Top 5 Emerging Countries to Study Abroad for Quality Education

Studying abroad has long been a dream for many students, but the traditional destinations like the UK, US, Australia, and Canada can be financially out of reach for some families. However, the tides are turning, and there are now several emerging countries that offer top-notch education at a more affordable price. In this article, we'll explore the top 5 destinations that are quickly becoming the new hotspots for quality international study.

Germany: Free education in public universities
When it comes to studying abroad, Germany is quickly rising to the top of the list. With its world-renowned universities and a commitment to providing top-notch education, Germany is a prime destination for students seeking a high-quality academic experience. The best part? Most of the public universities in Germany are completely free or charge only a nominal fee of around €1,000 (approximately RM4,730) per year. However, there is a catch – the courses are primarily taught in German, so students will need to invest in a year-long preparatory course to master the language before embarking on their studies.

Germany is renowned for its exceptional achievements in the fields of engineering and scientific research, rivaling or even surpassing the accomplishments of the United Kingdom and the United States. Additionally, Germany has produced a wealth of renowned classical music composers who have significantly shaped the course of Western music, including renowned figures such as Bach and Schumann. Many of Germany's music and art academies enjoy a remarkable global reputation, making them an attractive destination for young individuals interested in pursuing careers in these fields. Germany places a strong emphasis on talent development, allowing graduating students to extend their stay for up to a year and a half to seek job opportunities.

Switzerland: Blending Theory and Practice
Switzerland is renowned for its excellence in hospitality education, and the Swiss Hotel Management School is a prime example. This prestigious institution offers both three-year and four-year bachelor's degree programs, with a unique "half-year of class, half-year of internship" teaching model. This hands-on approach ensures that students not only gain theoretical knowledge but also practical experience, making them highly sought-after in the industry. While the tuition fees can be steep, around 136,000 Swiss Francs (approximately RM68,800), the investment is well worth it for the quality of education and the diverse career opportunities that await graduates.

Finland: The Nordic Powerhouse of Education
The Nordic countries have long been at the forefront of education, and Finland is no exception. The Finnish education system is consistently ranked among the best in the world, and the country offers a range of degree programs taught in English, focusing on developing students' skills and professional knowledge. While most Finnish universities used to offer free education, a recent change in policy has introduced tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students, ranging from €6,000 to €18,000 per year (approximately RM28,400 to RM85,200) for programs taught in English. However, courses taught in Finnish or Swedish remain free of charge.

Russia: A Mecca for Music and Art Lovers
Russia is a true powerhouse when it comes to education, particularly in the fields of science, technology, culture, and art. The country is home to world-renowned institutions like the Imperial Academy of Arts, Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory, and Saint Petersburg Conservatory, making it a prime destination for students interested in music, literature, and fine arts. The tuition fees for a four-year bachelor's degree program in Russia are typically around 120,000 to 240,000 Russian rubles (approximately RM5,350 to RM10,700) per year, making it an affordable option for those seeking a high-quality education abroad.

Learn Japanese and Korean to “up your game”
In addition to the emerging study abroad destinations in Europe, parents are also recognizing the importance of language learning as a competitive edge for their children. Two of the most popular Asian languages are Japanese and Korean, with numerous universities in South Korea offering language courses, ranging from 10-week regular courses to 3-week intensive programs during school breaks. Similarly, language schools in Japan offer short-term courses that can be completed within three months, as well as longer-term programs lasting up to a year and a half, perfect for students planning to pursue further study in Japan.

Investing in your child's education is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. By exploring these emerging study abroad destinations and incorporating language learning into the mix, parents can provide their children with a well-rounded, high-quality educational experience that will set them up for success in the global marketplace. With the right planning and preparation, the world of international study can be within reach for families of all backgrounds.

All in all, education plays an essential role in a child’s growth. It is crucial for parents to make the right decisions in line with their children’s interests and strengths. Parents should also plan ahead and take care of their kids’ educational needs as early as possible. The more prepared they are today, the more choices their children will have in the future. To provide parents with the best assistance possible, Sun Life Malaysia has created an Education Budget Calculator. Parents can now carry out comprehensive financial planning at an early stage, and prepare an education fund for their children.

Source:

Explore Sun Life Financial Worldwide

Regions

Bright Facts

Life Moments

Top 5 Emerging Countries to Study Abroad for Quality Education

Talk to an Advisor