Most Affordable Cities for Students in 2018

Submitted by belkis@qs.com on Mon, 08/06/2018 - 15:55

Click here to discover the 10 most affordable cities for students in 2019.

To have the luxury of being able to study in a city that boasts quality and affordability all at once, may seem implausible – but things aren’t always what they seem.

One of the six indicators used to compile the QS Best Student Cities is affordability, based on an assessment of the typical tuition fees and living costs in each city. Read on to discover the 10 (technically 11, as two are tied) highest ranked cities for this indicator.

Which of these cities would get your vote? Let us know in our student survey.

=10. Johannesburg

Ranked joint 10th for affordability, the sunny South African city of Johannesburg is also ranked 79th overall in the best student cities index. Average international fees across both of its internationally ranked universities cost around US$4,000 for undergraduates. And according to Numbeo, a single person residing in Johannesburg can expect to pay an average of US$618.28 (excluding rent) and a minimum of about US$385.15 to US$479.10 for a one-bedroom apartment. 

=10. Taipei

Sharing 10th position with Johannesburg for affordability, Taipei also ranks 20th overall on the best student cities index, making it the highest placed city overall out of the 11 featured in this article. Students pay an average of US$4,600 on tuition fees at universities here, including the city’s highest-ranked institution, National Taiwan University (NTU), which was ranked 72nd in the QS World University Rankings® 2019. The monthly cost of living (excluding rent) sits at no more than TW$226,000 (~US$7,370) per year according to NTU, and you may be able to save money by making the most of the assortment of cheap, delicious street food available.

9. Manila

Next in our look at the most affordable cities for students in 2018 is Manila, capital of the Philippines, which ranks ninth for affordability (up nine places from last year) and 95th overall. Monthly costs for a single person in this metropolitan city, without rent, are expected to be around US$511.35. However, rent here isn’t particularly inexpensive, and for a one-bedroom apartment, Numbeo estimates that you would pay about US$1,530 to US$2,147 monthly, at the cheapest. Average international tuition fees at Manila’s four ranked universities are low too, at around US$4,000 per year.

8. Vilnius

Lithuania’s capital city is famous for its gothic 16th century architecture and medieval cobblestone streets. Featuring 84th in the best student cities index and eighth for affordability, this year, the historic city managed to climb an impressive 12 places for best student cities overall, and an astounding 51 places for the affordability indicator.

Vilnius University, the city’s highest ranked in the QS World University Rankings® at 488th, estimates a student’s monthly budget to be €489 (~US$565), with only around €100 (~US$115) needed per month for its dormitory accommodation. And in terms of tuition fees, international undergraduates can expect to pay an average of only US$2,800 per year.

7. St. Petersburg

A beautiful and culture-enriched city, Russia’s St. Petersburg is renowned for its breath-taking historical sites and buildings. It also boasts some of the highest ranked universities in the country, including Saint-Petersburg State University, which is consistently ranked in the top 300 of the QS World University Rankings®.

It also ranks seventh for affordability in the best student cities table, and 76th overall. According to Numbeo, a monthly cost of living here can be expected to typically amount to US$539.46 (without rent), making it 52 percent cheaper than London. Tuition fees average on US$4,600 at both of its internationally ranked institutions.

6. Novosibirsk

Our next Russian city ranks 96th in the best student cities index, and sixth in the affordability indicator. As well as the many touristic intrigues this beautiful Siberian city has to offer, a cheap but cheerful cost of living (US$447.71 per single person excluding rent) is another bonus you won’t miss out on. With one-bedroom monthly rent costs ranging between US$236.57 and US$352.17, Novosibirsk’s overall cost of living totals to a comfortable 59 percent cheaper than London, as stated by Numbeo (August 2018).

The city of Novosibirsk offers two internationally ranked universities, and if you’re considering it as your study destination, expect to pay an average of US$4,500 per year on tuition.

5. Hsinchu

Featuring at fifth in the affordability indicator and ranking 73rd overall, this colorful and innovative city in northern Taiwan has climbed a remarkable 10 places as one of the most affordable student destinations in our best student cities index. Tuition fees are low, averaging around US$2,300 at both of its internationally ranked institutions, and you can expect lower costs of living here than in Taipei – the city’s highest ranked institution, National Tsing Hua University, estimates that student accommodation costs no more than TW$26,640 (~US$870) per year.

4. Tomsk

The snowy Siberian city of Tomsk climbed an impressive 17 places to rank 74th in this year’s Best Student Cities, and went up two places for affordability – now coming fourth for this indicator. According to Numbeo (as of August 2018), with rent at a staggering 87 percent lower than in London, 91 percent lower than in New York and 70 percent lower than in Russia’s very own capital city Moscow – living costs are comfortably cheap, ranging between US$181.19 and US$260.03 per month for one-bedroom accommodations. As for tuition fees, you can expect to pay an average of $3,300 annually at its internationally ranked universities.

3. Riyadh

Ranked 72nd in the Best Student Cities index for this year, and third for affordability, Riyadh is the largest city in Saudi Arabia, thriving off business, culture and the desert! Since it’s the capital city of a country renowned for its wealth, average student fees in both of its internationally ranked universities cost a mere US$500.

Although Riyadh’s cost of living isn’t considered the cheapest in the world (with monthly costs averaging on US$641.82 per single person excluding rent), the city offers one-bedroom accommodations which cost between US$284.10 and US$444.89 monthly, making it a significantly more affordable choice (up to 86 percent cheaper according to Numbeo) in comparison to more popular study destinations, such as London and New York.

2. Kuala Lumpur

Having gone from topping the affordability category for two consecutive years to taking second place this year, the Malaysian capital climbed four places to rank 37th in the overall Best Student Cities index.

Combining reasonably low tuition fees and living costs, Kuala Lumpur is an ideal hotspot for students looking to study and explore at quality level – and on a budget. On average, student fees cost US$3,400 across its four internationally ranked universities, and the average rent of a one-bedroom apartment costs anywhere between US$335.57 and US$557.82 per month, according to Numbeo.

1. Budapest

Ranking first for affordability this year, and 49th in the Best Student Cities overall, Hungary’s capital city climbed an impressive seven places from last year in the affordability category.

Budapest is a spectacular tourist destination with so much to see and do, and living costs are very reasonable, with Central European University estimating that students need around US$8,600 per year, with US$3,000 of this going towards accommodation.

The city has 35 higher education institutions, three of which are featured in the most recent QS World University Rankings®, and if you study an undergraduate degree as an international student, you can expect to pay US$3,200 per year.

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Are you anticipating the idea of studying abroad but are worried about the expenses of it all? Discover this year’s top 10 most affordable student cities!

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How to Spend 72 Hours in Hobart

Submitted by lilyjones.lj22… on Fri, 08/03/2018 - 12:27

Often overlooked as an Australian holiday destination, Tasmania offers pristine beaches, rugged rainforests, fresh seafood and a nightlife that rivals that of Melbourne.

Getting to Hobart is both cheap and incredibly accessible, being just two hours from Sydney and an hour and a half from Melbourne by plane. Alternatively, if you have an extra 10 hours on your hands, the Spirit of Tasmania ferry crossing is an unpredictable but interesting experience.

If you’ve only got 72 hours to spare for a trip to Hobart to fit around your studies, read on for some must-do ways to spend your time there.

Check out the MONA

Image credit: jeffowenphotos (Flickr)

Coming into Hobart from the airport you’ll get a glimpse of the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), an art gallery known worldwide for its unusual and sometimes controversial exhibitions. With collections from ancient, modern and contemporary art, there’s something for everyone. Once you’ve had your fill of art, pop into the restaurant or one of the bars for some delicious local delicacies. Quick tip - beware of its unusual opening times - the museum is closed on Tuesdays, so don’t miss your chance to go! Admission is AU$28 for adults or AU$25 if you have a student card.

Party the night away at Salamanca Art Centre

We all know Friday night’s the best night of the week, and this is even more true in Hobart. Start your night early at Salamanca Art Centre (the heart of Hobart’s arts scene), at the courtyard, which is cleverly built into the cliff face. Rektango, as the night is called, is a free event which has been running for over 15 years. With an impressive live band playing in the background and a modest and reasonably-priced bar, it’s the perfect place to meet friendly locals all year round. Expect sangria in the summer and hot mulled wine in the winter months. Grab some dinner from one of the restaurants serving up local seafood, and get ready to hit up the bars on Salamanca Place.

Explore Hobart’s culinary scene

Image credit: jules (Flickr)

Brunch in Hobart is unmissable, and after climbing the hills to get to the best brunch spot you’ll be well ready for a hearty fill. The Pigeon Hole, a cozy, hole in the wall type café, comes highly recommended. The staff are friendly, the menu small, but sufficient, and all the food is homemade, responsibly sourced – and absolutely delicious.

Then it’s time to return to the scene of last night’s antics, where Salamanca market will have magically popped up. Over 300 stall holders gather here every Saturday, selling Tasmanian grown honey, lavender, cheese, wine, clothes bags and so much more.  Note the emphasis on home grown, eco-friendly produce!

Go on some unforgettable day trips

If you’re an adventurous spirit and keen to get out of the big city, a day trip down the Tasman Peninsula will provide you with incredible coastal scenery and an immersive experience into Australian history. In the 70 km (43.5 mile) drive south of Hobart, there are a few short stops well worth your time, in particular the Tessellated Pavements, which are famous for the reflections they create in the water. Be sure to stop at the independent coffee van ‘Cubed’ just south of Eagle Hawk Neck, serving coffee that would rise to the top even in Melbourne. Continue to follow the coastal road down to Port Arthur, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and well worth a full day’s attention if you have the time.

If you’d rather feast your eyes on a beautiful bay, the east coast of Tasmania has plenty of options. Rent a car from one of the many companies and drive two hours north of Hobart to the quiet seaside town of Coles Bay. If you’re there in the summer months, it’s perfect for a swim in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the beautiful pink granite cliffs. In the winter months, visit the pizzeria for a stone baked pizza and a comforting hot toddy while admiring the snowy peaks. 

Coles Bay also makes for an ideal location to explore the Freycinet National Park, home to the iconic Wineglass Bay, which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Just a short walk to the top will provide you with stunning views, friendly wallabies and opportunities for eagle-spotting. 

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Spend a long weekend in Hobart and its surrounds, and you’ll be sure to want to come back and see what the rest of Tasmania has to offer.

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Why Adelaide is Actually Radelaide

Submitted by Jesscole1996@l… on Thu, 08/02/2018 - 15:01

When you think about Australia, your mind probably goes straight to Sydney, Uluru or kangaroos. Adelaide probably doesn't even crop up. Adelaide does seem to get a slightly bad rep for being kind of boring, but like anywhere else, a place is what you make it. Adelaide is where I spent my study abroad year and I LOVED it!

I decided to do a year abroad in my second year of uni. This all felt a little bit last minute and I was super stressed about choosing where to go. I wanted to go somewhere English-speaking so I wasn't limited by what courses I could do etc, and I didn't really want to go to the US (I was only 19 at the time so it would have been a bit rubbish). So, this left Australia. Which is somewhere I've always wanted to go, anyway. My uni was partnered with a few unis across Australia - I immediately set my heart on Melbourne. My home university is in Brighton (UK) and Melbourne seemed a lot like an Aussie version of that.

I put Adelaide down as my second choice but didn't really want to go there. But as Melbourne's too popular, I was sent to Adelaide, and I'm here to tell you why I'm so glad that that happened.

*Warning: this post is filled with ugly photos of me from my year abroad*

Here are some of the things I think are pretty neat about Adelaide:

It’s great value for money

That's not even the whole garden.

By Australian standards, anyway. As a student you are most likely broke 90 percent of the time, so you don't wanna live somewhere that will suck the life out of your bank account (I'm looking at you, Sydney). In Adelaide, you'll pay a fraction of the rent you would in Sydney and probably get a lot more for it. My rent was probably about AU$500-600 a month and I had huge room, and my house not only had a massive back garden but also a front garden AND parking space. I rented my house through Student Rooms who I highly recommend - they make it super easy, especially for international students. My garden had a large garage in it which, once spruced up, was perfect for parties (dinner and/or drinking)!  I went to (and hosted) a lot of house parties in Adelaide, which are so much more fun than going out, especially in the heat.

It’s a very livable city

Australia is huge, which means it can be difficult to do anything without a car, but living in Adelaide you hardly even notice. The public transport is excellent - there are trams, trains, and buses to take you wherever you need to go. You can get a student Metrocard which allows you to travel at a discounted rate, or you can buy passes which allow you unlimited travel within a certain timeframe. Also, if you're in the city center, using the tram is free, which can make shopping a lot easier. It also helps that the city center isn't complicated, it's set out in a very structured, parallel manner and most of the important stuff is concentrated on about three main streets, making it difficult to get lost!

The Barossa Wine Valley

My wine glass was very empty.

The Barossa Wine Valley is world famous. If you buy a bottle of wine that says product of South Australia, this is probably where it comes from. Just about an hour outside of Adelaide. There are plenty of wine tours you can buy where you will be driven from winery to winery to get your fill of the winiest wine. Or, if have a really good friend who’s willing to be your designated driver, you can get very drunk on AU$5. Wine tasting is very fun, but I did learn the hard way that you are not allowed to pour your own glass of wine, that’s how you get in trouble.

Mad March

Face deep in a ball pit at an Exchange Student Network (ESN) cocktail party.

Some poor (or really good, you decide) planning means that almost everything big that is going to happen in Adelaide happens in one month - March. Mad March is host to the Adelaide Fringe Festival, WOMADelaide, Adelaide Festival, and Clipsal 500, among others. Despite the Fringe being on every year in my home uni city Brighton, I went for the first time in Adelaide and LOVED it. Myself and some friends went to see Briefs - I highly recommend them!

This is all not to say there isn't other stuff going on throughout the year - there are festivals and events happening all year round. You could catch a performance at the historic Thebarton Theatre - there are plenty of big names playing in Adelaide. Or you could enjoy your first game of Australian football - in Adelaide, you obviously have to support the Crows. The University Union (I attended the University of Adelaide not the University of South Australia, so I can't speak for them, but I'm sure it's similar) and the Exchange Student Network (ESN) were very good at organizing events all year round. These events were perfect for making new friends and getting to know the city - so make good use of these!

The Central Market

The Central Market dates back to 1869 and is one of the best sources of fresh and wholesome food in Adelaide. There’s an assortment of stalls that sell amazing veggie food and foods from different cultures. This is as well as the obligatory fruit and veg stalls, there are cheeses, nuts, sweets, and fabrics! It is a great place to do your food shop if you’re trying to cut down on your plastic footprint.

Pro tip: On a Saturday afternoon literally everything is AU$1 or less, as the market is closed Sunday and Monday - so everything must go!

Rundle Mall

Almost everything is on one street, which some may see as a bad thing, but I like it, it makes life easy. That street is called Rundle Mall. Rundle Mall has all your favorite Australian brands that you've probably never heard of, and also some that you might have i.e. Target. This mall is also home to some balls - Malls Balls. These balls are nationally famous and are super shiny which is great for selfie taking. You also are almost guaranteed to encounter a man playing several instruments, the most of important of which is of course the iconic didgeridoo.

It has top notch beaches

Australia is notorious for beautiful beaches, and Adelaide is no exception. I lived a 20-minute bus journey from my closest white sand beach. This was amazing in the Spring and Autumn as once you've finished uni you can nip to the beach for a quick dip in the sea. In the summer, you'll probably be enjoying beaches elsewhere in Australasia and the winter isn't exactly ideal for swimming (unless you're into that kind of thing).

Adelaide Hills

I lost a shoe to this waterbody. RIP.

Adelaide is surrounded by hills which make for some beautiful scenery and some lovely drives. Up in the hills, is a little German village called Hahndorf. The village is filled with boutique stores, historic buildings, art, and loads of good food. And, the year I was there it even actually snowed in Hahndorf (only a little, for like a day, but it still happened)!

There are probably loads of cool things to do up in them there hills, but one of my favorite things was going swimming in Highbury Quarry. This is a big ol' disused quarry that has filled with water. The water is crystal clear blue probably owing to the high levels of leachates and being highly polluted. Pretty as heck, though! Now, I DO NOT encourage trespassing, but what people choose to do in their own time is up to them.

Adelaideans have a unique accent (apparently)

I won't lie, they all sound Australian to me. BUT if you want a slightly different sounding Aussie, then Adelaide is the place for you! Most Aussies pronounce words in an 'American' way, whereas people from South Australia (Adelaide) pronounce them in a more 'British' way.

Adelaide has actual seasons

Now of course everywhere has seasons, but what I mean is that it actually gets almost cold in Adelaide. You may think this is a bad thing, but it was the main reason I chose somewhere in the South of Australia. Seasons are a blessing if, like me, you’re accustomed to the cold. It can get up to 40°C in the summer and down to around 5°C in the winter. Don't get me wrong, I love the sun and the heat but there is only so much this pasty white girl can take.

It's the City of Churches

When you do a generic internet search for Adelaide you will find out that it is the 'City of Churches'. I'm not really sure why this is - the people who built Adelaide just really like churches, I guess. The oldest church in Adelaide is the Holy Trinity Anglican Church at 200 years old! Now, personally, a church isn't something I get excited about (although I do love the architecture) but if you're a real church-head, then Adelaide is calling you!

The universities

There three main universities in Adelaide – the University of Adelaide, the University of South Australia (UniSA), and Flinders University. I went to Adelaide Uni and thoroughly enjoyed it. I studied Ecology, which was taught super well and meant I got to go on field trips. These were great as I got to make friends that were Australian, and not just more international students (not that they're not great)! I also took some anthropology courses during my program and found out that I'm actually quite good at it.

Adelaide University is good for more sciencey maths kinda stuff. The University of South Australia is generally better for nursing, arts, and social sciences. Flinders University is best suited to medicine and dietetics, due to its proximity to the hospital. There are talks of a merger of UniSA and Adelaide to form one super-university, so watch this space…

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Now, my opinion is very biased I know, because I had the best year and I can't wait to go back. But you should choose to go to Adelaide, it's not like you won't see the rest of Australia when you travel. I believe you get a better experience when you live somewhere where you can actually afford to have fun! I made some amazing friends, which was easy to do as everyone is so nice. Eventually, I want to move back to Australia, and I will be heading straight for Adelaide!

*Be warned though, by living in Australia you will become one of them - you will start doing things like saying 'hey' at the end of every sentence or believing that 30°C isn't really that hot. But the sacrifices we make, hey?* And don’t get me started on their weird slang.

So, in conclusion, Adelaide is 10/10 - definitely would recommend to a friend.

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It may get overshadowed by the likes of Sydney and Melbourne, but I actually had a fantastic time in Adelaide. Find out why I’d highly recommend studying there.

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5 Signs You’ll Make a Great Doctor

Submitted by sponsored.cont… on Wed, 08/01/2018 - 14:47

Sponsored by the University of Central Lancashire

What makes a good doctor? The ability to regurgitate dense medical knowledge and make the right diagnosis. But also compassion, of course, and resilience.

If you’re finishing high school or college and considering different careers, it can be daunting to commit to a vocation, especially when it’s one which requires as much training as becoming a doctor. However, there are ways to tell from your personality traits whether you’re suited to a career in the health service.

Read on to discover the attributes that make a great doctor.

You’re not afraid to admit gaps in your knowledge

A good doctor should be able to say “I don’t know’ when there are gaps in their knowledge or not enough information to get a clear picture.

Asking for a second opinion or running more tests when you’re unsure about something isn’t incompetence. On the contrary, jumping to conclusions and prescribing treatment within minutes of meeting the patient could put the patient’s life at risk.

Medicine is incredibly complex and may involve lots of moving parts - sometimes you need to run more tests, consult a textbook or speak to a specialist before you make a diagnosis.

You’re not just book smart. You’re emotionally intelligent

If doctors do make the wrong diagnosis, it’s often because they’ve got used to sticking to a script of questions and answers and have failed to pick up on red flags and signs that the issue may be more complex.

Sometimes, an ailment can be psychological more than it is physical, and medical professionals fail to realise this if they don’t pay enough attention to their patients.

Being a great doctor isn’t just about being able to reel off a textbook answer. It’s also about confronting hard emotional issues and your psychological health and life at home.

Jae Won Joh, a physician and healthcare blogger, knows this all too well. Jae recalls a patient in her late thirties who had come to the emergency room with a complaint of chest pain.

He says: “Her electrocardiograms were completely unremarkable, her labs were fine, and as I questioned her at length trying to figure out what was going on, I only became more and more confused.

After informing his attending physician of the case, Jae Won Joh watched him kneel at the patient’s side and ask whether she had any personal issues at home.

He says: “The floodgates broke. The patient's husband had been laid off and out of work for nearly nine months. They had recently had their home foreclosed on. Their car had nearly been repossessed multiple times. They had three young children to feed and buy school supplies for, with minimal income.

“That's what this was. It wasn't a heart attack or arrhythmia or something physiologic. It was psychiatric in origin.”

You’re a good listener and observer

As Gary Larson, a Medical Director at Procure Proton Therapy Center, puts it: “If you listen to the patient, they will tell you what’s wrong with them.

“Most patients have also read quite a bit on the internet. I start with a general question like ‘What is your understanding of your diagnosis so far and why Dr. Smith wanted you to come see me?’

“By finding out where they are in their understanding to begin with, it saves me a lot of time in telling them what they need to know. What are the gaps that need to be filled? What are the misconceptions that need to be corrected?”

Often, listening to your patient talk about their symptoms and medical history will be just as important as the physical exam. Clues about diagnosis will be hidden in your patient’s complaint, and you have to have a good ear so you can sort what’s relevant from what isn’t.

You’re relentless

Not every patient will present with a common, easily identifiable condition. In rarer cases, making the right diagnosis can be a long and arduous journey which involves consulting with specialists and other medical professionals, as well as having several conversations with the patient, trying different treatment plans and running multiple tests.

A sign of a good doctor is relentless commitment to the patient’s cause and the ability to keep trying until you’re able to go back to the patient with a clear and accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

That persistence and perseverance will come in handy at medical school too, as you’ll need lots of resilience to keep up your grades and academic performance in medical school.

You have faith in your own judgment

While running several tests to rule out serious conditions is always a good idea, you shouldn’t be running every medical test under the sun simply for good measure. One of the biggest challenges junior doctors have to overcome is not being able to trust their judgment.

In a letter written to her younger self and to all junior doctors around the world, Suzanne Koven, a doctor at Massachusetts General Hospital, writes: “My dear young colleague, you are not a fraud.

“You are a flawed and unique human being, with excellent training and an admirable sense of purpose. Your training and sense of purpose will serve you well. Your humanity will serve your patients even better.”

Think you know what the issue is? Don’t be afraid to trust your judgment and waste time and money by running lots of unnecessary additional tests to prove your hypothesis. As Koven makes clear, anyone in that situation should believe in themselves and not feel like a fraud.

***

What next?

If you’re still not sure whether you’ve got what it takes for a career in the health service, take this short quiz created by the NHS to find out.

If you’ve already made up your mind, why not apply to the University of Central Lancashire’s  Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)?

The five-year bachelor’s degree will prepare you for a wide range of careers in the health service in our rapidly changing global health environment.

The course was designed with feedback from clinicians and patients and features patient contact from the very first year, with clinical placements each year of your degree and for most of the final year.

Teaching takes place in small diverse classes in outstanding facilities, such as a clinical skills suite and a human anatomy learning center.

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LGBT Scholarships Around the World

Submitted by sabrina@qs.com on Wed, 08/01/2018 - 13:57

A growing number of scholarships aimed at supporting members of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community are becoming available. While LGBT scholarships are relatively common in some countries, such as the US, they’re rare or unheard-of in other countries. So this type of funding may or may not be available, depending on your intended study destination.

For an overview of some of the scholarships for LGBT students currently on offer, check out our country-by-country breakdown below. Bear in mind that some schemes require you to be a resident or current student.

LGBT scholarships to study in the US

  • The Queer Foundation – LGBT scholarships open to all students, anywhere in the world, who have not yet graduated from high school and expect to attend college or university in the US. 
  • The Pride Foundation – Scholarships for current and future leaders in the LGBTQ and straight ally community from Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington.
  • The LEAGUE Foundation – Scholarships for LGBT students entering their first year at an institution of higher learning in the US or Canada. You must be a US citizen to apply.
  • National Organization of Gay and Lesbian Scientists and Technical Professionals –  Scholarships for LGBT students or active allies of the LGBTQ+ community, to support undergraduate or graduate degrees in science, technology, engineering or mathematics.
  • The Point Foundation  – A large scholarship-granting organization aimed at supporting LGBTQ students, assessed on academic merit.
  • PFund – LGBT scholarships for Minnesota residents or students who are enrolled in a post-secondary academic program in the state.
  • Roy Scrivner Research Grants – Student grants for graduate students to conduct research which encourages the study of LGBT family psychology and LGBT family therapy.
  • Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays – Provides awards for those who identify as LGBTQ or as a straight ally.
  • Human Rights Campaign Scholarship Database  – A good resource for searching for LGBT scholarships and other funding opportunities by state.
  • The Rainbow Scholarship – Open to LGBTQI US citizens or permanent residents currently enrolled as undergraduates at US universities, who plan to study abroad.
  • Stonewall Foundation Scholarships – A foundation that focuses on the important needs of the LGBT community, particularly in New York, and provides scholarships that offer unique learning experiences and opportunities.  
  • The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Health, Education and Research Trust  – Awards scholarships to LGBT students in the health sciences in the US.
  • The Gamma Mu Foundation – Provides support for gay men who want to further their education at a college, university, or through a vocational or professional training program.
  • The Kay Longcope Scholarship Award – Provides up to $3,000 tuition assistance to an LGBT student of color who plans a career in journalism and is committed to furthering NLGJA’s mission of fair and accurate coverage of the LGBT community. The Leroy F. Aarons Scholarship Award is also available for LGBT students.
  • Live Out Loud Scholarship – Awards three $10,000 scholarships each year to graduating LGBTQ high school seniors in the Tri-State area (New York, Connecticut or New Jersey).

Read about 10 of the most LGBTQ-friendly universities in the US >

LGBT scholarships to study in Canada

  • University of Alberta Michael Phair Leadership Award – A scholarship for LGBTQ and two-spirited students at the University of Alberta.
  • The Imperial Sovereign Court of the Wild Rose – Bursary awards for LGBTQ and two-spirited students in any accredited post-secondary education program within the province of Alberta.
  • The Bill 7 Award – Scholarships for LGBTQ and two-spirited students who are in financial need and studying at any post-secondary institution in Ontario.
  • The LOUD Foundation – Scholarships for LGBTQ students enrolled at Canadian universities, who are also Canadian citizens or residents.
  • The Pride Education Network – Open to secondary school students in British Columbia who are preparing to attend a university or college in Canada.
  • Start Proud – Two Student Leadership Scholarships available for LGBTQ students enrolled in a Canadian post-secondary program of study. You must be a Canadian citizen and demonstrate alignment with Start Proud’s mission, vision and values.

LGBT scholarships to study in Australia and New Zealand

  • The Pinnacle Foundation – Scholarships for young LGBTIQ people who desire to undertake full-time education at a public or private secondary school (final year) or public institution of higher education in Australia.
  • Monash Queer Leaders Scholarship – One scholarship is available to an Australian or Kiwi student who identifies as LGBTIQ and is enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate degree at Monash University. 
  • Rainbow New Zealand – Scholarships for GLBTI students enrolling in a full-time degree course at a recognized tertiary-level institution. Applicants must be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents, and have lived in New Zealand for at least the previous two years.
  • Collin Higgins Youth Courage Award – Gives away the youth courage award annually for exceptional students dealing with discrimination, and offers the chance for LGBTQ allies who apply to win $10,000 plus an opportunity to attend the National Conference for LGBT equality, and to be honoured on an all-expense paid trip to Los Angeles or New York for Pride Week. 

Other LGBT scholarships:

  • Crossing Borders – A summer academic program in Mexico which connects students of various backgrounds and ethnicities and includes Spanish language training. Includes a Diversity Scholarship for ethnic minority and LGBT students. 
  • The National Gay Pilots Association Education Fund – Provides scholarships for students who are actively involved in the LGBT community, have earned at least a private pilot certificate, and are enrolled in an accredited US college or university. It is not necessary to be a US citizen to apply. 

This article was originally published in August 2015. It was updated in July 2018.

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UK Student Satisfaction Falls Again in National Student Survey

Submitted by sabrina@qs.com on Wed, 08/01/2018 - 12:31

The results of the UK’s National Student Survey (NSS) are out now, and show that 83 percent of students in the UK are satisfied overall with their course, a drop of one percent on the 2017 survey. While this is nonetheless high, it represents another year of falling satisfaction levels, which was previously at 86 percent in 2016.

The figure is slightly higher in Wales compared to the rest of the UK, with 86 percent of students at Welsh universities satisfied with their course overall. However, it’s a Scottish university which takes the top spot- the University of St Andrews, where 94 percent of students are happy with their courses.

The survey collected responses from over 320,000 final-year undergraduate students, therefore representing the views of 70 percent of the eligible student population across more than 400 UK universities and colleges.

Students are asked 27 questions relating to their university experience, which are grouped into sections such as ‘learning opportunities’, ‘assessment and feedback’ and ‘academic support’. Commenting on the results, Nicola Dandridge, Chief Executive of the Office for Students, said:

“While we have seen overall satisfaction fall by one percent, many questions have maintained their satisfaction levels including the student voice, academic support, learning resources and assessment and feedback questions.”

Although the overall satisfaction rate remains high, Dandridge considers that more needs to be done “to ensure all students have a high quality and fulfilling experience of higher education that enriches their lives and careers.”

Oxbridge still missing

Notably, Oxford and Cambridge were both missing from the survey following successful boycotts which meant that neither institution met the necessary 50 percent response rate needed for inclusion. They had also been missing last year.

Students decided to boycott the survey following fears that the government may allow universities with higher satisfaction scores to implement higher tuition fees to reflect the high quality of education available. However, in September 2017 the government announced that domestic/EU tuition fees will be frozen at £9,250 until 2019, rather than increasing with inflation, meaning that the National Student Survey will not be used as a justification for increasing fees, for the time being at least.

Below are the 12 UK universities with the highest scores in this year’s National Student Survey.

Top 12 UK universities for student satisfaction, according to the NSS

Rank

Name of Institution

Overall course satisfaction percentage

1

University of St Andrews

94

=2

University of Buckingham

91

=2

Conservatoire for Dance and Drama

91

=2

The London Institute of Banking & Finance

91

=4

Keele University

90

=4

Royal Veterinary College

90

=4

Aberystwyth University

90

=7

Harper Adams University

89

=7

University of Lincoln

89

=7

Royal College of Music

89

=7

University of the West of England

89

=7

Swansea University

89

Students in London less satisfied overall

The results of the National Student Survey have been disappointing for some London-based UK universities, with only 71 and 72 percent of students fully satisfied with their course at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and the University of the Arts London (UAL) respectively.

Other top universities in the capital with slightly lower scores than the national average included King’s College London, University College London, Queen Mary University and Goldsmiths. The lower scores of London universities has been attributed to the much higher cost of living in the UK capital, as well as issues with accommodation and transport. However, London was named the number one city for students in the recent QS Best Student Cities 2018, despite having one of the lowest scores for affordability in the index.

Minouche Shafik, director of LSE, told The Guardian: “We have introduced significant reforms across campus but we know it will take time before these changes are reflected.

“Improving student satisfaction is our top priority. We are changing our assessment process, improving academic support and feedback, and developing student services on campus. We will keep listening and keep acting.”

The full results of the National Student Survey will be published on Unistats on August 30.

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10 of the Most Affordable Places to Study Abroad

Submitted by sabrina@qs.com on Tue, 07/31/2018 - 15:36

This article is adapted from the QS Top Grad School Guide 2016-2017. You can read the most recent version of the magazine online here.

Believe it or not, it is indeed possible to study abroad on a budget! Some of the best places to study abroad are also ones where tuition fees are low, or even non-existent. Read on to find out more about 10 of the cheapest countries to study abroad, in no particular order…

1. Norway

Although all of the Nordic countries are relatively affordable study destinations, Norway is our pick as it remains free for everyone, from both within and outside the EU, at public universities, with the exception of a few specialized programs. Europe’s Nordic countries are known for their high quality of life and stunning natural beauty, and Norway is no exception. Another reason to study in Norway is the availability of English-taught programs at all study levels, plus a high number of locals proficient in English. However, as with the other Nordic countries, Norway comes with a high price tag in terms of living costs; you’ll need around NOK 139,680 (~US$17,200) per year.

2. Taiwan

Heading to AsiaTaiwan is another of the cheapest countries to study abroad. For example, at National Taiwan University – the nation’s leading university at 72nd in the QS World University Rankings® 2019 – tuition fees for undergraduates start at TW$100,920 (~US$3,300) per year for liberal arts programs, up to TW$124,200 (~US$4,050). The country offers more than 120 courses taught in English, at over 40 universities, and Taiwan is also a popular destination in which to learn Mandarin. Taiwan also offers a good quality of life with relatively low living costs; accommodation costs as little as TW$88,000 (~US$2,900) per year.

3. Germany

Known as ‘the land of ideas’, Germany is continuing to grow in popularity with international students, and it’s not hard to see why – it offers reputable universities, relatively low costs, and a high quality of life. There are no tuition fees charged at undergraduate and PhD level at all public universities, excluding those in Baden-Württemberg. Master’s students who have not studied their undergraduate degree in Germany will typically pay upwards of €20,000 (~US$23,450) per year, but you may be able to find a scholarship to help. To cover living costs, you’ll need at least €10,200 (~US$11,950) per year, but possibly more, depending on your lifestyle, location and spending habits. And there are a range of English-taught courses, particularly at graduate level.

4. France

Tuition fees in France are the same for domestic and international students, and for 2019/19 are set at €170 (~US$200) per year for bachelor’s (licence) programs, €243 (~US$285) for most master’s programs, and €380 (~US$445) for doctoral programs. Fees are considerably higher at the highly selective grandes écoles and grands établissements, which set their own fees. Living expenses will be highest in the capital, Paris, but you may find it worth the extra cost – after all, Paris was named the world’s number one student city four times in a row (and currently stands at fifth).  If you’re not yet a fluent French speaker, you can study in France in English, with the majority of English-taught programs found at postgraduate level.

5. Mexico

Full of interesting and unique culture to explore, Mexico is one of Latin America’s most-visited nations, and has lots to offer international students. Tuition fees vary, with private universities charging more, and average around US$6,300 per year for international undergraduate students in the capital, Mexico City, which was named one of the world’s top 100 cities for students. Living expenses are also reasonably low in Mexico, with all living costs adding up to around US$9,250 on a standard budget in the capital, or US$6,450 elsewhere. Although the main language of instruction is Spanish, Mexican universities are offering more English-taught courses to attract international students.

6. India

Heading back to Asia for the next of our list of the cheapest countries to study abroad, India is a fantastic option for students who want to combine affordability with cultural diversity. While Hindi is the most prominent of the 100+ languages spoken, English is often used as the language of instruction at Indian universities, especially at postgraduate level. Living costs are incredibly affordable; a one-way trip using public transport can cost as little as the equivalent of 29 US cents. Tuition fees vary depending on your study level and university, but are typically no higher than US$7,880 a year, and you should be able to live comfortably on as little as US$4,600 a year.

7. Argentina

The second-largest country in South America, Argentina boasts stunning natural beauty, with a diverse geography that makes it ideal for students keen on outdoor adventure and exploration. Argentina is also considered one of the safest countries in the region and is known for its fun-loving culture and passionate national identity. You can typically study for free at any state-funded (public) university, with tuition fees of around US$5,100 per year or more at private institutions. You’ll need around US$5,000 for living expenses, with rent costing as little as US$350 per month.

8. Poland

Another of the best places to study abroad on a budget is Poland, which also offers a high quality of education, along with plenty of fantastic culture and history to explore. You can study for free if you can speak Polish, and if you take the same entrance exams as Polish students and study your course in Polish. However, there are also many English-taught programs available, costing around €2,000-3000 (~US$2,340-3,500) per year. Living costs are also on the low side, as you shouldn’t need more than €6,600 (~US$7,700) per year. The capital city, Warsaw, was ranked within the top 20 cities for affordability in the latest QS Best Student Cities index, and 53rd overall.

9. Malaysia

Malaysia is undoubtedly one of the cheapest countries to study abroad, particularly in terms of living costs. Its capital, Kuala Lumpur, came first for affordability in the QS Best Student Cities 2016, and most students will only need about MYR 14,400 (~US$3,550) per year to live comfortably in Malaysia. In terms of tuition fees, you’ll pay an average of US$4,000 per academic year, but some courses are even cheaper. Malaysia is also home to a number of branch campuses of international universities, such as the UK’s University of Nottingham or Australia’s Monash University, offering the opportunity to gain a degree accredited by these institutions at a lower cost.

10. South Africa

Concluding our look at some of the best places to study abroad on a budget, South Africa is renowned for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and turbulent history. Another great choice for students with a love of the outdoors, it’s also reasonably inexpensive, with low costs of living and tuition fees. Fees vary, but come to an average of US$6,000 for international undergraduates studying at the University of Cape Town (South Africa’s highest-ranked university in the QS World University Rankings) and the University of the Western Cape. You’ll need around R 120,000 (~US$9,150) per year to cover your living costs.

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To find out more about the best places to study abroad on a budget, check our article ‘Where Can You Study Abroad for Free?’ and our list of the 10 Most Affordable Cities for Students, based on the QS Best Student Cities. If you need help with finding a scholarship, check out our complete guide on How to Find Scholarships to Study Abroad.

This article was originally published in November 2016. It was updated in July 2018.

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International Scholarships for UK Students

Submitted by laura.tucker@qs.com on Mon, 07/30/2018 - 16:43

Calling all Brits! Check out this range of current international scholarships for UK students to study across the world. Whether you’re applying for an undergraduate degree, considering a master’s or keen to study a PhD, there’s likely to be a scholarship available to help you with funding.

Read on to discover a wide range of study abroad scholarships for UK students, including government scholarships, bilateral student exchanges, commonwealth scholarships and external grants. Happy scholarship hunting!

For more personal guidance and your chance to meet representatives of leading universities from around the world, consider attending one of our upcoming QS World Grad School Tour and QS World University Tour events in London. Scroll to the bottom of this article for more details.

To study anywhere in the world

To study in Asia

To study in Australia and New Zealand

To study in Australia:

Click here for more scholarships to study in Australia.

To study in New Zealand:

Click here for more scholarships to study in New Zealand.

To study in Europe

  • Erasmus+ ­– EU-funded study abroad scholarships to study at universities across Europe as part of a student exchange. This will allow you to study abroad for 3-12 months as part of a degree based in your home country. Research funding also available. Please note that following the UK’s exit from the European Union, UK students may not be able to apply for Erasmus; this has yet to be decided.
  • Activia Scholarships - £1,000 is available for college and university UK students to study in the UK. You must have a place at a university (to study any undergraduate or postgraduate course).

To study in Denmark:

  • The Anglo-Danish Society Scholarships – Study abroad scholarships for UK students who have completed an undergraduate degree in the UK and wish to study or conduct research at a university or institution in Denmark.

Click here for more scholarships to study in the Nordic countries.

To study in France:

To study in Germany:

  • DAAD Study Scholarship for Postgraduates – Study abroad scholarships on offer to Irish and UK students looking to study in Germany at master’s level or to conduct research. Applicants must have completed their undergraduate degree at a UK or Irish university.

Click here for more scholarships to study in Germany.

Click here for more scholarships to study in the rest of Europe.

To study in Latin America

  • British Academy Newton Mobility Grants – Exchange programs for postdoctoral UK students and students from partner countries to conduct research in partner nations, including Brazil and Mexico.

To study in North America

To study in Canada:

Click here to see more scholarships to study in Canada.

To study in the US:

Click here for more scholarships to study in the US.

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If you’re based in the UK and want to study abroad, you can meet universities from around the world at the QS World Grad School Tour (for graduate students) or the QS World University Tour (for undergraduates), both held in London twice per year.

Both events are free to attend, offering opportunities to speak to representatives of leading universities in person, as well as attending seminars and presentations. Attendees can also apply to the QS Scholarships scheme.

This article was originally published in March 2015. It was last updated in July 2018. 

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