The Top 10 Study Abroad Programs for 2012

Want to study abroad on one of the Top 10 Programs from 2012?  Look no further than this year’s Abroad101 Study Abroad Rankings, presented by STA Travel!

#1 CEA: AIX-EN-PROVENCE

Taking the top spot overall is CEA in Aix-en-Provence. Aix may be the most beautiful town in France, and CEA’s program combines that beauty with a rigorous, academically focused experience that leaves alumni in awe.

“I had the most amazing experience with my program decision and could not imagine a better place to study abroad.” Caitlin C – University of Tennessee

#2 SANT’ANNA INSTITUTE – SORRENTO LINGUE

The Sant’Anna Institute’s program in Sorrento, a majestic Italian village, is known for its small class sizes, intimate setting, and balanced approach to learning both in and out of the classroom, all the while surrounded by some of history’s greatest sites.

 “A great, unique location that made people studying in Florence jealous.” Benjamin P – SUNY – College of Technology at Alfred
#3 IES ABROAD: BEIJING FOREIGN STUDIES UNIVERSITY
China is fast becoming a hotspot for study abroad, and IES Beijing is the highest ranked program in Asia.  Whether focusing on contemporary Chinese issues or intensive Mandarin, IES places students in the heart of Beijing in a challenging program.
“It completely changed my perspective on China and my future career… I discovered my interest in public health through the research I conducted at IES, and am pursuing a research grant to go back to China…” Allison K – Trinity University
#4 THE EDUCATION ABROAD NETWORK: SYDNEY – UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES & UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) in Sydney leads the way in Australia, with students raving about the experiences at both the University of New South Wales and the U. of Sydney. This program immerses students in the local university, while introducing them to life in Australia through a unique orientation that rivals the Amazing Race!

 “This was one of the most worthwhile things I have ever done. I learned so much about myself… and was exposed to a completely new culture.” Kyle G – The University of Texas at Austin

 

#5 UNIVERSITY OF INDIANAPOLIS: ODYSSEY IN ATHENS

By the Beard of Zeus! U-Indy’s branch campus in Athens, a top 10 winner in last year’s rankings, is approaching 23 years of excellence. With full university immersion and great core classes all just a stone’s throw from the Parthenon, this program definitely merits consideration.

 “The location, the food, the culture; this study abroad program was unreal. It’s amazing how much you learn about yourself and others by experiencing something like this… Do it! You’ll see.” Katie S – UMass – Amherst

 

#6 THE EDUCATION ABROAD NETWORK: GOLD COAST – BOND UNIVERSITY

For those interested in Australia beyond the capital, TEAN Gold Coast is an excellent option. Academically housed at Bond and Griffith University, this program is also situated just a few miles from some of the best surfing on Earth!

 “Not having traveled much prior to studying abroad, the experience gave me the chance to meet such amazing people and see how many opportunities there are in the world outside of my home area.” Amanada A – University of New Hampshire

#7 SEMESTER AT SEA

Can’t decide on one country? How about 12! Semester at Sea, run by the prestigious University of Virginia, has taken the idea of education across borders. Students circumnavigate the globe and gain local perspectives on issues such as foreign policy, ecology, and public health.

 “Semester at sea challenged my worldview by exposing me, first hand, to the realities of the world. It changed my future…” Nick P – Western Washington University

 

#8 AIFS: RICHMOND IN FLORENCE

There is a reason Florence is one of the top destinations for American students. AIFS students are taking university courses in the birthplace of the Renaissance, surrounded by architectural masterpieces in one of Italy’s most charming cities.

 “Studying abroad required me to be an independent adult… Traveling to each new place… has inspired me to pursue international law in order to travel more…” Elizabeth O – Manhattan College

#9 AIFS: UNIVERSITY OF SALAMANCA

Founded over 800 years ago, the University of Salamanca is the center of this medieval university town (and a UNESCO heritage site). This AIFS program offers top-notch academics and immersion in Spanish life in an unrivaled setting.

 “AIFS in Salamanca was absolutely wonderful. It opened my eyes to another side of the world.” Amanda S – Wright State University

 

#10 SOL EDUCATION ABROAD: LATIN UNIVERSITY OF COSTA RICA

Sol in Heredia places students in an optimal learning environment. Also ranked in the top language category, this program immerses students in a small city filled with local students, making it easy for students to reach their ultimate language potential.

 “Studying abroad allowed me to gain a deeper appreciation for my education…I would not go through any other program.” Adele W – Oklahoma State University

 

To view all of the 2012 Study Abroad Rankings and to read program reviews, visit Abroad101!

 

 

 


 

 

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