The Top 10 Places You Should Go To Study Abroad

It really is no secret. 

Picking a place to study abroad might be the hardest part of actually getting ready to study abroad. I mean seriously, look at all the places you could go: 

Suffice to say that if you ever come across the opportunity to study abroad, TAKE IT. Even if its for the summer, a semester or even a year. Studying abroad is quite possibly the single most important – if not, then the greatest – thing that you should experience while you're still in college. 

Think about it. 

You're young and energetic. So while you still have your youth, go out into the world and obtain a different experience. Meet new friends from around the world. Gain a new perspective on things you wouldn't normally think about. Learn a new language, be independent . . . .

I can seriously go on and on about how awesome it is to go abroad. 
(In a low whispered voice: A semester abroad also looks really good on your resume. *Wink*).

So once you've finally decided to go abroad, what's next?

Well, that's the fun part, my friend. Next, you get to decide where you want to go in the world.

So I did some research and checked out the Top 10 best places for students to study abroad. 

Here's what I found.

Fair Warning: You Will Not Want To Come Back Home. 


#10: Universidad Veritas – San José, Costa Rica

The Universidad Veritas was one of the first private universities in Costa Rica. It's focus on Spanish language, media arts, architecture and design makes it one of the most dynamic and progressive institution in South America. After demonstrating an exceptionally high level of academics for the past eighteen years, the Universidad Veritas became an acclaimed institution due to the school's innovative approach. Nestled in the heart of Costa Rica's capitol, San José, the Universidad Veritas is ringed by lush green mountains and valleys, along with the city's modern attractions such as museums, hotels, markets and theaters. Pura Vida!   

What You Should See: The National Theater of Costa Rica (Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica) , Orosi River Valley (El Valle del Rio Orosi), Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, and Museo de Los Ninos. 



#9 The University of Tokyo – Tokyo, Japan

The University of Tokyo is Japan's top university and is known for its world-class center for research and is located in a vibrant and lively city. The university's undergraduate program for study abroad students emphasizes the liberal arts for strong communication skills and interdisciplinary awareness, giving their students a solid foundation for specialized knowledge as they navigate through the city of Tokyo. The university strives to be a constant source of honorable character and a paragon of intellect and morals for the entire nation. Why go to Harvard when you can study abroad at the most prestigious university in all of Asia? 

What You Should See: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Tokyo Sky Tree East Tower, Meiji Jingu and Tokyo City View

#8 Universitat De Barcelona – Barcelona, Spain

The Universitat de Barcelona rests beautifully in the region of Cataluña in the northeast corner of Spain. The university (as well as the city) is bilingual as inhabitants of the region speak both Castilian Spanish and Catalán, the official language of Cataluña. The university offers its students an array of cultural diversity and endless amounts of energy. Students from abroad will get to experience the stunning and unique architecture in Barcelona, ranging from medieval gothic castles to the mosaic buildings of Antonio Gaudí. The Universitat de Barcelona will satisfy every student that goes abroad. From literature, music, gastronomy and art, the university provides the perfect blend of culture and fun.

What You Should See: La Casa Vella - Flamenco in Barcelona, Mosaiccos, Basilica of the Sagrada Familia and Afternoon in Montserrat  

#7: The American University of Cairo – Cairo, Egypt 

The American University in Cairo (AUC) is a premier English-language institution of higher learning. AUC offers exceptional liberal arts and professional education in a cross-cultural environment. Their mission is to ensure that their students build-up their leadership skills, continue their education and giving back by contributing to Egypt and the international community in diverse fields. At AUC, students will be exposed to the rich history of Cairo, taking in the pyramids, the ancient Egyptian temples and the language. With so many excellent opportunities to pursue, studying in Cairo will be one of the most exciting and enriching experiences of any student's life. 

What You Should See: The Giza Plateau, Al-Azhar Park, Mosque and Madrasa of Sultan Hassan and Cairo Tower

#6: Charles University – Prague, Czech Republic 

Founded in the mid-14th century, Charles University is one of the oldest universities in the world and one of the leading universities in Central Europe. Students will enjoy small class sizes taught by Charles University professors in a classroom located on Thakurova Street in Prague 6. This is a nice area of town where many local students reside and attend classes at several Charles University faculties located in the area. The city itself is a living museum and possesses architectural preservation like no other in the world. Prague has risen to make an extraordinary name for itself and welcomes its students to discover its captivating everyday wonders. While abroad, students will learn Czech and take a wide variety of classes in English, but also giving them enough downtime to explore any number of the beautiful, interesting or delicious sites around the city. 

What You Should See: Old Town Square, St. Vitus Cathedral, State Opera and Prague Castle


#5: Lorenzo de' Medici – Florence, Italy

LdM Florence is the ideal choice to those students interested in studying the humanities, creative arts, design and, of course, Italian language and culture. All courses are taught in English except (obviously) the Italian language classes. For most study abroad students, they will see Florence as an artists' haven. The small city perfectly preserves the essence of the Renaissance and gives the impression of living in an outdoor museum. The city stands out as a cultural, historical and academic hot spot in Italy. 

What You Should See: Cupola del Brunelleschi, Galleria dell'Accademia/Statue of David,  Piazza del Duomo and Opera at St. Mark's Anglican Church

#4: University of St. Andrews – Fife, Scotland 

Over the last 600 years, the University of St. Andrews has established a reputation as one of the world's leading research and teaching centers. St. Andrews is a unique place to study and live. Nestled on the east coast of Scotland, students abroad may find themselves crossing golf-courses on their way to class, or jogging along the beach after dinner. Not only does the university have a world-class status, it also offers a diverse of social activities. Historic buildings are juxtaposed against the modern facilities, and the many student traditions truly make studying at St. Andrews an unforgettable experience. Not to mention that St. Andrews is know for its famous alumni, Prince William (who coincidentally met his future wife, Kate Middleton, at St. Andrews). Who knows, there could be a few more royals enrolled in some classes this upcoming semester. 

What You Should See: Skydive at St. Andrews, West Sands, St. Andrews Cathedral and Falkland Palace 

#3: University of Otago – Dunedin, New Zealand 

The University of Otago is New Zealand's oldest university. Founded in 1869, the university has a strong research emphasizes and many of its programs focus on nature-related sciences, including geology, marine science, ecology, botany and zoology. Located in Dunedin, the town is a mix of Edwardian and Victorian architecture. Positioned, right on the mainland of the Otago Peninsula in the Otago region of the South Island, the university is surrounded by beautiful beaches, rolling hills and exotic wildlife.    

What You Should See: Olveston, Larnach Castle & Gardens, Otago Peninsula and Toitu Otago Settlers Museum


#2: Bond University – Gold Coast, Australia

Bond University is Australia's first private, not-for-profit university, offering a personalized academic environment. Students thrive in Bond's classes where their internationally renowned professors know each student by name. Bond differs from other Australian universities as it runs on a trimester system commencing in January, May and September, allowing a six-semester degree to be completed in two years, instead of three, without increasing semester workloads. Famous for its surf beaches, national parks, waterways and mountain ranges, the Gold Coast caters to such an international tourist crowd. Along the beautiful beaches you will find entertainment lining the shore with the many theme parks and attractions. Defined by its environment (and feeling like everyday is a vacation) the Gold Coast is an outstanding global city you'll enjoy living in. 

What You Should See: Surfers Paradise Beach, SkyPoint Observation Deck, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Infinity Attraction  


#1 University of Cape Town – Cape Town, South Africa

The University of Cape Town (UCT) is South Africa's oldest university and one of the continent's leading teaching and research institutions. The university's breathtaking location looks out into the city and up at Devil's Peak.  Cape Town is rated as one of the most beautiful cities in the world with a backdrop of flat-topped Table Mountain juxtaposed by the sweep of the Atlantic Ocean in the foreground. You can hike or take a cable-car ride up the mountains to enjoy the breathtaking view of the city and the peninsula.  

What You Should See: Table Mountain National Park, Two Oceans Aquarium, The Heart of Cape Town Museum and Cape Point Nature Reserve   


So there. Now you have plenty of choices to pick from when you start thinking of where to go abroad. 

And as cliché as this might sound, by studying abroad you will become a much wordier person, and become more marketable to grad schools and employers because of the intangible life skills you're going to pick up along the way. 

In addition, there will be a moment while you're abroad when you'll realize that you've made the right decision. 

Also you will most likely experience this moment the first time that you arrive at your new location:

But hey, don't let that stop you from having a good time!