Master's Degree Abroad

Studying for a Master's degree abroad is an opportunity not only to deepen your knowledge in a professional field but also to gain valuable international experience and open up new career prospects.

Features of Master's

A master’s degree is the next level of education after a bachelor’s degree, aimed at in-depth study of a chosen specialty and the development of research skills. Master’s degree systems vary from country to country, but generally focus on in-depth preparation for professional work.

Features of Master's programs in the USA, Europe, and Asia:
USA

In the US, the system is characterized by flexibility in the choice of specializations and the availability of a large number of universities and programs. Master’s degrees can be research-based (thesis-based) or professionally oriented (course-based).
Europe

The European system varies. In some countries (e.g., the UK), master’s degrees last one year, while in others (e.g., Germany) they last two years. Emphasis may be placed on both research and practical skills.
Asia

Master’s degrees in Asia typically last 1–2 years, focus on research and innovation, and are often taught in English. China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and India lead the way, offering high-quality education and international programs.

The main differences between studying for a Master’s degree abroad and the educational systems of universities in the CIS countries are higher specialization, an international student and faculty composition, an emphasis on independent work and critical thinking, and innovative teaching and assessment methods.

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Training formats


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Master’s programs can be completed either full-time or remotely. A blended learning format is also available, which is particularly popular among international students.

Full-time education Плюсик

Requires attendance at the university, usually involves full-time study. This is not always convenient, but full-time study allows for active communication with professors and other students.

Distance learning Плюсик

Allows you to study completely remotely. Online Master’s degree abroad for free is the most attractive option, but less common and requires high self-discipline and organization.

Hybrid learning Плюсик

Combines features of full-time and distance learning. The best option for those who want to maintain flexibility but still have the opportunity to communicate with teachers and students in person.

The choice of the format of study depends on your priorities: do you want full immersion in the university environment, or do you prefer to combine studies with other activities and need flexibility.

Popular majors

Universities abroad offer master’s degree programs in such areas as IT, business administration (MBA), engineering, medicine, and humanities. Specialties in the field of artificial intelligence, big data, “green” technologies, biomedicine, and cybersecurity are promising for the international market.

What do international students choose most often?
Business and Management

Study of organizational management, strategies, marketing, finance. Popular in the USA, Great Britain, Singapore.

Economy and finance

Analysis of markets, financial systems, macro- and microeconomics. In demand in the EU, USA, China.

Information Technology (IT)

Includes programming, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data analysis. Developed in South Korea, USA, India.

Engineering

Wide range: electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, construction, robotics. Popular in Germany, Japan, China.

International Relations and Political Science

Study of global politics, diplomacy, human rights. In demand in Great Britain, Switzerland, France.

Biotechnology and biomedicine

Development of medical and biological technologies. Popular in the USA, Singapore, and the Netherlands.

Psychology

Study of human behavior and mental health. In demand in Canada, Australia, Great Britain.

Jurisprudence (Law)

International, corporate, criminal law. Often requires local adaptation for practice. Prestigious schools are in the UK, USA.

Design and architecture

Architectural design, graphic and industrial design. Strong schools in Italy, the Netherlands, Japan.

Medicine and Healthcare

Doctors, nurses, public health. Long training and licensing. Popular in Eastern Europe, USA.

Tourism and hotel business

Tourism, hotel, event management. Leaders are Switzerland, France, Spain.

The choice of specialty depends on the interests and career goals of the student. Foreign programs often include internships and international experience, helping graduates build a successful career in any country.

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Cost and duration of training

In most universities in the US and Europe, master’s programs last from 1 to 2 years. The duration depends on the specialty and the intensity of the educational process. Thus, programs in the natural sciences, engineering and business are designed for 2 years, in the field of law or art – about a year.

The cost of studying in the USA for a master’s degree costs from $20,000 to $70,000. In European countries, the cost is lower. For example, in public universities in Germany there are many free master’s programs, students only pay administrative fees from €200 to €700 per year. In the UK, the Netherlands and Scandinavian countries, the cost of tuition varies from €10,000 to €25,000 per year.

Duration:
USA — 1 to 2 years
Europe — 1-2 years

Cost
USA — $20,000 to $70,000
Europe — €200

SelfStartGlobal helps students apply for master’s programs at US and European universities with scholarships and save up to 100% on tuition. Thousands of students have already studied abroad with us, and the total scholarship awards have reached over $25 million.

How to apply for a master's degree abroad

Admission to a master’s degree in most universities in Europe and the USA has a standard algorithm. Differences in details may depend on the program and university.

Basic requirements:
Diploma of Higher Education

Having a higher education diploma or its equivalent. It is desirable that the specialty in the bachelor’s degree corresponds to the direction of the master’s degree or is related, but even if the specialty does not match, there is a chance to enter!
TOEFL or IELTS certificate

For English-language programs, a TOEFL or IELTS certificate is required. In Europe, knowledge of other languages, such as German, French or Spanish, may be required, which are confirmed by appropriate certificates.
Letters of recommendation

Universities typically request 2-3 recommendations from faculty or employers to confirm the candidate’s academic and professional achievements.
Motivation letter

One of the most important documents. In it, the student must explain why he or she chooses this program, what goals he or she pursues, and how studying at a specific university on a specific program will help achieve these goals.
Resume (CV)

This is a document that lists academic and professional achievements, work experience, participation in volunteer projects, and other data that is important for admission. In it, the student shows why he or she is better than other candidates.
Test results

Exams such as the GRE or GMAT will assess the analytical and mathematical abilities of the student. The list of required exams may vary depending on the country, university and field of study.
Portfolio

Especially for programs in the fields of art, design, architecture, media and related disciplines, the portfolio allows you to assess the creativity, experience and level of professionalism of the candidate.

Candidates for studying abroad in a Master’s program are considered comprehensively, and if a student “falls short” in some areas, his or her rating can be increased by work experience, achievements in the chosen field, or a well-built Personal Brand.

Scholarships and grants

Many people are looking for ways to apply for a master’s degree abroad with a scholarship and save money. Obtaining funding is difficult, and opportunities vary greatly depending on the country, university, major, and student’s field of study.

Merit-based scholarships

Awarded based on academic achievement, test results (GRE, GMAT, TOEFL/IELTS) and other indicators.
Need-based scholarships

Awarded to students with financial need. To qualify, you’ll need to provide documentation of your financial status.
Scholarships based on specialty

Many scholarships are available to students pursuing specific majors (e.g. STEM, humanities).
University scholarships

Universities often provide their own scholarships for international students.
Scholarships from private organizations

Private organizations, foundations, and companies can offer students who meet certain criteria a tuition reduction of up to 100%.
Government scholarships

The governments of many countries provide scholarships to their citizens to study abroad and may also provide scholarships to international students.
Where to look for scholarships
University websites

Most universities have separate pages on their websites dedicated to financial aid and scholarships for international students.

National agencies

Each country (USA, UK, Germany, France, etc.) has a national agency that provides information about scholarship programs. For example, in the US, this might be the IIE (Institute of International Education).

Scholarship search sites

There are websites that aggregate scholarship information, such as Scholarship America, Fastweb (US), and MastersPortal (global). However, be careful and verify the information.

Prospects after training

A degree from a prestigious foreign university, complemented by relevant experience, significantly increases competitiveness in the global labor market. Studying abroad is highly valued by employers as it demonstrates adaptability, the ability to work in an international environment, and excellent communication skills.

After completing a master’s degree abroad, in addition to employment, other opportunities open up:

  • Continuing education, PhD.
  • Internships at leading companies to gain practical experience.
  • Launching your own business, using the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired.
  • Bringing new knowledge and experience to advance your career in your home country.

A master’s degree abroad is not only a high-quality education but also a launching pad for significant career and personal achievements. The knowledge gained, international experience, and new professional connections open up limitless opportunities for graduates.

Immigration through education

The ability to remain in the country after completing your studies depends on the immigration laws of the individual country. Some countries offer special visa programs for university graduates, but competition for these visas can be intense.

Post-study and work visas
USA 🇺🇸

After completing their studies, many graduates receive OPT (Optional Practical Training)—permission to work in their field. After OPT, they can apply for an H-1B visa, but this requires sponsorship from an employer. Graduates of American universities also have a better chance of obtaining a green card.
Europe 🇪🇺

Some EU countries offer post-study visas, which allow graduates to search for work for a specified period of time. Once a graduate finds a job, they can apply for a work visa. The process for obtaining permanent residence varies by country, but typically requires several years of residence and work in the country.
Asia 🌏

Immigration to Asia through education is possible and is becoming increasingly popular. University graduates in Singapore, Japan, South Korea, and China can stay and work in their field with a work visa. After several years of official employment, permanent residency becomes possible.

Studying abroad alone doesn’t guarantee permanent residency, but it significantly improves your chances. That’s why many see studying abroad as a bridge to moving to their dream country.

FAQ

What documents and exams are required to apply for a Master's degree abroad? Плюсик

The required documents and exams depend on the university and program. Typically, these include a bachelor’s degree, letters of recommendation, a motivation letter, language test results, and (in some cases) the GRE or GMAT.

How to get a scholarship for study? Плюсик

You need to look for scholarships that match your major and academic achievements, and prepare your application carefully. More details are described above in the “Scholarships and Grants” section.

What are the job prospects after completing a Master's degree abroad? Плюсик

Master’s degree graduates have high employment chances in any country, as degrees from European and American universities are valued worldwide. Job opportunities exist both in academia and in other fields.

Is it possible to stay in the country after completing your studies? Плюсик

There is an opportunity to stay in the country after completing your studies, but the complexity of immigration depends on the migration policy of a particular country and the availability of relevant documents (work visa, job search visa, etc.).

What specialties are most in demand for immigration? Плюсик

Specialties in IT, engineering, medicine and STEM fields are generally in highest demand.

 

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Popular universities

Paduana


University

Italy
Bachelor's degree: from €2,000 to €4,500 per yearMaster's degree: from 3,000€ to 6,000€ per yearDoctoral studies: from 1,500 to 3,000 € per year
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Maastricht University
Netherlands
Bachelor's degree: from €9,000 to €15,000 per yearMaster's degree: from €10,000 to €18,000 per yearDoctorate: free or about €2,500 per year
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University of Florida
USA
Bachelor's degree: from $55,000 per yearMaster's degree: $15,000 - $40,000 per yearDoctoral studies: $10,000-$30,000 per year
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Johns Hopkins University
USA
Bachelor's degree: $63,340 per yearMaster's degree: $65,956 per yearDoctoral studies: about $65,000 per year
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Princeton University
USA
Bachelor's degree: about $60,000 per yearMaster's degree: average $58,000 per yearDoctoral studies: free*
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Student Reviews

КамиллаЕвропаEnrolled in one of the best applied arts schools in France - LISAA. Bachelor's degree, graphic design.
Review by Camilla
КсенияUSAI entered the USA with full funding, majoring in applied mathematics. The annual tuition will be only $81!
Feedback from Ksenia
РусланUAEAdmission to Business and Management at NYU ABU DHABI with a $217,000 scholarship!
Review by Ruslan
ЭлинаUSAAdmission to the USA with 100% scholarship after 2 unsuccessful independent attempts!
Elina's review
КсенияGermanyShe entered Macromedia University for a bachelor's degree in acting.
Feedback from Ksenia
АнастасияUSAI entered the USA for international relations with a scholarship. The secret is in the Personal Brand!
Review by Anastasia
АнастасияUSAAdmission to the USA with a 100% scholarship! One of the top universities, majoring in international relations.
Anastasia's review
ЛеонидUSAAdmission to the USA for a master's degree in theater and music with a scholarship of $170,000.
Review by Leonid

Countries

Portugal
Portugal combines a rich history, picturesque landscapes, and a high standard of living, making it increasingly popular among international students. Local universities offer high-quality and affordable education, and close cooperation with the UK opens up opportunities for dual degrees. Studying in Portugal offers European standards at a reasonable cost and a comfortable environment for living and studying.
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