9 Best Countries to Study Abroad in 2026

Think about your ideal travel destination. Is it filled with warm, sunny beaches that give way to tranquil ocean waters? Or does it offer the ideal mix of outdoor adventure and exciting cultural encounters?

For college-age students who choose to study abroad, the ideal travel destination should offer something else: opportunities to pursue academic interests and fulfill degree requirements.

The best study abroad destinations in 2026 offer more than just scenic backdrops. They provide hands-on learning opportunities, exposure to global industries, and cultural experiences that connect meaningfully to your major. Whether you’re interested in international business, marine ecology, architecture, culinary studies, or political science, the countries featured in this blog post stand out for their real-world relevance and unforgettable academic and cultural opportunities.

Where Do Most Students Study Abroad?

During the 2023–24 academic year, a total of 280,716 U.S. college students studied abroad, a 6.2% increase from the previous year.

According to the most recent Open Doors report, Europe continues to dominate study abroad destinations, hosting 64% of all U.S. students who studied abroad in 2023–24 (the most recent academic year for which data is available). Italy took the top spot, drawing over 15% of students, followed by Spain (12.4%) and the United Kingdom (12.2%).

Other destinations that reached all-time highs in recent years include Japan, Greece, South Korea, Denmark, and Singapore, reflecting a growing interest in both traditional and emerging global education hubs.

But while these popular destinations attract large numbers of students, they only represent part of the picture. Some of the most transformative study-abroad experiences take place in less-visited countries where students can engage deeply with local cultures, access hands-on learning opportunities, and challenge themselves in ways that aren’t always available in typical study abroad hot spots.

It can be difficult to find a single place that provides a well-rounded study abroad experience and checks all the boxes…unless you don’t have to choose!

Semester at Sea offers a different kind of study abroad experience that enables students to explore a wider range of destinations across multiple continents in a single semester. While many of the most-visited countries aren’t part of our itineraries, our voyages are intentionally designed to help students step off the beaten path and into experiences that are as academically rich as they are personally fulfilling.

9 Best Places to Study Abroad

The following destinations are presented in no particular order, but rather provide a snapshot of the most rewarding study abroad destinations from around the globe. We guarantee that you won’t need to choose between adventure and academic substance — each destination offers unlimited volumes of both.

France

• What is France known for?
  France is celebrated for its timeless cultural influences and sophistication. From Impressionist paintings and revolutionary politics to croissants and haute couture, it’s a country that has shaped global thought and taste for centuries. With vast regional diversity in language, food, art, and culture, France invites exploration far beyond the guidebooks.
• How many U.S. students study in France?
  

  France is consistently one of the most popular study abroad destinations for U.S. college students. In 2023–24, over 5% of traveling college scholars chose France.

• Best majors to study in France
  France is a standout destination for students focused on the humanities, arts, political science, international relations, and fashion or culinary studies. With its deep historical roots and continued cultural leadership, it offers unique real-world context for topics like philosophy, art history, diplomacy, international law, and linguistics.
• Why SAS voyagers love France
  Voyagers are drawn to France for its romantic charm, which can feel both cinematic and deeply personal. Cobblestone streets lined with contemporary graffiti art give way to imposing Gothic cathedrals steeped in centuries of history. Students can practice their French in charming cafés or embark on off-the-beaten-track adventures in the countryside. Inevitably, voyagers who think they know what to expect in France are always pleasantly surprised by the unexpected.
• Popular France Field Programs
  
  • Les Machines de l’île
    

    Immerse yourself in a mind-boggling world inspired by some of history’s greatest inventors and creatives, from Jules Verne to Leonardo da Vinci.

  • Jardin des Plantes
    

    Wander among the 10,000+ plant species in one of France’s most remarkable botanical gardens.

  • Puy du Fou
    

    Catch a thrilling show and experience centuries of history at France’s premier historical reenactment theme park.

Watch now: Study abroad in France with Semester at Sea >>

Spain

• What is Spain known for?
  One of the most popular European study abroad destinations, Spain is shaped by centuries of cultural exchange, with influences from Roman, Moorish, and Christian civilizations still visible in its cities and daily life. Its streets hum with energy, from late-night dining in open-air plazas to the rich sounds of regional music and language. Architecture ranges from ancient fortresses to surreal modernist landmarks, while local cuisine varies dramatically from one province to another. For students, Spain offers not just high-quality education, but opportunities to experience a culture that values connection, creativity, and a deep sense of place.
• How many U.S. students study in Spain?
  From 2023–24, 12.4% of all U.S. college students who studied abroad chose Spain, making it the second most popular destination of the year.
• Best majors to study in Spain
  Spain is especially well-regarded for its opportunities to study Art History, Architecture, International Relations, and the Spanish language. Students interested in Global Business, Political Science, or European Studies will also find Spain’s history, diversity, and role within the EU especially relevant.
• Why SAS voyagers love Spain
  Voyagers are drawn to Spain for the way it infuses everyday life with history and art for an immersive, unforgettable experience. Students often find that Spain invites connection, whether through its unique cuisine or diverse historical influences. The variety of excursions offered by Semester at Sea gives students a chance to engage deeply with the country’s layered identity and beautiful landscapes, both man-made and natural.
• Popular Spain Field Programs
  
  • Frigiliana Village and Nerja Caves
    Explore the two beautiful fishing villages of Frigiliana and Nerja and discover the stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient artwork in Nerja’s local cave system.
  • Village of Mijas
    Experience Spanish country life in Mijas, famed for its crisp white houses, “donkey taxis,” and intricately-painted ceramics.
  • Málaga City and Botanical Gardens
    Explore Málaga’s top sites on your way to the Botanical Gardens, one of the most beautiful and important tropical and subtropical gardens of Spain.

Watch now: Spain Study Abroad 2018 with Semester at Sea >>

India

• What is India known for?
  India is a land of contrasts — deeply spiritual, wildly diverse, and constantly in motion. Semester at Sea voyagers often find themselves immersed in a whirlwind of experiences: witnessing sunrise rituals along the Ganges, exploring intricately carved temples, or navigating the vibrant markets of Kochi and Mumbai. The country’s many languages, cuisines, and religious traditions offer a window into one of the world’s oldest and most complex civilizations.
• How many U.S. students study in India?
  About 0.5% of U.S. students (1,578) chose India in 2023–24.

• Best majors to study in India
  India is a compelling setting for students studying Religious Studies, Public Health, Environmental Science, Anthropology, Sociology, or Global Studies. The country’s social, political, and economic complexities also offer valuable context for coursework in International Development and Economics.
• Why SAS voyagers love India
  India is one of the most anticipated stops on the voyage for its sheer variety of experiences, from the culinary and historical to the spiritual and artistic. The mix of deeply rooted traditions and rapidly evolving cities creates a dynamic learning environment unlike anywhere else. Semester at Sea voyagers consistently describe India as one of the most thought-provoking and memorable parts of their journey.
  
• Popular India Field Programs
  
  • New Delhi and Agra’s Taj Mahal 
    Spend two nights in New Delhi and visit the spellbinding Taj Mahal palace.
  • ​​Foodies on Foot — Kochi-Style
    Sample selections from Kochi’s street vendors on an evening food tour.
  • Beach and Backwater Cycling Adventure
    Pedal through mangrove forests, small fishing villages, and the tranquil backwaters beyond Kochi.

Watch now: Life in Port: India 2018 Fall with Semester at Sea >>

Kenya

• What is Kenya known for?
  Kenya offers one of the most striking cultural experiences in East Africa. Renowned for its abundant wildlife and the warmth of its people, Kenya is both a natural wonder and a crossroads of tradition and modernity. Travelers can explore both bustling urban centers like Nairobi and remote villages that maintain centuries-old traditions. Kenya’s coastal cities, like Mombasa, offer a mix of Swahili, Arab, and Portuguese influences, while inland regions showcase the diverse customs of Kenya’s more than 40 ethnic groups. For students, Kenya delivers unparalleled access to ecological diversity, historical depth, and community-centered living.
• How many U.S. students study in Kenya?
  As of the 2023–24 academic year, approximately 0.4% (1,141) of all U.S. students who studied abroad chose Kenya as their destination.

• Best majors to study in Kenya
  Kenya is an ideal location for students majoring in Environmental Science, Anthropology, Public Health, Development Studies, and Sociology. It’s also a rich setting for those focused on Wildlife Conservation, Sustainable Tourism, and African Studies, with opportunities to explore real-world challenges and community-driven solutions.
• Why SAS voyagers love Kenya
  Semester at Sea voyagers are often moved by Kenya’s blend of breathtaking landscapes and meaningful cultural encounters. From spotting elephants in Amboseli to learning about early human history at Lake Turkana, many students return home with a more expansive understanding of sustainability, equity, and what it means to be part of a global community.
• Popular Kenya Field Programs
  
  • Saving Seas with Kenya Groove
    Participate in a beach clean-up with a crew from Ocean Sole, an innovative company turning washed-up flip flops into upcycled works of art.
  • Tastes of Mombasa
    Experience some of the local delicacies of Mombasa and gain a deeper insight into the Swahili street food scene.
  • Tsavo East in a Day
    Spend a day on safari to see a large variety of animals that could include lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, impala, striped hyena, ostriches, gazelles, buffalo, elephants, and more.

Watch now: A Day in the Life in Kenya with Semester at Sea >>

South Africa

• What is South Africa known for?
  South Africa is a complex country, but one that offers infinite rewards to the intrepid traveler. Deep cultural roots meet extraordinary natural beauty; Cape Town alone offers views of mountains, coastline, and city life all in one place, while the country’s broader landscape reveals a history marked by both struggle and growth. South Africa’s post-apartheid era continues to shape its identity, offering visitors a firsthand look at reconciliation efforts and evolving civic leadership, which in turn inspire bold expressions of art and activism.
• How many U.S. students study in South Africa?
  South Africa hosted about 1.2% of all study abroad students in the 2023–24 academic year.

• Best majors to study in South Africa
  Students of Political Science, Public Health, International Development, or History often find South Africa especially relevant. It’s also an engaging location for students focused on Sociology or Environmental Studies, thanks to the country’s rich ecosystems and social landscape.
• Why SAS voyagers love South Africa
  Cape Town consistently ranks as one of the most surprisingly memorable ports for Semester at Sea voyagers. Voyagers frequently return with a deeper awareness of how social and environmental issues are connected and how South Africans meet those challenges with resilience and creativity.
• Popular South Africa Field Programs
  
  • South African Cultural Dinner and Drumming
    Enjoy a seasonal tasting menu while listening to archetypal African stories told live.
  • Cape Town City Orientation
    Get your bearings in the city and finish with breathtaking views from the top of Table Mountain.
  • Cape Town, Robben Island, and the Legacy of Apartheid
    Visit Robben Island, site of Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment, and learn about the dark history of apartheid.

Watch now: Volunteering in South Africa | Semester at Sea >>

Morocco

• What is Morocco known for?
  Morocco is known for its intricate blend of cultural influences that span centuries, including Arab, Amazigh (Berber), European, and indigenous North African groups. In cities like Casablanca, modern infrastructure rises beside French colonial architecture and centuries-old mosques. Daily life in Morocco is infused with spiritual practice and a strong sense of hospitality, resulting in a sensory-rich environment where tradition and change exist side by side.
• How many U.S. students study in Morocco?
  About 0.4% (1,223) of U.S. students studied abroad in Morocco during 2023–24.

• Best majors to study in Morocco
  Students pursuing International Relations, Religious Studies, Anthropology, Gender Studies, or Global Health often find Morocco especially fruitful. The country’s diverse social fabric, layered colonial history, and geographic positioning between Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa offer compelling ground for academic inquiry. For those interested in Sustainable Development or Migration Studies, Morocco provides real-world examples that go far beyond the textbook page.
• Why SAS voyagers love Morocco
  Many Semester at Sea voyagers arrive in Morocco with little background knowledge but leave with vivid memories: camel rides through golden dunes, the call to prayer echoing across city rooftops, meals shared with local families. In a short time, students encounter perspectives and ways of life that challenge their assumptions and expand their worldviews.
• Popular Morocco Field Programs
  
  • Sahara Camel Trek
    Sleep under the stars in a nomadic camp and settle in for a camel trek into the desert.
  • Marrakech Medina and Majorelle Gardens
    Get a taste of Marrakech, possibly the most important of Morocco’s four former imperial cities.
  • Casablanca by Night and Dinner with Locals
    A unique evening experience in the city! Explore the city sites and enjoy a delicious dinner at a local home.

Watch now: Morocco Travel Vlog With Semester at Sea >>

Thailand

• What is Thailand known for?
  

  Thailand is best known for its deep spiritual traditions, lush tropical landscapes, and warm hospitality. The country blends centuries of Buddhist influence with a modern identity that continues to evolve on its own terms. In the capital, Bangkok, for example, ancient symbols of faith share space with global fashion, neon signage, and late-night food stalls, all without losing their significance.

• How many U.S. students study in Thailand?
  Nearly 2,000 U.S. students studied in Thailand in 2023–24, or about 0.6% of the total number.

• Best majors to study in Thailand
  Thailand offers much meaningful ground to explore for students majoring in Religion, International Development, or Hospitality. Students of religion can see first-hand how Buddhist principles shape not just temple life but daily social customs. As a growing regional hub, the country also presents Business students with a real-time case study of how global tourism and cultural heritage intersect, often in complex ways.
  
• Why SAS voyagers love Thailand
  Voyagers often describe their time in Thailand as both energizing and grounding (it typically serves as an embarkation/disembarkation port). The country’s warmth comes through in daily interactions — not just in the climate, but in the way people move through the world. Semester at Sea voyagers sail away with memories that blend sensory detail, cross-cultural learning, and a sense of connection that tends to stay with them long after the journey ends.

Watch now: Thailand Vlog! || Semester At Sea Diaries >>

Portugal

• What is Portugal known for?
  Portugal is famous for its deep seafaring legacy, nuanced cuisine, architectural beauty, and cultural pride rooted in centuries of exploration and resilience. The country’s streets often feel like an open-air museum, with ancient buildings and ornate tilework that reflect both history and innovation.
• How many U.S. students study in Portugal?
  In 2023–24, 1,963 U.S. students visited Portugal, about 0.7% of all traveling students.

• Best majors to study in Portugal
  Students majoring in Architecture, Culinary Studies, or Maritime History often find Portugal a rich source of knowledge and context. The country’s built environment, foodways, and ocean-centered culture create a living classroom that supports both field research and experiential learning.
• Why SAS voyagers love Portugal
  Voyagers describe Portugal as warm in every sense, from its hospitable people to its colorful cityscapes. A few days ashore can spark curiosity, reflection, and a desire to return, as the balance of past and present invites deeper exploration with every step.
• Popular Portugal Field Programs
  
  • Surfing Costa de Caparica
    Engage in oceanside yoga and then catch some waves following a surf lesson at popular Caparica Beach.
  • Exploring Tagus River by Boat
    Learn about some of the most emblematic and important riverfront areas in Lisbon on a thrilling speedboat ride down the Tagus River estuary.
  • A Taste of Fado: The Soul of Portuguese Music
    Explore Portugal’s most famous musical form through visits to the Fado Museum and a live Fado show.

Watch now: Portugal With Semester at Sea >>

Hong Kong

• What is Hong Kong known for?
  Hong Kong is known for its striking fusion of East and West, where Chinese traditions exist within a framework shaped by British colonial rule and global finance. The city’s dense urban skyline, layered with neon signage and modern towers, rises over natural harbors and mountainous terrain. Technically a “special administrative region” of China, Hong Kong is also widely recognized for its vibrant food scene, its commitment to commerce, and its role as a cultural gateway between mainland China and the rest of the world.
• How many U.S. students study in Hong Kong?
  Relatively few U.S. students choose to study in far-flung Hong Kong — about 0.02% in 2023–24 — but the eye-opening cultural and academic experience is worth the long journey.

• Best majors to study in Hong Kong
  Majors that examine international systems are particularly well-served by the Hong Kong experience, such as Global Business, Political Science, International Relations, and Cultural Studies. Students studying Architecture, Design, or Sustainability also benefit from seeing how this fast-paced metropolis balances historical preservation with modern infrastructure and vertical growth. The city provides countless entry points for understanding regional economies, transnational exchange, and the ongoing social complexities of identity and governance in South China.
• Why SAS voyagers love Hong Kong
  Voyagers are drawn to Hong Kong’s constant contrast. One moment you might be sipping tea in an ancient temple courtyard, and the next you’re gazing out at the city from a glass elevator above the skyline. There’s a rhythm to the city that keeps students engaged — its energy, its scale, and its sensory richness all contribute to a deeply memorable experience. Even a short stay in Hong Kong leaves many voyagers with a deeper appreciation for cultural complexity and the adaptability of human communities.
• Popular Hong Kong Field Programs
  
  • Hong Kong’s Street Art
    Stroll around Hong Kong to find beautiful works of public art, giving the streets the feel of an art gallery.
  • Hiking Dragon’s Back
    Break out the hiking boots to scale Dragon’s Back, one of the most popular trails near Hong Kong.
  • Buddhist Monastery and Lantau Island
    Learn about Hong Kong’s salt-panning industry and see the world’s largest outdoor bronze Buddha at Po Lin Monastery.

Watch now: Hong Kong Vlog| Semester at Sea >>

How to Study Abroad In Multiple Countries

Traveling to multiple countries during a traditional study abroad experience usually means stitching together different programs and managing complex logistics, all while staying on track with your academic goals. It’s a heavy lift, and for most students, simply not realistic or financially feasible.

Semester at Sea is different. Unlike traditional programs tied to a single location, Semester at Sea brings the world to you aboard a floating college campus. On a single voyage, you’ll visit multiple countries across several continents without having to start over in each destination. Your ship serves as both your campus and your home base, so you can focus on learning, traveling, and connecting instead of worrying about how to piece everything together.

Each voyage spans more than 100 days, combining coursework with in-country exploration so you can apply what you’ve learned in class to real-world experiences. Here’s how it works:

• Integrated academics: Earn 12 credits through Colorado State University while taking classes tailored to global topics and a wide range of majors. Courses are taught by top university faculty in small, seminar-style classrooms — just like a traditional campus, but with an ocean view. Most classes meet while the ship is at sea, and each includes a hands-on Field Class in port that connects what you’re learning to the real world.
• Field Programs: Single- to multi-day excursions give voyagers a chance to dive deeper into a country’s culture, history, or natural environment. Designed by staff and local experts, programs can range from kayaking along the coast of Portugal to volunteering at an NGO in Cape Town, offering enriching, no-stress ways to explore a new country.
• In-country flexibility: Outside of scheduled Field Classes and Programs, you’re free to explore on your own. Plan weekend trips with friends, discover hidden gems in each port city, or venture further inland — just make sure to return to the ship before it sets sail!
• Life at sea: Between ports, life aboard the ship provides space for reflection, connection, and community. You’ll have access to study areas, wellness resources, fitness facilities, and activities like arts, sports, and speaker events, all of which provide a space to unplug and recharge between ports.

While voyagers get to experience activities and cultures that might otherwise be out of reach, Semester at Sea certainly isn’t tourism — it’s immersive, intentional, and most importantly, academically grounded in global comparative studies. Along with stunning scenery and once-in-a-lifetime cultural immersion, each country offers new perspectives, challenges, and opportunities to grow.

What to Consider When Choosing a Destination

Studying abroad is a big decision, and choosing where to go can shape your entire experience. Here are a few important factors to think about as you explore your options:

• Academic goals: Do you want courses that align with your major or something new to broaden your perspective? Some destinations may offer stronger ties to your field of study or research interests.
• Cultural interests: Are you drawn to a particular language, cuisine, landscape, history, or tradition? Consider what excites you most about immersing yourself in another culture, and explore options that would fulfill your goals.
• Type of travel experience: Would you prefer to stay in one country for an extended time or experience multiple places? Semester at Sea’s multi-country model is ideal for students who want variety and meaningful perspectives of each place.
• Safety and support: Look into the safety resources, health services, and community support offered by the program. Feeling safe and supported goes a long way when you’re far from home.
• Costs and financial aid: Tuition, travel, and living expenses can vary widely between programs. Look into scholarships, grants, and funding opportunities, all of which are widely available.

On that last point, Semester at Sea offers many ways to help make your voyage affordable. Want a clearer picture of what a Semester at Sea voyage might cost for you? Try our cost calculator to explore tuition, financial aid, and more.

How Start Your Study Abroad Journey

Studying abroad in multiple countries is a bold and enriching way to grow academically and personally — and it can be easier than you think! Here’s how to start planning your journey:

1. Connect with your academic advisor
   Your first step should be a conversation with an academic or study abroad advisor at your home institution. They’ll help you map out how a multi-country program like Semester at Sea can fit into your course load and major requirements to ensure you graduate on time.
2. Expand your program options
   Not all study abroad experiences are created equal. While many programs take place in a single country, Semester at Sea offers a rare opportunity to explore and learn across 10+ destinations in a single semester. As you compare programs, consider how much cultural variety you want, what kind of structure you prefer, and how each program supports your academic and personal goals.
3. Understand the costs and funding opportunities
   Traveling the world is life-changing, but it’s important to plan for the cost. Look into what’s included in your program fee (housing, meals, travel between countries, etc.) and talk to your school’s financial aid office to see what aid can be applied. (Psst — There are dedicated scholarships and grants available specifically to Semester at Sea voyagers!)
4. Start your application and prep your documents
   When you’ve found the right fit, begin the application process as soon as you can. Be prepared to submit documents like transcripts, essays, recommendations, and proof of a valid passport. Some destinations may also require a student visa, so give yourself plenty of time to gather everything you need.
5. Join info sessions
   Stay in the loop by attending info sessions and orientation events for your program. These are great opportunities to meet other prospective travelers, get practical advice, and hear firsthand what to expect in your travels.
6. Be prepared for an adventure
   Planning a semester abroad — whether to one country or 10 — means being hyper-organized with your coursework and travel logistics, but it also means preparing your mindset for new experiences and challenges. Each new destination will bring new people, perspectives, and systems of thought, and each will help shape your global understanding in unforgettable and long-lasting ways.

If Semester at Sea sounds like your ideal multi-country study abroad experience, we’re here to help you navigate every step. With a focus on intercultural learning and creating a truly global classroom, our programs are built for students who want to expand their worldview in real time.

Have questions? Or are you ready to get started? Contact our admissions team to learn more about sailing the world while staying on track academically.