After years of hard work, you’ve finally earned the coveted university diploma, often referred to as a “solid degree” in your country. But is it over? Not quite! There’s a master's degree, and then there’s a doctorate… Don’t say “I’m done studying” just yet. A master’s degree, especially one obtained abroad, looks impressive on your CV and can open the doors of many corporate companies. The confidence gained from specializing in your field or blending expertise from different areas is another bonus.
So, you want to pursue a master's degree abroad, but where and how? What are the conditions and requirements? And what are international students doing; which countries and universities do they prefer for their master's degrees? Here’s a list of 12 countries, from Europe to East Asia, and the admission requirements for students looking to study abroad.
1.United Kingdom
At the top of the list is, of course, the UK, which has shaped the global educational and cultural landscape. The country is home to more than 300 higher education institutions, and with the advantage of obtaining a master's degree in just one year, it is a popular choice for students from around the world. The tuition fees for master’s programs range from £9,000 to £15,000. Schools require an IELTS score of 6.5 or a TOEFL score of 213 and above. A GPA of 3.0 out of 4 is generally required. The UK seeks high-achieving students, so it’s best to keep your grades up.
2.Australia
Yes, you heard right! Education costs in Australia are significantly lower compared to the US and the UK, and students are allowed to work while studying. What more could you want? A student’s annual living costs average between 9,000 to 10,000 Australian dollars. Universities offer a wide range of master's programs, particularly in science and technology, with large campuses. A master’s degree takes 2 years, and a doctorate takes 3 years. Admission requirements vary by university, but an IELTS score of 6.0 and a minimum GPA of 2.5 are generally needed.
3.Canada
Canada has become a leading country in education, offering a wide variety of programs, affordability, and high-quality education. Low crime rates and two official languages (English and French) also boost its popularity among students. You can find master's programs ranging from 7,000 to 28,000 Canadian dollars annually. To enroll in a good university, you need a TOEFL score of at least 213, and your GPA should be 3.0 or above.
4.New Zealand
In the land of kangaroos, both living costs and tuition fees are relatively affordable compared to other countries. New Zealand is popular among students with lower budgets, with annual living costs ranging from 9,000 to 11,000 New Zealand dollars. Universities offer master's programs in fields like business, finance, science, social sciences, and fine arts. Admission requires an IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL score of 550.
5.South Africa
With English as the official language, iconic cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg, and affordable living and education costs, South Africa is highly attractive to students. Except for a few private universities, all schools are recognized by Turkey’s Higher Education Council (YÖK). In South Africa, you can combine your education with a vacation-like lifestyle. Most universities require a university degree, a good GPA, and IELTS 7 or TOEFL 570 for admission. Monthly expenses typically range around 400-500 dollars.
6.People’s Republic of China
40 of the world’s top 500 universities are located in China. The country invests heavily in R&D, especially in science and technology, making it an attractive destination for research-based master’s programs. Despite this, education and living costs are very affordable. Tuition fees range from 4,000 to 8,000 dollars per year, and monthly living expenses average around 300 dollars. Many universities accept foreign students, and over 250 schools offer programs in English. However, to attend, you usually need to have basic Chinese language skills. Learning Chinese can set you apart from other master’s graduates.
7.Austria
Austria is known for its prestigious universities and the variety of fields it offers for study. Universities in Vienna, Graz, and Osnabrück are particularly popular among international students. One attractive feature for students is the opportunity to work with insurance and receive a salary of around 600 euros per month. Most programs are taught in German, so a good level of German proficiency is required. To apply for a master's program, you must be either a final-year student or a graduate. Tuition fees for private universities range from 10,000 to 15,000 euros annually.
8.Sweden
Sweden is quite selective when it comes to student admissions. Education is free for EU citizens, but students from non-EU countries must pay annual tuition fees ranging from 7,000 to 14,000 euros. Living costs are around 6,000 to 7,000 euros per year. To study a master's program in Sweden, your GPA must be at least 3.0 out of 4.
9.Spain
Spain offers many state universities with low tuition fees. The country provides affordable education, and students can learn both English and Spanish. Master's programs in Spain last for 2 years, and living expenses are typically around 700 euros per month. State universities charge around 1,000 euros per year, while private universities may charge up to 6,000 euros annually.
10.France
France has many schools offering master’s programs in fields such as art, fashion, design, tourism, and architecture. The universities are highly selective, and a strong academic record is essential. The primary language of instruction is French, but many programs are available in English as well. Tuition fees for private schools range from 6,000 to 18,000 euros annually, while public universities offer free education to EU students. The cost of living is approximately 900 euros per month.
11.Italy
Italy is a dream destination for fashion and design students. Many courses are taught through practical experience. Master's programs usually last for 1 or 2 years, depending on the field of study. Students are allowed to work part-time during their studies, and after graduation, they can legally work in Italy for an additional year. Tuition fees range from 1,000 to 20,000 euros annually, depending on the university.
12.Germany
Germany is highly regarded for its prestigious universities and quality education, even at public institutions, which offer free tuition. However, except for those offering English-taught programs, most universities require proficiency in German. Students must pass the TestDaF (Test of German as a Foreign Language) to demonstrate their language skills. The GPA requirement is typically 2.5 out of 4 for regular universities and 3.0 for prestigious ones. Universities offering programs in English have varying requirements; some require a TOEFL score of 173, while others require 213 or above.