Study inspiration

Institutions from all over the world will be attending the Fair, they want to meet you and let you know what they have got to offer. To get you thinking about where in the world you could continue your education, here’s a small selection of study destinations represented at the Fair.

Fancy the beaches and buzz of Sydney? The cosmopolitan mix and historic sites of London? Or big and brash New York City? Where in the world do you want to study...?

Study in Australia
Beaches, scenery and a laid-back Aussie welcome

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Quick facts about Australia:

• Australia boasts a low crime rate and is a safe country.
• English is the main language and it will be the language that you learn in.
• Most of the 22 major religions of the world are practised in Australia.
• Over 400,000 students from over 200 countries receive an Australian education each year.

Why choose an Australian education?

Famous for its vast natural beauty, untouched beaches, and friendly, sports-loving locals, Australia has plenty to offer an overseas student. It's a young, exciting and vibrant country, frequently listed as one of the top five places to live in the world.

Australia is as diverse as it is wide. From the sweeping white-sand beaches of the west coast, to the gorges of Kakadu National Park, the expansive sunsets of the Red Centre, to the iconic sails of the Sydney Opera House, there's so much to see and do.

Australia offers more than natural beauty – although it has plenty of that – its cities are rich in culture, with an international population and plenty of diversity. Cities like Sydney are packed with museums, art galleries, plentiful cafes and restaurant from around the world.

Australian universities are well-known for high-quality research and teaching with many students opting to study there. Aussies are a warm, laid-back and friendly bunch and international students usually find it easy to feel at home and make friends. Oh yes, and there are miles and miles of pristine beaches, even in the big university cities like Sydney. We did mention the beaches, didn’t we?

Student Story

Tom O’Donnell, UK

‘I visited the East Coast of Australia about three years ago on holiday and the place really resonated with me. When it was time to choose a university, I thought long and hard about studying in the UK before finally applying to an Australian university. I’m not near my family for a few years, but they’ve all flown to Melbourne to see me and life as a student here is fantastic! The uni system is quite similar to the UK and I’m loving my degree. I’ve made lots of friends and I think I’ve got great career options, along with a better climate and lifestyle here in Aus – I’m really delighted I came.’

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Study in the UK
Traditional education, history and unrivalled diversity

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Quick facts about the UK:

• There are almost twice as many international students in the UK now as there were 10 years ago.
• International alumni from UK institutions include many leading politicians and business people.
• Many UK students choose to remain in the UK to take their degrees.
• English degrees and master's courses are shorter than in some other countries.

Why choose a UK education?

The UK is home to some of the oldest and most established universities and boasts some of the best institutions in the world. You’ll become part of a diverse and exciting student population that features students from all over the globe!

This exciting diversity is echoed in the ever-changing landscapes of the UK, from cosmopolitan historical London to the stunning scenery and tradition of Scotland, and the myths and music of Wales. For such a small island nation, the UK possesses a disproportionately large educational track record with many of the world’s best universities being located in the UK, what’s more its institutions nurture some of the world’s best scientists, politicians and future leaders in every field.

With a wealth of cities and miles of coastline to keep you busy, the UK is equally popular with domestic students and attracts a steady influx of international students. You’ll find that this variety of students will all bring their own experiences to the classroom, lecture hall or laboratory – which will add to what you learn. Everyone will find a uni or college to suit, whether it’s in Scotland, Northern Ireland, England or Wales. The UK is the destination for history and culture.

In London for example, you could stroll through Chinatown, sample a curry along Brick Lane, catch a Shakespeare play at The Globe or dance to Afro-Caribbean beats at the Notting Hill Carnival. The UK will introduce you to different cultures and you’ll make friends from all over the world.

My experience

Tunde Ibidapo-Obe, Nigeria

The UK has a highly regarded educational system with a diverse mix of international students. It was perfect for what I wanted: a world-class education studying with students from around the world. I came in late September 2010, when the weather was just getting colder, so in my first month I was really cold! I was really homesick, but also very excited and psyched about studying. The main culture shock for me was the food. Back home we eat lots of spicy and peppery food, but it’s not as spicy here. It took some time to get used to that!’

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Study in the USA
A strong reputation that’s big, bold and hard to ignore

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Quick facts about the USA:

• 700,000 international students chose to study in the US last year.
• The States is the first-choice destination for students from all over the world.
• The US tops the list of money spent on research.
• There are 4,352 universities and colleges in the USA

Why choose an American education?

The qualifications and credentials earned by studying in US colleges and universities are recognised in every part of the world. A big draw for international students choosing to study in the US is the array of courses on offer: from highly academic programmes like nuclear physics to very creative courses like art and film direction.

American mainstream culture is extremely diverse and complex and varies from one geographical region to the next, between rural and urban areas. American culture values individuality, where independence and self-reliance are taught from a young age, competitiveness is encouraged and achievement praised. You’ll find that hard work reaps the rewards.

Higher education in the US is well known for its top quality, easy accessibility, variety and flexibility. It’s a mix of public and private institutions, some of which are autonomous. Many US institutions have high-tech learning resources with spacious facilities and sports grounds.

A continuous influx of immigrants from around the world has meant that the United States has grown into a diverse country, where virtually every nationality and ethnicity is represented. If you choose to study in one of the big cities like New York, Los Angeles or Chicago, then you may feel as if you’ve stepped onto a film set. Be prepared to be seduced...

My experience

Nicola Bafana, UK

I chose America because I thought it would be nice to see the USA properly. In our first few weeks at the University we had orientation – a welcome week where current students show the new ones around. They introduce us to our group and show us what life on campus is like. They gave us a chance to experience college life the week before we started our classes. I found it very informal and they kept us interested the entire time. In the first year, the biggest challenges for me were remaining focused, balancing my time and fun equally and managing my finances – easier than it sounds!’

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