Where Should I Study Abroad? – Best Countries for 2026

“Where should I study abroad?” It’s one of the most common questions we hear. There is no single right answer. There is, however, a right answer for you.

One of the best ways to get a sense of what’s possible is to look at students like yourself! Using data from FindAMasters, we’ve found that these are the 10 countries students have searched for the most in 2025.

#10 Canada

Even with the changes to study permits, Canada continues to be a popular destination. There is plenty to like about Canada: English-taught courses, a three-year post-study work permit (even if your Masters was shorter than two years!) and generous government funding. Just be aware that the study permit caps are continuing into 2026, but Masters students at public universities are exempt — which is some positive news.

#9 Finland

Finland is not the only European country on this list (as you’ll see!). With uncertainties and constantly changing visa rules in UK, USA, Australia and Canada, more students are looking to Europe (and rightly so!). Finland offers free Masters programmes for EU students and, as an EU Member State, Finnish universities also have access to Erasmus funding. For non-EU students, universities often provide scholarships and tuition fee waivers. With well-known, renowned universities and a relatively low cost-of-living, Finland could be your home-away-from-home.

#8 Belgium

Belgium is for students who want top-quality education and weekend trips across borders. Add affordable tuition, strong career links to EU institutions and legendary chocolate — Belgium proves that studying abroad can be both serious and seriously enjoyable. If you’re interested in languages, Belgium might be the place for you with courses available in French, Dutch and English (you don’t have to study in all three!).

#7 Spain

Tuition and living costs in Spain tend to be friendlier on your wallet than in many Western European countries. There’s a huge international student community to explore tapas, festivals and new friendships with. You can enjoy all of this while studying an English-taught Masters and, if you’re up for the challenge, one in Spanish as well. Make sure to check that your degree is an ‘official’ Masters, fully recognised by the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and worldwide.

#6 France

Looking for more affordable study in Europe? Look towards France! Tuition fees in France are subsidised by the French government, so even international students pay relatively low fees. France has got well organised student housing and low living costs. You’re also allowed to work 964 hours a year part-time while you study to help cover some of these costs as well. French Masters courses themselves are usually two years long and less intensive than one-year Masters like in the UK. There’s also a focus on specialised courses, like the MBA. Did you know that France was the first country outside the USA to offer an MBA programme!

#5 Italy

We’re halfway through the list and still continuing on the European theme! Italy is home to some historic universities and it’s the birthplace of the Bologna Credit System, which universities across the world still follow. That gives you an idea of the impact Italy and Italian universities have had on the world of higher education. Public university tuition is relatively low, often ranging from €850 to €3,500 per year and there are a number of scholarships available for international students. You’ll also benefit from structured academic support, research opportunities and access to well-established libraries and labs if you choose to study in Italy.

#4 Netherlands

If your goal is to really go in-depth, even at Masters level, the Netherlands might be the place for you. Dutch Masters degrees are longer and have a more prominent research element, but that doesn’t mean you’ve got to break your bank for them. Fees for EU students are capped at €2,530 per year. Even though fees for other international students are higher, around €12,000 and €30,000 per year, there are grants and scholarships offered by the Dutch government that can help with funding.

#3 USA

The USA still remains very popular amongst prospective students, but there have been massive changes in visa regulations, which you need to consider before jumping in. You can make the most of some of the world’s most prestigious universities — 23 out of the top 50 universities in the Times Higher Education 2026 ranking are based in the USA! It’s true that study in the USA isn’t exactly cheap, but there are plenty of scholarships to help like the Fulbright and Marshall Scholarships.

#2 Germany

Germany is a top-tier study destination for 2026 if you want serious academic value without the scary price tag. With little to no tuition fee at public universities and loads of English-taught Masters programmes, it’s a favourite for career-focused students. Add an 18-month post-study work visa and access to one of Europe’s strongest job markets, and Germany makes studying abroad feel like a very smart move.

#1.5 UK

Since we’re based in the UK and we’ve got more than 17,000 UK Masters courses listed on our website, it’s historically been the place students most search for on FindAMasters.com. That said, the UK remains a highly attractive study destination in its own right. There has been uncertainty and upheaval in the last year, most recently with the Graduate Route visa (UK’s post-study work visa) being shortened to 18 months from January 2027, but the UK still has a lot on offer for international students. Its higher education system is as diverse as the country itself, ranging from ancient universities in Oxford and Cambridge to modern, innovative institutions.

#1 Ireland

Ireland tops the list for 2026 thanks to its mix of high-quality Masters degrees, English-friendly study and a big job market. Ireland is very well positioned, with the UK being especially close. There are also a lot of similarities between the higher education systems of both countries with one-year-long intensive Masters ending in an independent project. However, you’ll need to think about the cost of studying in Ireland with tuition fees and accommodation being on the higher side. There are a number of scholarships available to help with finances, but you need to be proactive and prepared when making applications.

And there you have it, the top 10! For more countries where you can study your Masters, head to our study abroad homepage.