Studying overseas can be a life-changing experience. You are pushed outside your comfort zone which lets you grow, meet new people, become more independent and experience a new world. When trying to find the right destination, you should certainly check university rankings and courses that will help you further educate yourself in your desired field. But what about the general lifestyle that this city has to offer? Check out our list of the most student-friendly places all over the world and begin your adventure!
Paris, city of light
Paris has 18 prestigious universities with the Sorbonne being the most famous. In previous years, tuition fees averaged around €2,300 which is seen as a fair price for prime quality classes. Apart from expensive accommodation, life in Paris is also cheap for international students. There is student restaurant where you can eat quite cheaply (about €4). The cultural offerings are what most appeal to students: you can go to a world-class concert for €10, enjoy acclaimed art at the Louvre, or absorb the city’s spirit and feel its important status in Europe.
Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria
There are a total of eight universities in Melbourne (most located near the city centre), all of which offer excellent courses in a broad range of subject areas. It is famous for its student variety and multiculturalism. The clash of various cultures creates great art – whether it is street graffiti, astonishing fashion or festivals (eg Melbourne Fringe Festival). Accommodation is generally affordable (about €250 per week) from the city centre. The excellent news is that there’s an established transport network. If you get tired of the city (which is unlikely), you can easily leave and visit astonishing vacation spots nearby (eg Dandenong Ranges, Lorne or Phillip Island).
Tokyo, a place of opportunity
Tokyo has been recognized as a superb student city because of internship opportunities and opportunities for further career development. Universities are filled with professors renowned for making groundbreaking discoveries. They normally have extracurricular activities called circle that gathers students with similar interests. Joining these circles is a fantastic way to get to know parts of Japanese culture, such as anime or kabuki. Tokyo is known for its excellent cuisine which you can enjoy in wallet-friendly student cafeterias, together with Western food. Skytree and Tokyo Tower are two of the most famous tourist attractions. Overall cultural offer Good.
Brisbane, a sunny student paradise
With winters hardly ever bringing temperatures below 20°C, studying in Brisbane can feel like an endless vacation. The city is home to more than 80,000 international students and 190 internationally recognized educational establishments. Many newcomers choose to live in student accommodation in Brisbane to meet new people, make their stay more significant, and save a little money by sharing space. There is a dynamic nightlife to be enjoyed with great music, restaurants and quirky cafes. In August, the city comes to life with the nine-day Royal Queensland Fair where you can enjoy locally produced food and carnival activities.
New York, where things occur
The Big Apple is probably the most diversified places worldwide, making it a fantastic destination for international students. It truly captures the essence of the global village: from Chinatown to Little Italy – making you feel part of the world. In addition to well-known private universities (eg New York City University or Columbia University), it has good public universities. Cost of education are in the range of $12,000 to around $50,000 and up, depending on the college chosen. There’s lots to see and experience, including major celebrations like New Year’s Eve in Times Square. Nearly half of international students choose to extend their visa and live here. Not surprising considering the opportunities on Wall Street, in Silicon Alley, major fashion magazines, or well-known nonprofits.
London, an incredible academic center
The British capital hosts over 100,000 international students per year. It can boast of supporting the education of more than 70 Nobel Prize Winners and discoveries such as Penicillin and DNA. With more than 120 libraries, London offers a stimulating learning environment that makes you want to be part of something bigger than yourself. The Universities of London, Cambridge and Oxford are considered amongst the best in the world. Culture lovers will be delighted here with over 1000 museums and galleries (e.g. British Museum, National Gallery, Science Museum): to name a few free entry, others offer valuable student discounts. Of course, do not forget famous landmarks like Big Ben, London Tower and Tower Bridge.
From their rich culture, top-ranked universities, hidden career options to opportunities for private growth and expanding your social network – these cities absolutely make college days more enjoyable.
