If you are a student from Myanmar and ready to embark on an exciting adventure studying abroad, just know that there are many destinations to choose from.
While picking the perfect study abroad destination as a Burmese student may seem daunting, the rewards are well worth it. You will return home with a broader perspective, improved English abilities, helpful life skills, and amazing memories that will last forever. The opportunity to immerse yourself in another culture and way of living is a chance for growth you can’t get in any classroom.
If you are looking for the best country to study abroad as a Burmese student, we have narrowed the list below to the 5 best countries for Burmese students to study abroad. From world-class universities to stunning natural scenery and cuisine you’ll love, these countries have everything you’re looking for in a study abroad experience.
Top Countries to Study for Burmese Students
1. United Kingdom
The UK is a top choice for Burmese students looking to study abroad and for good reason. Not only are there world-class universities like the University of Oxford or the University of Cambridge, but many offer generous scholarships and affordable tuition, especially at the undergraduate level.
For starters, UK universities like the University of Warwick, the University College London, and the University of Glasgow offer scholarships specifically for students from Burma. These cover a large portion of tuition and living costs. The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK government, provides full funding for a one-year master’s degree.
Beyond quality education and scholarships, tuition fees in the UK are lower when compared to countries like the USA or Australia. The UK also has a lower cost of living than other English-speaking destinations. Rent, transportation, and healthcare are all very affordable, especially outside of London. Better yet, UK student visas allow you to work up to 20 hours a week during the semester and full-time during breaks.
Additionally, Burmese students can benefit from the various cultural experience programs offered by UK universities to help them settle in their new location.
2. Singapore
Singapore is a global business hub, home to many Fortune 500 company headquarters. You’ll learn from world-class professors and industry experts. International students from Myanmar can benefit from prestigious programs like NUS Business School’s Bachelor of Business Administration.
A degree from a prestigious Singapore institution like the National University of Singapore or Nanyang Technical University carries significant weight with employers across Asia and beyond. The opportunities for networking, internships, and future job prospects are unparalleled.
Although Singapore has a high cost of living compared to Myanmar, student expenses are relatively affordable. For example, tuition at top schools like the National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technical University, and SMU ranges from $8,000 to $30,000 per year.
Additionally, Singapore and Myanmar enjoy bilateral relations making Singapore a friendly destination for Burmese students. Singapore is among the top trading partners and investors in Myanmar and has continually supported the development of human resources in Myanmar through the Singapore-Myanmar Technical Cooperation Programme.
3. Australia
Australia is another great country to study for Burmese students. It offers some valuable opportunities for work experience. As a student, you can work up to 20 hours a week during the semester and unlimited hours during breaks. This is a great chance to gain experience in your field of study and build your resume. Many international students find part-time work as tutors, retail assistants, or hospitality staff.
Not to forget that Australia has some of the best global-ranking universities like the University of Melbourne, the University of Sydney, and the Australian National University. Burmese students can also benefit from the post-graduation work extension program allowing them to live and work anywhere in Australia, as long as the jobs are in demand.
Gaining work experience in Australia provides so many benefits. You’ll improve your English, gain valuable skills that translate across borders, establish business networks, and get a feel for workplace culture in your field. Most importantly, that coveted Aussie work experience on your resume will make you a standout job candidate when you return home.
4. United States of America
The United States is another top destination for Burmese students looking to study abroad. The US is known to have some of the world’s best colleges and universities. Schools like Harvard University, Stanford University, MIT, and Yale University are ranked at the top globally. Studying at one of these prestigious schools can open up more career opportunities.
Additionally, the United States is at the forefront of technological and scientific innovations, making it a great destination for studies and research. Big corporations like Facebook, Microsoft, Apple, and Amazon are all founded in the United States. Burmese students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in this technological culture and take advantage of various learning and career development opportunities at their disposal.
The chance to immerse yourself in American culture, build a valuable network, and gain knowledge that can drive innovation are just a few of the many benefits of studying in the United States. For ambitious Burmese students, the opportunities for growth and success are endless. Remember that you can earn your degree in the United States with the help of scholarships like The Fulbright Foreign Student Program and the USABCI Myanmar Scholarship Fund.
5. Japan
Japan is an ideal place for Burmese students to study abroad. Whether you are enrolled at top Japanese universities like the University of Tokyo, Nagoya University, or Kyoto University, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from some of the best professors and immerse yourself in the rich Japanese culture.
Generally, Japan is considered safe for international students and enjoys an extensive world-class transport system. Burmese students will have no problems whatsoever commuting around the different cities in Japan.
Additionally, the cost of living in Japan is relatively affordable compared to other developed nations. Rent, food, and public transit are all very reasonable, especially if you live outside Tokyo. Plus, you’ll find various scholarship opportunities like the Japanese Government Scholarships to help pay for your studies. Burmese students can opt for popular courses like engineering or business which provide a quick path to building a thriving career.
FAQS About Studying Abroad for Burmese Students
What Factors Should Burmese Students Consider When Choosing a Study Abroad Destination?
Choosing a study destination that meets your needs will lead to a rich and meaningful study-abroad experience. You can consider factors like:
Cost of Living: Countries with a lower cost of living will allow your money to go further. The living expenses in these places are relatively cheap compared to other destinations so you can focus your funds on your studies rather than high rent and food costs.
Cultural Familiarity: Choosing a country with a culture similar to your own will help minimize culture shock. You’ll have an easier time adjusting to the lifestyle and social norms. The cuisine, language, and pace of life will feel familiar and comforting.
Scholarship Availability: Available scholarships play a significant role in selecting a study-abroad destination for many Burmese students. Do some research on the scholarships offered and see which programs you may be eligible for based on your field of study and merits.
Safety and Political Stability: Your safety and security should be a top priority when choosing where to study abroad. Select a country with a stable political environment and low crime rates. Destinations like Singapore and Japan have high safety rankings and stable governments. You’ll feel more at ease studying in a place where you feel secure and supported.
Any of the above study-abroad destinations would provide a fantastic experience for Burmese students, allowing them to immerse in a new culture, learn or perfect a foreign language, and earn a degree that will open up more career opportunities when they head back home.
We hope this article has been helpful. Make sure to also check out our Scholarships Page for different information on scholarships and universities across the globe!
