Skip to content

Top 10 Countries for Study Abroad in 2021

It’s really exciting to talk about the top 10 places in the world to study abroad in 2021. For studying abroad, in the current era, there are many options available to choose from. In all available options, Canada comes out in the top three countries for students according to the latest survey. Surprisingly, Canada still beats Germany and France which still offer free education to thousands of international students. However, Australia narrowly missed the top position.

For study abroad, the top ten countries/locations are always listed based on a survey. One survey may differ from another. In a recent survey of education.com on the top 10 countries for studying abroad in 2021, they sought the opinion of more than 2700 international students. When asked questions, students said that when they decide to study abroad, they always think first about the country rather than university or college. They also gave the important reasons why they want to study abroad. This survey was based on the following points :

  • To approach high-quality teaching
  • To meet my career goals
  • To enjoy a new lifestyle
  • To develop my personality
  • To learn a new language and to meet new people to gain knowledge and experience

List of top 10 countries for study abroad in 2021

Country Namescores out of 100
1Canada81.8
2Australia 81.07
3Germany 80.84
4US 78.56
5Uk 78.23
6Switzerland 77.65
7Netherland 77.09
8France 74.73
9Spain 72.58
10Denmark 70.16

1- Canada

Canada ranked third in the world for most global students, with more than 642,000 attending Canadian post-secondaries. In May 2020 Navitas surveyed its global agent network to explore how COVID-19 was changing the fortunes of international study destinations. Findings from that initial survey showed that Canada’s reputation as a study destination had been enhanced by its government’s handling of the pandemic. At that time, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada topped the pack. The benefits of studying in Canada and your future

  • World-class universities and colleges
  • Language option (English or French)
  • Obtain work experience in Canada after you Graduate
  • Ride Canada’s tech wave
  • High-class living lifestyle
  • Have an enriching cultural experience
  • Enjoy the country’s natural beauty
  • Lower tuition costs
  • You can work while you are studying
  • Postgraduate work permit
  • A track to Canadian permanent residence
  • Live in a safe country with a high quality of life
  • Canada is always being a priority for international students; it means there are some factors that attract international students to study here. Canada ranks 3rdin the world for figures of global students. It has become the most favorite destination for immigrants around the world over the past five years.
  • Canada issued many residence permits for study permits during the last five years. In 2015 Canada issued 352,365 study permits, in 2016 almost 410,690, in 2017 about 491,135 in 2018 about 568,130 and in 2019 almost 642,480 (stats. courtesy canada.ca).
  • Every year, so many international students move to Canada for a prospering future. Canada offers all possible chances to settle there even if you are a student, temporary worker, new immigrant, and family members of Canada settled persons.

Study in Canada guidance

Timely updates in immigration policies for positive progress works very well, by promoting immigration schemes that support global students, Canada produces top educated and productive members of society. They participate in its progress through their education, skills, and experience. They server the nation as a doctor, scientist, working in companies, teaching, and worker. There are many reasons why, just a year ago, Canada ranked third in the world for most international students, with around 639000 attending Canadian post-secondaries.  These numbers include three standards:

  • the world-class system of universities and colleges
  • a welcome atmosphere
  • tuition and housing costs are favorable compared to the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom

Study and work in Canada

There are various benefits when you select Canada for your studies. International students who have completed their graduation can be eligible for work permits and immigration programs that lead to permanent residence. If you are studying full-time in Canada on a valid study permit, you can work up to 20 weeks each week during the academic year, and work full-time at regular intervals. When you complete the post-secondary program, graduates can apply for a Postgraduate Work Permit (PGWP). These permits are valid for a minimum of eight months and can last up to three years, allow freedom to operate legally in Canada.

PWGP holders can choose to work full-time or part-time. They have the right to work for themselves or their employer and they are exempt from the need for a labor market impact assessment. This waiver means that the employer does not have to first prove that there is no Canadian/local citizen or permanent resident available to get the work.

2- Australia

Ranking number 2 in the survey, studying in Australia is in fact a dream for many students all over the world. Australia has the third-highest number of international students in the world behind only the United Kingdom and the United States despite having a population of only 23 million. This isn’t surprising when you consider Australia has seven of the top 100 universities in the world. In fact, with over 22,000 courses across 1,100 institutions, Australia sits above the likes of Germany, the Netherlands, and Japan, ranking eighth in the Universitas 2012 (U21 Ranking of National Higher Education Systems). Ranked third in the world for access to high-quality education. Australia is proud of several top universities in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. Australia also ranks seventh in the world for personal development, proving that this country has a lot to gain from just a great education. Study in Australia and see for yourself why this land of wonder and mystery attracts visitors from all over the world.

3- Germany

According to the survey, Germany is at the third position in the world and first in Europe. It is a very good choice for studying abroad. Following are the reasons why you should choose Germany for your studies.

  • World-class education
  • No tuition fees in almost 90% of public universities. Affordable tuition fee in private institutions
  • High-class living lifestyle
  • Have an enriching cultural experience
  • Enjoy the country’s natural beauty
  • Live in a safe country with a high quality of life

There are hundreds of universities in Germany that have free or very low-fee tuition programs available for international students. Whether you want to study Engineering, Medicine, Architecture, or Business, Germany is the place to be. Combining high-quality education with a unique cultural experience, living in Germany is the main reason why young people from all around the world come here. Study in Germany complete guide!

4- United States

In the top 10 list, US remains ate number 4. If you want to immigrate abroad for study purposes, United States attracts you to provide a lot of opportunities to find your great study abroad experience. The country ranks second in the world for access to high-quality education and fifth in the world to experience a new culture or lifestyle. Advantages of choosing the US:

  • Discover vast educational opportunities. Higher education students in the United States are known for offering a variety of degrees and study options.
  • Improve your career opportunities.
  • Perfect your English.
  • Get a global perspective.
  • Get help from world-class students.

5- United Kingdom

The UK is opening the doors for international students. Ranking at number 5 in the survey, this country knows what you are searching for, that is why they are proud of world-class universities for their innovative teaching approach, and the leading mind who deliver it. Thanks to well-known universities such as Oxford and Cambridge and many quality universities across the country, it has become the world’s number one position for access to high-quality education. With universities in almost every city, you are guaranteed access to students’ exciting lives. While many international students are found in London itself, cities such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester, and Belfast also offer their own sites, voices, and experiences. Fourth in the world in terms of culture and lifestyle, there is a lot to do outside the classroom. From afternoon tea to pub pints, from mountain forts to towering hills, from banjos and mash to fish and chips, you are guaranteed a royal experience in the UK. Reasons why should I choose the UK for studies:

  • Outclass famous universities
  • Quality education
  • A long history of World-renowned education
  • Reasonable schooling and cost of living
  • International student-friendly schooling
  • Unique culture
  • Many work and financial Aid options
  • Superior Language skills
  • Expand your experience and CV
  • Scholarships and finance support
  • Strong research infrastructure

6- Switzerland  

Switzerland is a small European country that welcomes international students from all over the world. Ranking in the survey at number 6, it is a country known for its commitment to investing in excellent universities, land research centers, and exciting future industries. In addition, in cities such as Zurich and Geneva, students have access to a huge collection of art galleries, museums, theaters, and live music venues, while famous natural wonders such as the Alps are just a few hours away. There are also many higher education institutions on the right side of the Alps. Offering a modern environment for students and researchers, Swiss universities are consistently ranked high. Home to the European Headquarters of the United Nations, Switzerland’s large international population makes it easy for students abroad to meet people from all over the world. Switzerland is also considered to be the safest country in the world, so students can always feel comfortable looking for their new home. Its location in Central Europe provides easy access to many countries – from France to Austria. Reasons why should I choose Switzerland  for studies:

  • Innovation
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • A place to make your career
  • Safety and stability
  • Sustainability
  • Diversity
  • Language learning process
  • Amazing scenery and winter sports

7- The Netherlands

The Netherlands, a country in northwestern Europe, is known for its flat landscaping of canals, tulip fields, windmills, and cycling routes. Known for its high level of English proficiency, Dutch universities offer many courses in English, so there are many opportunities for international students to find their best program. If English is your mother tongue, Dutch is also considered one of the easiest languages ​​to learn. Whether you want to immerse yourself in everything cultural, see some history or just enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, the Netherlands is a great study for you abroad. Benefits of studying in the Netherlands:

  • Innovative teaching methods
  • International recognized degrees
  • Low study fee
  • An international and multicultural environment
  • Reasonable living expenses
  • A wide range of degree taught in English
  • Excellent opportunities for traveling

8- France

It’s rich in culture gastronomy and thriving student life. When you choose France for your studies, it provides you the opportunity to learn the language and gain a cultural perspective. This great tradition continues in many public and private universities in France, making it a popular destination for international students from all over the world. So if you are interested in studying abroad, here are eight reasons why France is the perfect destination. Basic factors to choose France as a study destination:

  • World-class teachers
  • Attractive tuitions expenses
  • A rich cultural experience
  • Research and development opportunities
  • Young talent is valued in the innovation and entrepreneurship sector
  • An appealing destination for international students
  • French is a global language
  • A great place to land a dream job
  • A robust economy with a bright future

9- Spain

Every year thousands of students from around the world travel to Spain to attend one of the 76 universities in the country. They come to this country for a variety of reasons, with the knowledge that studying here is truly an enlightening experience. Spain gives its international students the opportunity to create new attitudes and ideas about life.

Spain is rich in history and culture, and as such, it provides a complete package to anyone coming to the region from the international mainland. Quality education is one of the main reasons why international students should study in Spain. Benefits when you choose Spain as  a study destination:

  • Study in English
  • Quality education
  • A chance to learn Spanish
  • Experience Brilliant outdoors
  • Indulge in Spanish Cuisine
  • Affordable living and study expenses
  • Sunshine everywhere
  • Meet with Creative people
  • A long history of literacy

10- Denmark

Every year students from all over the world come to Denmark to receive a quality education in a friendly, safe and innovative environment. What they achieve is a great foundation for their future careers, a wide range of academic fields, such as engineering, life sciences, and social sciences. If you come to Denmark to study, you Achieve the following with a fun and enjoyable experience:

  • The perfect foundation for your future career.
  • More than 500 programs and 1300 courses taught in English
  • A modern education system of high international standard Excellent collaboration and modern skills
  • An organized, friendly, and secure country
  • A strong foundation for your future career
  • Study in English
  • World-class education
  • Innovative learning environment
  • A social student life
  • Surprising education system
  • You will enjoy your life here
  • Amazing wildlife and landscapes

Complete guide on “Study in Denmark”