In Europe, Asia and many other places around the globe, graduate school (and undergraduate) education is often a fraction of the cost of an education in the United States. There are many institutions where you can get a high quality education, taught in English (if you choose) while immersing yourself in a multicultural environment, building your global skillset. Some of the most popular countries include: Scotland; Ireland; Germany; Netherlands; Norway; Vietnam; England; Sweden; Denmark; France; Spain; Hong Kong; South Korea; Australia; New Zealand.
FEATURED COLLEGES WITH STRONG INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS
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NUI Galway (Ireland)
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Trinity College Dublin (Ireland)
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Leiden University (Netherlands)
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Maastricht University (Netherlands)
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University of Utrecht (Netherlands)
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University of Hong Kong (China)
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St Andrews University (Scotland)
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University of Dundee (Scotland)
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University of Edinburgh (Scotland)
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Lund University (Sweden)
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University of Coimbra (Portugal)
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RMIT University (Australia)
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RMIT University (Vietnam)
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University of Oslo (Norway)
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University of Manchester (England)
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Free University of Berlin (Germany)
Why Study Overseas
The world is becoming more global each year and the leaders of tomorrow will be the individuals that develop global skills. A Masters or other graduate degree from an international university will help prepare you for the future. The cost will invariably be much lower, the time spent pursuing a graduate degree typically quicker and the experience richer. Employers in the United States value a graduate degree from international universities and they are directly transferrable to most careers in the United States or a continued career overseas.
Costs and How to Pay
Costs are much cheaper in Europe, Asia and other locations due to government subsidies (Europe) and cost of living (Asia). Tuition costs are low, typically $3-12,000 in Europe and housing and food is comparable to the United States (higher in Scandinavia, lower in Southern Europe). Costs in Asia for tuition are typically higher with a low cost of living, typically $15-20,000 for tuition. Even factoring in flights to Europe or Asia, the cost can be far lower than a comparable US institution.
A number of schools do give scholarships to international students so you should check with the institutions you are applying to first (more below).
Federal Student Aid (or 529 savings plans) can be used at many institutions around the globe. Check the Federal Student Aid Guide for the current list of schools. This list can be a really good way to narrow down your choices as some schools can receive Federal loan funds (eligible column) and some you will only be able to defer prior loans.
Where Should I go?
In some ways this is the hardest part ! There are more than 25,000 universities worldwide - how can I possibly narrow down the list?
The small list above features colleges with strong programs in places with a vibrant culture and where you can experience the food, culture, nightlife, career and travel options that being in a new place will provide you. The best thing about applying to colleges overseas is that most schools will accept you - consequently your list of schools can be smaller. No need to worry about a long list of extracurricular activities or the US system that rejects 90% of it's applicants (from top colleges).
Inevitably rankings may play a part in your decision making process or help to confirm your
options - here are three of the most reputable:
Career Options
An overseas education can provide you with a great platform for an international career and a global network that you can connect with via your educational institution or linkedin.com