Global education! Pursuing foreign education and working abroad for progressive career prospects, better payscale, higher standard of living, and social respect are the key motives of international students. Studying and working abroad can be an exciting opportunity to gain global experience, broaden your horizons, and boost your future career prospects. The country you choose to study and work plays a key role in shaping the quality of your educational journey and future career prospects.
With so many countries to pick from, one must consider the key aspects – such as academic standards, scholastic excellence, job opportunities, economic growth and near future opportunities of that country, affordability, payscale, visa policies, and cultural environment – is essential. Selecting the ideal country for study and work is crucial, as it significantly influences both your personal growth and professional outcomes.
This article covers the 9 best countries for international students to study and work. It also includes some of the top universities and business corporations of these countries:
- United Kingdom (UK)
Why study in the UK? Traditionally, the UK has been the oldest destination in the world for international students where they prefer to pursue their education and why not, it is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Majority of the universities in the UK have global rankings and recognitions by several global education bodies and institutions.
The UK is the 6th largest economy in the world and is home to millions of immigrants from multiple cultures. The UK economy has consistently been growing by maintaining its stability. The UK is a welcoming and secured destination for international students to study and work and offers a vibrant lifestyle with better career prospects. In 2020, the UK introduced the Graduate Route, which allows international students to stay and work in the UK for up to two years after completing their degree (three years for PhD graduates).
- United States of America (USA)
The United States of America! The land of opportunity! The USA is the largest economy in the world and has been the most progressive nation, so far. The outstanding performance of the education sector is one of the key reasons for the country’s massive progress in the world. It is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world offering a wide array of academic programmes across courses like engineering, computer science, business, and beyond. U.S. institutions are recognized for their emphasis on research and cutting-edge infrastructure. It is no longer a secret that the USA is globally well-known for its brain drain strategy for hunting talents from every corner of the world by offering a world-class education to them.
The USA is also another multicultural nation where international students dream of pursuing their degrees and building a career in the country after completing their education. Whether you are a student or a graduate, there is always a job opening for you in the U.S. The United States also provides abundant employment prospects, especially in sectors like technology, finance, healthcare, and education. International students on an F-1 visa can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during semester breaks. They can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) for up to 1 year or 2 years for STEM graduates to gain real life experience.
- Canada
Canada is famous for offering top-tier education within a supportive and inclusive environment, and student-friendly immigration policies. The country’s universities are renowned for scholastic excellence and offer diverse programmes across numerous disciplines. Additionally, graduates can benefit from post-study work permits, which allow them to gain valuable professional experience in Canada for up to 3 years after completing their degrees.
Canada boasts a robust employment opportunity, specifically in key sectors like technology, healthcare, and finance. It is also highly regarded for its high quality of life, jaw dropping natural beauty, cultural diversity, and a strong focus on work-life balance – making it a popular choice for both international students and skilled professionals.
- Australia
Australia is popular for its breathtaking scenery, vibrant multiculturalism, and world-class education system. Australian universities are highly respected for their academic excellence and research innovation, especially in areas like natural sciences, engineering, and business.
International students benefit from a post-study work visa, allowing them to gain up to four years of professional experience after graduation. With a dynamic job market—particularly strong in IT, healthcare, and hospitality—and a laid-back lifestyle supported by a welcoming culture, Australia stands out as a top destination for those pursuing both education and career growth abroad.
- Germany
Germany is widely recognized for its top-tier education system, strong economic condition, and rich cultural heritage. Its universities are well-regarded for their emphasis on research and hands-on learning, particularly in programmes like engineering, science, and technology.
Graduates can take advantage of post-study work opportunities through the ‘Job Seeker Visa,’ which permits them to remain in the country for up to 18 months while searching for employment. With a solid job market – especially in sectors like automotive, engineering, and healthcare – combined with affordable tuition, thriving career prospects, and a high quality of life, Germany is a compelling destination for international students and professionals alike.
- Netherlands
The Netherlands is one of the most favourite countries in Europe for studying and working. It is renowned for offering a world-class education system, high-quality life, and full of breathtaking beautiful landscapes. The universities of this country have successfully managed to make positions in global top rankings. For many years, the Netherlands has been listed as one of the safest and best countries in the world to live in.
International students in the Netherlands can work part-time for up to 16 hours per week during their studies. After graduation, non-EU students can apply for a Search Year Visa, which gives them up to 1 year to search for a job related to their degree.
- Sweden
Sweden is globally popular for its exceptional quality of life, world-class healthcare, and forward-thinking social systems. Its universities are acclaimed for their innovative, research-driven education, especially in areas like sustainability, engineering, and the social sciences. This country has been ranked one of the top for offering one of the highest standards of living in the world.
International graduates can apply for a post-study work visa, enabling them to stay and work in Sweden for up to a year, with potential for extension based on employment. The country also offers strong career prospects in key sectors such as information technology, renewable energy, and healthcare. Sweden’s dedication to sustainability, inclusivity, and social equity creates a globally minded and enriching experience for international students.
- Japan
Japan is renowned for its deep-rooted traditions, advanced technology, and distinctive cultural identity. Its universities are highly respected for their rigorous academics and strong focus on research and innovation, specifically in areas such as engineering, technology, and the sciences.
Graduates can take advantage of a post-study work visa, allowing them to stay and work in Japan for up to one year, with the potential for extension depending on eligibility – offering valuable professional experience. With a thriving job market in sectors like automotive, electronics, and healthcare, Japan presents a compelling mix of historical richness and modern innovation, making it an attractive destination for students seeking international education and career opportunities in Asia.
- New Zealand
New Zealand is known for its stunning picturesque natural beauty, warm and welcoming culture, and high-caliber education system. Its universities are well-regarded for delivering quality academic programs and offering strong research opportunities, particularly in areas like agriculture, environmental science, and tourism.
Graduates can benefit from a post-study work visa, enabling them to remain in the country and gain up to three years of professional experience. With an expanding job market – especially in sectors such as information technology, healthcare, and hospitality – combined with a laid-back, nature-focused lifestyle, New Zealand stands out as an attractive destination for international students seeking both education and adventure. International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during holidays. After graduation, they can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa, which allows them to stay and work in New Zealand for up to three years.
Our Take
Each of these countries offers unique opportunities for international students to study and work, whether it’s through part-time work while studying, post-graduation work permits, or long-term employment prospects. When you decide where to pursue your degree, you must consider the factors like university global rankings & recognitions, tuition fees, cost of living, economic growth of the country of your choice, payscale, and the availability of work opportunities. However, no matter where you choose to study, these countries offer the chance to gain international experience, access to career opportunities, and a higher quality of life. And if you are still confused which country to choose to study and work, you can contact BWBS Education Consultants to get insights and a real picture of these countries and apply to the country of your choice smoothly.
