Studying abroad is an exciting and rewarding option for students from around the world looking to bring their education to the next level. With more countries opening up to international students, and universities offering a wide variety of scholarships, more and more people are making their study abroad dreams a reality.
Study abroad offers a life-changing experience for many students, opening their eyes to different ways of life and cultural traditions. And studying abroad is good for grades too. A study by the Center for Global Education has found that students who study overseas obtain better grades than their peers and graduate at higher rates. Students who study abroad have a better chance of getting the best jobs and usually enjoy higher salaries.
AIM Overseas reported in 2013 that 61 percent of employers agree that an overseas study experience is a huge attribute for students to have on their CV. Additionally, 72 percent of employers agree that speaking a second language helps students employment prospects.
Study abroad students are valued for their independent spirit, openness to new challenges or difficulties and their positive and flexible attitude – all great attributes to have when looking for your dream future job. Choosing to study abroad means students have to adapt quickly to work alongside new peers in different cultural or religious settings. This helps students stand out in today’s competitive job market.
Aside from the exciting travel opportunities afforded by international study, students get to experience a different way of life while completing world-class courses. Read on to find out more about five fantastic destinations for international study:
IDAHO – UNITED STATES
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Located in the U.S. northwest, Idaho spans two time zones. The state runs from Canada to Nevada and is home to the stunning Rocky Mountains. Ideal for outdoor adventure lovers, students can make the most of the state’s whitewater rivers and jagged peaks to enjoy a range of recreational activities. From emerald green hillsides and pristine lakes of the panhandle, to the wide-open vistas of the Snake River Plain, Idaho is the ideal destination for nature lovers.
Credit: Idaho State University
University Pick: Idaho State University (ISU) is an ideal option for international students looking for a U.S. university education that won’t break the bank. Founded in 1901, ISU is an intimate university, home to 14,000 students from across the U.S. and almost 60 countries worldwide. With more than 250 programs, ISU is the state’s lead institution in health professions. Faculty and students also lead the way in areas such as energy, nuclear research, teaching, humanities, engineering, performing arts and technology. ISU’s main campus in Pocatello is located less than three hours’ drive from Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, and allows students a laid-back lifestyle in the midst of a stunning natural environment.
PERTH – AUSTRALIA
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Western Australia, the nation’s sunniest state, is famed for its stunning beaches, proximity to Asia and warm and a welcoming community. Voted in as one of Australia’s most livable cities, its capital Perth offers students a diverse and vibrant lifestyle, aided by the vast range of gastronomic delights, bustling markets and international cuisine on offer. The beautiful Swan River runs through the city, and students will have plenty to do in their spare time, from taking the ferry to Rottnest Island, chilling out on Cottesloe beach or visiting the picturesque port town of Fremantle.
Travelling out of the city and into the state of Western Australia, students will be wowed by the extraordinary sights that await them in one of the most diverse regions on earth. They can visit the Pinnacles, swim with whale sharks and satisfy even the most discerning palate at the Margaret River wine region. Studying in Western Australia will not disappoint.
Credit: Curtin University
University pick: Western Australia’s extensive mining and extraction industry links make Curtin University the ideal destination for students considering a degree in engineering. Curtin offers students a variety of sector-focused degree programs, which educate and innovate on the environmental, societal and even political links to engineering and mining. From Petroleum engineering to Civil or Mechanical engineering, at Curtin, students are provided with a strong theoretical base coupled with a practical approach to solving real-life industrial problems – ensuring that graduates are much sought after in both local and international job markets. Curtin is also ahead of the curve when it comes to the emerging industry of Subsea engineering, providing a comprehensive program designed to equip engineers with the high-level skill sets required by the industry, with links to its major players. Students in resource industry programs such as logistics, oil and gas, mining, energy economics, sustainability and environmental management are well-positioned to tap into the university’s expertise, using it as a springboard for a thriving global career. The university also offers international students access to a variety of scholarships and funding. Also, children of students of Masters and PhDs at Curtin don’t have to pay any fees for their education if they’re enrolled in a public school.
CANTERBURY – NEW ZEALAND
The largest region in New Zealand’s south island, Canterbury is located in one of the most stunning regions on earth. Home to Lord of the Rings landscapes, snow topped peaks, deep crystal blue lakes and endless plains, New Zealand is a study destination that is full of surprises. Canterbury offers students a whole host of activities to explore and enjoy, from the bustling farmers market to Haley Park.
Just outside of the city, nature lovers can visit Oran Wildlife Park, make the most of the longest ski season in Australasia at Mount Hutt, hike around Arthur’s Pass and even take a dip in the thermal village of Hammer Springs. From mountain biking to river rafting, Canterbury is the ideal destination for students looking to take in the great outdoors while still enjoying life in a warm and welcoming community.
Credit: University of Canterbury
University pick: The University of Canterbury offers students a world-class learning environment alongside a vibrant campus and dynamic student lifestyle. Students at UC join courses led by talented academics, actively engaged in current research. The university has an active learning culture, enabling students to follow courses in subjects they are passionate about. Set in the heart of Canterbury, the UC campus offers modern facilities. UC was the first New Zealand university to receive a 5 Stars rating in 2011 from the international ranking agency QS. The university’s innovative programs attract students from around the world, forming part of a lively, active community.
NOTTINGHAM – UNITED KINGDOM
Nottingham, situated in the heart of the United Kingdom, offers students a unique and vibrant study experience. With easy transport links to London and Manchester, the city is the ideal study destination for shoppers and culture vultures alike. Students may choose to visit historic Nottingham Castle or take a trip to Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve, famed for bandit-gone-good Robin Hood.
Malt Cross and Nottingham Playhouse offer a whole host of concerts while the city’s fun nightlife will offer students a break from their studies. Nottingham is also close to the stunning Peak District National park, offering more adventurous students the chance to hike and picnic in some of the U.K.’s most unspoilt and picturesque surroundings. International students looking for a thoroughly British study experience should look no further than Nottingham.
Credit: University of Nottingham
University pick: Ranked among the top 1 percent of universities in the world, the University of Nottingham offers international students a choice of world-class programs across a variety of disciplines. Described by the Times Good University Guide 2013 as “the nearest Britain has to a truly global university”, the University of Nottingham offers a diverse and vibrant campus to international students from around the globe. It prides itself on producing graduates who are empowered to excel in a challenging global environment. It is also renowned for its genuinely world-changing research.
THE HAGUE – NETHERLANDS
One of the Netherlands’ most extraordinary cities, and the seat of Dutch government, The Hague is a charming town where history comes to life. Students can lose themselves in the city’s criss-crossing network of streets, visit the beautiful Huis ten Bosch palace and take in some Dutch masters at the Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis.
Located around 30 minutes from Amsterdam and with fast train links to Rotterdam and Schiphol International Airport, The Hague is a well-connected and unique study destination. Outside of the city, students can enjoy a day trip to some of the North Sea resort towns, including the faded glory of Scheveningen. The city is also home to a variety of exciting sports and cultural festivals including the Delta Lloyd North Sea Regatta and the Movies that Matter film festival. The Hague is an ideal study destination for students looking to experience life in the Netherlands.
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University pick: The Dutch education system is one of the most forward thinking in the world. Students will experience a system based on student-led learning, critical debate and practical experience. For international students looking for an English-language education in this rigorous study environment, The Hague University of Applied Sciences offers an excellent opportunity to experience European education at its best. With an excellent choice of programs and an outstanding student experience, The Hague University of Applied Sciences has emerged as a premier choice for international students.