Every parent and student eventually face the big question: Should I study abroad or choose a university closer to home? Both paths open exciting opportunities, but the decision requires careful consideration of academics, finances, and future career goals.
The Study Abroad Advantage
Studying abroad offers global exposure, independence, and access to diverse academic programs. According to UNESCO (2023), over 6.4 million students are currently enrolled in universities outside their home country. Popular destinations include the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, with emerging hubs like Singapore and the UAE attracting international students as well.
Benefits include:
- Global Networking: Meeting peers from multiple cultures builds international networks.
- Specialised Programs: Some degrees (like AI, fashion design, or marine biology) may be stronger abroad.
- Employability: A 2022 QS report found that 80% of employers value international study experience in job candidates.
The Local University Strength
Local universities in the UAE, have grown both in quality and global recognition. Prestigious universities like the University of Birmingham, NYU Abu Dhabi, and American University of Sharjah attract a lot of students.
Advantages include:
- Affordability: Local tuition fees and reduced living costs make education more cost-effective.
- Family Support: Staying close to home helps students manage emotional and cultural adjustments.
- Regional Relevance: Programs often align with UAE’s growth sectors AI, green energy, and finance.
Things to Consider
- Career Goals: For fields like medicine, law, or engineering, local licensing requirements matter; sometimes local universities offer smoother pathways.
- Cost: The average cost of studying in the US is $25,000–50,000/year, while in the UAE, high-quality programs may cost significantly less.
- Future Plans: If students wish to work abroad, a degree from that country may offer an advantage.
FAQs from Counselling
- Q: Do employers prefer foreign degrees?
A: Not necessarily. Employers value skills and experience more than geography. - Q: Is it harder to get into foreign universities?
A: Some are highly selective, but many mid-tier universities abroad welcome international students.
There is no “one-size-fits-all.” The right choice depends on the student’s aspirations, family circumstances, and career vision. The role of parents and teachers is to guide, not decide, empowering students to explore both paths with confidence.
TOP GLOBAL STUDY DESTINATIONS (2025 Trends)
| Country | Known For | Avg. Tuition (USD/year) |
| USA | Innovation, Research Opportunities | $30,000 – $50,000 |
| UK | One-year Master’s, Global Reputation | $25,000 – $45,000 |
| Canada | Work-Study Flexibility, Safety | $20,000 – $35,000 |
| Australia | Diverse Programs, Friendly Visa Rules | $25,000 – $40,000 |
| Singapore | High Employability, Asia Hub | $15,000 – $25,000 |
TOP UAE UNIVERSITIES TO WATCH (2025 Edition)
| University | Highlights |
| American University of Sharjah (AUS) | QS-ranked, strong engineering & business programs |
| University of Birmingham Dubai | UK degree, modern campus, global faculty |
| Heriot-Watt University Dubai | Business, computing, design innovation |
| NYU Abu Dhabi | Liberal arts, global internships |
| University of Sharjah | Leading medical & research programs |
GEETA NARANG
SUPERVISOR – CAREER COUNSELLING
