Lana Oconnell
The world is full of countries that accept international students, each with its own unique appeal. The most popular countries for international students include the US, the UK, and Canada, thanks to their prestigious universities and diverse societies. However, other countries are becoming increasingly popular, such as China, with its rapidly improving educational reputation, and Japan, which has some of the world's highest educational standards. France, Germany, New Zealand, and Australia are also top picks for international students, offering high-quality education, favourable job markets, and rich cultural experiences.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Top countries for international students | US, UK, Canada, China, Japan, France, Germany, Australia, Netherlands, Switzerland |
| Top countries for foreign student enrollment (2023) | China, US |
| Top countries for foreign student enrollment (2019) | US, UK |
| Top receiver of international students in China (2016) | Asia (60%), Europe (16%), Africa (14%) |
| Countries with tuition-free public universities | Germany |
| Countries with lower tuition fees than other English-speaking countries | Australia |
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What You'll Learn
The US and its visa requirements
The US is one of the most popular destinations for international students, with over a million international students currently enrolled in its universities. The country boasts prestigious institutions that dominate global university rankings, attracting students from across the world with an appetite for academic excellence.
Visa Requirements
The US has two non-immigrant visa categories for students wishing to enter the country to study: the F and M visas. The F-1 visa is for academic students, while the M-1 visa is for vocational students.
To obtain an F-1 visa, you must:
- Be enrolled as a full-time student at an accredited US college, university, seminary, conservatory, academic high school, elementary school, or other academic institution, or in a language training program.
- Be enrolled in a program or course of study that culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- Have a valid passport for US travel for at least six months after your program completion date.
- Meet the required English language proficiency score of the institution you are attending or be enrolled in courses that will help you improve your English proficiency.
- Prove you have sufficient funds available to finance your studies and living expenses while in the US.
- Maintain a residence in your home country that you have no intention of giving up and to which you will return following the completion of your degree.
- Get accepted by a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified institution before submitting your visa application.
The total cost for an F-1 student visa is approximately $535, which includes the cost of the visa itself, as well as SEVIS processing and maintenance fees. The process involves submitting a DS-160 form, as well as providing your I-20, passport, travel itinerary, and photo for your visa. After submitting the DS-160, you will receive a printed confirmation with a barcode that you will need for your visa interview. During the interview, a consular officer will determine whether you qualify for a student visa, and your ink-free, digital fingerprint scans will be taken.
Following graduation, you may be eligible to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which will allow you to work for up to 12 months in the US in a field related to your study. STEM graduates can request two additional years of work in a related field. If you do not have any extensions or additional training, you will need to return to your home country within 60 days after your graduation.
Other Options
While the F and M visas are the most common routes for international students, there are other options to consider. The Visitor (B) visa permits enrollment in a short recreational course of study, which does not count for credit toward a degree or academic certificate. For example, a student in a distance learning program that requires a short period of time at a US institution may be eligible for this type of visa. However, it is important to note that study leading to a US-conferred degree or certificate is not permitted on a Visitor (B) visa, even if it is for a short duration.
Additionally, if you are already in the United States on a different type of visa, you may be eligible to change your status to an F or M visa without having to leave the country. However, once you depart the United States, you must apply for a new visa at a US Embassy or Consulate to re-enter the country as a student.
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The UK and its multicultural society
The UK has a rich history of higher education, and many of the world's oldest and most admired universities are located there. British universities are also renowned for their cutting-edge research projects and facilities. The UK is proud of its vibrant and multicultural society. The country has a long tradition of welcoming people from different cultures and backgrounds, so it's reassuring to know that you'll be living in an inclusive and welcoming environment. The UK is full of diversity, and its multicultural nature makes it an exciting and welcoming place to live. The UK has a distinct regime of multiculturalism, with laws and rules sometimes interpreted to accommodate the convictions of religious groups. This can be controversial as it may contradict the principle of a single law for all in a liberal society.
The UK has welcomed people from across the globe, with migration statistics from 2021 revealing around 6 million people with non-British nationality living in the UK, about 9% of the population. There were also 9.6 million people living in the UK who were born abroad. The UK has a long history of multiculturalism, dating back to the early 17th century, with the British Empire being the biggest in the world. After World War II, the UK needed to fill labour shortages, so it encouraged Commonwealth citizens to come to Britain. During the 1930s, Jews migrated to the UK to escape Hitler and fascism. From the 1950s to the 1970s, people from India, Pakistan, and Uganda settled in the UK, and the Polish community also became deeply anchored in society.
The UK's multiculturalism is evident in its diverse food, religion, and music. In the 2021 Census, 18% of people belonged to a Black, Asian, mixed, or other ethnic group, and 84% of these people felt they belonged to Britain. The UK's multiculturalism enriches its society, and international students typically make up about 50% of the student body at UK boarding schools, with more than half a million enrolled in higher education each year. The UK's diverse society will expose you to different cultures and beliefs, helping you become more open-minded and able to work well with a range of people.
The UK's multiculturalism has faced challenges, with some arguing that multicultural policies discourage integration and that the state's neutrality on cultural matters is illusory. Racism has also been an issue, and the UK has struggled with how to accommodate the needs of minority groups while maintaining a unified nation. Despite these challenges, the UK remains a popular destination for international students, offering a unique educational experience and the opportunity to become fluent in English, a valuable skill for international career prospects.
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Canada's internationally recognised education
Canada has consistently ranked as the world's best country for quality of life. With great safety statistics, friendly communities, excellent healthcare, and a thriving job market, it's no surprise that international students are drawn to the nation. Students travel to Canada from far and wide to gain an internationally recognised education.
Canada defines international students as "non-Canadian students who do not have 'permanent resident' status and have had to obtain the authorization of the Canadian government to enter Canada with the intention of pursuing an education." International students require a study permit, which identifies the level of study and the length of time the individual may study in Canada. Unless the stay is longer than six months, international students do not need a study permit if they will finish the course within the period of stay authorised upon entry.
To apply for a study permit, you need an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI). A DLI is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. All primary and secondary schools in Canada are designated learning institutions. They aren't included in this list. If you plan to attend a post-secondary school, make sure it is on this list. If the school loses its DLI status while you’re studying, you can keep studying until your study permit expires.
Canada also offers Foreign Credential Recognition Loans of up to $30,000 to help with fees for licensing and qualifying exams, education and training programs, and more. Support services are also available to help during the process. These services can help prepare for your move to Canada and provide information on getting your education, work experience, and credentials recognised.
Canada isn't the only country that attracts international students. The US has long been the most popular study abroad destination, with prestigious institutions that dominate global university rankings. The UK is also a popular choice, with a rich history of higher education and many of the world's oldest and most admired universities. The country also has a long tradition of welcoming people from different cultures and backgrounds, so it's reassuring to know that you’ll be living in an inclusive and welcoming environment.
Other countries that are attracting international students include China, Australia, Germany, and New Zealand.
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China's affordable tuition fees
The number of international students in China has been steadily increasing since 2003, with students attracted by the country's affordable tuition fees and high-quality education. China is now the leading destination globally for Anglophone African students and the third-largest receiver of international students overall.
China's universities offer a great study environment for personal and professional development. Many institutions deliver courses in English, and some have developed partnerships with universities from the UK and US. The country is also home to some of the world's top-ranked universities, such as Tsinghua and Peking, which are members of the prestigious C9 League.
Tuition fees in China are significantly lower than in other countries. While fees vary depending on the university and program, the average tuition fees in Chinese public universities range from $2,500 to $10,000 USD per academic year. Some universities, such as Beijing Normal University, charge around $3,600 to $4,500 USD per year for bachelor's degrees, while master's programs range from $3,800 to $9,000 USD. There are also several programs with no tuition fees. Additionally, international students can benefit from the country's diverse and affordable cuisine, with meals costing between $1 and $7 USD.
To attract more international students, the Chinese government and universities offer various scholarships that provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and accommodation costs. These scholarships are typically merit-based and are often awarded to students with excellent academic achievements, notable extracurricular activities, or relevant work experience.
Overall, China offers a unique opportunity for international students to gain a high-quality education at a fraction of the cost of other countries, making it an attractive destination for those seeking an affordable and enriching study abroad experience.
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Japan's scholarship programmes
International students contribute to the cultural and economic enrichment of societies. In a post-pandemic world, countries are recognising the importance of welcoming students from other countries. Here is an overview of Japan's scholarship programmes for international students.
Scholarship programmes in Japan
Japan has been inviting international students to study at state expense since 1954. The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (Monbukagakusho: MEXT) of the Japanese Government offers seven types of scholarship programmes. These include scholarships for research students, teacher training students, undergraduate students, Japanese studies students, college of technology students, specialised training college students, and Young Leaders Program (YLP) students. The monthly stipend for MEXT scholarships ranges from JPY 143,000 to JPY 145,000 (approximately USD 1,021 to USD 1,035 as of June 2023). Applications for MEXT scholarships are typically open from April to May of the previous year that one intends to study in Japan, and the screening process is conducted by the Embassy in May/June.
Other scholarships
The Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) offers scholarships to students accepted by Japanese universities under student exchange agreements. The monthly stipend for this scholarship is JPY 80,000. Local governments, local international associations, and private foundations in Japan also provide scholarships to students living or studying in their district. Additionally, some schools in Japan provide on-campus scholarships and tuition fee exemptions or reductions for international students.
Scholarships for specific groups
There are also scholarships designed for specific groups of students. The Ashinaga Africa Initiative (AAI) is a fully-funded scholarship provided by the Ashinaga Foundation for undergraduate students who have lost one or both parents. The Abe Initiative, run by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), supports young professionals who will contribute to the development of industries in Africa. JICA also offers the SDG's Global Leader programme, which allows young and middle government officials and academics from Africa to study in Japanese universities with which JICA has an agreement.
Application process
Applications for scholarships in Japan are generally made through Japanese embassies or consulates in the applicant's home country, Japanese universities, or the schools at which students will be enrolled. The majority of scholarship applications are submitted through the schools, and applicants should check their eligibility based on criteria such as school level, age, nationality, and major. Applicants should contact the relevant organisations or schools to obtain detailed information and application forms, and they may be required to submit additional documents such as transcripts, recommendation letters, health certificates, and photographs.
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Frequently asked questions
The United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada are the top three destinations for international students. In 2022, around 950,000 students were enrolled in higher education in the US, while the UK and Canada hosted more than 630,000 and 550,000 international students, respectively.
Countries like China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Australia are becoming popular destinations for international students. Australia has the highest ratio of international students per head of population in the world.
Several European countries, including Germany, Sweden, Finland, Norway, and France, offer free or low-cost tuition for EEA/Swiss students. Germany and France are specifically known for their engineering programs.
Factors like the visa process, the cost of living, job opportunities, and the strength of academic programs are important considerations when deciding on a study abroad destination.
