Learn about some of the best study abroad destinations for your spring 2022 semester and beyond. Explore average tuition costs, cost of living, and the things that make these countries stand out to help you decide on the best fit for your future studies.
Many students are wishing to go overseas after more than a year of dealing with the restrictions brought on by COVID-19. The desire to travel is strong, so considering the opportunity to study abroad in 2022 is a logical choice to make. With borders still closed in some destinations, you’re obviously thinking: but where can I go?
It’s important to find a program in a destination that not only will be open to students in 2022, but that will also give you valuable skills, an opportunity to immerse yourself into the local culture, and where you can stay on track for your degree program.
To assist you along the way with your research, this article provides a variety of the best study abroad destinations and programs that you can consider to make your dreams of studying abroad a reality in 2022. These locations have been chosen for their popularity and reviews and are grouped by the things that make them shine.
Because choosing just one of these locations can be difficult, we’ve also highlighted important factors associated with each country such as the average cost of living, tuition costs, and popular subjects. Every individual country’s best schools are featured alongside their QS World University Ranking for 2022.
Find the inspiration you need to study overseas by exploring these exciting options to take your education to the next level.
Top Study Abroad Countries in 2022
- Best for International Students: Japan
- Best for Active Lifestyles: Australia
- Best for Language Learning: Spain
- Best for Arts and Culture: Ireland
- Best for World-class Education: England
- Best for Outdoor Exploration: New Zealand
- Best for Sustainability: Sweden
- Best for Affordable Cost of Living: Thailand
- Best for Diversity: United Arab Emirates
- Best for Convenience: Virtual
Best for international students: Japan
- Top universities: University of Tokyo (23rd), Kyoto University (33rd), Tokyo Institute of Technology (56th)
- Average cost of tuition for a semester (direct enrollment): between $3,000 to $7,000
- Average monthly cost of living excluding rent: $1,102
Japan’s reputation for hospitality and its welcoming nature makes it a safe bet for students looking to study abroad in 2022. It is home to an array of technological innovations as well, another major attraction for students who desire to go overseas.
In addition to hosting some of the finest STEM and educational programs in the world, its extensive tradition of historic culture and being home to thought leaders in their field are fascinating components for those students seeking study abroad opportunities. With high speed and convenient modes of transportation throughout the country, as well as delicious culinary experiences to indulge in, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the most dynamic cultures in the world.
Best for active lifestyles: Australia
- Top universities: Australian National University (27th), University of Melbourne (37th), University of Sydney (38th)
- Average cost of tuition for a semester (direct enrollment): between $7,500 and $17,000
- Average monthly cost of living excluding rent: $994
Students who are interested in wildlife and unique settings are drawn to go down under. Australia is home to gorgeous backdrops, rare animals, and some of the most amazing coastlines in the world. Students with the desire to study abroad in 2022 in fields such as geology and biological studies could choose from a host of programs allowing them to explore landscapes like the Great Barrier Reef or get up close and personal with kangaroos.
Additionally, Australia is home to diverse cities including trendy Melbourne, Perth, and Brisbane which are great choices for international students. Whether you’re an architecture or music student, consider having the world-famous Sydney Opera House in your backyard to study.
Other popular programs to study in Oz include communications, anthropology, and physical education. What better place to get physical than Australia where you can enjoy adventurous activities such as kayaking, scuba diving, or bush-walking!
Best for language learning: Spain
- Top universities: University of Barcelona (168th), Autonomous University of Madrid (207th), Autonomous University of Barcelona (209th)
- Average cost of tuition for a semester (direct enrollment): between $450 and $2,375
- Average monthly cost of living excluding rent: $726
As the birthplace of the Spanish language, Spain is a country with much to offer students hoping to improve their linguistic skills. The country offers an expansive history, sporting attractions, and cultural sites to visit. Spaniards are proud of the cultural, literary, and artistic traditions so study abroad participants will have no shortage of opportunities to practice. Compared to other European countries, Spain’s level of English is fairly low so although it is improving, foreigners who attempt to speak Spanish to locals will be appreciated for their efforts.
Aside from language learning, Spain is also becoming a popular destination to study business, finance, and marketing. International hubs Madrid and Barcelona attract students for their diversity and stellar universities while providing great (and affordable!) atmospheres for university goers. Those looking for a slightly more intimate setting may prefer the likes of Seville, Valencia, or Santander. Whatever your preference, Spain is a beloved study abroad destination for all it has to offer.
Best for arts and culture: Ireland
- Top universities: Trinity College Dublin (101st), University College Dublin (173rd), National University of Ireland, Galway (258th)
- Average cost of tuition for a semester (direct enrollment): between $5,850 and $26,750
- Average monthly cost of living excluding rent: $990
Ireland is chock full of interesting history, opportunities for exploration, and stunning locations. Students can explore unique cultural artifacts such as Viking ruins, huge green cliffs, castles, and the Gaelic language. Geology students can discover Giant’s Causeway and English literature students looking to study abroad can get lost in the same streets of authors such as Oscar Wilde and George Bernard Shaw. The Emerald Isle is also a hub for international research in fields like technology, chemistry, and pharmaceuticals.
Outside of your studies, you’ll have a laundry list of things to do at your fingertips. Discover the world-famous Guinness Storehouse in Dublin or view the Cliffs of Moher. A semester in Ireland certainly won’t be complete without watching a Gaelic football or hurling match with all of the new friends you’ve made.
Best for world-class education: England
- Top universities: University of Oxford (2nd), University of Cambridge (3rd), Imperial College London (7th)
- Average cost of tuition for a semester (direct enrollment): between $7,000 and $14,000
- Average monthly cost of living excluding rent: $900
Like other countries in 2021, England saw Covid-19 travel restrictions that had students studying online. However, the country appears to be on track for welcoming students for fall and spring semesters.
England is home to world-renowned academic institutions such as Cambridge and Oxford. Its universities consistently rank among the best in the world and are leaders in research and innovation.
England is also an international hub with cities such as London, Manchester, and Brighton calling students’ names. From the Tower of London to Stonehenge, you’ll manage to explore fascinating historical sites and activities.
Best for outdoor exploration: New Zealand
- Top universities: University of Auckland (85th),
University of Otago (194th), Victoria University of Wellington (236th) - Average cost of tuition for a semester (direct enrollment): between $7,450 and $10,850
- Average monthly cost of living excluding rent: $925
New Zealand, with its awe-inspiring nature and variety of bustling cities and small college towns, is another great option for studying abroad in 2022. In a country with amazing natural scenery, students can wander about to experience exciting adventures including paragliding, bungee-jumping, and even glacier hiking as part of their studies.
Other distinctive study options in New Zealand include Maori studies and zoology. Past study abroad students have raved about just how charming and nice Kiwis are in person. Other attributes that make New Zealand stand out as a place to study abroad include its low crime rate, excellent health benefits, and the fact that English is the national language. Students can immerse themselves into the culture easily while enjoying activities that include white-water rafting, hiking snow-capped mountains, and learning about aboriginal cultures. With its breathtaking beaches and national parks, any student who enjoys the outdoors will be sure to fall in love with New Zealand.
Best for sustainability: Sweden
- Top universities: Lund University (87th), KTH – Royal Institute of Technology (98th), Uppsala University (124th)
- Average cost of tuition for a semester (direct enrollment): between $4,450 and $14,875
- Average monthly cost of living excluding rent: $957
Sweden has consistently been ranked as one of the top places for students to study at its universities, due to a myriad of factors like safety and the opportunity for work-life balance. Sweden also ranks favorably for its high standard of living and commitment to innovation. For students interested in sustainable living, combating environmental issues, or for those interested in being in a location known for academic excellence, then the beautiful country of Sweden is the place for you.
Sweden offers not only views of the northern lights, but also a host of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors doing activities like hiking, camping, and mountain biking. Additional things that students who study abroad in Sweden can look forward to including endless summer days and learning about Viking history and customs.
Best for Affordable Cost of Living: Thailand
- Top universities: Chulalongkorn University (215th), Mahidol University (255th)
- Average cost of tuition for a semester (direct enrollment): between $500 and $2,000
- Average monthly cost of living excluding rent: $570
Known as the ‘Land of Smiles,’ what student wouldn’t want to study abroad in the land of happy faces and sunshine? Thailand is a top study abroad destination in 2022 for a number of reasons. From locals selling goods on the roads to attractions such as the floating market, this East Asian country is known for its hospitality, bustling cities, and beautiful beaches. The vibrant country is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the world for reasons including its white sandy beaches and affordable accommodations.
Head over to the Grand Palace in Bangkok to read your history books or take a break to eat fresh mango sticky rice from a vendor near your hostel — the opportunity to enjoy local attractions and dishes abound at reasonable, student-friendly prices. Popular programs to study in Thailand include East Asian Studies, biology, and animal studies. Students can enjoy studying elephants at a local elephant sanctuary alongside veterinarians.
Best for Diversity: United Arab Emirates
- Popular universities: Khalifa University (183rd), United Arab Emirates University (288th), American University of Sharjah (383rd)
- Average cost of tuition for a semester (direct enrollment): between $3,000 and $16,500
- Average monthly cost of living excluding rent: $850
The United Arab Emirates is known for its over-the-top architecture and luxurious lifestyle, but there’s so much more to this Arab nation. The UAE offers an incredible opportunity for students interested in studying abroad in 2022 as it has recently eased up on its long-term visa requirements, making it a viable option for more students.
The United Arab Emirates’ population is made up of more than 80% international workers and students, meaning the country is incredibly diverse and students will enjoy the variety of cuisines, languages, and cultures represented in the single nation. Popular study abroad subjects in the region include business, computer science, and architecture.
Best for Convenience: Virtual
While the COVID-19 vaccine rollout continues, we still must be mindful of the times in 2022 and consider that not all students are ready to jump back into traditional study abroad. While some are mentally ready to go overseas, we understand that health and safety are your number one concern, not only for yourself but also for your family upon returning home. Therefore, it is important to consider virtual study abroad options, which can open up the world to students from the comfort of their own homes.
No matter if you desire to study web development or social justice, there are opportunities to do so online. Another benefit of virtual learning is lower tuition fees and saving on costs of airfare or rent abroad. Experience being able to meet, albeit virtually, peers from around the globe in your group classroom settings as well.
Get Back Into Travel in 2022
There are many opportunities to study abroad and after a tumultuous year, 2022 will be an excellent time to immerse yourself in a new country and culture once things move toward the new normal. Whether you decide to study virtually or choose a new destination, you’ll have the chance to gain valuable knowledge, partake in incredible adventures, and make new friends from around the world.
