A lot of students who prefer to go out for their Masters’s degree face this dilemma of which country they should prefer for their master's education. Various points need be to borne into consideration when you select a country for your education such as cost of the course, the reputation of the college/university, duration of the course, geographical location, quality of education imparted, return on investment and the job prospects after completing the course.
Another benefit of studying in universities worldwide is that your learning isn’t limited to only academic experience. You will gain a global perspective on various aspects, both personal and professional. Most importantly, you might even learn a new language, which is an asset in today’s connected world.
US has always been a preferred destination for ambitious students as US colleges present superior academic excellence, wide-ranging support services for international students, copious funding, flexible curriculum, and an extensive array of educational options. US has some of the leading universities across the globe so it is regarded as one of the best countries to do MS. You get a stay back of 1 year in US post your masters but in case of a STEM Program you get a stay back of 3 years.
If you opt to study in Canada, you will get the highest standard of education at remarkably low cost as compared to the US. Further, a post-graduation work permit for Canada holds validity for the same duration as your program of study if it is less than 16 months. In case your program is more than that then you get a stay back of 3 years.
That’s another reason to send your children to study in universities worldwide – they become more mature and organised, and learn to deal with the nitty-gritty of daily life without complaining.1. Germany
Education in Germany is both high-quality and either free, or dead cheap. As an international student in the USA, expect to pay up to $45–50,000 per year of undergraduate college tuition.
Believe it or not, education in public universities is absolutely free! There is no trick to this like some people might think. You just have to understand what the word “free” implies here. Free means that there is no tuition fee and the only fee you will be paying every semester will be for your semester ticket and administration which is just €300–500 depending on the university.
This is nothing compared to the thousands of dollars you have to pay in the states and frankly, you can even cover it yourself with a part-time job.
German Public Universities MS programs are quite popular because these universities levy no tuition fees. The Criteria for selection of students for public universities is academic excellence that is documented via your academic certifications. Also, a lot of Erasmus scholarships are available that students can apply for where they can get a stipend per month.
Well, there are a lot of perks of being a student in Germany but the best part is the vast variety of cheap travel options within Europe. I can understand as a student, it might still not be affordable as you’ll have a lot of other expenses to worry about every month and might not be able to save enough for such luxury.
What if I told you there are some free travel options as well? Yes, that’s right! As a student in Germany, you get a semester ticket from your University which allows you to travel free of cost within your city but there’s more. Based on your city, your semester ticket also gives you free access to some intercity travels. For example, I live in Bremen and here’s the list of cities I can travel to that are part of my semester ticket.
Sprechen sie englisch? (Do you speak English?) This is probably the one sentence you’re going to be needing the most outside of your university because it’s true, language is going to be a barrier for any non-German speaker living in Germany. Now you can either spend a fortune on your degree in an English speaking country just because of this language barrier or realize that eventually, one would learn enough German to get around.
As a student, you’re officially allowed to work 20 hours/week with your studies and the minimum wage here is ~ €11/hour which means that even if you get the worst job ever, you’ll still be making €880/month which will be more than enough for you to cover your living expenses. Think about it. You can be financially independent and afford a decent lifestyle. That’s how great Germany is.
Germany has large cities and peaceful nature, relatively cheap rents, excellent healthcare, good job security, and is a fantastic place to live.
2. UK
London is the financial capital of the world and has a lot of top-ranked universities. UK allows graduates the chance to stay for two years after graduation. This makes UK a much-preferred option for higher education. The UK is one of the most preferred countries by international students — also the education system in the UK offers high-quality research and academic integrity.
The two years post-study work permit allow international students to look out for the employment opportunities in the UK. The students can even work full-time during this period in any domain regardless of their studies.
Once a student gets a job, he/she needs to find a tier-2 sponsor who can sponsor the work permit post this PSW time frame is over. One must work in the UK for at least 5 years on tier-2 visa in order to apply for indefinite leave.
Among other things to do in Cambridge, a study trip here will undoubtedly be a unique experience, rich in learning and experiences, memorable for a lifetime. Discover the summer course or the English study trips to Cambridge.
3. France
France is quite a popular country as a study destination for Spanish-speaking students. There are so many study programs that one can feel overwhelmed when looking for the best option. Most are very good, but you have to accept that there are some that stand out significantly.
It is important that you consider for your experience abroad, an excellent provider and a course that really leaves you a great learning for your professional future, be it a language course, or a university semester, we advise you to make the best choice for your benefit. Studying in France will be your best decision!
If you are still not totally convinced, but you are considering the idea of being a student in the European country, we can assure you that you are already on the right track. As a country that for 800 years has already received international students on its university campuses, it is reputed to have formed a prestigious educational system.
It will give you total security that you will receive quality training, regardless of the region or city where You decide to study, and regardless of whether you go to study languages, college or university. On the other hand, France is a place with a great diversity of people and cultures, due to the number of foreigners residing in the country.
When you arrive they will welcome you with open arms and you will surely make friends who will be willing to help you at all times. You will be part of the multicultural and you will also be able to learn a lot about local traditions, gastronomy, art and the beauty of its surroundings. Is there anyone who does not dream of being in the Louvre Museum, the Palace of Versailles or the Notre Dame Cathedral?
And if you never dreamed of your perfect romantic date in front of the Eiffel Tower, it doesn't matter, maybe you can do it in reality! The list of places to visit in France would never end. There is so much to see in this country, that it is not enough to visit it as a tourist for a few weeks!
Depending on your nationality, your situation and the length of your stay, you will need to obtain a visa to continue your studies or carry out research in France or to return after obtaining your diploma. If you are a citizen of a country in the European Economic Area (country of the European Union and Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein) or of Switzerland, you will not have to obtain a French student visa to study or do an internship in France.
Entry into French territory is free regardless of the duration of your stay and your studies. If you are not a citizen of a country in the European Economic Area (EU countries and Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein) or of Switzerland, and depending on your nationality, you must obtain a student visa to study in France even if your stay is shorter to 3 months.
If you are not a citizen of a country in the European Economic Area (EU countries and Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein) or of Switzerland, the VLS-TS “étudiant” (long-term visa with the value of a student residence permit) allows you to study in France for a period of four months to one year. It must be validated upon arrival in France. Upon expiration, if you wish to continue your studies, you can apply for a multi-year residence permit.
Balkans is diverse and vast area that provides sharp, exciting, vibrant and always unexpected experiences. Each country will be unique. People here have profound temper, the talking style may feel bipolar, summers here are scorching hot (+40°C and up is normal) and rains are rare.
Balkans are sunny, you will see less forests, more sky and endless, never ending corn fields, sunflower fields, vineyards.
While Balkans are mostly not in EU, none of them is using euro (which is not the most important thing but you will have to deal with learning currencies all the time), less matching and unanimous, some Balkan places may feel rough around the edges and sometimes even wild - you will have to watch out!
The Baltics can offer many interesting venues and local historical sites, regardless of if a traveler is on a shoestring budget. These small countries offer easy access, nice small surprises and unique places for casual observers. Bear in mind, that price levels are always a bit higher in capital cities and vice versa in peripheral areas. Overall the Baltics are quite affordable and safe for tourists.
You don’t really go to Baltics for golden sunshine and endless vineyards. In fact, you may spend parts of your trip under the rain, even in Summer. Temperatures will not go extra high. Countries will be similar for a foreign tourists with matching landscapes, architecture and with calmer, reserved local people who are usually not into your face.
Anyway, in the Baltics all capital cities are interesting and worth visiting. All of these feature an Old Town, with attractive local flair and good restaurants. Interestingly, they differ quite a lot, but in different ways. Vilnius is special, Riga is grand and Tallinn has very old historical buildings and stunning views from elevated terraces.
But capitals are only part of the story, so do not miss the rural scenery and towns. In the countryside, prices are often a bargain and restaurants can be surprisingly good. Sea coast areas are completely flat as a board which makes it easy for cycling. Forests, lakes (thousands of them!) - this is what you are going to see when in Baltics.
All three Baltic states are part of European Union, Eurozone (euro is the currency) and are easy to travel to, no borders, their passports are good passports for travel too and countries are more matched up to European standards in many aspects.
4. Estonia
Next to the Baltic Sea and below Finland there is Estonia. A very underrated country and another unique one often missed off of Europe travel guides. It has verdant forests, glorious Baltic beaches and a medieval walled citadel for its capital city Tallinn. It’s language is unique, only vaguely related to Hungarian and Finish but pretty much a world apart from every other EU language.
Also they are the most internet heavy country in the world and apparently they were planning on making public transport and internet access free for all citizens, which is pretty cool! Keep an eye on them, they may out Nordic the Nordic countries one day.
By entering to Estonia you will feel similarly like in Scandinavia (prices will rise significantly as well like in Scandinavia). Estonia previously was part of the Swedish Empire and Estonians are genetically and linguistically close to the Finnish, so it certainly has the strongest Scandinavian vibe.
Located in the Northern Europe, Estonia is worth visiting. If you want to get the Nordic vibes, come to Estonia, because it’s cheaper here. Estonia’s neighbors are Finland from North, Russia from East, Latvia from South and across the sea Sweden from West. During summer, the daylight lasts for more than 18 hours. A stay in Estonia naturally includes a visit to its capital.
Tallinn is a wonderful city that you have to discover. The city and country are certainly well known to people in the area, especially in Sweden, but as the distance from the Baltic's increase, Tallinn and Estonia seem to become more and more obscure and mysterious. The islands of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa are unique and certainly worth a visit, especially if you like biking.
Depending on where you live, Tallinn and Estonia aren’t really underrated, but the lovely country isn’t nearly as well known and visited as it should be.
There are a whole bunch of very friendly people, and lots of very weird stuff just waiting to be seen.
Tallinn is quite walkable with many cultural charms and a nice old town district, then head for an island along Estonia’s Baltic coast.
Spend some time outside the capital and discover national parks such as Lahemaa National Park or explore the surrounding islands such as Saaremaa, Hiiumaa or Vormsi. Submerge yourselves in the waters of a lake and whipped ourselves with juniper branches. In Estonia, Pärnu town is a favorite for summer activities, spa and golf.
Parnu is an old and picturesque city, a well-known spa with well-developed infrastructure. Apart from comfortable hotels and inns, it has a large number of sanatoriums and nursing homes, so one can at the same time improve health. The City Hall often hosts concerts and festivals, everyone can attend. The history of the place can be known during the excursion to the Parnu museum, which has been in operation since 1895.
Through the center of the historical district of Pärnu, is the charming Rüütli street. It is famous for its architectural monuments, the variety of good restaurants and souvenir shops. Beautiful old houses from different eras have survived here. The red brick houses of the nineteenth century look especially spectacular. In summer, the facades of many buildings are decorated with fresh flowers and ornamental plants.
The most beautiful monument of architecture is Villa Ammende. The most unusual sight of Pärnu is its mole, whose length is approximately 2000 meters. It is built from huge rocks and extends to the sea. This picturesque place is considered one of the most romantic in the city. There is a good tradition of lovers kissing in the middle of the mole. They believe that the separation will not affect them.
Fans of historical excursions should definitely see the beautiful castle of Paide. The first castle in its place was built by the Knights of the Teutonic Order. Originally, it was called Weisenstein.
Estonia is a wonderful place, the summer is short but wonderful, winters are long and cold, it is easy to get to other places on the ferry for a day or two holiday. The drive south to Poland and into mainland Europe is long but the scenery is great and you drive through.
Insider Tip: The snow-covered landscape of Scandinavian winter postcards also exists here. Especially the Christmas market, is a true magical decoration. In summer, on the contrary, the days are eternal and at the end of June the night does not even fall. It is the period of barbecues and smoked fish to the firewood.
5. Latvia
Even in Europe most people do not really know where Latvia is nor do they care. Most people in Italy know the word Lettonia but they really do not know anything about it or where it is. Some British people know about Latvia because it is a popular place for men to go for pub crawls and stag parties. But it is not really on their radar.
A flight will take you directly to a rich café life, nightlife and fresh 4 star properties that offer spa treatments and good food. From your arrival in Riga, the capital of Latvia, you will notice the tranquility of a capital that contrasts with the turmoil of the great cities of Western Europe.
By being in the Latvian city of Riga and Sigulda National Park nearby you will get a glimpse at the Livonian Brothers of the Sword and at the Teutonic Order grace which were a fierce enemies of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth (they were mostly German/Prussian, so their heritage is absolutely different from the Lithuanian one). Latvian heritage is a mixture of Baltic, German and Scandinavian.
Riga is a destination in Eastern Europe that everyone should visit for an immersive sightseeing experience. When we heard that Riga was a hidden gem were sold, as we try to avoid crowds as much as possible and to visit more under the radar destinations. In Riga you will see tourists but not as much as other European destinations such as Rome, Madrid or Paris.
Riga is a paradise for travelers who love architecture, art, and especially Art Nouveau. The city has interesting museums and is easy to walk around. You will be surprised by the trolleybuses of public transport, the famous Art Nouveau architectural style inscribed in UNESCO or the wooden houses of some neighborhoods of the city. Riga in Latvia likewise has a great old town district, and a blossoming arts scene. Then maybe see a castle in the countryside at Sigulda or Cesis or Rundale.
The trains that transport you from one point to another in the country will remind you of a Soviet period that you thought was past. You will perceive that the Latvians are certainly colder and more closed than the inhabitants of the west, in a fairly matriarchal society.
Dotted with beautiful villages and epic forts, the Gauja National Park in Latvia is fascinating. The tower of the Turaida Castle rises majestically over the pines. Turaida Castle is located near Sigulda and was built by the Livonian Order as well upon directions given by Albert, Archbishop of Riga. In Latvia, visit the Jurmala beach, famous for the vast scale of white sands, reaching towards the horizon.
Jūrmala was once the spa and the most prestigious coastal destination of the former Russian Empire. While the Lithuanians enjoy the dunes of the Curonian Spit and the Estonians delight in the island life of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa, there is the intermediate Latvian coast of Kurzeme.
Conveniently located in northeastern Europe, the size of Latvia allows you to make a quick visit and offers globetrotters the possibility of arriving in just a few hours to Lithuania and Estonia. You can visit as well as to Saint Petersburg (only 7 hours away by car) and Belarus, or even make a trip for a weekend in Finland, Sweden or Lapland itself.
Insider Tip: Did you know that Riga has its own Beer Spa - a spa where you can immerse yourself in a wooden tub filled with warm beer! You may sip a chilled beer at the same time? Latvia loves beer, so to speak, so get ready for an unusual beer experience.
6. Netherlands
West-Friesland is in the north of North Holland, which is in the west of the Netherlands while Friesland is in the north of the Netherlands. You can easily pay a visit to West-Friesland if you use the Afsluitdijk to travel between the northern Netherlands and North Holland.
Looking at a map of the Netherlands, Utrecht may look like a nice and central place to stay, but if you’re mainly planning on sightseeing, Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague are a bit more central because these are the three most important cities when you go sightseeing and are pretty close to each other, as well as easy to travel to by either rail or subway.
Amsterdam is great, and/but really touristic (depending on what you favor). It has a rich history and some great sights, but it might be expensive to stay there. Rotterdam is a different city all together. Because it was blasted to rubble during World War II, the entire city was redesigned and rebuilt after the war. This is very much visible by the way the city looks.
It’s much less touristic than Amsterdam, but since over 95% of the Dutch (the highest percentage in the world, apart from countries with English as a national language) speak English, you won’t have any trouble finding people to help you out or just chat.
Hopefully you have found something to inspire you in our whistle-stop trip around some of Europe's less visited places.