Roshan Ghimire

If you’re choosing an English-speaking study destination, you’re probably considering one of the top
three: the USA, the United Kingdom or Australia. But which of these countries will suit you best? Which
country offers the best opportunities for study, and for work when you graduate? Which is easiest to get
into? Which is the most affordable? In this article, we look at eight key criteria for choosing your
international study destination. So read on to find out which country is the best in the world when it
comes to international education!
Ranking
It should come as no shock that universities in Australia, UK and USA rank highly in international
university comparison studies. Did you know though that all of the top ten universities in the THE World
University Rankings are from these destinations and nineteen of the top twenty also come from these
study locations? In fact, 63 of the top 100 universities are based in either Australia, the UK or USA.
The USA has more universities than any other country in the world. And it also has more in the top ten
of the Times Higher Education Supplement than any other country in the world. This alone is enough to
make it the number one choice for many international students. In the UK, an historic reputation for
academic excellence (Oxford, Cambridge, LSE) combines with modern university teaching at some of the
newest campuses in the world. Even though Australia has a small population of just 20 million, it has a
relatively large number of world-class universities and colleges.
By choosing to study in one of these locations, there is a good chance your institution will be ranked
highly.
Choice
In the USA, you have quite possibly the widest choice of subjects available in the world, and almost
infinite flexibility on how you put together your studies. It’s also relatively easy to change your mind,
and switch classes, courses or even institutions.
In the UK, you are expected to be more independent when it comes to learning but the choices are
expansive and Australia also offers a wealth of choices. All three destinations provide a variety of
options when it comes to study location too, with a varied backdrop across each country it is more than
possible to find the campus style and environment that will suit you.
Employability Opportunities
An American, British or Australian education is highly-regarded by employers around the world, and
could provide you with the start you need to create a rewarding career. Many courses also offer work
experience or internships as part of the curriculum. This provides you with the chance to put your
studies into practice – and add valuable experience to your CV.
Many of the largest corporations in the world are based in these countries too, making them the ideal
location to start your career. With a clear framework of recognized qualifications and a reputation for
effective teaching and research, a degree from Australia, the UK or US is also highly portable around the
world.

Value of Money
For many students, the decision ultimately comes down to cost.
A USA education doesn’t have to be expensive (it’s usually less expensive to study at a college first and
then transfer) but limited part-time work options and increased competition for scholarships make it
harder to support your cost of living.
In the UK, the cost of living may be slightly more expensive (especially in London) but tuition fees are
lower. Plus, you can complete a Masters program in less time than in the US, which makes it more
affordable still – an MBA is usually a one-year program in the UK. Medical care is also usually available
free of charge to students in the UK – one less thing to worry about.
Australia combines a lower cost of living with lower tuition fees – plus you can work part-time. But
remember to factor in the cost of getting there, and of travelling around this vast country, as airfares
can be expensive. You’ll also need to pay for mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover (health
insurance).