Abroad101's 2015 Study Abroad Rankings

About Abroad101

Abroad101 is the first and largest study abroad review website. Focusing on American college students looking for a semester or term abroad, this innovative platform connects past and future students, parents and advisors, and program providers through its market-leading online evaluation tool. As a result, the Abroad101 directory of study abroad programs is the most comprehensive database in the field today.

The Awards

About these rankings... hese rankings are based on content extracted from many thousands of student reviews collected on Abroad101 in 2015. Many factors contributed to the final calculated rankings, including ratings given by students, number of reviews available, and advisor approval of reviews. In the 2015 rankings process, 1,472 different programs received reviews meaning that some great programs many not have received a review. Also remember that rankings are only an indicator of quality, not a measure of quality; please keep this in mind when searching for a program. Also consider that a number of colleges have their own approved programs and evaluation process, so be sure to consult your study abroad office or advisor before making any decisions. Enter your home school in the search box above for more information those programs and policies. If you studied abroad and haven't left a review yet, you are always welcome to submit a new review. You can also see the 2012 , 2013 and 2014 Study Abroad Rankings as reference. Enjoy!

The Top 10+ Study Abroad Programs

About this Category... Students rate the best of the best resulting in The Top 10+ Student Abroad Programs. Thousands of programs reviews of were compiled and analyzed to form the best study abroad program list for 2015. The Study Abroad Rankings from Abroad101 were calculated from the largest collection of college student reviews and tallied the student's overall, academic, cultural, and administration experiences with their study abroad program.

Loyola University Chicago: The Beijing Center
1
Loyola University Chicago: The Beijing Center
Location: Beijing, China Provider: Loyola University Chicago

The Beijing Center for Chinese Studies offers unparalleled immersion opportunities and excursions throughout China. Students select an appropriate level of Mandarin and choose from courses taught by scholars from China's leading universities and institutes.

"I gained so much confidence, the ability to be adaptable, and fantastic cultural awareness. It was definitely worthwhile." A Student, Boston College
UPCES - Study Abroad in Prague
2
UPCES - Study Abroad in Prague
Location: Prague, Czech Republic Provider: UPCES

UPCES in Prague provides a semester of intellectual and cultural discovery in one of Europe's most remarkable cities. UPCES is located in a historic palace in Prague's city center. An UPCES semester includes 16 academic credits, day and weekend trips, dozens of cultural excursions/activities, optional internships, and international classrooms.

"So worthwhile. Best experience of my life, and no mistake. Opened my eyes, and inspired me in so many ways, too many indeed to list." Taylor B, Willamette University
IES Abroad:  Study Abroad in Granada
3
IES Abroad: Study Abroad in Granada
Location: Granada, Spain Provider: IES Abroad

Many travelers who visit Granada insist it is the must-see city in all of Spain. With one of the clearest windows into Spain's unique historical symbiosis of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, Granada is also a youthful city with a vibrant student life that will make meeting new friends even easier.

"I feel more confident asking questions, don't hesitate to meet challenges head on, and feel a lot more expansive as a person since getting back." Emmet H, Yale

PROGRAMS 4+

Sol Education Abroad: Heredia - Universidad Latina de Costa Rica
4
Sol Education Abroad: Heredia - Universidad Latina de Costa Rica
Location: Heredia, Costa Rica Provider: Sol Education Abroad

Held on the campus of Latin University of Costa Rica with a familiar campus setting in a college town, this program blends the best of an American college experience with the excitement of being in another country and doing it all in Spanish.

"I learned so much about the culture and even more, the language. I wish I could have stayed longer!" Sydney R, Xavier University
The Education Abroad Network (TEAN): Gold Coast - Bond University
5
The Education Abroad Network (TEAN): Gold Coast - Bond University
Location: Gold Coast, Australia Provider: The Education Abroad Network (TEAN)

Spend a semester in one of the most beautiful parts of the world, plus Bond University is the only university in Australia with an academic calendar similar to that of the US. TEAN adds amazing housing options, including off-campus beachfront apartments or housing adjacent to campus.

"I highly recommend going abroad if you ever get the chance, you won't regret the decision!" Adam C, Drew University
API: Lorenzo de Medici , The Italian International Institute
6
API: Lorenzo de Medici , The Italian International Institute
Location: Florence, Italy Provider: API (Academic Programs International)

API students who study abroad in Florence may choose from over 400 courses at Lorenzo de Medici, The Italian International Institute (LdM). Courses are available in a wide variety of subjects across the arts, humanities, business, and international relations. In addition to the a free-elective course structure, several additional opportunities are available including internships, certificate programs, and professional development opportunities.

"I learned more about myself and the beauty of life." Tiffany A, University of Hartford
CEA: Rome, Italy
7
CEA: Rome, Italy
Location: Rome, Italy Provider: CEA

Imagine studying art history as you gaze up at the Sistine Chapel, or learning about world religions just a few blocks from the Vatican. Oh, and then there's the food...

"I learned that experiencing new things and stepping out of your comfort zone teaches you more about yourself than anything else I have done before." Mike B, University of Arizona
Round River Conservation Studies - Patagonia, Chile Program
8
Round River Conservation Studies - Patagonia, Chile Program
Location: Patagonia, Chile Provider: Round River Conservation Studies

Based out of the small town of Cochrane, students spend most of the semester hiking, bushwhacking, and back-packing while conducting wildlife research and assisting our local partners with conservation projects.

"I learned about how conservation gets done, how to debate my viewpoint, how to be a guest." Matthew M, Marlboro College
CAPA The Global Education Network: Dublin - Study or Intern Abroad
9
CAPA The Global Education Network: Dublin - Study or Intern Abroad
Location, Dublin, Ireland Provider: CAPA The Global Education Network

Regardless of your major, CAPA's academic courses keep you on track while you soak up regional history and culture. Options include courses with local visits, internships and special lectures related to your study abroad experience; all designed to engage you in critical thinking and challenge you to pursue subjects through academic and field research.

"I have lived in a small town most of my life and I didn't realize how much I was missing out." Jenna U, Howard Payne University
IES Abroad: Study in Amsterdam
10
IES Abroad: Study in Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands Provider: IES Abroad

IES Abroad Study in Amsterdam Program takes advantage of the city’s unique balance of history and contemporary culture, and lets you structure your studies at the prestigious Universiteit van Amsterdam (UvA) and at the IES Abroad Center.

"I gained a lot of self-confidence about being on my own. It was definitely worthwhile." Kelsey G, Trinity University
European Study Center: Heidelberg - Study Abroad in the EU
11
European Study Center: Heidelberg - Study Abroad in the EU
Location: Heidelberg, Germany Provider: European Study Center

The European Study Center in Heidelberg, Germany features semester-long study abroad programs (which can be combined to result in year-long programs) with courses taught in English either at the local SRH University or by US faculty and local adjunct faculty at the center.

"I learned a lot about German culture, but also about myself." Cristina S, University of South Florida
DIS Copenhagen: Semester
12
DIS Copenhagen: Semester
Location: Copenhagen, Denmark Provider: DIS

DIS offers academically challenging courses taught in English. Students build their own curriculum from a great spectrum of majors, each taught through a European lens, reinforced with course-integrated study tours that take you to academically inspirational destinations across Europe.

"Most incredible 4 months of my life, gained skills I never imagined I could!" A student, Tulane University
Regent's University London: Study Abroad in London
13
Regent's University London: Study Abroad in London
Location: London, England Provider: Regent's University London

Each year Regent’s University London welcomes more than 1,000 study abroad and exchange students from all over the world onto its truly international campus in the heart of Regent's Park and the Marylebone area, just minutes away from the major sights of London.

"The best semester of my life!" Lily H, University of Hartford
University of Evansville: Study abroad at Harlaxton College
14
University of Evansville: Study abroad at Harlaxton College
Location: Grantham, UK Provider: University of Evansville

At Harlaxton College you'll studying in a 100-room Victorian manor house in the rolling English countryside one hour north of London. As a UK campus of an American university you'll share the manor with a community of committed faculty, supportive staff, and fellow students.

"The scariest but greatest thing that I have done." Kindel P, U. Southern Indiana
PRESHCO: Study Abroad in Cordoba, Spain
15
PRESHCO: Study Abroad in Cordoba, Spain
Location: Cordoba, Spain Provider: PRESHCO

PRESHCO (Programa de Estudios Hispánicos en Córdoba) will provide you with opportunities to develop your knowledge of Spanish language, literature, and culture in one of the most picturesque and historically diverse cities in Spain.

"My time abroad taught me that I can do anything." Amy J, Wellesley College
Sant'Anna Institute: Sorrento - Live, Learn and Immerse in Italy
16
Sant'Anna Institute: Sorrento - Live, Learn and Immerse in Italy
Location: Sorrento, Italy Provider: Sant'Anna Institute

Sant'Anna Institute believes students will enrich their collegiate experience by immersing themselves in Italian language and culture and do so with young people from all over the world.

"I learned what it was like to live in a different country and how much different the culture is. I loved it." Julie R, University of Akron

Most Livable Cities

About this Category... Students rate and recommend places where they feel like a local while studying abroad. The most livable cities list is a ranking of study abroad destinations where American college study abroad students state how easily they integrate into daily life. These top social and cultural study abroad destinations will have you feeling acclimated in no time!

London
1
London
Programs: 405

London is big, bustling and more popular than ever as a place to study abroad. As the largest city in Europe, London offers students a place to be overseas but not be in such a foreign place. Perhaps it's the theater or the music but London seems close to home, except watch out - everyone's driving the wrong way and as every student will wake up saying "Mind the Gap".

"London is the perfect place to study abroad; there are countless opportunities to explore the city and it's location is optimal for traveling to different countries in the UK and in Europe." A student, Wellesley College
Florence
2
Florence
Programs: 175

Putting aside the food, Florence is an artists' haven. This small city has preserved the essence of the Renaissance and gives the impression of living in an outdoor museum. This city stands out as a cultural, historical, and academic hot spot in Italy and a very popular destination for American students.

"From the language to the culture to the history, every aspect of living in Florence was so enriching to the experience, and I would do it all over again if I could!" Alexis G, Cedarville University
Rome
3
Rome
Programs: 156

Rome is the capital and largest city of Italy. Rome is often called the Eternal City being home to the Roman Empire, the Vatican City and many historical treasures, and as the reviews state, a very friendly and livable place despite.

"Rome stole my heart and I will definitely be going back some day. I loved buying fruit at the local frutteria and eating dinner at the quaint restaurants in Trastevere." Tori K, Wake Forest U

CITIES 4-10

Beijing
4
Beijing
Programs: 156

As the political and cultural capital of China, Beijing attracts people from all over the country, and increasingly all over the world. While there is lots of hustle and bustle and everyone seems to know where they are going, help is at every corner, indicated by Beijing be in the Top 10 for three straight years.

"It's really easy to meet a lot of friendly people in Beijing. I met a lot of new friends there that I still keep up with nearly a year later." A student, Amherst College
Paris
5
Paris
Programs: 303

Paris is draped in history, tradition, culture, and glamour, plus has some pretty good universities as well. From what the reviews are saying, Paris is not a snobby place, but dynamic, exciting and quite a nice place to be.

"Paris is such a wonderful city, studied abroad in Paris is one of the rightest things I did in my life." Jialin L, U Tulsa
Dublin
6
Dublin
Programs: 119

As the capital and largest city in Ireland, Dublin draws not just international students, but students are a vibrant part of city life. Three universities and 20 colleges add to the festive nature, especially on weekends when its time to enjoy the famous local brews from Guiness.

"Outside of college, the Irish people are extremely friendly and you can strike up a conversation at any pub you may be at. " Kate C, Clark University
Madrid
7
Madrid
Programs: 169

Madrid is the commercial and financial hub in Spain and a major influence in the world of business, fashion, art, science, and entertainment of Europe. It's bustling, cosmopolitan and yet, still Spanish and yes, the Siesta still lives!

"Don't be shy! :) Participate in the intercambio program with Spanish university students, bars and cafes also have intercambio nights so look out for those!" Maureen H, TCNJ
San Jose
8
San Jose
Programs: 126

San Jose's metro area contains half the Costa Rican population and the majority of the visiting students. It's cosmopolitan with museums, restaurants, shopping malls, and nightclubs and yet renowned for its eco-tourism with rainforests and beaches on both sides of the country!

"My host mother was so warm and welcoming. I felt like she really cared about me. We had so many conversations about my insecurities while speaking Spanish, and she made me feel very comfortable about my abilities." Emily M, Bloomsburg U.
Sydney
9
Sydney
Programs: 93

Sydney is the largest, oldest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia with a reputation as one of the world's most beautiful and liveable cities which is confirmed by the student reviews. From Opera to Surfing, Sydney has it all!

"Aussies are very welcoming and love to talk about America as well as show you around their home." Victoria C, TCU
Gold Coast
10
Gold Coast
Programs: 24

Gold Coast is a city just south of Brisbane on the coast of Queensland, Australia and has made the Top 10 Most Livable Cities for the past four years. Students are drawn to the Gold Coast because of the sunny subtropical climate, epic surfing, beautiful beaches, and abundant canals and waterways. Add modern high-rise apartments, theme parks, and world renowned nightlife it's not hard to understand why everyone is feeling good as gold in Gold Coast.

"I felt like I fit in very well, I was very comfortable in the location we were in. Anyone who enjoys the beach will feel integrated in Broadbeach/Gold Coast in general!" Michaela K, U. Tampa

Top Foodie Cities

About this Category... Students rate and recommend places for the best food while on study abroad programs. The 'Top Foodie Cities' ranking identifies the cities where students would find the best food, both in markets, at their dorms or home stays or while out on the town. Some of Best Study Abroad programs for food lovers are in these study abroad locations

Florence
1
Florence
Programs: 175

Florence is the heart of Tuscany and Tuscan food is known to be simple and abundant with local ingredients. Florence is one of the most popular study abroad destinations and from the reviews, food is a big part of the attraction.

"Learn how to cook! Eating out all the time is easy to do, but in Florence, there are so many open markets that sell fresh food and produce, and it is so fun!" Carli T, Riverside City College
Rome
2
Rome
Programs: 156

Roma is Italy's most populous city, and based on students' rave reviews, the food may be prime reason why people can't leave. Between the fresh pasta alla carbonara and gnocci alla romana, you can finish your meal with crostata di ricotta, a lemon-infused cheesecake.

"What's not to love about the food? It's ITALY!" Maureen C, SUNY - Fashion
Beijing
3
Beijing
Programs: 156

With over 20 million people and large numbers of foreign visitors, Beijing offers something for everyone. In addition to the world famous Peking Duck and a wide range of local snacks, oils and spices, Beijing brings together cuisines from all over China in grand fashion.

"Going with my friends discovering the food and getting suggestions from the locals made the whole experience enjoyable, inexpensive, and tasty!" Mohammad A, U. Rochester

CITIES 4-10

Paris
4
Paris
Programs: 303

Paris is renowned for its fine cuisine, often accompanied by fine wines the city is famous for meticulously prepared food, served and celebrated by expensive restaurants and hotels, but as students will attest, there's great food at every corner for every budget.

"Food in Paris is incredible and there's lots of great international options as well." Andrew C, James Madison U
Milan
5
Milan
Programs: 53

Milanese cuisine surprises many as it uses rice more than pasta, and features almost no tomato and drew praises from students from across America; and the deserts and outdoor cafes make you want to give free hugs.

"Do a homestay, even if it's just for the incredible food." Sarah B, Saint Olaf College
Shanghai
6
Shanghai
Programs: 143

Shanghai boasts one of China's best and most distinctive cuisines. As a coastal city, the cuisine features both fresh and saltwater seafood and are delicately seasoned. Shanghai's people have a 'sweet tooth' reflected in the reviews and student photos.

"Authentic Chinese food is amazing. It was great to explore the different styles of cuisine." Katharina G, Iowa State
Barcelona
7
Barcelona
Programs: 169

Perhaps driven by the large number of international students in the city, Barcelona has a wealth of really good, cheap eats. Catalan culinary is unique and reflected in the undless array of Tapas outlets, those bite-sized pillars of Barcelona’s food scene.

"The food in Spain was amazing. I always loved going out to eat and trying new food." Haley P, IPFW
San Jose
8
San Jose
Programs: 126

Local ingredients make Costa Rican cuisine so attractive and so affordable. Fresh fruit like no other place in the world: in drinks, on salads, mixed in Casado is just the beginning, a seafood paradise as well with fresh catches from the Caribbean and Pacific.

"The food in Costa Rica is absolutely amazing. There is so much fresh fruit. If you don't like rice and beans, this definitely isn't the place to go because they are definitely staples in the diet." A student, U. Kentucky
Bologna
9
Bologna
Programs: 12

The capital of Italy's Emilia-Romagna region, Bologna epitomizes 'good taste' as students' pick for foodie capital of the world. With an endless list of regional specialties like lasagne, tortellini, prosciutto, and mortadella, Bologna will more than satisfy your cultural craving.

"Italian food is wonderful, the program did a wonderful job in taking us to restaurants and showing us new cuisine." Dania F, Wellesley College
Aix-en-Provence
10
Aix-en-Provence
Programs: 36

In the top food cities every year, Aix is a true culinary gem. Cafes once frequented CŽzanne and Hemingway are now popular hangouts for the creative study abroad students, others find hidden delights in the back street boulangeries.

"The food was amazing. My host mom cooked all the time, the restaurants were great and the cooking class taught me some yummy recipes." Elizabeth G, Linfield College

Top Non-traditional Countries

About this Category... Students rate and recommend places to travel off the beaten path and venture to some of the most unique countries for a one-of-a-kind study abroad experience. This is a ranking of the top Non-Traditional places to study abroad

Ghana
1
Ghana
Programs: 93 Average Experience: 4.7
"I met amazing friends of all sorts: international, american, ghanaian... some of which I am still in touch with two years later." Jensen P, UCSB
Cuba
2
Cuba
Programs: 50 Average Experience: 4.7
"Gained: the ability to look at the world from a perspective different than the U.S. perspective. (invaluable skill), Made: Several amazing friends Learned: A ton of Spanish." A Student, Pomona College
Tanzania
3
Tanzania
Programs: 86 Average Experience: 4.7
"It changes how you look at the world and the culture you live in, and you realize that Americans have so much to be thankful for that other people don't have, yet these other people are so much more content with their lives." Niki G, Eckerd College

COUNTRIES 4-10

Turkey
4
Turkey
Programs: 98 Average Experience: 4.6
Program Spotlight AIFS: Istanbul at Bogazi University

"It was definitely worthwhile and I strongly recommend it to anyone." Angelina D, U San Francisco
Morocco
5
Morocco
Programs: 89 Average Experience: 4.6
"I gained so much by being surrounded by a culture so different from my own, and I can honestly say that i am a completely different person because of it." Morgan H, U New England
Switzerland
6
Switzerland
Programs: 81 Average Experience: 4.5
"My home stay experience was fantastic and gave me a better experience studying abroad overall. It's the best way to really understand the culture." Samantha R, Brandeis University
Russia
7
Russia
Programs: 118 Average Experience: 4.5
"Deeper insight into varying perspectives on complex international issues and the ways in which different cultures view and interact with one another. Absolutely worthwhile." John R, Truman State
Romania
8
Romania
Programs: 18 Average Experience: 4.4

"Cultural awareness, love and appreciation for other cultures, life long friends were made." Jared S, Kuyper College
Jordan
9
Jordan
Programs: 43 Average Experience: 4.3
"Amman is a very safe city. I felt very comfortable walking alone at night or with another student. You can't blend in but you don't have to stick out." Sarah S, Luther College
United Arab Emirates
10
United Arab Emirates
Programs: 20 Average Experience: 4.2
"My experience reassured my love for cultures and people. It reawakened a drive for learning and for travel." Nahema C, Villanova U.

Top Program Providers

About this Category... The organizations that manage and promote study abroad programs are referred to as study abroad providers and the Top Study Abroad Providers list highlights the ones students think are best. These third-party firms provide some of the best experiences and support for students as the reviews will attest in the Ranking of Study Abroad Providers. Rankings were calculated from the largest collection of college student study abroad reviews and tallied the student's overall experiences with their study abroad program provider.

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN)
1
The Education Abroad Network (TEAN)
Programs: 49
Most Popular Program: Study Abroad at Bond University
"The TEAN staff is nothing short of incredible. The in-country staff were always available and very helpful." Adam C, Drew University
IES Abroad
2
IES Abroad
Programs: 94

"I had one orthodontist and doctor's visit while in Vienna. IES was able to provide me contacts with English-speaking doctors which was very useful." Christina N, University of Texas
Sol Education Abroad
3
Sol Education Abroad
Programs: 9

"The directors were incredibly supportive and loving. I felt like I could talk to them about anything." Emily M, Bloomsburg U.

PROVIDERS 4+

The Asia Institute
5
The Asia Institute
Programs: 26
"They weren't just administers, they became our friends." Tara J, U. of Pittsburgh
International Studies Abroad / ISA
6
International Studies Abroad / ISA
Programs: 79
"At least one person was available at all times to answer any kind of questions-from how to book train or plane tickets to upcoming soccer matches." Bria H, U of Northern Colorado
Loyola University Chicago
7
Loyola University Chicago
Programs: 3
Most Popular Program: The Beijing Center
"I had visa troubles very early on and the entire team quickly remedied the issue." A student, Boston College
CEA
8
CEA
Programs: 22
Most Popular Program: Rome Center

"CEA's administration is extremely helpful and speedy." Sarah V, Providence College
International Business Seminars / IBS
9
International Business Seminars / IBS
Programs: 6
"All of the hotels we stayed in were clean and perfect for the time we were there." Lyndsay L, LSU
CAPA The Global Education Network
10
CAPA The Global Education Network
Programs: 6
Most Popular Program: London Study or Intern Abroad

"CAPA's counselling was top-notch in finding people care that suited them, inexpensively and quickly." Paul W, Hood College
AIFS
11
AIFS
Programs: 51
Most Popular Program: Richmond in Florence

"Almost daily AIFS gave us the option of signing up for cultural immersion activities." Megan H, College of Charleston
SAI Programs
12
SAI Programs
Programs: 17
Most Popular Program: Florence University of the Arts

"SAI was always, I mean ALWAYS there to help no matter the time of day or situation." Sarah N, Washington State
IFSA-Butler
13
IFSA-Butler
Programs: 111
"They helped everyone in settled in the country before the term officially started." Tina N, Brandeis University
CISabroad / Center for International Studies
14
CISabroad / Center for International Studies
Programs: 100
Most Popular Program: Semester on the Gold Coast

"The thing I loved about CIS was that they really set the stage well in coming to Australia." Matthew M, University of Maine
USAC
15
USAC
Programs: 47
"The USAC admins are some of the greatest people I have had to pleasure to become friends with." Maddy B, University of Virginia

Top Budget-Friendly Countries

About this Category... Students rate and recommend places to get the most 'bang for your buck', which Abroad101 presents as a ranking of affordable study abroad programs - Top Budget-Friendly Countries for Study Abroad.

India
1
India
Programs: 195

Number 2 last year, and a clear number one this year, India is the study abroad destination where your dollar goes furthest. For the price of an Uber ride in the US, you can have a driver for a day.

"Limit going to Western restaurants and hotels. When traveling, staying in hostels rather than hotels is a safe and cheap lodging option." Sarah C, American University
China
2
China
Programs: 467

News reports talk of a slide in the Chinese currency which means your buck is strong. They drive a hard bargain, it's a bargain none the less.

"Money was not that big of an issue, everything over there is very cheap." Nick H, U. San Francisco
Tanzania
3
Tanzania
Programs: 86

With legendary game parks, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar there's lots to see in Tanzania, but not so many tourists, so costs remain low in this gem of a country.

"Wait to buy trinkets and gifts you will get better at bartering towards the end." Ella L, UMass

COUNTRIES 4-10

Morocco
4
Morocco
Programs: 89

#5 on last years list too, Morocco remains one of the best value countries on the Mediterranean, so close to Spain and so much cheaper!

"The only extra money I spent was on traveling internationally (which was super cheap!) or on souvenirs (which are also inexpensive in Morocco)!" Morgan H, University of New England
Thailand
5
Thailand
Programs: 126

People like to refer to Thailand as "the land of smiles" and with currency shifts and a general low cost of living, those that go there smile when reaching for their wallet.

"Very very doable on a student budget, verything is super cheap." Daniel R, Quinnipiac University
Czech Republic
6
Czech Republic
Programs: 116

Who remembers communism? Not the Czech's, with Europe's fastest growing economy prices remail low and this vibrant country still ranks as the lowest cost in Europe.

"Prague is a very cheap city to live in!" Brenna K, Drake University
Peru
7
Peru
Programs: 160

Peru ranks as the lowest cost of living of any Spanish speaking country in the Abroad101 rankings this year. A stable country with a stedily growing economy make this a great time to discover this wonder.

"Everything is super affordable. Even if you do decide to go out, a meal is 30 soles tops. Taxis for transportation are also very affordable- 4-7 soles (a little over $1)." Janet S, Occidental College
Ecuador
8
Ecuador
Programs: 180

Large numbers of eco-toursts and students haven't driven driven prices up too much as Ecuador is still very affordable and a very popular study abroad destination.

"All food is super cheap there! You can find a huge lunch for $3. Same for dinner. For breakfast, I was able to find empanadas for $1." Jasmine R, Trinity U.
Ghana
9
Ghana
Programs: 93

Ghana is an English speaking country and the most popular study abroad destination in West Africa. Affordability is just one reason for its popularity.

"It's incredibly easy to stretch money in Ghana, and the program director gave us excellent advice about how to handle it." Carly T, Knox College
Chile
10
Chile
Programs: 156

Venture out of the capital and regional tech hub of Santiago and you'll find amazing things to see and do and the costs drop substantially the further north you get.

"In country transportation in Chile is very cheap!!" Arianna B, Messiah College

Rankings FAQ

About these Rankings... This year’s rankings are based solely on the results of study abroad program evaluations that have been collected by Abroad101. Abroad101 works with over 200 US Colleges and Universities to collect these evaluations.

All of the rankings were determined solely by our student reviews. We aggregated the data across several categories and applied a mathematical algorithm, which considered all of the relevant data, as well as the number of reviews. There was no voting process or priority given to any program based on payment or advertising with Abroad101; the results are the sole factors that determine which programs and locations make it onto our ranking lists and at what ranks. Note: the rankings are not based on nor do they reflect our opinions of the programs - there are obviously hundreds, if not thousands, of wonderful study abroad programs in the world and the program fit is often a very student specific matter. Read the reviews in detail to look at the comments as well as the ratings. On academically rigorous programs for example, some students complain that the coursework takes too much time and the students will therefore rate the "Overall educational experience" lower. We suggest you use the comments to help set your expectations and find the personality of a program that fits you or your student well.

When selecting programs, students should always consult with their study abroad offices and make sure that their program meets their academic requirements and are eligible for credit from their university. Please remember, rankings and ratings are only indicators of quality, not measures of quality.

A: For each category, we set a minimum number of total reviews to ensure an appropriate level of student feedback, taking into account reviews from the last 12 months.
The main consideration factor for each category is as follows
Category Considered Data Points
Top Ten+ Overall Programs Overall Score
Top Ten Providers Overall Score
Most Livable Cities Social/Cultural Integration Scores
Top Ten Non-Traditional Countries Overall Scores of countries that were not in the Top 25 countries that US students study abroad it.
Top Foodie Cities Food Scores
Top Budget-Friendly Cost of Living Scores
Programs mentioned in the Cities and Countries section are representative programs in that region.
A: No. We are proud to have study abroad program providers and foreign universities as advertisers. They look to promote their programs, regardless of ratings or rankings and their endorsement in no way affects the results of our rankings. None of our advertising partners had access to the preliminary results or the ability to provide input to the rankings process. At Abroad101, we are committed to promoting the student voice, and thus the rankings are entirely a result of our student feedback and offer these results and an indicator, not a measure of program quality.
A: Abroad101 is the leading provider of study abroad evaluation software for universities. We have partnered with over 200 US universities to help collect and aggregate their student evaluations when they return. Additionally, many providers and non-partnered universities encourage students to leave feedback with Abroad101.
A: The Overall Rating score that is highlighted on our program pages reflects student responses to the following question: “What rating would you give your overall experience?” It is NOT an aggregate of all the ratings in an evaluation.

The Top Summer Programs

About this Category... Students rate the best of the best in Abroad101's The Top Summer Study Abroad Programs. Summer is a great time to study abroad and take those electives in a high impact foreign setting, but where to go? Student reviews were compiled and analyzed to give you some insight.

The GREEN Program: Iceland - Sustainability and Renewable Energy Abroad
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The GREEN Program: Iceland - Sustainability and Renewable Energy Abroad
Location: Iceland Provider: The GREEN Program

Discover Iceland's innovation in renewable energy, dive into authentic Nordic culture, and participate on adventure excursions you never even realized you wanted to have on your bucket list.

"The Most Inspiring and Refreshing Trip of my Academic Career!" Katie M, Drexel University
ThisWorldMusic: Traveling - Study in Ghana: Music, Arts, Culture
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ThisWorldMusic: Traveling - Study in Ghana: Music, Arts, Culture
Location: Kopeyia, Ghana Provider: ThisWorldMusic

Participants live at the world renowned Dagbe Cultural Institute, studying traditional West African music, dance and craft making with a highly trained staff of local artists.

"The week I spent at Dagbe was amazing, and taught me so much more than I could have imagined." Aidan O, Hampshire College
Ewha Womans University: Seoul - International Co-ed Summer College
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Ewha Womans University: Seoul - International Co-ed Summer College
Location: Seoul, South Korea Provider: Ewha Womans University

As Korea's oldest international co-ed summer program, Ewha ICSC brings together an incredibly diverse group of students to experience the best of Korea through academic study and cultural immersion.

"Whether for study, work or travel, I will be back without question." Anita C, EWU

PROGRAMS 4+

New York University: Dublin - NYU Summer in Dublin
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New York University: Dublin - NYU Summer in Dublin
Location: Dublin, Ireland Provider: New York Universtiy

The immersive experience is a key part of NYU in Dublin: rather than experiencing the city as tourists, students live in the heart of Dublin, getting to know the city and its people as locals.

"I didn't have time to spend an entire semester abroad, but the opportunity to spend six weeks in Dublin more than made up for that." Mary C, New York University
DIS Copenhagen: Summer
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DIS Copenhagen: Summer
Location: Copenhagen, Denmark Provider: DIS - Study Abroad

Study abroad at DIS and pursue a dream summer with the opportunity to study, engage, and immerse while living in a new home in Copenhagen. Courses with field components and extracurricular offerings are designed to maximize your time academically and culturally.

"I learned entirely too much to put into words. It was completely worth it." A student, University of Texas
International Business Seminars / IBS Summer Europe: Undergraduate Business Seminar
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International Business Seminars / IBS Summer Europe: Undergraduate Business Seminar
Location: Tour Provider: International Business Seminars / IBS

International Business Seminar is a unique way for those interested in international business, or a related field, to acquire a firsthand view of international business practices, and experience the excitement of traveling outside the United States.

"I learned a lot about myself and how I adapt to situations out of my comfort zone, not to mention the lifelong friends I made." Laura J, LSU
KIIS: Traveling - Experience Japan (Summer)
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KIIS: Traveling - Experience Japan (Summer)
Location: Japan Provider: KIIS

The KIIS summer program in Japan offers students an opportunity to discover one of the world's most sophisticated and dynamic nations. A sublime blend of tradition and technology, Japan seamlessly fuses modern art and ultra-high-speed railways with ancient temples and shrines.

"I gained a lot of confidence, maturity, and communication skills. I loved the experience." Christinia P, Berea College