Is an International College Degree Right for You?

jchassell
Jul 12
7 min read

With the rising cost of college and the growing appeal of global experiences, more U.S. students are asking a big question: Should I go to college overseas? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but for the right kind of student, earning a degree abroad can be a transformative (and surprisingly affordable) option.

Who Should Consider College Abroad?

Studying at an international university is a very different experience from what most U.S. students are used to. Professors abroad are often more hands-off, and the structure of the programs tends to reward independence and focus. If you’re someone who thrives with more autonomy and has a clear academic direction, it might be a great fit.

Students who do well abroad often share these traits:

Independent and self-motivated
Comfortable with uncertainty
Good at managing their time and academic load without daily check-ins
Curious and open-minded about new cultures
Strong readers and researchers
Academically focused—especially in their intended major
Ready to take initiative and advocate for themselves
Okay with limited “participation grades” or continuous homework

In many programs, especially in the UK or Ireland, your final grade may hinge on just one or two major papers or exams. There are rarely group projects, daily assignments, or attendance points. You need to know how to pace yourself and be comfortable asking for help when you need it.

What’s Different About College Overseas?

Shorter Degrees: In the UK and much of Europe, most undergraduate degrees are completed in just three years. Master’s degrees typically take only one year.
No Gen Ed Requirements: Students dive straight into their major. There’s little room for exploring undecided options.
Lower Tuition: Many international programs cost significantly less than private U.S. colleges, even for international students.
English-Taught Degrees: Universities in countries like Canada, the UK, Ireland, Italy, and the Netherlands offer full programs in English.
Focused Application Process: Most international universities emphasize academics. U.S.-style holistic review (essays, recs, ECs) is less common or nonexistent.

Popular & Unique Global Universities for U.S. Students

Here are a few standout schools U.S. students are flocking to—and why they’re worth a look:

Canada

University of Toronto

Three campuses, globally ranked, flexible programs

Top-Ranked & Global: Consistently ranks in the top 20 globally; known for academic excellence and research output.
Three Distinct Campuses: St. George (downtown Toronto), Mississauga, and Scarborough—each with its own personality and strengths.
Diverse & Inclusive: Over 25% of students are international, and the university has a strong reputation for global citizenship and multiculturalism.
Strong STEM & Pre-Med: Excellent choice for science and pre-health tracks; research opportunities are abundant.
No U.S.-style “fit” essays: Admissions is largely academic-based with minimal emphasis on extracurriculars or essays.'

McGill University (Montreal)

Ivy of the North: Often called the “Harvard of Canada,” McGill ranks among the world’s top universities and is renowned for its academic rigor and global reputation.
Urban & Multilingual: Located in the heart of Montreal, a vibrant bilingual city (French/English) known for culture, food, and student life.
Strong in STEM & Pre-Med: Especially respected for its science, medicine, and engineering programs—with ample research and hospital partnerships.
Large International Community: Over 30% of undergraduates are international; highly supportive of U.S. students with dedicated advising.
Affordable & Transparent: Tuition for U.S. students is significantly lower than private U.S. colleges, with clear admissions criteria focused on academics.

University of British Columbia (Vancouver)

Global Prestige: Regularly ranks among the top 40 universities worldwide; known for excellence in environmental science, engineering, and international relations.
Two Stunning Campuses: The Vancouver campus sits on a forested peninsula with ocean views; the Okanagan campus offers a smaller, more intimate experience.
Innovative & Research-Driven: Home to world-class labs, research centers, and sustainability initiatives; strong co-op and internship options.
International & Welcoming: 30%+ + international students and strong support services for U.S. applicants; no Common App, but very transparent process.
Affordability with Flexibility: Lower tuition than U.S. private universities and no essays or letters of recommendation required for most programs.

Note: Canadian schools weigh academics heavily—no essays or recommendations required.

United Kingdom

University of Glasgow (Scotland)

Historic & Prestigious: Founded in 1451, part of the elite Russell Group of UK research universities.
Top 100 Globally: Known for engineering, medicine, life sciences, and the arts.
West End Location: Situated in a dynamic, cultural part of Glasgow with access to museums, music, and green space.
Strong International Reputation: Welcomes students from over 140 countries and has a vibrant student life.
Flexible Courses: Scottish 4-year degree structure allows more exploration across disciplines.
Goldsmiths, University of London – Culturally diverse (24% LGBTQ+), known for the arts and “culture creators”
University of London system – 18 institutions, shared resources, and collaboration
Apply via UCAS (like the Common App) but only to 5 programs, and you must choose your major.

University of St Andrews (Scotland)

Historic & Prestigious: Founded in 1413, it’s the oldest university in Scotland and consistently ranks among the top UK and global universities.
Liberal Arts Flexibility: Offers a 4-year degree structure (unlike most UK schools), allowing students to explore multiple subjects before specializing—ideal for U.S. students.
Strong Academics: Especially known for International Relations, Biology, Philosophy, History, and Marine Sciences.
Global & Welcoming: About 45% international students, with a large American community and guaranteed housing for first-year students.
Charming Location: Set in a walkable, historic seaside town—think cobblestones, castle ruins, and world-famous golf.

Goldsmiths, University of London (England)

Creative & Cutting-Edge: Specializes in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and digital innovation.
Diverse & Inclusive: 24% LGBTQ+ population, highly international student body, and known for progressive values.
London-Based: Urban campus with strong connections to London’s creative industries and cultural life.
Experimental Programs: Offers programs like Culture Industry, Creative Computing, and Queer History.
Part of University of London System: Offers cross-registration and shared resources with sister schools like UCL and King’s.

Ireland

University College (Dublin)

Located in Dublin, Ireland’s capital, UCD offers a modern, green suburban campus with strong student support services.
Welcomes a diverse student body, with over 25% international students from 130+ countries.
Known for Business, Veterinary Medicine, Agriculture, and Engineering programs.
Offers 3–4 year degrees that are subject-specific with less flexibility than U.S. liberal arts programs.
Tuition for U.S. students is typically $20,000–25,000 USD/year, often more affordable than U.S. private colleges.
No visa required for U.S. students
Applications go directly to the university—transparent and test-flexible
The largest English-speaking country in the European Union.

Italy

Bocconi University (Milan)

Top for Business: One of the best in Europe for economics, finance, and business—often ranked in the global top 5.
Urban & International: Located in Milan, Italy’s most global and business-oriented city.
3-Year Programs: Fast-paced, intensive undergraduate degrees focused on career readiness.
Taught in English: All undergraduate programs are available in English; SAT/ACT accepted.
Great U.S. Outcomes: Strong job placement and support for students returning to work in the U.S.

University of Bologna (Bologna)

Oldest in the World: Founded in 1088, it’s the oldest continuously operating university globally.
Three-Year Degrees: Intense academic focus with a faster track to graduation.
Taught in English: Many programs, especially at the graduate level, are taught entirely in English.
Honors Degree System: “Hons” degrees are rigorous and well-respected globally.
Charming City: Located in a walkable, historic Italian city with a strong student culture.
SAT/ACTs accepted. September and January intakes. Great for fashion, luxury, and museum studies.

Other Interesting Facts About International Study

You can study Veterinary Medicine right out of high school in many countries.
Degrees earned abroad are equivalent to U.S. degrees—but always check with the World Education Services (WES) for credential translation.
70% of your grade in some Irish programs might be based on a single exam.
Freshers’ Week in the UK is the international equivalent of college orientation—and it’s a big deal!
Work Permits Post-Graduation: Many countries, including Canada and the UK, allow international students to stay and work for up to 2–3 years after graduation.
International Degrees Can Be an Asset: U.S. employers increasingly value global experience, especially if students can speak about their adaptability and self-direction.
Scholarships Are Available: Some European universities (like Bocconi or Sciences Po) offer merit-based scholarships or tuition reductions—even to U.S. students.
Growing Popularity: Applications from U.S. students to UK universities are at an all-time high, with a 12% increase in just one year.
No “Undecided” Major in the UK: Students must apply directly to a subject, but in Scotland and Canada, programs allow more flexibility in the first year.
Most Programs Are Fully in English: Even in countries like the Netherlands, Germany, or Italy, hundreds of bachelor’s degrees are taught entirely in English.
Accommodations & Support Vary: Canada and the UK tend to offer robust academic and mental health support, but students should plan ahead for medication and learning accommodations.

Should You Apply?

If you or your student is ready for a deep dive into their major, can handle living far from home, and is looking for a unique college experience, international universities are worth considering. Not only can they offer substantial cost savings and global exposure, but they also help students stand out, especially if they can articulate what they gained from the experience.

Choosing to study abroad is a bold and exciting step, not just academically, but personally. It requires maturity, independence, and a willingness to embrace new cultures and ways of learning. But for the right student, international universities offer a streamlined, immersive education with the added benefit of a global perspective and cost savings. Whether it’s walking to class in Milan, studying business in London, or diving into research in Toronto, earning a degree abroad can be more than just an alternative; it can be a launchpad to a successful life.

Curious if studying overseas might be the right fit for you? Reach out to schedule a call with me here, and we’ll explore your goals, your academic profile, and the global options that could be a perfect match.