Find your perfect college degree
Foreign colleges with US accreditation are becoming more and more common for many reasons. Students who attend a global university can immerse themselves in a new culture—and do so for years depending on their field of study.
International students with a particular major in mind should look at international schools that can help boost their academic goals, research, and employment prospects.
According to NAFSA, study abroad participation in the United States decreased 53% from 347,099 to 162,633 during the 2019-2020 academic year as the COVID-19 pandemic halted study abroad in March 2020.
This number represents less than 1% of all students enrolled at US colleges and universities and less than ten percent of college graduates in the US.
The rising cost of tuition at American universities is matched by the rising number of prestigious universities in other countries that charge little to no tuition.
This reality makes attending college overseas incredibly attractive. The experience is fantastic for the right student, and it will assist them in pursuing a global career.
THE LOWDOWN
Many awesome opportunities await those who would like to study abroad. Whether you are looking at undergraduate degrees or Master’s degree programs, there is something for everyone! While earning your degree, a global education is perfect for experiencing various cultures, and learning new languages, and the results offer better job opportunities in the future.
10 Foreign Colleges with US Accreditation
Accreditation is important; that’s why you must enlist yourself in a foreign school that comes with US accreditations. Accreditation encourages institutions to maintain high standards, boosting their public image and building trust.
Accreditation aids potential students and their families in placing a certain level of trust in the institution and courses. Explore our list of the ten best foreign colleges or universities that hold US accreditations.
Abu Dhabi University
Several years ago, citizens of the United Arab Emirates and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan envisioned a university that would rank among the best in the UAE and worldwide. This has been possible through the discovery and foundation of Abu Dhabi University way back in 2003.
The school is officially recognized by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges in 2016. Furthermore, their College of Business is a member of EQUIS and AACSB—rare recognition and accreditation for a non-US business school.
The ABET has internationally accredited a number of its engineering programs, and the Bachelor of Architecture has been validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). Students can complete undergraduate and postgraduate studies at the university, and all degree programs are based on American higher education.
With campuses located in Abu Dhabi, Al-Ain, and Dubai, Abu Dhabi University is the largest private university in the United Arab Emirates.
Qualifications from accredited universities give you an edge in the job market. Its extensive accreditation credentials demonstrate rigorous national and international quality standards so that you can be assured of a global credential.
American University of Paris
The American University of Paris is a private liberal arts college accredited by the US Department of Education. The American University of Pretoria was founded in 1962 and is one of the first American universities in Europe. Nearly 30 majors are offered at AUP to almost 1,100 students from 100 different countries.
You can enroll in various fields such as Economics, History, Business, Literature, etc. A variety of cultural excursions are offered by the university’s Cultural Program, including faculty-led study trips overseas and to Paris.
Being one of the few prestigious regional accreditation agencies in the US, the Middle States Commission on Higher Education has continuously accredited the American University of Paris since 1973. The Middle States Commission accredits other well-known American universities.
The Delaware Department of Education has also granted full degree grant authority to the American University of Paris. The University is a not-for-profit organization registered in the United States.
Franklin University Switzerland
Franklin University Switzerland, a private liberal arts university in Lugano, is accredited in Switzerland and the United States. Students can attain certificates in English Language Teaching, associate’s degrees, and bachelor’s degrees in a wide variety of subjects at the university.
The Academic Travel Program, which allows students to study on location for two weeks with their class, is included in Franklin students’ annual tuition. Previously, destinations for Academic Travel included diverse countries in contents like South America, Asia, Europe, and Africa.
The Middle States Association of Colleges & Schools has accredited Franklin University Switzerland in the United States. You can then pursue an international career or further study in the US or Switzerland with a genuinely global degree and valid for both countries.
Franklin’s education opens doors far beyond these two countries. However, most countries in the world offer equivalence to Franklin degrees if you want to study abroad. Periodic quality assurance audits performed by authorities in the US and Switzerland help Franklin maintain this recognition.
New York University Shanghai
New York University Shanghai received independent registration status from China’s Ministry of Education after being affiliated with New York University and East China Normal University.
There are 19 majors and a wide range of multidisciplinary minors available to university undergraduate students, with an active study abroad program. The university uses English to teach all majors and programs.
All students receive degrees from NYU Shanghai, an accredited university in the United States. Be sure to check the English language requirements of graduate schools before applying. However, you can secure the Statement of University Status as proof of accreditation if some situations require it later.
Webster University Geneva
A top-rated campus of Webster University is located in Geneva, Switzerland, situated in St. Louis, Missouri. About 500 students enrolled at the independent, nondenominational university, including nearly 300 undergraduates, almost 100 graduate students, and more than 100 students studying abroad for a semester or year.
In addition to International Relations and Media Communications, business administration and finance are standard programs offered as bachelor’s degrees at Webster University Geneva. Similarly, students drawn to Switzerland can earn certificates in International Human Rights and Refugee Studies as a place to study.
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has accredited Webster University in its entirety. Located in the north-central region of the United States, the HLC is an accrediting agency of the highest level.
This institutional accreditation has been maintained since 1925 at all locations where Webster University offers programs worldwide. Therefore, the same degree is awarded at Webster University Geneva in the United States.
Bard College Berlin
Bard College Berlin is a private non-profit liberal arts college accredited by the US and Germany that awards dual degrees in the US and Germany. Bard College Berlin currently enrolls about 260 full-time students. Some of the major programs they’re taking include Economics, Humanities, Social Thought, and Politics.
Following sec. 123, for, the Berlin Senate Department for Education, Youth, and Science recognized the college first. The accreditation agency ACQUIN granted program accreditation to the BA in Humanities, the Arts, and Social Thought during the Fall 2013 semester. Later on, the BA in Economics, Politics, and Social Thought accreditation was received in 2015.
Bard College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (USA). The New York State Board of Education grants degrees to students who complete the BA program in Humanities, Art and Social Thought or Economics, Political Science, and Social Thought at Bard College Berlin.
Anglo-American University
Located in Prague, English-language Anglo-American University celebrated its 30th anniversary recently. There are various Bachelor of Arts programs offered at the private university in English, and a few examples are International Relations, Political Science, Jewish Studies, and Business Administration. There are also some master’s and graduate degree programs.
AAU’s accreditation, membership, and partnerships enable you to graduate from the University with a globally recognized degree that will encourage you to pursue a career overseas or further your education at some of the world’s top universities.
As the first university in Europe to receive accreditation from the American agency recognized by the US Department of Education, AAU is one of the few universities worldwide to receive the prestigious WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) accreditation.
The accreditation validates AAU’s high level of education and provides students with access to a vast global market since an American degree has international recognition.
American College Dublin
Irish American University is affiliated with American College Dublin, a private liberal arts college. An accredited institution of higher learning in Merrion Square, American College Dublin is housed in Georgian-era properties (one of which was Oscar Wilde’s childhood home).
Currently, they’re offering eight bachelor’s degree programs, including Creative Writing, International Business, and Hospitality Management.
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) accredits American College Dublin, a constituent college of Irish American University. MSCHE accreditation demonstrates trust in the mission and goals, the performance, and the institution’s resources.
Regulatory organizations accredit institutions to assure other educational institutions and the public that they have been evaluated, meet or exceed established standards, and achieve their own goals.
John Cabot University
John Cabot University is one of the largest private universities in Rome. Most of the university’s 1,000 students study abroad, while the other half pursue U.S.-accredited degrees in Business Administration, International Affairs, and Art History – the university’s three strongest majors. The university follows an American educational system, but the culture is distinctly European.
Accreditation for John Cabot University comes from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. A voluntary, non-governmental membership organization dedicated to excellence and improvement in education through peer evaluation and accreditation, the Middle State Commission on Higher Education is a voluntary, non-governmental organization.
The Delaware Department of Education licenses John Cabot University to award degrees as a not-for-profit organization. According to the Department of Education in the US, John Cabot University meets the new definition of a foreign institution. They can participate in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Student Loan Program and receive Title IV funds.
Paris College of Art
Paris, France, is the world’s art capital and a dream come true for artistically inclined students. Established in 1981, the Paris College of Art offers degrees in Photography, Fine Arts, Communication Design, Fashion Design, Interior Design, Design Management, and other art-related programs accredited by the American Council on Education. A Master of Arts degree can also be taken.
The college focuses on providing the highest possible art and design education standards. In doing so, it utilizes the American pedagogical paradigm while incorporating the French and European cultures. Their world-renowned alumni are Tom Ford, Ryan Mendoza, Georgia Hardinge, and Erin Fetherston.
Accreditation by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) is provided by the Paris College of Art. The US National Accrediting Agency for Art and Design and related disciplines is NASAD, which represents approximately 322 schools of art and design.
The National Association of Schools of Art and Design is primarily responsible for accrediting art and design education programs, including establishing curricular standards and guidelines for specific degrees and credentials.
Moreover, the Association offers counsel and assistance to institutions and programs that are newly established and in development. As the agency in charge of accrediting all art and design curricula within the United States, NASAD is recognized as the authority by the Department of Education.
The New England Commission of Higher Education has granted Paris College of Art candidate status for accreditation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I consider studying abroad?
USA Study Abroad mentions that you can become a global citizen by studying abroad, gaining valuable knowledge, and preparing to face future challenges. Here are other reasons you need to consider pursuing this pathway carefully.
To immerse in different cultures
Embracing a new culture means experiencing new things sometimes daily. Nothing gives you more opportunities and cultural exposure than studying overseas. You will probably encounter different situations and ways of doing things.
You may discover unfamiliar behavior and customs. But the potential rewards are tremendous for those willing to give it a try. After all, being culturally diverse allows you to keep an open mind, which is necessary in the corporate world.
To learn international languages
You’ll be able to improve your language skills by studying abroad. Studying a language in class is one thing, but putting it into practice is another.
When you live in a foreign place, you can set the second language to good use to communicate with the local people.
Since you’re practicing the language regularly, you’re likely to learn it faster. The conversational language will also enable you to speak like a local even if you do not study it in class.
Some terms and slang will be more familiar to you, allowing you to sound more natural than learning by the books.
When working at multinational or global organizations, fluency in a second language is often advantageous (if not mandatory).
Your resume can stand out to employers if you have strong foreign language skills and experience that demonstrates those skills. For instance, you might be interested in entering the field of international business or global companies.
Foreign language skills are essential to many careers in international relations and diplomacy. Language proficiency and experience aren’t required to become a foreign service officer. Still, they are a crucial part of a candidate’s competitiveness for becoming a diplomat, ambassador, or other position at the United Nations.
To develop confidence
For international students, one of the most obvious reasons to try studying overseas is to be more confident with yourself. Taking part in another culture allows you to develop valuable life skills such as independence and adaptability, contributing to personal growth. These skills can boost your confidence in both your personal and professional life.
Even though studying abroad can be challenging, you can grow by overcoming those challenges. Your communication skills are enhanced as you learn a new language–adding to your self-confidence as you learn to thrive in new, unexpected circumstances.
You’ll gain unique and unusual experiences, making you learn and be more mature so that when such issues recur, you’ll already know how to tackle them.
There’s no better way to develop cultural competencies than this. For example, learning to be sensitive to other cultures, adjusting to new circumstances, and tolerating ambiguity will help you in your work. Self-reliance and resilience can be sharpened by quickly adapting to a new environment.
Will studying abroad help my career?
Studying abroad can earn you a competitive edge in the workplace and help launch your career. The experience will allow you to demonstrate to current employers that you are resourceful, flexible, and willing to learn in a different environment. Students with international experience are highly sought after by many employers.
Study abroad experience is considered necessary by 64 percent of employers, as mentioned in a survey conducted by Erasmus Student Network. On the other hand, 92 percent of employers expect their new employees to have transferable skills, such as adaptability to new situations.
Students who study abroad offer more excellent value to their employers than those who do not. They believe that students who have gained global experiences are more flexible, adaptive, and advantageous to its growth and operations. Studying abroad can help you boost your resume and demonstrate that you possess the skills you need to succeed.
Is studying abroad expensive?
While international students enjoy living in another country, living costs can vary greatly, depending on the location. Renowned universities abroad can be costly tuition-wise, while others may be more affordable than those in the US.
When considering costs, don’t forget to factor in your costs for accommodations, meals, transportation, and other miscellaneous school fees.
Which country should I consider?
Have you thought about which country you would like to study in? Obviously, your intended school may depend on what your major is; however, if you are lucky enough to take your pick, which factors should you think about first?
Choosing to study abroad can be overwhelming for international students. Perhaps considering these points will help you make an informed decision:
- What will your budget allow?
- Are you fluent in the foreign language in the country in which you will be living? And, if not… Are you willing to learn it?
- Will your school provide the necessary education for your intended career goal?
- Will the living arrangements be adequate and safe?
- Are there extracurricular activities available for you to enjoy in your spare time?
- Will there be sufficient support services for US students? Both on-campus and off?
Key Takeaway
Students interested in studying in a foreign country have much to think about. Are you prepared to leave your hometown or city for a while? To broaden your horizons? Or, learn and experience a new culture?
Attending a foreign college with US accreditation is a great opportunity that you should consider! International students often view their time abroad as the highlight of their college educational experience.
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