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Top 3706 universities abroad

This content was developed and approved with active participation of Qiuhua Liang.

In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:

  • https://www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings/world-university-rankings/2023
  • https://www.usnews.com/education/best-global-universities/rankings.
Current page last update date: 2024-10-10
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Nowadays, a great deal of foreign students choose to enter prestigious universities around the world. SMAPSE offers you more than 100 best universities throughout Europe and around the world that are really popular among international students. You can choose any country in Europe, North or South America, Asia, and Australia. Foreign universities provide a wide range of:

University Extension courses β€“ professional postgraduate courses for specialists. They don't need to be actual students of the university.

It's important to note that every country has certain unique features of admission to their university. Usually, it's essential to take a one-year preparation program for entering the university after graduating from a foreign school. In addition, it's necessary to take language courses abroad, as well as examinations in different subjects in some cases. For more information about pre-university programs, please see the section "preparing for university abroad after the 11th grade". Here you can choose the interested country where the educational institutions are located.

Undoubtedly, higher education in UK, Spain, Switzerland opens up perfect career prospects. A diploma from a university in Europe, North or South America, or Asia will provide a great basis for a successful future as a specialist.

In order to achieve best results, it is necessary to select the right university. SMAPSE experts can help you  to make the right choice from the TOP-100 list that will meet all your requirements. Please, don't hesitate to contact SMAPSE specialists at any time as they are always ready to answer all your questions. Also, SMAPSE specialists compiled a list of educational centers sorted by name – there foreign students can find ranking and low-cost private universities, located in more than 30 countries around the world. No less important is the fact that SMAPSE specialists can recommend studying options, featured by affordable price and high quality educational services.

Prestigious universities in the USA and European countries – classification and features of universities for international students

In the list of universities prepared by SMAPSE, foreign students can find detailed characteristics of interested educational institutions. To get acquainted with admission requirements, accommodation type, conditions for obtaining scholarships and grants you should visit the website of the specific university.

Foreign universities in catalogue are classified in several categories, namely in size and level. International students can apply to educational institutions, ranked in TOP list, small private profile universities. In the catalogue you can find appropriate variants of educational institutions, in which enrollment is not a dream, but a reality.

As a factor for classification of educational institutions, the average tuition fee can be used, which depends on many parameters. Firstly, it is the ranking: education in prestigious international institutions will cost more than in those which are less well-known. Country of education also stipulates the cost of studying. The tuition fee in branches of prestigious universities, located in Asia, Latin and Central America is lower than in campuses in Europe, USA and Canada.

Below there are presented famous groups of legendary and TOP universities in the world, in which enrolment is quite difficult for international students. However, the certificate of graduating from such an educational institution opens up wonderful opportunities to build successful careers in big international companies.

  • Oxbridge

This group includes two TOP universities in Great Britain – Oxford and Cambridge. It is quite difficult to combine these educational institutions due to century long competitions between them and constant efforts to bypass each other in all directions. However, the term Oxbridge is frequently used.

  • Russell Group

An association of the best British universities includes 24 educational institutions: namely, Oxford, Cambridge, Universities of York, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Glasgow, Imperial College London, London School of Economics and Political Science and others. According to statistics, Russell Group universities account for 2/3 of all research grants in the UK, 56% of doctoral degrees and 70% of scientific potential. 

  • Ivy League

This is an analogue of Russell Group, which includes only 8 of the oldest and most ranked universities in the USA: Princeton, Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Harvard, Dartmouth, Yale and The University of Pennsylvania, which are located in the north-west of the country. The main feature of elite universities is the extremely  high cost of education.

  • Swiss Education Group

A professional association of the best Swiss higher schools of hospitality, tourism, hotel and culinary business includes Cesar Ritz Colleges, Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland, School of Hotel Management (IHTTI), Hotel Institute Montreux, and The Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS). Studying here is a guarantee of successful employment in the international industry of hotel and restaurant business. 

Higher education – main features of international universities

Below there are listed the most demanded directions and specializations of higher education that are typical for different countries:

  • USA: business courses, MBA, finance,  law and jurisprudence, engineering, science, electronics

  • Great Britain: classical sciences, history and civilizations, modern and ancient languages, medicine, law and jurisprudence

  • Switzerland: banking and finance, hospitality business, tourism and restaurant business, all directions of medicine and health care

  • Austria: musical education, technical specializations

  • Germany: technical and engineering specialties

  • France: natural sciences, medicine

  • Czech Republic: medicine, tourism and hospitality technologies

  • China: exact and natural sciences, mathematics, tourism and hospitality industry, business and finance.

Top Universities Abroad for international students

The SMAPSE catalog features an extensive list of over 100 of the finest universities globally, allowing you to cherry-pick the most suitable options. Within the SMAPSE directory, you'll discover the ability to tailor your search using specific criteria. Here, you'll encounter categories organized by countries offering study opportunities for international students, as well as various types of programs and courses. This direct selection feature empowers you to filter universities based on your field of interest, whether technical or humanitarian.

Should you require additional preparation to secure admission to your preferred university, you can choose from a variety of preparatory programs listed in our catalog. Furthermore, you can narrow down your options by country using advanced search options, which enable you to add specific preferences like the language of instruction.

Top Universities Abroad

Sam Jones
Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What are the criteria for evaluating American universities? How accurate is it?

The rankings are different, and therefore the criteria are different. Subtleties are covered such as the academic level of graduates, β€œretention rate” (how many students complete study programs), social mobility, and the number of recipients of financial aid. The final performance and GPA, academic reputation of students, resources of institutes and faculties, salaries of teachers, the number of doctoral / postdoctoral degrees among teachers (especially for those who are employed full-time at the university) can be taken into account.

They pay attention to the selectivity of students (which applicants scored SAT points, which results they showed in high school), financial indicators per student and the amount of debt of graduates (a common thing: many take out loans for education). Some rankings also use the parameter of academic citation, the intensity of research by the teaching staff. In general, there are more criteria than the rankings themselves!

 

Key Insights about Universities Abroad Foreign Universities

The SMAPSE catalog not only presents more than 100 top-tier global universities that welcome numerous foreign students each year but also provides detailed insights into the unique characteristics of each institution. Here, you can explore admission requirements, living arrangements, study conditions, as well as scholarships and grants offered by the chosen program. In addition, you can rank universities by their average annual tuition fees. Pay attention that tuition costs depend on various factors, among which are the university's ranking, the country of study, and the type of educational program chosen, type of living during studying.

Students at universities in Europe

How to choose University Abroad for international students

SMAPSE offers an extensive array of private and public universities spread across over 30 countries. When deciding between public and private institutions, several critical factors should guide your choice:

  • Desired Specialization and Study Profile: Consider your academic interests and career aspirations when choosing a university. The field of study you're passionate about will significantly impact your decision.

  • Financial Capabilities: Assess your budget, including tuition fees and living expenses. The United States and the United Kingdom are popular among foreign students for their high quality of education and prestige; other countries such as New Zealand offer more affordable options of studying.

  • Academic Qualifications: Ensure you meet the academic requirements of university for successful enrolment. The requirements may include the results of specific tests, university examinations, international language exams (e.g., IELTS), etc.

  • Preferred Study Location: It is necessary to make a decision  on the country or region where you want to obtain your education. Each location has its unique offerings and cultural experiences.

In addition to the type of university,  the student's future career opportunities should be taken into account, when deciding on educational institutions abroad. Small private institutions offer education of equal quality as prestigious large universities. However, the tuition fee often is lower.

Requirements for admission to Universities Abroad: 4 Key Steps

Presently, TOP-100 foreign universities and colleges adhere to the widely accepted Bologna educational system. Under this system, higher education consists of several stages:

  • Diploma Programs and Certificates: These short-term programs usually last for 1-2 years, allowing the students to obtain fundamental theoretical and practical knowledge, to develop skills, and abilities. After graduation, there are two options for choice: to enter the workforce immediately or enroll in a bachelor's degree program.

  • Bachelor's Degree: This foundational stage of higher education usually lasts for 3-4 years. During the studying, students are provided with the opportunity to choose major and minor subjects according to their interests and future career goals.

  • Master's Degree: It is an additional level of studying, which lasts 1-2 years, allowing students to improve their expertise in the chosen field and offering to specialize further. If a student plans to take top managerial positions in future, a master's degree is often the ideal choice.

  • Higher Doctorate Studies: It is the final level of higher education, studying takes from 2 to 5-6 years, the time span depends on the chosen field of study. Obtaining a doctorate degree is in high demand, as passing this stage of education indicates exceptional expertise and academic preparation. It is important for students, who are interested in working in academia and research.

Universities Abroad. Cost and fees for international students? 

The tuition fee and different expenses, which are associated with studying at a university abroad, can be a real problem for foreign students. Considering these costs is very important for students, who are interested in obtaining higher education abroad. Below there is a guideline of the cost and fees of studying at university abroad, which can arise during obtaining education. Tuition fees are a major component of the cost of studying abroad. The significant fluctuations in fees are stipulated by the country and the specific university or program chosen. Usually, tuition fees for foreign students are higher compared to those for domestic students. Scholarships, grants, and financial aid options may be available, allowing to compensate these costs.  It's recommended for prospective students to consider and apply for such opportunities. In addition to tuition, other expenses such as accommodation, food, pursuing textbooks, health insurance, and transportation, arise during studying. The cost of living can vary significantly, depending on the location of the educational institution. So prior to making a decision on the university abroad it's important to research the cost of living in the chosen destination. Visa fees, application fees, and language proficiency test fees (such as TOEFL or IELTS) are other expenses that foreign students need to consider when planning education abroad. These fees differ, which is stipulated by the country and specific visa requirements. Please pay attention to additional fees that may arise, among which are  laboratory fees, technology fees, and extracurricular activity fees. These costs can add up, so students should review the university's fee structure carefully.

The foreign students are offered numerous supplementary courses, such as advanced preparation, skill development, additional specializations, language or professional exam preparation, etc.

Our SMAPSE experts are always ready to assist you at every stage of your academic journey. Do not hesitate to contact us for guidance and support.

How to choose the right university abroad?

To choose the right university abroad, it is important to determine your educational goals, budgetary constraints and the major you are interested in. After that, you should research university offerings, compare their programs and rankings, and consider the location and cultural aspects that may affect the learning experience.

What language is the language of instruction at universities abroad?

Universities abroad offer programs in a variety of languages, but the most common language of instruction is English. In addition, many countries offer programs in their national languages, such as German, French, Spanish, and many others. The choice of language depends on the specific university and country.

How long does it take to study at a university abroad?

The length of study at the university depends on the level of the program, but typically a bachelor's degree lasts 3-4 years and a master's degree lasts 1-2 years.

What accommodation options are available for international students?

International students can choose between living on campus, renting housing, or staying with a host family, depending on the university and preference.

What research opportunities are available at universities abroad?

Universities abroad provide a wide range of research opportunities. Firstly, they usually possess state-of-the-art research laboratories and equipment, which creates ideal conditions for conducting scientific research. In addition, universities actively cooperate with industry and business, giving students access to real-world projects and the opportunity to work on innovative ideas.

Can I get a work visa after completing my studies abroad?

Yes, many countries offer graduates the opportunity to obtain a work visa after completing their studies abroad. This opportunity may depend on your country of study and its visa policy. Usually, in order to obtain a work visa, you must find an employer in the country where you studied and receive an official invitation to work.

How important is the rating when choosing a university abroad?

University ranking is one of the factors to consider when choosing an institution abroad, but it is not the only important one. Rankings can provide a general idea of the quality of a university and its reputation on a global scale. However, it is important to remember that rankings can be subjective and depend on evaluation criteria that may not always match your academic interests and goals.

Is it possible to get a scholarship to study at a university abroad?

Yes, it is possible to get a scholarship to study at a university abroad. Many universities in different countries provide different types of financial support for international students based on academic achievement, need and other factors.

How to prepare for university abroad?

To prepare for admission to a university abroad, you should carefully study the requirements of the particular university and the chosen program of study. It is important to prepare the necessary documents, including your high school diploma and exam results. It is also recommended that you take the necessary language proficiency tests and begin preparing for an essay or interview, if required.

Which IB or A-Level program is valued more when applying to universities abroad?

Both IB (International Baccalaureate) and A-Level (Advanced Level) programs are valued by many universities abroad. However, the choice between the two depends on the individual university. The IB is often more widely recognized and valued for its comprehensive and internationally oriented approach to learning, while A-Level may be more specialized and focused on academic depth.

University ranking by country: Great Britain, USA, Switzerland, Canada, Holland, Spain

Best universities in Europe 2025 - Times Higher Education

Europe Rank 2024  World University Rank 2024   World University Rank 2023  University  Country/region 
1  1   1 

University of Oxford

United Kingdom
2  5   =3 

University of Cambridge

United Kingdom
3  8   10 

Imperial College London

United Kingdom
4  11   =11 

ETH Zurich

Switzerland
5  22   22 

UCL

United Kingdom
=6  =30   29 

University of Edinburgh

United Kingdom
=6  =30   30 

Technical University of Munich

Germany
8  33   41 

Γ‰cole Polytechnique FΓ©dΓ©rale de Lausanne

Switzerland
=9  =38   35 

King’s College London

United Kingdom
=9  =38   33 

LMU Munich

Germany

Top 100 best universities in Russia 2025 rankings

1 Lomonosov Moscow State University
2 Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology
3 National Research Nuclear University "MEPhI"
4 Saint Petersburg State University
5 HSE University
6 MGIMO University (Moscow State Institute of International Relations)
7 National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University
8 Bauman University
9 Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University
10 Novosibirsk National Research State University
11 Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration
12 Ural Federal University named after the First President of Russia B. N. Yeltsin
13 National Research Tomsk State University
14 ITMO University
15 Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation
16 Kazan Federal University
17 National University of Science and Technological "MISIS"
18 Plekhanov Russian University of Economics
19 GUBKIN UNIVERSITY
National University of Oil and Gas
20 Peoples ' Friendship University of Russia / RUDN University
21 Siberian Federal University
22 Sechenov University
23 Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University
24 National Research University "MEI"
25 Moscow Aviation Institute
26 Pavlov University
27 Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod
28 Far Eastern Federal University
29 All-Russian Academy of Foreign Trade of the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia
30 Southern Federal University
31 North-Eastern Federal University named after M. K. Ammosov
32 Novosibirsk State Technical University
33 St. Petersburg State University of Economics
34 Moscow State Linguistic University
35 Kutafin Moscow State Law University (MSAL)
36 Ulyanov St. Petersburg State Electrotechnical University "LETI"
37 National Research Moscow State University of Civil Engineering
38 Korolev Samara National Research University / Samara University
39 Saint Petersburg Mining University
40 Siberian State Medical University
41 Kazan State Medical University
42 Voronezh State University
43 Samara State Medical University
44 Kazan National Research Technical University
named after A. N. Tupolev - KAI
45 Moscow State Pedagogical University
46 Herzen University
47 Belgorod State National Research University
48 Russian State University for the Humanities
49 Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics
50 Altai State University
51 Mendeleev Russian University of Chemical Technology
52 Shukhov Belgorod State Technological University
53 St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering
54 Perm National Research Polytechnic University
55 Syzran Branch of the Samara State Technical University
56 Ufa State Petroleum Technical University
57 Dubna University
58 South Ural State University
59 Burdenko Voronezh State Medical University
60 National Research University "Moscow Institute of Electronic Technology"
61 Moscow State Technological University "STANKIN"
62 Stavropol State Agrarian University
63 Moscow Automobile and Road Engineering State Technical University
64 MIREA – Russian Technological University
65 Bashkir State Medical University
66 St. Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University
67 National Research Mordovian State University
68 Volgograd State University
69 Kursk State Medical University
70 Platov South Russian State Polytechnic University
71 Russian State Agrarian University - Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy
72 Alekseev Nizhny Novgorod State Technical University
73 Technological University (MSTU)
74 Moscow State Regional University
75 State University of Management
76 Tomsk State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering
77 Tyumen Industrial University
78 Tyumen State University
79 Petrozavodsk State University
80 Moscow City Pedagogical University
81 Volgograd State Medical University
82 St. Petersburg State Maritime Technical University
83 Don State Technical University
84 Saratov State University
85 Ural State Medical University
86 Southwest State University
87 Razumovsky Saratov State Medical University
88 Ryazan State Medical University named after Academician I. P. Pavlov
89 Kazan National Research Technological University
90 Lomonosov Northern (Arctic) Federal University
91 Voronezh State Technical University
92 Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University
93 North Caucasus Federal University
94 Polzunov Altai State Technical University
95 Russian New University
96 Berbekov Kabardino-Balkar State University
97 Omsk State Medical University
98 Tyumen State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia
99 Ufa State Aviation Technical University
100 Pacific State University

Top 14 best universities in Switzerland 2025

1 Glion Institute of Higher Education Switzerland
2 Les Roches International School Montana
3 CΓ©sar Ritz Colleges Switzerland
4 IHTTI School of Hotel Management
5 Ecole Hoteliere de Lausanne
6 Geneva Business School
7 HIM Hotel Institute Montreux
8 Swiss Hotel Management School
9 Webster University Geneva
10 Business and Hotel Management School
11 Luzern IMI
12 Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS) Caux
13 International University in Geneva
14 Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland

Top 10 best universities in Netherlands 2025

Top 35 best universities and colleges in Canada 2025

1 University of Toronto
2 McGill University
3 University of British Columbia
4 University of Alberta
5 Simon Fraser University
6 Montreal University
7 University of Windsor
8 York University
9 University of Guelph
10 McMaster University
11 University of Manitoba
12 University of Waterloo
13 Royal Roads University
14 Vancouver Film School
15 Kwantlen Polytechnic University
16 University of Calgary
17 Dalhousie University
18 Fanshawe College
19 University of Ottawa
20 Laval University
21 Sheridan College
22 University of Regina
23 Brock University
24 Thompson Rivers University
25 Humber College
26 Vancouver Island University
27 Mohawk College
28 Centennial College Toronto
29 Niagara College
30 Capilano University
31 Seneca College
32 Algoma University
33 Saint Clair College
34 Douglas College
35 LaSalle College
Reviews/Comments/Questions
Nataliya
(06.09.2019)
Hello! I want to get advice on entering a foreign university
Answers:
S
SMAPSE Manager
Natalia, good afternoon. A manager will contact you for advice.
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Kevin McDonnell
Specialist in International Students of the University of Sussex

Kevin is a Specialist in International Students at University of Sussex. Earlier, he worked at University of Suffolk. He is a Bangor University graduate and has been working in higher education for more than 14 years. Kevin realizes the usual challenges of adapting to a new country, culture, and teaching style, so he recognizes the importance of supporting international students by organizing an orientation week and numerous events and societies to help them settle in and make friends.

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