low, which makes Singapore one of the world’s safest countries, while a super-strong cleaning workforce of approximately 55,000 employees helps to keep the streets looking immaculate. Many of the universities boast fantastic food courts to keep students fed, but you will also find mouthwatering local dishes like curry noodle soup and barbecued fish at one of the vibrant food centers (also known as Hawker Centers) dotted around the cities. Eating out in Singapore can be expensive, but dining at a Hawker Center will help you to keep costs down. Other budget-friendly student tips are to travel by the MRT system rather than taking taxis and to make the most of the wonderful free attractions on offer. Visit the Botanic Gardens and see an abundance of tropical plants or take an energetic stomp across the MacRitchie Treetop Walk for breathtaking views across the rainforest.

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: Singapore

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Best Countries for International Students in 2023: China

Immerse yourself in Chinese culture when you choose from the country’s amazing portfolio of universities. From Peking University to Tsinghua University, Fudan University to Zhejiang University, international students will find once-in-a-lifetime experiences and make unforgettable friends in this dazzling part of the world. Use your time wisely around your studies to see as much of China as possible: visit the Forbidden City in Beijing, admire Shanghai’s amazing skyline from The Bund, or enjoy an adventurous trek along the Great Wall. And don’t forget about the food – eating is a ritual in China, and each city is a treasure trove of culinary delights. As with other countries, the cost of living will vary in China depending on whether you live in a large metropolis or a smaller city. Another financial factor - tuition - will vary from institution to institution. Luckily, some of the highest-ranked universities in China are public, where tuition ranges from $3,000-10,000 per year. Start planning your finances now on a spreadsheet to see whether studying in China could soon become a reality.

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: China

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: Japan

From iconic Shinto shrines to sumo wrestling and cherry blossoms to tea ceremonies, Japan offers international students an astounding wealth of activities and experiences to enjoy. With a mesmerizing history full of ancient traditions, a modern world that boasts unrivaled global technologies, and above all – Japanese pop culture – students are sure to fall in love with this colorful and unique country. Top universities such as the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Tokyo Institute of Technology,Osaka University, and Tohoku University are all moments away from archetypal landmarks. Be prepared to work hard and immerse yourself in the Japanese way of life, and you’ll soon get used to the local customs that will greet you the moment you step foot in this vibrant metropolis. Japan is considered a very safe and clean country, which makes living here really attractive for visitors from other parts of the world. Better yet, the cost of living in Japan is cheaper than both the UK and Australia, and tuition fees are reasonable at public institutions.

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: Japan

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: Australia

Get ready to study in one of the world’s most laid-back destinations. The Australian way of living is great for students searching for the perfect uni work and social life balance. You will soon find the time to prioritize yourself around your ambitious studies, whether that’s at the Australian National University, University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, University of Queensland in Brisbane, University of Western Australia, or other prolific educational institutions. Head to East Coast Australia and find the lively state capital of Sydney, which offers a bounty of stunning beaches and fun student nightlife. Over on the West Coast of Australia, you’ll find the sprawling state capital of Perth, with a relaxed pace and plenty of enviable sunny weather. But how does the cost of living in Australia compare to other countries? Being an international student here is expensive - in fact, it is one of the most expensive places you can study. The Australian government estimates that international students should budget at least 30,000USD for living expenses and international student tuition and fees. Still, international education is one of Australia’s primary exports due to its high quality and the opportunity it affords graduates. It is up to you to decide just how much of a price you are willing to pay for a slice of the good life.

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Best Countries for International Students in 2023: Australia

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: South Korea

From K-pop to the many humble local Korean cultures and traditions (showing respect and sincerity), life for international students in South Korea is a whirlwind of excitement. From Seoul National University, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Pohang University of Science and Technology, and more, students with a passion for Computer Science will thrive here. Home to Samsung Electronics and other major technology companies, South Korea is one of the world’s most digitally advanced and connected countries. In addition, South Korea is also home to an incredible history with one-of-a-kind must-see landscapes and a plethora of tranquil and mindful escapes to be experienced by hard-working students during the holidays. Party all night long in Seoul, see the Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju, or hit up Haeundae Beach in Busan. What is more, studying in South Korea is relatively affordable in comparison to other countries across the globe. Tuition fees at national universities are significantly lower than in the UK, US, and Australia, and while living costs in South Korea are high, students will find budget-friendly options in student areas and on campus.

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Best Countries for International Students in 2023: South Korea

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: Canada

Canada is often recognized for offering citizens one of the best qualities of life available on this planet. With so much outdoor space, including rugged mountains, jaw-dropping beaches, breathtaking national parks, and lush green wilderness, there is plenty for international students to discover. Whether you’re considering an educational adventure at McGill University, University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, or another fine Canadian Institute, you’re just moments away from diving into the country’s rich culture and history. Dig into Montreal’s epic food scene and devour a signature plate of poutine – French fries, gravy, and cheese curds; take to the slopes in Banff National Park during the winter season; slip into Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park during the summer months, and explore every inch of this beautiful country. Canada is even considered to be an affordable option for many international students looking to move here. While international student tuition and fees are comparable to other English-speaking countries, living expenses are reasonable. So, what are you waiting for?

10 Best Countries for International Students in 2023: Canada

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: Germany

Boasting a variety of excellent universities like the Technical University of Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Freie Universitat Berlin – and more – Germany is a fantastic option for international students. Think inspiring literature, innovative art, and experimental restaurants – and you’ll be just part way to understanding all that this beautiful country has to offer. Visit iconic monuments like the Brandenburg Gate or the Berlin Wall Memorial in Berlin; head to the Black Forest for a stomp in the wild with friends; explore Heidelberg, the country’s oldest university town; and visit museums in the Old Town. Better yet, studying in Germany won’t break the bank as living costs here are on par with most other European countries, and tuition is free - even for international students.

Best Countries for International Students in 2023: Germany

Get ready to explore the best student countries in the world in 2023 with this handy guide. You are just moments away from furthering your learning and making your dreams for the future come true.