Anthropology is a unique science that explores how humans became the humans we know today. Some of the topics anthropologists investigate are human evolution, the distinctive characteristics of humans, and social life across cultures. Because this field delves deeply into the origins and diversity of human societies, students can benefit from exposure to different cultures and communities. Considering that, studying anthropology abroad can be highly advantageous.
In this article, you’ll learn about the best countries to study anthropology abroad!
Top Countries to Study Anthropology
1. United Kingdom
One of the top reasons why the United Kingdom is a favorite destination for international students is its universities. When it comes to studying anthropology in the United Kingdom, top universities such as the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge are among the best in the world. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 for Anthropology, Oxford ranks first worldwide, while Cambridge is also among the highest-ranked universities in the subject.
Another reason to choose the United Kingdom is the study duration. Many full-time bachelor’s degrees in the UK take three years to complete, although some programs take longer, and many taught master’s degrees can be completed in one year. This can help students begin their careers sooner than in countries where similar degree levels often take longer.
Finally, the United Kingdom offers international students the opportunity to explore its unique culture. From local customs to food and other things that make it stand out, you’ll never run out of things to try in this country. Outside the classroom, there are many restaurants, galleries, museums, and open markets to visit.
2. Singapore
Another country you should consider for studying anthropology is Singapore. This city-state is widely recognized for its safety and social stability. While students should budget carefully because Singapore can be expensive, the country offers a highly developed environment for international study. You can learn more about planning your budget when you study in Singapore.
The country also provides international students with exposure to various cultures. If you’re studying anthropology in Singapore, this can be a highly beneficial out-of-classroom experience. Singapore has four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. Since English is widely used in education, government, and business, international students can communicate more easily while learning about the country’s multicultural society.
Of course, Singapore is also among the top contenders for higher education, not just in Asia but around the world. Some of the top universities here are the National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University, both of which rank within the top 20 of the QS World University Rankings 2026. For anthropology specifically, the National University of Singapore is the clearer option, as it offers anthropology programs through its Department of Sociology and Anthropology.
3. Japan
Japan has a strong reputation for education and research, making it one of the best destinations to study anthropology for international students. Recent national data show that a large share of young people in Japan advance to higher education, and the country has a long record of scientific and academic achievement. With this strong academic environment, your time away from home can be well worth it.
When it comes to starting your career, Japan also offers opportunities for international students, especially for those who prepare early and build Japanese-language skills. Many Japanese companies are interested in hiring international graduates, and students who graduate in Japan may be able to use designated job-hunting residence status options if they meet the relevant conditions. Some of the universities where you can study anthropology or related fields in Japan are the University of Tokyo and Kyoto University.
Japan is located in a very active seismic region of the Pacific, where earthquakes are common. Because of this, the country has developed strong disaster-preparedness practices and strict building standards. At the same time, students can benefit from Japan’s efficient public facilities, transportation systems, and modern infrastructure.
4. Netherlands
When studying abroad, one of the last things students want to experience is not getting the education they paid for and prepared for. This is why it’s important to choose the best countries to study anthropology abroad. The Netherlands joins this list as a leading country to study anthropology because it is known for its quality education. Universities such as the University of Amsterdam, Leiden University, and Utrecht University offer anthropology or closely related cultural and social anthropology programs.
Another reason to choose the Netherlands is the availability of scholarships for international students. Living abroad can strain your budget, so scholarship opportunities can make a major difference. For example, Maastricht University offers the NL-High Potential Scholarship for eligible non-EU/EEA students applying to full-time master’s programs. The scholarship can cover tuition, living expenses, insurance, and visa-related costs, depending on the student’s program and eligibility.
Besides the practical aspect of studying abroad, it’s also important for international students to consider the learning methodologies the country offers. After all, these can impact how they learn and the quality of their academic life. In the Netherlands, many programs emphasize discussion, independent thinking, and student participation, which can make academic life more engaging for international students.
5. Argentina
Joining the list of best countries to study anthropology abroad is Argentina. The country is located in South America and is the eighth largest in the world by area. Considering this, it makes sense that international students can find a variety of lifestyle options here. Whether you enjoy nature adventures or prefer exploring what its cities can offer, you’ll never run out of things to do in Argentina.
A strong university education is also available here, with the University of Buenos Aires offering anthropology programs to students. This university ranks 84th in the QS World University Rankings 2026, confirming its strong international profile. Another public university option is the National University of Rosario, which offers a bachelor’s degree in anthropology. These institutions make Argentina a strong option for students interested in anthropology in Latin America.
FAQs: Studying Anthropology Abroad
What City is Best for Anthropology Jobs?
There is no single best city for anthropology jobs because opportunities depend on your specialization. Students interested in archaeology, cultural resource management, museums, universities, nonprofits, government, UX research, or policy work may find different cities more suitable. In the United States, the Bureau of Labor Statistics groups anthropologists and archeologists together and reports that the median annual wage for this occupation was $64,910 in May 2024, with employment projected to grow from 2024 to 2034. Instead of choosing a city based on one salary figure, students should compare local employers, internship options, graduate programs, and visa or work authorization rules.
We hope that this article on the best countries to study anthropology abroad was helpful. If you are interested in learning more, check out the Available Programs for International Students!
