Studying abroad is a dream for many. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enhance your academic proficiency by adding international exposure. The stay-back option provided by many countries is equally, if not more, appealing to all. However, one thing to always consider is that you are leaving the familiar grounds and traveling to an unfamiliar place. It would always be wise to know the general safety of the country you are planning to study abroad in. Parents are always looking out for their children and need reassurance when sending their kids abroad. Study abroad consultants in Cochin have prepared a list of the safest places to study abroad.
Whether it is the global pandemic or the regular day-to-day life problems, general safety is always a concern for students who plan to study abroad far away from home. But, how do you determine the safety of a country? Out of the many factors that can help you decide, the most prominent factors are the rank on the Global Peace Index, the quality of life in a country, policies governing the student community, gender equality, climate, etc. Based on these, listed below are 5 of the best countries to study abroad for Indian students
The Netherlands
The Netherlands is one of the Schengen countries in Europe that ranks high on all scales for being a friendly, peaceful, and safe country with a very popular education system. It ranks 21st on the Global Peace Index and 6th place on the ‘Quality of Life’ index. Their universities are famous for programs in art, business management, psychology, and engineering. The Netherlands has a very low crime rate, low racial discrimination, high gender equality, and a very low unemployment rate compared to India and many other Asian countries.
Canada
Canada is famous for being an immigration-friendly nation and is home to some of the most high-ranked institutions in the world even in 2021. The Canadian government took drastic measures to ensure student and citizen safety during the COVID-pandemic. Canada takes public health very seriously and their vaccination numbers are explicitly ahead of most countries at a whopping 26%. With a very low tolerance for racial discrimination and strict laws governing it, Canada ranks 6th on the Global Peace Index. Besides, Canadians are known to be the nicest people you will ever meet.
Australia and New Zealand
New Zealand and Australia Rank 2nd and 13th on the Global Peace Index respectively. These two countries have been grouped together due to their similarities in demography and also their exceptional international student policies. A combined total of 44 universities that rank high in the world rankings are available in these English-speaking countries. Their diverse natural habitats and excellent weather conditions make Australia and New Zealand highly popular among nature enthusiasts. The most impressive feat is that Australia and New Zealand have both remained COVID-free with less than 30 COVID-19 cases reported in a week with brilliant leadership and pre-emptive measures, while cases continue to rise in India and other countries worldwide.
Switzerland
Switzerland has always been known for its picturesque landscapes, snowy mountains, and cold climate all year round. We have seen its natural beauty in many film songs and anyone who has been to Switzerland can vouch that it is even more breathtaking in real life. Top institutions like the University of Geneva, ETH Zurich, and EPFL are popular among international students. Geneva, Zurich, and many other Swiss cities rank as high as the 5th position on the ‘Quality of Life’ index. Switzerland as a country ranks 10th on the Global Peace Index and has very strict laws. The crime rate in Switzerland is relatively lower compared to the other European countries.
Singapore
Those who have been paying attention to the news, will not be surprised by the addition of this city-state sovereign nation. Singapore is one of the cleanest and safest countries in the whole of Asia. Their crime rates are also considerably low with the laws being strictly followed by the natives and foreigners alike. With top names like Nanyang Technical University and the National University of Singapore, Singapore is home to some of the top institutions in the world. Moreover, Singapore ranks 10th in Asia on the ‘Quality of Life’ index of 2021.
While all these countries listed here have their global rankings and stringent laws in place, parents and students need to understand that personal safety is a very relative concept. While some people might prefer a quaint town others would feel safer in a crowded city. So it is best to figure out your own preferences before choosing a university. You can talk to Overseas education consultants in Kochi to get a better understanding of your options.