NO doubt this is preaching to the converted, considering Student World Online’s readership, but the benefits of studying abroad are tenfold. It will give you insight into a new education system, as well as a different culture, which comes in useful in the workplace; you could have the chance to learn a new language and hone your already existing language skills and of course, and you will able to discover a new part of the world, which serves a great jumping point to go off and travel too. Now that visa restrictions are gradually being lifted for Colombian and Peruvian citizens in the EU, it could set the precedent elsewhere and for other Latin American citizens, so it seems there’s no time like now for Latin American students to go off and study abroad.
Now you’re considering studying internationally, where are the best places for Latin American students to study abroad?
Spain/Portugal
For the majority of Latin American students, Spain and Portugal, depending on the native language, are one of the most popular study abroad destinations by far. Thanks to no language barrier, the administrative hurdles and obstacles, as well as settling into a new country, making friends and establishing yourself are made a lot easier when you already have your native language in common with the study abroad destination. Tuition fees tend to be reasonably priced too, making it more affordable than that of the US.
USA
As one of South America’s biggest trade partners, as well as being close geographically, it’s a no-brainer as to why the USA is home to the most Latin American students in the world. When it comes to language learning, the most internationally accepted English is US English, so grasping American English comes in highly useful in the academic world, as well as when you’re making your way in the professional world. The US education system is highly prestigious and whilst visa requirements are long, arduous and strict, studying in the USA has the potential to offer graduate employment opportunities there too.
France
After the US and Spain, other western European countries are high on the Latin American study abroad destination list. Whilst there is a language barrier, French is a romance language, which means it shares the same Latin roots as Spanish and Portuguese, therefore picking up French is easier for hispanophones and lusophones than English. In addition to boasting a prestigious reputation worldwide, the French education system is extremely well-funded by the state, so studying abroad in France is a considerably cheaper option in comparison to others.
Germany
Another popular choice for Latin American students is Germany. Germany is another example of offering low-cost study programmes without compromising quality. Whilst certain programmes will require a certain level of German knowledge, many institutions offer programmes in English, so studying in Germany could offer you the opportunity to study two different, yet highly useful languages, at a fraction of the price of studying in the majority of English speaking countries.
Cuba
Cuba is a popular option for Latin American students, especially for those whose governments have study agreements with Cuba, such as Venezuela and Ecuador. When it comes to medicine, Cuba is home to some highly reputable medical schools and out of Cuba’s 22,500 international students, 19,000 are enrolled in medicine. If you’re considering medicine or a subject area in the medical domain, Cuba could be a very viable option.
Australia
Australia is fast becoming a study abroad destination on the rise for Latin American students, and for good reason – Australia’s stable economy and quality of higher education are highly desirable. In addition, Australia student visa requirements permit working up to 20 hours a week, which means the expense of studying abroad is offset by being able to work and gain that all-important work experience. Also, because there are less Spanish speakers in Australia in comparison to the likes of the US and Western Europe, it gives you a better opportunity to practise English.
Japan
As São Paulo has the biggest Japanese population outside of Japan, Japan is another option to consider for an international study abroad placement for Latin American students. Japan’s university institutions are among some of the best in the world, the government offer a wide range of scholarships for international students and you will be able to have an insight into a fascinating culture. Graduate employment opportunities in Japan are favourable for international students too, so studying abroad in Japan could work in your favour.
