Canterbury, a historic UK city, offers an unforgettable study-abroad experience for international students. Its distinguished academic institutions, rich cultural heritage, inviting community and vibrant student life make it an ideal location for prospective learners worldwide. This guide outlines the top 10 reasons you should consider Canterbury for your studies abroad. We’ll explore each point in detail with relevant statistics and supporting facts to help you gain insight into this remarkable city’s unique blend of academia, culture, and lifestyle.
Canterbury houses two esteemed universities:
The University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University are both distinguished for their academic superiority and groundbreaking research contributions in various fields. University of Kent’s research intensity ranks it among the UK’s top 20 universities (Research Excellence Framework 2014), while Canterbury Christ Church University offers robust programs in education, health, and social care. Together, they host more than 6,200 international students from over 150 countries worldwide (University of Kent & Canterbury Christ Church University sources).
- The University of Kent has more than 150 nationalities represented among its 4,500 international students. (Source: University of Kent)
- Canterbury Christ Church University hosts more than 1,700 students from all over the world. This data comes directly from Canterbury Christ Church University.
Rich Cultural Heritage:
Canterbury’s cultural heritage is rich, thanks to its iconic cathedral. The Canterbury Cathedral has stood for over 1,400 years and draws in visitors from every corner of the world who come to marvel at its stunning architecture and historical significance. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cathedral stands tall as an impressive monument of our past and a beacon of hope for generations to come.
Vibrant Student Life:
Canterbury teems with life, brimming with diverse and engaging student communities. Across backgrounds and cultures, there are countless opportunities for students to participate in groups, sports activities, and particularly noteworthy initiatives created by fellow students’ interests. At the city’s annual Canterbury Festival – spanning two indulgent weeks of culture, star-studded entertainment and local talent – enthusiasts can bask in a celebration quite unlike the rest!
Canterbury hosts an annual festival that lasts two weeks and celebrates arts, culture, and entertainment. It displays performances by both local and international artists.
Safe and Welcoming Environment:
Canterbury’s safety and welcoming environment are well-regarded, earning it a top spot for international students looking to study abroad. This charming city boasts a low crime rate, instilling peace of mind among its residents while creating an inclusive community that values acceptance and collaboration, traits that students find comforting and supportive in their pursuit of academic excellence.
Cultural and Recreational Activities:
Canterbury offers a wide range of cultural and recreational activities that international students can enjoy. From the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge, where you can explore art, history, and science exhibitions, to the city’s beautiful parks and gardens providing serene retreats for outdoor activities or relaxation time. Canterbury is bursting with entertainment opportunities!
Convenient Location:
Canterbury’s location in southeastern England offers easy access to major cities and attractions. Public transportation is well-established, with direct trains to London taking less than an hour. It means international students can easily explore the cultural opportunities and career prospects of the bustling capital city.
Quality Accommodation Options:
Canterbury caters to the diverse accommodation needs of international students. Options range from on-campus housing provided by universities, which promotes campus involvement and community among peers, to private accommodations, shared houses, and homestays that offer various budget-friendly preferences for the students.
Supportive Student Services:
Canterbury’s universities prioritize the success and well-being of their international students by providing comprehensive support services. Services include academic guidance, career counseling, mental health support, and cultural adaptation assistance from international student advisors skilled in visa-related matters. This commitment ensures that international students receive the necessary help throughout their academic journey while studying at Canterbury’s universities.
International Student Scholarships:
Canterbury’s universities have a multitude of scholarships and financial aid exclusively designed for international students. These offerings are intended to help ease the financial burden, allowing students to pursue higher education at a prestigious academic institution. A variety of scholarships based on achievements such as academic merit, leadership potential, and other criteria exist for eligible applicants.
Diverse Study Programs and Research Opportunities:
Canterbury’s universities provide a vast selection of study programs and research opportunities across various fields, catering to the academic aspirations and career objectives of international students. The course catalog ranges from literature and history to science and engineering. The course catalog boasts diverse offerings that span multiple disciplines. Furthermore, these institutions prioritize research, fostering an environment where students can participate in innovative projects at the forefront of their respective fields.
Conclusion:
Canterbury is a standout city for international students due to its academic excellence, rich cultural heritage, vibrant student life, convenient location, and quality accommodation options. The city’s prestigious universities offer diverse study programs, and their supportive environment makes for fulfilling and rewarding educational experiences. In Canterbury, international students can enjoy a multicultural atmosphere with peers from various nationalities that creates captivating memories that will last a lifetime. Statistics indicate the significant number of international students who call Canterbury home. By choosing Canterbury as their destination to pursue studies, they have an opportunity to immerse themselves in history, education, and community as no other place can provide.
