10 Best Universities for English-Speaking International Students in 2026

Is it possible to study abroad if you only speak English? It absolutely is! More and more universities abroad are offering individual classes as well as the chance to earn full degrees in English... even in countries where English isn’t the official language!

The following 10 universities are some of the best places to study abroad for English speakers. They have some of the largest selections of classes, the best reputations, and the most diverse student bodies (and faculties). They're also located in some of the most dynamic cities, beautiful landscapes, and central locations across the globe. 

Check out these top English-speaking universities and start planning your new adventure in 2026!

• 📍 England 
• 🌎 Percent international students (undergrad): 48% 
• 🎓 Top majors: health and medicine, engineering, biology 
• 📌 QS university ranking: 2nd 

For the first time in world university rankings, Imperial College London beat out both Oxford and Cambridge for the top UK spot in 2025. Located in central London, Imperial is steps from Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, St. James’s Park, and Kensington Gardens. 

The university has made a name for itself internationally through its high-powered research and excellence in teaching. It is the only university in the UK that focuses solely on science, technology, engineering, medicine, and business. 

While you can expect to get a world-class education at Imperial, you’ll also enjoy a buzzing student life. With over 350 student clubs and societies to join, well-equipped sports facilities, and easy access to central London's museums, attractions, restaurants, and pubs, you’ll never have a dull moment.

Read more: What It's Really Like to Study Abroad in the UK

• 📍 England 
• 🌎 Percent international students (undergrad): 30% 
• 🎓 Top majors: natural sciences, psychology, public health 
• 📌 QS university ranking: 4th

What’s more impressive than saying you’ve studied at Oxford? Aside from the international name recognition, the University of Oxford has a centuries-old tradition of top academic scholarship across a range of fields. 

Oxford’s programs are academically intensive and will take your research, writing, and critical thinking skills to the next level. This makes it a great option for serious students keen on pursuing a master’s or doctoral program after their bachelor’s degree. Having Oxford on your transcript won't just catch the eye of admissions boards; your time there will genuinely prepare you for the rigor of postgraduate study.

The city of Oxford revolves around the university and is steeped in history and charm. Bask in the intellectual glow of your fellow students while enjoying the amenities of a small but vibrant university town.

Read more: 9 Hacks For Studying Abroad in England

• 📍 Singapore
• 🌎 Percent international students (undergrad): 38%
• 🎓 Top majors: art history, engineering, architecture
• 📌 QS university ranking: 8th

The National University of Singapore (NUS) is the oldest university in Singapore and is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in Asia. Singapore operates under a bilingual education system with English as an official language alongside Mandarin, Tamil, and Malay — and universities teach primarily in English.

NUS has partnerships with more than 50 US universities, including all colleges in the University of California system, George Washington University, and Cornell. That pre-approval from top American universities speaks to the quality of education you'll receive. Studying here also gives you a front-row seat to a myriad of languages and cultures — plus Singapore is an ideal hub for exploring other countries in Asia.

• 📍 Australia 
• 🌎 Percent international students (undergrad): 47% 
• 🎓 Top majors: sports-related subjects, law, education 
• 📌 QS university ranking: 19th 

Students at the University of Melbourne take classes that integrate hands-on learning with practical experience. This "future-focused" curriculum gives UNIMELB one of the highest rates of graduate employability worldwide — you'll develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that employers actually want, even as a study abroad student.

Melbourne consistently ranks among the best student cities in the world. Whether you're touring museums, grabbing coffee in a quirky café, or catching some sun on a local beach, there's no shortage of things to do.

Read more: 13 Things to Know Before Studying in Australia

• 📍 China 
• 🌎 Percent international students (undergrad): 63% 
• 🎓 Top majors: modern languages, history, archaeology 
• 📌 QS university ranking: 14th 

Located in Beijing, Peking University (known locally as Beida) has been climbing up global university rankings in recent years. Despite its location in a bustling mega-city, the self-contained campus is one of the most beautiful in China — featuring lush gardens, traditional architecture, and all the amenities you need on site.

Peking University has a strong international community with clubs, cultural activities, and festivals year-round. It's a genuinely immersive experience that lets you get to know one of the world's most dynamic capitals while still studying entirely in English.

Read more: How to Study Abroad in China on a Budget

• 📍 Hong Kong 
• 🌎 Percent international students (undergrad): 69% 
• 🎓 Top majors: dentistry, education, architecture 
• 📌 QS university ranking: 11th 

If you're in health sciences or pre-medicine and want to study in Asia, The University of Hong Kong (HKU) is a standout option. As a fully English-medium university, HKU lets you study alongside top doctors, nurses, and dentists — with zero language barriers.

HKU has an internationally ranked dentistry program and a strong research focus in medicine. Study abroad experience at HKU will give your medical, dental, or veterinary school applications a real boost and help you stand out from the pack.

• 📍 Switzerland 
• 🌎 Percent international students (undergrad): 43% 
• 🎓 Top majors: engineering, natural sciences, computer science 
• 📌 QS university ranking: 22nd 

STEM majors who want to get the most bang for their study abroad buck will love the opportunity to attend École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in Switzerland. At less than $1,000 a semester, you will find top-ranked programs in engineering, the natural sciences, and tech — many taught entirely in English.

Fair warning: Switzerland itself is expensive. You'll need to budget around $600–$900 a month for housing. But Lausanne is a beautiful city with plenty of free things to do, and you'll be steps from the Alps and Lake Geneva.

• 📍 Germany 
• 🌎 Percent international students (undergrad): 38% 
• 🎓 Top majors: physics, engineering, chemistry 
• 📌 QS university ranking: 22nd 

For STEM students interested in studying abroad in Germany in English, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) is a great choice. Ranked 22nd in the world by QS World University Rankings, TUM is known for its deep connections with industry partners and its global campuses across the Americas, Europe, and Asia.

You can take individual classes or earn full degrees in English, and you'll have access to student jobs and internships through TUM's extensive research and corporate network. Tuition recently came into effect at TUM, but costs are still low compared to much of Europe — and Munich is one of the continent's most beloved student cities.

Learn more about studying abroad in English at universities across Germany with the German Academic Exchange Service.

• 📍 South Korea 
• 🌎 Percent international students (undergrad): 71% 
• 🎓 Top majors: engineering, modern languages, data science 
• 📌 QS university ranking: 38th 

With 71% of its students coming from outside South Korea, Seoul National University (SNU) has the largest share of international students on our list. SNU is actively committed to growing campus diversity and building partnerships with universities worldwide — making it a genuinely welcoming place to study as an English speaker!

That international energy translates into a rich social scene, with classmates from 50+ countries to learn from and explore Seoul with. From the multicultural hub of Itaewon to the historic streets of Jongno, Seoul has something for everyone — whether you're into pop culture, history, food, or all of the above.

Read more: Ultimate Guide for Studying Abroad in South Korea as an International Student

• 📍 South Africa 
• 🌎 Percent international students (undergrad): 53% 
• 🎓 Top majors: development studies, geography, anthropology 
• 📌 QS university ranking: 150th 

The University of Cape Town (UCT) in South Africa is a top African university with a focus on community building and engagement. Even if you’re not studying international development or human rights, there are countless opportunities to get involved in campus activities and service learning projects that give back to Cape Town and the wider region. 

The city itself is hard to beat — gorgeous beaches, epic hiking, a multicultural food scene, and 11 official languages to immerse yourself in. UCT is a great choice for students who want their study abroad to mean something beyond the classroom.

Read more: The 8 Best Universities in South Africa for International Students

If one or more of these universities has caught your eye but you don’t know how to get the ball rolling, we’re here to help you out.

1. Start your research: Decide what you want to study and for how long. Check your home university's study abroad office for existing partnerships, or look into third-party providers. Providers typically handle applications, visas, housing, and excursions — convenient, though usually pricier than direct enrollment.
2. Talk to your study abroad advisor: Your university’s study abroad advisor is your go-to resource. Book a meeting, bring your research, and walk through your options together. They'll help you map goals, flag financial considerations, and make sure everything fits your academic plan.
3. Apply!: Applying for study abroad typically require transcripts, one or more letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. If you go with a third-party provider, they'll guide you from start to finish.

Whether you choose to complete your entire degree abroad or want to study for a semester or academic year, there are several ways to fund your education overseas.

• Federal financial aid: You can use US federal financial aid money to study abroad as long as your program is at an accredited and approved university. Your student loans can be used for short-term study abroad or entire degree programs.
• Private student loans: If you've maxed out federal aid or don't qualify, providers like Sallie Mae offer private loans. Just know that rates and repayment flexibility aren't as favorable as federal options.
• Scholarships and grants: There are thousands of scholarships and grants out there if you know where to look. Many third-party providers also offer their own internal funding options.

Do I need to speak the local language to study abroad in English? 

Nope — that's the whole point. At all 10 universities on this list, you can take classes and earn credits entirely in English. That said, picking up a few basics in the local language will make daily life much easier and more rewarding.

Which countries have the most English-taught university programs? 

Among non-English-speaking countries, Europe leads the pack. The Netherlands, Germany, and Finland all offer hundreds to thousands of English-taught programs at the university level. Singapore, Hong Kong, and South Africa are also great countries to start your search for English-taught programs.

Will my credits transfer back to my US university? 

It depends on your home institution and your chosen university abroad. NUS, for example, has pre-established credit transfer agreements with 50+ US universities. Always confirm credit transfer policies with your study abroad advisor before you apply.

What's the difference between direct enrollment and a third-party provider? 

Direct enrollment means applying to a foreign university on your own — typically cheaper, but you handle logistics yourself. Third-party providers (like AIFS Abroad or WorldStrides) manage applications, housing, and support for a fee. If this is your first time navigating international education, a provider can make the process a lot less stressful.

How much does it cost to study abroad at these universities? 

Costs vary widely. EPFL in Switzerland charges under $1,000/semester in tuition; TUM in Germany is similarly low. Living costs are the bigger variable — Zurich and London are expensive; Cape Town and Seoul are much more affordable. Check out our guide to studying abroad for free or cheap for tips.

Is it worth studying abroad at a non-English speaking university? 

Absolutely. You get the best of both worlds: world-class instruction in English, plus the cultural immersion of living in a country with a different language and way of life. Many employers specifically value international experience — especially at globally recognized institutions like the ones on this list.

These 10 universities are just a starting point — there are hundreds of great options worldwide for students who want to study abroad in English. With a little research and planning, you’ll be on your way to finding a study abroad program that fits your major, your budget, and your sense of adventure!

Read more about studying abroad:

• 5 Ways to Study Abroad for Free or Cheap
• How to Prepare for Studying Abroad: 10 Things to do Before your Trip
• 15 Best Summer Study Abroad Programs
• Everything You Need to Know About Study Abroad Housing