Studying in America offers a unique cultural and academic experience. The continent stretches from North America’s major metropolises to the heart of Latin America’s dynamic capital cities. What’s more, it’s packed with renowned university cities, attracting thousands of students every year from the four corners of the globe. Here’s a roundup of the best destinations for an unforgettable student adventure. All while benefiting from a top-level education.
North America: innovation and academic prestige
Boston (United States)
Home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities (MIT, Harvard). Boston therefore stands out for its cosmopolitan student atmosphere. The city’s many colleges and universities promote innovation in fields as varied as technology, engineering and the social sciences. Located just a stone’s throw from the East Coast and major metropolises like New York, Boston also offers a rich cultural life. It boasts renowned museums (Museum of Fine Arts, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum) as well as major sporting events (Red Sox, Celtics).
Vancouver (Canada)
Between the ocean and the mountains, Vancouver offers a particularly pleasant living environment. In fact, the University of British Columbia (UBC) regularly ranks among the top international universities. Students benefit from a high quality of life: multicultural neighborhoods, nature everywhere and a temperate climate. This Pacific city is also renowned for its arts scene and professional opportunities in high-tech and sustainable development.
Berkeley (United States)
Located on San Francisco Bay, Berkeley is home to the renowned University of California (UC Berkeley). It is renowned for its academic excellence and socio-political commitment. It also benefits from its proximity to Silicon Valley and offers cutting-edge training in engineering, computer science, environmental sciences and the humanities. The Californian climate, the variety of sporting and cultural activities, and the campus spirit attract many foreign students every year.
Toronto (Canada)
Canada’s largest city, Toronto is renowned for its cultural diversity and economic dynamism. The University of Toronto, along with the city’s many other academic institutions (Ryerson University, York University), enjoys an international reputation, particularly in medicine, law and business. When you come to Toronto, you’re joining a multilingual environment and the professional opportunities offered by Canada’s economic powerhouse. This makes Toronto a first-rate choice for students seeking total immersion in an English-speaking environment open to the world.
Mexico City (Mexico)
A sprawling, vibrant capital, Mexico City offers a different experience to that of the USA or Canada. It boasts excellent universities, such as the UNAM (Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México), considered one of the best in Latin America. The cost of living is also much lower than in other major North American cities. Mexico City is also known for its historical heritage (Aztec temples, colonial districts) and its rich cultural scene (museums, festivals, gastronomy).
New York (United States)
The Big Apple needs no introduction. Every year, it attracts thousands of students who want to take advantage of the cultural and professional opportunities in and around Manhattan. Prestigious private universities (Columbia, NYU) and public institutions (CUNY) coexist in the city that never sleeps. The cost of living is high. However, access to internships, international networks and professional opportunities in all sectors (finance, communications, arts, fashion…) makes it a destination of choice for many students from all over the world.
South America: between vibrant culture and academic quality
Santiago (Chile)
A modern capital nestled at the foot of the Andes, Santiago is home to some of South America’s top universities (Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Universidad de Chile). Chile’s economic stability makes it a great place to study. You can study in fields ranging from mining engineering to sustainable development. Santiago also has a thriving cultural scene, bohemian cafés and quick access to stunning natural landscapes (ski resorts, Central Valley vineyards, Pacific coastline).
Sao Paulo (Brazil)
São Paulo, Brazil’s thriving megalopolis and economic capital, is one of the continent’s major university centers. It is home to excellent institutions of higher learning covering a wide range of fields: economics, architecture, arts, exact sciences… While the city may seem sprawling, its cultural dynamism (museums, street art, music) and large student community create an international atmosphere where there’s never a dull moment.
Buenos Aires (Argentina)
Often dubbed “the Paris of Latin America”, Buenos Aires offers European architecture, a rich art scene and a keen sense of nightlife (tango, trendy bars, varied gastronomy). The renowned University of Buenos Aires attracts many international students, particularly in the humanities, economics and law. What’s more, the cost of living here is often more affordable than in major North American capitals, making it easier to settle in and enjoy cultural encounters.
Lima (Peru)
Lima, Peru’s major coastal metropolis and capital, is undergoing increasing development. As a result, it is gradually becoming a university hub for the entire Andean region. It is home to prestigious institutions such as the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú and the Universidad de Lima. The capital offers a unique setting for studying while immersing yourself in a fascinating culture.
South America: between vibrant culture and academic quality
- Choosing the right university: Beyond the world rankings, find out about the specialties on offer and the academic environment. Some faculties offer more research resources, while others focus on practical, hands-on learning.
- Consider the cost of living: New York or Vancouver will be more expensive than Mexico City or Buenos Aires. Establish a precise budget for accommodation, food, transport and leisure activities.
- Anticipate formalities: student visas, international health insurance, proof of income… The formalities can be lengthy, so it’s best to plan ahead.
- Preparing for the local culture: Every country, and even every city, has its own cultural codes and rhythms (climate, mealtimes, student festivals). Showing curiosity and openness greatly facilitates integration.
In short, whether you opt for a cosmopolitan North American city or a booming Latin American university center, the American continent offers a wide range of options for students in search of excellence and adventure. Between innovation, cultural richness and professional opportunities, each city presents a unique universe to explore, in which to study… and grow.
