10 universities where you can study abroad in English

One of the first things that come to mind when you think about studying abroad would be the opportunity to pick up another language. However, what if that’s not what you want? If you’re simply itching to go abroad and experience another culture first hand, but still need to take classes in your major? Furthermore, a lot of subjects have very specific terminology which can make it difficult to understand in another language, even if you have some knowledge of said language!

Don’t worry, there are plenty of universities around the globe that conduct their lessons in English. We’ve come up with a list of ten of the best universities in the world. These institutions have diverse student populations, a wide array of subjects on offer, located in bustling cities or surrounded by magnificent sceneries.

1. Maastricht University, Netherlands

Most of the programmes at Maastricht University- both undergraduate and postgraduate are taught in English. They were also among one of the earlier international universities to adopt an English-dominant curriculum.

International students make up almost half of the university’s student population. This gives the school a fun and multicultural environment for you to study in. The institution offers exchange programmes in social sciences, business and economics, arts, life sciences, law, humanities, psychology and many more. Located close to both Germany and Belgium, you could always take a weekend trip around Europe while you’re there.

2. John Cabot University, Italy

A private American liberal arts university situated in Rome, this institution conducts al of their classes in English. As a hub for international students, you’ll be surrounded by classmates from all around the globe, AND you’ll be surrounded by beautiful art, in a city steeped in culture and history. Since you’re already in the country, you could always pick up an Italian language class or two.

3. Stockholm University, Sweden

This university has a few of its bachelor’s degree programmes and a large number of postgraduate programmes in English. Sweden is also a fantastic place to study even if you don’t have a grasp of their native language since most if not all of the locals speak English.

If you’d like to learn their language, Stockholm University offers language courses for free. You could also check out the kinds of scholarships available in Sweden to help with your finances.

4. National University of Singapore

Well-known around the world as one of the big players in research- consistently ranked as one of the top universities in Asia, National University of Singapore (NUS) is the nation’s first and oldest university. All courses are held in English and English is generally the nation’s lingua franca.

Singapore is a great place to do your studies abroad, given it diverse cultures and languages. You could also explore other parts of Asia from Singapore. Moreover, NUS has partnerships with over 50 universities, such as University of California colleges, Northwestern University, George Washington and the like. So if you’re looking to continue in one of their partner universities, transferring credits would be a breeze.

5. Sophia University, Japan

This university teaches a range of programmes in English in the liberal arts and sciences fields. Situated in Tokyo, Sophia University is one of the top ranked private institutions in Japan. If you don’t have a working knowledge, nor do you have any intention of learning Japanese, Tokyo has a higher number of locals who has some knowledge of English. However, we highly recommend that students take up at least one Japanese language class while you’re there to make daily communications easier.

Sophia also has exchange partnership programmes with several universities globally including big names such as Yale University. Yale has a 5% acceptance rate, so joining a study abroad exchange is would be your best bet.

6. University of Hong Kong

Also called Hong Kong University or HKU, English is used when teaching all of their classes. HKU professors come from all over the world, with more than 40 countries represented. There are a wide range of subjects offered from arts to business, engineering, law and sciences. They’ve also got ties with many universities all over the world.

The university ranks among the top universities in Asia each year. For those of you who are worried about studying abroad, HKU has an Exchange Buddy Programme that matches you with a local student. You’ll be in contact with your buddy before you land in Hong Kong and he/she will be fetching at the airport and helping you get settled in. They will also be there to help you throughout the duration of your study.

7. King's College, London

More than a hundred years old, King’s College offers over 800 courses, all of which are taught in English. Located along the Thames, you’ll be in one of the world’s finest cities as your classroom. Consistently coming in among the top 100 universities globally, and you’ll be learning with some of the best minds across many different countries!

8. University of Sydney, Australia

The oldest university in Australia and arguably the most prestigious, University of Sydney has been said to have gorgeous campuses in the world. Situated in a lively city, you could always explore their fantastic beaches, hike up their mountains or even venture out to other states in the country during your semester breaks.

9. University of Cape Town (UCT), South Africa

UCT uses English as their instructional language. With 11 official languages, you could always pick up a language or two while you’re there. Given its history the town has a lot of European influences, making it feel like you’re in a town in Europe rather than Africa.

Nearly 20% of the student population are international students from over 100 countries, you’ll be surrounded by people from many different cultures and customs. The highest ranked university in Africa, the education that you receive will be one of the best.

10. University of Malta, Msida Malta

University of Malta, the only national university on this tiny island at the heart of the Mediterranean, offers all courses in English. International students are invited as both study abroad students and through direct enrolment. This means that you’ll have both international and local friends while you’re there.

Bonus: American Universities Abroad

Granted, the easiest way to take a study programme abroad in English would be to choose an American university. You don’t necessarily have to limit yourself to just America. There are many American universities all over the world. Some of these include:

Do note that they universities are not necessarily associated with each other, but all of them use the American teaching style for higher education and offer American degrees, making the transfer of credits a simple process.

It's Only the Beginning

Now that you know the best universities around the world that you can take a study programme in English, we advise that you spend time taking a closer look at each university to check if they have the courses that you’re looking for. Most importantly if you’re only looking to study abroad for just a semester, always find out if the university that you’re interested in has any sort of agreement or affiliation with your university.

This will ensures that you’ll save money (through direct enrolment) and time (choosing the right university that meets your needs) rather than just heading to the first university that comes to mind and regretting your decision later.

Finally, once you’re there don’t forget to spend time exploring your host city, interact with the locals, form friendships and even pick up their local language!

Contemplating studying abroad? Check out the courses available here.

Or download a university’s prospectus now!

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