Studying abroad has several benefits, apart from the academic. It offers the opportunity to explore a new country, learn a new language, or simply get you out of your comfort zone. However, it can also be a gateway to international careers and even citizenship in some cases. Whether you want to stay close to home in both location and culture or want to completely immerse yourself in a different culture, there is a place for you. Here are the top five most popular study abroad destinations to consider for your next academic journey.
1. United Kingdom
If you want a different culture but not a different language, then consider the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom hosts some of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities. It boasts a rich history, diverse cities, and beautiful countryside. Its close proximity to the rest of Europe can mean affordable trips to other countries. Additionally, it has strong ties with the U.S., providing several networking opportunities.
2. France
For many, Paris is a bucket list destination. If you agree, then France might be the place for you. Apart from Paris, France has several universities located in different cities that also showcase French cuisine, scenery, and overall culture. Many of these institutions also offer courses in English as well as French. So, if you’re not too confident in your French skills, you can pick an all-English program and only practice French outside of the classroom. Like the United Kingdom, France is in a central location that makes exploring other European countries affordable.
3. Australia
If you are more of the outdoorsy type, then Australia might be a good fit. Australia is known for its laid-back lifestyle, diverse landscapes, unique wildlife, and high-quality education. However, it is also home to some of the world’s most livable cities like Sydney and Melbourne. With the national language being English and multicultural society, it can be easier to feel at home. Australia also has affordable access to Southeast Asian countries like Thailand and Indonesia.
4. Canada:
If you don’t want to stray away too much from home, look towards Canada. It is known for its friendly people, beautiful scenery, and multicultural cities. Canada’s universities are renowned for their research-intensive programs and state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, it’s a great option for those who prefer activities indoors over outdoors, and vice versa. Canada can offer one of the most similar experiences to the United States.
5. South Korea
Now, if you want to immerse yourself in a completely different culture, consider South Korea. It offers both bustling cities and serene nature, efficient public transportation, and delicious cuisine. To add onto this, many universities provide programs in English. However, similar to other non-English speaking countries, it is advised to learn the local language, at least a little bit, for a fuller experience. South Korea’s status as a technology and pop culture hub makes it an attractive location for innovators and fans.
Remember, the world is big, and the opportunities are endless. It’s all about figuring out what you want to gain from this experience and finding a location and program that best fit those goals. Regardless of where and how long your study abroad program is, it is guaranteed that it will be a memorable journey. If you’re not sure where to start or are having difficulty picking the right location, Ariventures is here to help you.
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