Sponsored by The Education University of Hong Kong

It’s hard to overlook the rise of Asian universities in recent ranking tables, and their improving performances year after year.

Chinese universities in particular are taking the lead and have made tremendous strides over the past decade. Recognizing the impact education has on the development of the economy, there has been growing policy emphasis, increased investments, and a push towards growth and reform, such as the change in Hong Kong’s academic structure to align with international higher education development.

Even before the education reform was implemented in the noughties, Hong Kong has long been a popular study destination. With most courses taught in English and the allure of Hong Kong as a thriving metropolis where east meets west, it isn’t surprising the city attracts students from all across the globe, whether it’s for an exchange program, or studying a master’s abroad.

Hong Kong is also home to over seven million people, as well as some of the best universities in both Asia and the world, helping the city secure 12th spot in the QS Best Student Cities 2018. The performance of the universities there is especially impressive when you consider the relatively small population compared to other countries, such as traditional favorites the UK and the US.

Top-tier institutions

This year, for the first time, The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) was ranked in the top 10 universities in the world, and second in Asia, in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2018: Education, solidifying its status as a leading university for this subject.

Understandably, students wishing to pursue a degree at a top university in Hong Kong may be discouraged by tuition fees and living expenses which are comparatively higher than other Asian countries. However, these can be offset by the many scholarships available for international students.

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme offered by the Research Grants Council under the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region grants each awardee an annual stipend of HK$301,200 (~US$38,600) and a conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$12,600 (~US$1,600) per year for up to three years.

Also, full-time research students admitted to EdUHK’s graduate program who have a proven record of academic excellence, research ability, good communication, interpersonal and leadership abilities can apply for the University’s Research Postgraduate Studentship (RPGS).

Image: Students of the Master of Philosophy, Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Education programs gain international study experience in the United States

All-round support

For students who are interested in research and aiming to embark on an academic career, getting support is crucial. At EdUHK, Research Postgraduate (RPg) students, as well as PhD and MPhil students, are encouraged to conduct research activities and go on international exchange programs with the provision of financial support of up to HKD$10,000 (US$1,282) per year and a conference allowance of up to HK$11,000 (US$1,410), respectively.

Finance aside, close faculty mentorship and guidance is also important as they influence how fruitful the learning experience is as well as the quality of scholarly output. For instance, Jason Yin Dean-Chen published a research article as the first author in Health Policy, a leading international journal in health policy studies. The paper was co-authored with an associate professor of the Department of Asian and Policy Studies at EdUHK where Jason studied the public policy and governance master’s program.

Another graduate, Michelle Chiu, recalled her experience of studying the child and family education master’s program at EdUHK. She said her supervisor went with her to collect data and walked her through the whole process. “She first let me do the interview, and then we discussed my performance and ways to improve. She then demonstrated how things should be done by doing an interview herself.”

New Zealand is a very appealing study destination for many – with great universities, high quality of life and stunning scenery, as well as a strong higher education system which has been ranked 16^th in the most recent QS Higher Education System Strength Rankings. Studying in New Zealand can be on the expensive side, but luckily there are a number of New Zealand scholarships available to help…

Government-funded New Zealand scholarships:

• Fulbright New Zealand US Graduate Awards – Scholarships for students from the US to study a postgraduate or research program in any field at a university in New Zealand. Covers tuition, living costs, airfares and more.
• New Zealand Foreign Affairs and Trade Scholarships – Various scholarships at all study levels are available for students from various countries in the Pacific and South-East Asia. They are fully funded, covering tuition fees, a fortnightly living allowance and other expenses.
• New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships – Provides a stipend covering full tuition fees and living expenses for up to three years for international students enrolled in a PhD program at a university in New Zealand. Awarded based on academic excellence.

University-specific New Zealand Scholarships:

• Auckland University of Technology (AUT) – Various scholarships for international students to study at the university.
• Lincoln University – The university’s scholarship database allows you to look for scholarships for your particular subject and study level.
• Massey University Doctoral Scholarship – Scholarships for both domestic and international students to study a doctorate at the university.
• Southern Institute of Technology – Scholarships for international students to study at the Southern Institute of Technology.
• University of Auckland International Student Scholarships – Various scholarships are available to study at the University of Auckland at all study levels.
• University of Canterbury – A range of scholarships for international students – you can personalize the results with the search tool.  
• University of Otago – Various postgraduate-level scholarships to study at the university.
• University of Waikato – Scholarships such as the International Excellence Scholarship, which is based on academic merit and available for students of all study levels; and the Michael Baldwin Memorial Scholarship, for students from the South Pacific (excluding Australia and New Zealand) who demonstrate financial need.
• Victoria University of Wellington – A range of scholarships aimed at international students, including the Latin American Academic Achievement Scholarship, which supports high-achieving Latin American students who have gained a place on a bachelor or master’s degree at the university.

Other New Zealand scholarships:

• AusIMM New Zealand Branch Education Endowment Trust Scholarships – Undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships for students enrolled in a New Zealand university on a course related to minerals. 
• Barbara Wood Memorial Foundation – Scholarships for students from the South Pacific to study in New Zealand or another country in the South Pacific.
• Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan – Scholarships for Canadian students to study a doctorate in any discipline at a university in New Zealand.
• Go Overseas Study Abroad Scholarship – Five scholarships worth up to US$15,000 are available for undergraduate and postgraduate students from the US and Europe to study at an eligible university in New Zealand.
• Reserve Bank of New Zealand University Scholarships – Scholarships for students of economics, finance or banking at honors, master’s or PhD level and studying full time. Open to international students, provided they can legally work in New Zealand (the scholarship includes an offer of employment at the Reserve Bank after you’ve gained your qualification; if you do not accept this offer, you’ll need to repay the scholarship).
• R. H. T. Bates Postgraduate Scholarship – A scholarship for a domestic or international student enrolled on a doctorate in physical sciences and engineering at any university in New Zealand.
• Surfshark Privacy and Security Scholarship - A $2,000 prize is available to a student currently enrolled in New Zealand or another study destination as a high school, undergraduate or graduate student. You will need to submit an essay to apply and the scholarship is open to all nationalities. 

This article was originally published in May 2016. It was updated in December 2018.

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When you think of Australia, the first thing that comes to mind is most likely its picturesque beaches and crystal clear waters. But what about the world that lies beyond the white sand? Australia offers some of the best underwater life on the planet, with colorful corals, schools of tropical fish, an array of mammals such as dolphins and seals, majestic whale sharks, and so much more.

Most people are aware of Australia’s famous and spectacular Great Barrier Reef—so much so that everywhere else in the country is often underrated as a viable place to explore. The truth is, there are flourishing underwater ecosystems all over the country on both the east and west coast, with endless amounts of underwater adventures to discover.

1. Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia

Ningaloo Reef is Australia’s second largest coral reef, stretching 260 kilometers, and located only a two-hour flight from the city of Perth. The reef is home to 500 species of fish and is among only a handful of places in the world where you can swim with whale sharks.

2. Julian Rocks Marine Reserve, Byron Bay, New South Wales

Julian Rocks is a popular snorkeling spot for visitors of Byron Bay, filled with tropical marine life and if you’re lucky, some dolphins or whales. The reserve is accessible via a quick boat trip from the main beaches.

3. Busselton Jetty, Western Australia

This may just look like any other jetty you can walk along, but what lies beneath is some of the most brightly colored coral and fish you will ever see. You can explore on your own or go for a snorkeling tour.

4. Jervis Bay, New South Wales

Jervis Bay is known to have the world’s whitest sand, but many don’t realize the variety of tropical fish and mammals that are present in the crystal-clear waters. It’s not uncommon to spot dolphins, penguins, seals, and whales whilst snorkeling.

5. Heron Island, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

This island, accessible via boat from Gladstone, is the ultimate paradise for both beach and ocean lovers. You can relax on the white sandy beaches and walk straight into the ocean where you can spot bright blue starfish and giant sea cucumbers. You can even spot sea turtles nesting on the beach if you stick around for sunset.

6. Rottnest Island, Western Australia

As one of the most popular island getaways in the country, you better believe it has some epic snorkeling spot to offer. It’s one of the best snorkeling destinations in the country, located just an hour’s boat ride away from Perth.

7. Green Island, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

A quick 45-minute catamaran ride from Cairns lies Green Island, where 6,000 year old colorful coral lives ready for you to explore. You can stay overnight on the island or just do a day trip.

8. Tangalooma Wrecks, Moreton Island, Queensland

This epic snorkel spot is only an hour away from the city of Brisbane via ferry. These wrecks have been here since 1963 and have become a very popular snorkel spot, and can be explored by private tour or self-guided.

9. Lord Howe Island, New South Wales

This spot is a two-hour flight from Sydney and is not to be missed. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and only 400 tourists are permitted at any one time, meaning you can explore the depths of the ocean without millions of people doing the same right beside you.

10. Michaelmas Cay, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

Just off the coast of Cairns lies Michaelmas Cay, a small island well known for its amazing snorkel spots, where you can spot an abundance of giant clams. Taking a day trip out here will ensure complete seclusion and relaxation.

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Canada is one of the world’s most popular destinations for international students, offering a diverse variety of experiences and opportunities in a country known for its vast expanses, multicultural cities and natural beauty. If you want to study in Canada, the good news is that tuition fees are generally less expensive than in other major Anglophone destinations (the US, UK and Australia), although they are still quite high in comparison to other countries.

The Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC) offers a useful online tool which allows prospective international students to quickly calculate the costs of studying at different universities in Canada, as well as providing guidance on the documents needed to apply.

Tuition fees in Canada 

Universities in Canada set their own fees, and these vary depending on several factors: what program you’re studying, whether you are an international or home student, and whether you’re studying at undergraduate or postgraduate level. According to the latest report from Statistics Canada, tuition fees in Canada rose by an average of 3.3 percent for undergraduate domestic students and 6.3 percent for international undergraduates in 2018/2019.

If you’re a Canadian citizen studying in Canada, you can expect to pay an average of CA$6,838 per year for an undergraduate degree, and CA$7,086 per year for a graduate degree.

Undergraduate tuition fees in Canada

According to Statistics Canada, the average tuition fees for international students in 2018/19 are CA$27,159 (~US$20,600) per year. Arts and humanities courses tend to be cheaper, while subjects such as engineering and medicine are among the more expensive (an average of CA$30,742 (~US$23,300) per year). Fees for business and management courses are lower than the national average, at CA$26,395 (~US$20,000) per year.

Postgraduate tuition fees in Canada

If you want to study at postgraduate level, the tuition fees are generally lower, and again vary depending on your program. Statistics Canada puts the average postgraduate tuition fee at CA$16,497 in 2018/19, which is approximately US$12,500, and only a one percent increase from the previous year.

As is the case worldwide, executive MBA programs are generally the most expensive, averaging around CA$49,798 (~US$37,700), while regular MBAs cost CA$30,570 (~US$23,160) on average. (You can read more about studying an MBA in Canada here).

To find out more, get your free online copy of the QS Top Grad School Guide, including a dedicated section about postgraduate study in Canada.

Cost of living in Canada 

Although Canadian student visa requirements say you must have at least CA$10,000 (~US$7,570) (or CA$11,000/~US$8,300 if studying in Quebec) on top of your tuition fees, you’ll likely need to budget much more than this for your living expenses. Your living costs will vary considerably depending on your location and spending habits, with large cities generally more expensive to live in.

The Université de Montréal estimates students will need a total of CA$15,050 per year including housing, food, accommodation, books and course supplies, phone costs and miscellaneous expenses. Similarly, the University of British Columbia, located in Vancouver, estimates living costs of CA$15,500 per year, not including mandatory health insurance, which is CA$864 per year under the BC Health Plan. According to the 2018 Mercer Cost of Living Survey, Toronto and Vancouver were tied as the two most expensive Canadian cities to live in, with rent particularly high in both cities.

The three main types of student accommodation (homestay, university accommodation and private accommodation) vary considerably in costs, with students paying around CA$3,000-7,500 (~US$2,550 – 5,640) for on-campus accommodation each year. Private shared accommodation can cost around CA$8,400 (~US$6,320) per year plus bills. University accommodation is often cheaper, with some universities offering meal plans to allow you to purchase food from the university’s food outlets.

Here are some examples of average living costs in Canada, taken from Numbeo in December 2018:

• Eating out at a restaurant: CA$15 per person (~US$11)
• One-way ticket on local public transport: CA$3 (~US$2.25)
• Loaf of bread: CA$2.79 (~US$2.10)
• Cinema ticket: CA$13 (~US$9.78)
• Monthly gym fee: CA$49 (~US$37)

You should also remember to purchase compulsory health insurance while studying in Canada. This will cost approximately CA$600-800 (~US$450-600) per year. It’s also a good idea to budget for extra costs, such as warm winter clothing if you don’t already have any.

Student visa and application fees

To study in Canada, you will need to obtain a Canadian study permit, which serves as a student visa for the duration of your stay. You do not need a Canadian study permit if your course or program lasts six months or less. Applying for a study permit costs CA$150 (~US$115). Click here to read more about how to get a Canadian student visa.

Fees to apply to universities in Canada will vary depending on the university and your country of origin. For example, the University of British Columbia charges undergraduate Canadian students CA$69.25 and international students CA$116.25 (~US$87). You may be able to get this fee waived if you are an international student from a developing country.

Financial aid to study in Canada

Scholarships, grants and bursaries are available for international students wishing to study in Canada, at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These include specific scholarships for sporting and academic achievement, and subject-specific scholarships.

Many universities in Canada offer their own scholarships, so you might also be able to apply for a scholarship offered exclusively by the university at which you plan to study. In all cases, it’s important to apply as early as possible as scholarship funding is limited and highly competitive. International applicants are also advised to research study abroad scholarship opportunities offered by organizations in their home country.

One notable source of scholarships to study in Canada is the Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program, which provides scholarships to students of other Commonwealth countries. You might also find the financial assistance information on the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials website useful. More scholarships to study in Canada can be found here.

Student jobs in Canada 

If you’d like to get a part-time job to help support yourself while studying in Canada, you can work on or off-campus for up to 20 hours during university semesters and full-time during breaks such as the winter or summer holidays, without the need for a work permit.

To qualify, you must:

• Have a valid study permit
• Be a full-time student
• Be enrolled at a designated learning institution at post-secondary level
• Be studying in an academic, vocational or professional training program that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate that is at least six months in duration

You will also need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) from Service Canada to work in Canada or to receive benefits and services from government programs. You can find out more about how to work during or after studying in Canada here.

This article was originally published in October 2015. It was last updated in December 2018.

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