The study abroad segment was among the hardest hit when the pandemic first hit in 2020. Universities and institutions were forced to close down and send international students back home. Thankfully, online learning kept things on track for students, but they missed out on the on-campus experiences overseas. But travel restrictions, border closures, and a general fear of the virus kept them home. At the same time, universities struggled to stay afloat amid the consistent decline in application numbers.
Things took a turn for the better in 2021 as the global vaccine rollouts brought new hopes. Most international universities are now open for applications for the fall intake starting September 2021. While students are elated with the idea of travelling to the desired education destinations, there are some apprehensions too. The repeat waves in several parts of the world and cancelled exams in countries like India have brought new concerns. Still, the sector is moving towards recovery, and students are looking for the safest educational destinations abroad.
If you are looking for one that offers the best from the education quality and safety perspective, we have a list for you.
THE NETHERLANDS
The Netherlands makes one of the most attractive destinations for international students as it is peaceful, friendly, and safe. The UK’s departure after Brexit has fuelled its popularity further as a recent study shows that half of the students planning to pursue a degree in English see the Netherlands as an alternative. The country ranks number six on the ‘Quality of life index and number 21 on the Global Peace Index. The universities here are acclaimed for programmes in engineering, art, psychology, and business management. The country emerges as one of the top choices for international students because it offers adequate facilities to students during the pandemic. However, most courses will be offered online for this year. Here are some universities you can explore.
- Radboud University Nijmegen
- Delft University of Technology
- Erasmus University Rotterdam
- University of Amsterdam
- Maastricht University
- Wageningen University
THE UK
The UK is acclaimed for its high-quality education, excellent standard of living, and vibrant culture. Names such as Oxford and Cambridge attract study abroad aspirants from around the world, though there are countless other options for those who cannot afford these prestigious universities. The country’s education segment has stood strong in the face of the pandemic. But it is all set for a recovery this year. The relaxed visa policies and revised International Education Strategy are among the tangible measures taken to get students coming backing in higher numbers. Further, the new Turing scheme is another attraction as it will enable students to explore global study and work placements. The top universities to study in the UK in 2021 are:
- Kingston University
- University of Manchester
- University College London
- University of Southampton
- University of Nottingham
IRELAND
Ireland is another name to consider when it comes to the safest destinations for international education in 2021. It is acclaimed for its exemplary response to the pandemic right from the start. The government automatically extended the near-expiry residence permits of international students for two months so that they could figure out their move in the crisis situation. The favourable steps consolidated the country’s reputation as a global study abroad destination. The cost of education is lower compared to other countries, making it a good choice from the budget perspective. Students can stay back for up to 2 years after the completion of their degree. Ireland offers excellent employability opportunities too, as it is home to the European operations for big names such as Apple, Twitter, Google, HP, and more. The best universities include:
- University College Dublin
- National University of Ireland
- University College of Cork
- Trinity College Dublin
- Dublin City University (DCU)
CANADA
The Canadian government has gone the extra mile to extend support to international students, making it one of the top study abroad choices this year. It has issued open work permits to former students with post-graduation work permits (PGWP). Further, steps have been implemented to speed up the visa process and ensure international students that do not miss out on opportunities to stay in the country after they graduate. The country has opened the chance for those looking for permanent resident status, leading to a significant increase in applications here. Additionally, quality education coupled with safety and high living standards makes it an ideal choice. Here is a list of universities to consider:
- University of British Columbia
- McGill University
- Concordia University Montreal
- Simon Fraser University
- University of Alberta
USA
Study abroad aspirants for the US got the best news in 2020 as the Trump administration’s regressive visa regulations for international students came to an end. It also brought respite for the universities struggling with the pandemic and government policies, as students looking to alternative countries such as the UK and Ireland started pursuing the American dream once again. The broad immigration reform legislation by the new Biden government came as a shot in the arm of the international education sector. Students and researchers from overseas can now work in the US, while companies recruit experts from abroad. Better employment options after degrees are another reason that makes the country a popular choice this year. The universities you can explore are countless in number, but here are some leading names:
- Harvard University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- University of California—Berkeley
- Columbia University
- University of Washington
The pandemic may not be over, but you need not put your dreams on hold like the last year. The global education sector is well on its way to recovery, and international universities are all set to open their doors safely. Check these destinations and get a step closer to your study abroad aspirations.
