Studying abroad is a dream shared by many Pakistani students who seek to receive a world-class education. Choosing the right study destination is a crucial decision, as it can shape your academic and personal growth.
In this article, we’ll explore the best countries for Pakistani students, ranking them based on various factors such as education quality, cost of living, work opportunities, and cultural diversity.
Which Country Is Best For Pakistani Students?
The best country for Pakistani students to study abroad depends on individual preferences, academic goals, and financial considerations
1. United Kingdom (UK):
The UK is famous for its excellent education, including some really old and famous universities like Oxford and Cambridge. It’s also a diverse place with many different kinds of students and lots of courses and programs to choose from.
Popular UK Scholarships for Pakistani Students;
- Chevening Scholarship
- Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan
- Rhodes Scholarship
- Gates Cambridge Scholarship
- Oxford-Weidenfeld and Hoffmann Scholarships and Leadership Programme
- University of Manchester Global Futures Scholarship
However, living in the UK can be expensive, and getting a visa can be a bit complicated and take a while.
Related Article: UK Study Visa Process for Pakistani Students
2. United States:
Studying in the USA is a great option for international students, including those from Pakistan. The US has top-notch universities, a mix of cultures, and a good quality of life.
It’s especially good for students who want to study subjects like science, tech, engineering, and math (STEM).
The U.S. government offers scholarships to students from all over the world. Every year, they provide 150 scholarships to Pakistani students for higher education in the United States: 100 for master’s degrees and 50 for PhDs. Additionally, they sponsor 800 Pakistanis annually to participate in exchange programs, including high school students spending a year in U.S. high schools and professionals collaborating with their American counterparts.
Best Scholarships for Pakistani Students in the USA;
- US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor PhD Scholarship Program.
- Pakistan-USA Science and Technology Cooperation Program.
- Fulbright Scholarship Program.
- Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program.
- Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (UGRAD)
- Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship.
But, keep in mind that studying in the US can be expensive, and getting scholarships or financial help can be tough.
Related Article: Scholarships and Exchange Program for Pakistani Students
3. Canada
Canada is a top choice for Pakistani students, and it’s easy to see why. Canadian universities are well-respected for their academics and research options, plus they’re friendly to international students.
Canada is a safe and peaceful place to live with a good quality of life and lots of different cultures. Plus, studying in Canada is often less expensive than in the US, and there are many scholarships for Pakistani students.
Related Article: Scholarships in Canada for International Students
4. Australia
Australia is the best country to study abroad because it offers a great standard of living, stunning landscapes, and top-notch education.
Australian universities have lots of programs in fields like science, engineering, medicine, and business.
Famous Australian Scholarships for Pakistani Students
- Australia Awards Scholarships
- Endeavour Scholarship
- Destination Australia Scholarship
- Edith Cowan University (ECU) International Masters Scholarship
- RTP Scholarships
Pakistani students might qualify for scholarships and financial help, and living in Australia isn’t too expensive. However, keep in mind that the cost of living can be high, and getting a visa can take a while.
Related Article: How to Apply for Australian Scholarships
5. Malaysia
Malaysia is a diverse and multicultural place that provides good education without breaking the bank. Malaysian universities have lots of programs in areas like engineering, medicine, and business, and they work closely with industries.
Latest Malaysian Scholarships for Pakistani Students;
- MCP Scholarship 2023 – Malaysian Technical Cooperation
- World Youth Festival in Malaysia 2023 (Funded)
- Provost’s Excellence International Awards in Malaysia
- Provost’s Excellence International Awards in Malaysia
You can apply for Malaysian scholarships from Pakistan through the Malaysian High Commission or Embassy in Islamabad and the official website of the Malaysian Ministry of Education
Factors to consider when choosing the best country to study abroad
When deciding on the best country for Pakistani students to study abroad, you should consider these factors:
1. Cost of Education:
The expense of education is a critical factor. Different countries have varying tuition fees, living costs, and scholarship opportunities.
Pakistani students should assess their financial situation and opt for a country that offers affordable education.
Generally, countries like Germany and Canada have lower tuition and living expenses compared to the US and UK.
2. Quality of Education:
The quality of education is also important. Students should research the academic standards of universities, faculty expertise, research opportunities, and student support services.
The US, UK, and Canada are known for their high-quality education and top-tier universities.
3. Safety:
Safety is a paramount concern. Students should evaluate the safety of their chosen country, considering factors like crime rates, political stability, and cultural norms.
Canada and Australia, for instance, are known for their safe environments.
4. Culture and Lifestyle:
Cultural aspects matter. Researching cultural norms, languages, and social life in the chosen country is important.
Countries like the US, UK, and Canada have diverse and welcoming cultures that ease the transition for international students.
5. Job Prospects:
Researching the job market and employment opportunities in their field of study is essential. Canada and Australia, with a high demand for skilled workers, offer favorable job prospects for international graduates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the admission requirements for studying abroad?
Admission requirements vary depending on the country and the university, but most institutions will require academic transcripts, English language proficiency tests (such as TOEFL or IELTS), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay.
Some programs may also require standardized test scores (such as the SAT or GRE) or additional application materials.
2. How much does it cost to study abroad?
The cost of studying abroad varies depending on the country, the university, and the program of study. Tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other expenses can add up quickly.
However, there are many scholarships and financial aid options available for international students, so it’s important to research and apply for these opportunities.
3. How can I improve my chances of being accepted to a foreign university?
It’s important to have strong academic credentials, English language proficiency, and relevant work or volunteer experience.
You can also improve your chances by applying early, researching and choosing the right program, and submitting a compelling personal statement or essay.
Studying abroad can also be a chance to explore new places, meet new people, and have fun!