Discovering Unique Study Abroad Destinations

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less travelled by; And that has made all the difference.” – Robert Frost

Why follow the same path as everyone else?

While the UK, Canada, and Australia often steal the spotlight, there is a long list of lesser-known study-abroad destinations that offer world-class education and a welcoming atmosphere for international students.

Here is a glimpse of some fantastic lesser-known study-abroad destinations waiting to give you the time of your life!

Switzerland

A picture-perfect paradise filled with stunning mountains, glassy lakes and charming villages – Switzerland is a top pick for adventure seekers! With its world-class universities and mouthwatering chocolate, this country has everything you need for an unforgettable experience. Now, let us see why Switzerland is quickly becoming the go-to destination for international students!

1. World-Class Educational System: Switzerland consistently ranks among the top global education systems, known for its excellence in research and science. Swiss universities offer a wide range of academic degrees and have a strong presence in international rankings, despite the country’s small size.
2. World Renowned for Hotel Management and Hospitality Programs: Switzerland is a hot spot for top-notch hotel management and hospitality programs! The country also offers diverse programs like Sustainability Management, Quantitative and Systems Biology, and International Law, catering to a wide range of academic interests.
3. Programs Offered in English: Both public and private institutions in Switzerland offer a variety of English-taught programs at all academic levels. To better integrate and communicate with others, it is beneficial to learn at least one of the country's primary languages—German, French, or Italian.
4. One of the Safest Countries: Switzerland is recognized as being one of the safest countries in the world. In fact, an international risk assessment company, International SOS, in its ‘Risk Map 2024’ has deemed Switzerland as one of the safest countries to live in 2024.
5. High Standards of Living: The country offers a high standard of living, characterized by excellent healthcare, education, and infrastructure. It has a robust economy with a GDP of $870 billion in 2023. It also has less pollution when compared to other countries. This also makes the country rank among the world’s happiest countries.
6. Breathtaking Scenery: Often regarded as the world’s most beautiful country, Switzerland boasts of stunning natural beauty, including the Alps, numerous lakes, picturesque towns and much more. 13 sites in the country are listed as world heritage by UNESCO, of which four stand out for their natural beauty.
7. Schengen Country: As a member of the Schengen Area, Switzerland provides easy travel access across many European countries. The Schengen Area comprises 29 European countries that have officially done away with border controls at their shared borders.
8. Global Innovation Leader: According to the Global Innovation Index, Switzerland has been recognized as the world's most innovative country for 14 consecutive years. The country has a robust institutional framework with a strong collaboration between universities and industries. Switzerland also ranks second in innovation input, which encompasses various factors like institutional strength, skilled workforce, and infrastructure.
9. Cultural Diversity: The country is home to a diverse population, creating a rich multicultural environment for international students. Its proximity to countries like Germany, France, Italy, Austria, and Liechtenstein adds to its cultural diversity.
10. Intakes: The Spring intake in Swiss universities typically starts in February, with application deadlines from October to December of the previous year. The more common Fall intake begins between August and September, with deadlines usually falling between February and April.
11. Top Universities:
    • Les Roches International School of Hotel Management
    • École Hôtelière Genève
    • Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS)
    • ETH Zurich
    • EU Business School
    • École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
    • University of Zurich
    • University of Bern
    • Hotel and Tourism Management Institute Switzerland (HTMi)

Lithuania

Lithuania is one of the best places to explore well-preserved medieval architecture. And you will probably not find another country that celebrates basketball as much as Lithuania does. Now, let us find out why it is a recent favourite among international students!

1. Recognized Universities: Lithuania ranks 59th in U.S. News and World Report's recent higher education rankings and is home to 24 colleges and 22 universities that follow the Bologna Process, which aims to improve the cohesion and standardization of higher education systems across Europe.
2. Affordable Tuition Fees: Studying in Lithuania is highly recommended due to its reasonably priced tuition fees compared to several Western European nations, making high-quality education accessible.
3. Modern Educational Approach: Universities prioritize a contemporary approach to education, placing a strong emphasis on research to provide a comprehensive academic experience.
4. Diverse Selection of English Courses: Students can choose from a vast array of programs in disciplines such as engineering, IT, business, and the humanities.
5. Welcoming Community: The local community is warm and friendly, making it easy for students to settle in and feel at home.
6. Flexible Work Opportunities: Students can work up to 20 hours per week while studying, allowing them to gain experience and supplement their income.
7. Easy Visa Process: Lithuania is known as the easiest country in the Schengen Area for obtaining a visa.
8. High Quality of Life: Lithuania ranks first in the Central and Eastern Europe region in the Green City Index, known for its world-class health infrastructure and safety.
9. Post-Graduation Options: Students can apply for a one-year temporary residence permit following their graduation.
10. Intakes: The autumn intake usually begins in September, with application deadlines typically in July or August. The winter intake usually begins in February, with application deadlines typically in December or January.
11. Top Universities:
    • Lithuanian University of Health Sciences
    • Vilnius University
    • European Humanities University
    • Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (VILNIUS TECH)
    • Kaunas University of Technology
    • Mykolas Romeris University
    • Kaunas University of Applied Sciences

Latvia

If Art Nouveau architecture, quaint little cafes and medieval towns are your vibe, Latvia is the country for you. Read on to find out what makes it a great study-abroad destination!

1. High-Quality Education: Latvia is gaining recognition for its strong education system, particularly in engineering and technology, with programs that align with European standards and many universities holding international accreditation, ensuring globally recognized degrees.
2. English-Taught Programs: Numerous Latvian universities offer a diverse selection of programs in English across various fields, including business, engineering, medicine, and IT, catering to a broad international audience.
3. Modern Facilities: Universities in Latvia are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities focused on research and innovation, providing students with practical experiences that enhance their learning journey.
4. Diverse Fields of Study: Students can explore a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, technology, humanities, social sciences, and the arts, allowing for personalized educational paths.
5. Culturally Rich Environment: Latvia boasts of vibrant cities rich in historical landmarks, festivals, and cultural events, offering international students a dynamic environment to immerse themselves in local traditions. The Latvian Song and Dance Festival is celebrated by UNESCO as a masterpiece of oral and intangible heritage. It stands as one of the largest amateur choral and dance events globally.
6. Welcoming Environment: Known for its warm hospitality, Latvia embraces international students, fostering a friendly and inclusive atmosphere that makes it easy for newcomers to adapt.
7. Affordable Cost of Living and Tuition: The cost of living and tuition fees in Latvia are relatively low compared to many other European countries, making it an economically viable choice for students.
8. Central European Location: Latvia's strategic position in the heart of Europe allows easy travel to neighbouring countries, making it an excellent base for exploring the continent.
9. Growing Economy: Latvia's growing economy offers numerous job opportunities for graduates, especially in sectors such as IT, engineering, and finance, thereby enhancing career prospects.
10. Natural Beauty: Renowned for its stunning landscapes, including forests, lakes, and beautiful beaches, Latvia offers students a chance to enjoy Nature alongside their studies.
11. Intakes: Autumn intake begins in September, with application deadlines in July or August. Winter intake begins in January, with application deadlines in December or January.
12. Top Universities:
    • Riga Technical University
    • University of Latvia
    • Art Academy of Latvia
    • Riga Stradiņš University (RSU)
    • EKA University of Applied Sciences (EKA)
    • Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies (LBTU)
    • Liepaja University (RTU Liepaja)