Top 10 Safest Countries for Women to Study Abroad
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The safest countries in the world for women are based on multiple factors and rankings. International applicants applying for universities abroad, especially women, are usually sceptical about their safety and security. One solution is to find the safest countries for women to study abroad by checking out the country reviews, laws and rankings based on Global Peace rankings.
A common conclusion can be drawn by female students willing to study abroad in the safest countries by considering a couple of factors. The security of female students is very important for mental and emotional health, thus, they should always vouch for those countries where they are treated right. This article will highlight the safest countries for women to study abroad.
What is the Global Peace Index (GPI)?
GPI is an index measuring the peacefulness of a given country based on 23 qualitative and quantitative measures. These include terrorism, crime, UN peacekeeping funding, political funding, army and police personnel, heavy weaponry, and other areas. Apart from these, there are three domains also of peacefulness which are considered and they are as follows:
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- Ongoing domestic and international conflict
- Societal safety and security
- Militarisation
How is GPI important for the safety of women studying abroad?
The Global Peace Index is an important factor to be considered by women aiming to study abroad because of the following reasons:
- To understand if violence is a prominent factor in the country of study abroad.
- The measures available for women’s safety are based on the availability of help promptly.
- If the environment is overall safe for studying and living abroad.
- Also if the country has a good safety and security system and strict laws it can help women sustain in a peaceful environment.
Now let us look at the top 10 ranking universities based on the Global Peace Index for the year 2023 and discuss them in detail.
Top 10 Safest Countries for Women as per GPI 2024
The following is a list of the top 10 safest countries in the world based on GPI for women to study abroad are as follows.
Iceland - #1 (GPI 2024)
Ranked #1 based on GPI, Iceland is the safest country for women to study abroad. Iceland is known for its gender equality law which was passed in the year 2000 and was again revamped in the year 2008. Thus, this is one major reason why Iceland is one of the safest countries for women to study abroad. Thus, Iceland has maintained its #1 position for the past two years now.
Ireland - #2 (GPI 2024)
Since Ireland is one of the most beautiful places to visit for tourism and master's courses at the University of Dublin, female students are set to find a safe haven. Each year thousands of female students are admitted to study across universities in Ireland, thus, it can be concluded that since Ireland ranks #2 based on GPI, it is safe for women students to study and live in Ireland.
Austria - #3 (GPI 2024)
One of the top 5 ranking countries as per GPI rankings of 2024, Austria is known for its scenic beauty and tourism. Along with this, there are top-ranking universities like the University of Vienna where thousands of female students are admitted to study. Since Austria has ranked #3 as per GPI 2024 rankings, it can be concluded that it is a safe country for women to study and live in.
New Zealand - #4 (GPI 2024)
Why is New Zealand one of the best countries in the world for women it ranks #4 based on the Global Peace Index. Secondly, The New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990 states that no individual can be discriminated against based on gender. On average, over 2.10 lakh female students enrol across New Zealand universities annually. Thus, it can be concluded that New Zealand is one of the safest countries for women to study abroad.
Singapore - #5 (GPI 2024)
In a country like Singapore, there are quite stringent rules and laws which make it a safe country for study for women. As per the Global Peace Index, Singapore ranks at #5 which points to the fact that international students who are women are equally comfortable applying for admissions across Singaporean universities. Thus, Singapore is one of the best countries for women to study based on its safety and security laws.
Switzerland - #6 (GPI 2024)
Switzerland also accounts for lower crime rates, stringent rules and good safety measures which makes it a peaceful country. This is why, Switzerland ranks #6 on the Global Peace Index rankings of 2024 from #10th position in 2023. One of the major tourism attractions and home to some of the leading universities, Switzerland welcomes various female students and travellers alike each year. Those considering studying across universities here for higher education can go ahead because it is a safe country for women to study.
Portugal - #7 (GPI 2024)
With the lowest crime rates, Portugal ranks at the top for its lowest crime rates in comparison to other European countries. Home to 20+ ranking universities, Portugal is one of the leading countries which are safest for women to study abroad. Based on GPI, Portugal ranks at #7, which further asserts the fact that Portugal is a safe country for women to live and study in.
Denmark - #8 (GPI 2024)
Denmark is #8th on the Global Peace Index ranking of 2024, thus another set of safest countries for women to study abroad. Copenhagen the famous city of Denmark which also has the University of Copenhagen in its heart is said to have the lowest crime rates. Also, the employment sector has the highest rate of women employees. Thus, making Denmark one of the best countries for women to study and work in.
Slovenia - #9 (GPI 2024)
Another European country on the list of safe countries for women to study abroad is Slovenia. This country is known for its lowest crime rates in the world, which also gets this country on the list of GPI rankings for 2024. Thus, Slovenia can also be considered one of the safest countries abroad for studying especially for women, because it ranks #9 as per GPI 2024.
Malaysia - #10 (GPI 2024)
Malaysia enforces strict laws against sexual harassment and violence towards women, with government backing for women's rights across education, health, and welfare. A Safe School Concept ensures a secure environment, supported by guidelines for teachers and students. Generally peaceful, Malaysia is perceived as safe and fosters a welcoming atmosphere for diverse races and religions. Universities such as Monash University Malaysia prioritize safety and a positive learning environment, ensuring health and security.
The majority of the countries are European like Iceland, Denmark, Ireland, Austria, Portugal and Slovenia which have been ranked as being peaceful based on GPI. Hence, they are regarded as some of the safest countries in the world for women for an education abroad.
Other Safe Countries for Women to Study Abroad
Apart from the above-given countries ranked as per Global Peace Index 2023 rankings, there are a couple more safest country for women, and they are as follows:
- Canada - #11 (GPI 2024)
- Czechia - #12 (GPI 2024)
- Finland - #13 (GPI 2024)
- Hungary - #14 (GPI 2024)
- Croatia - #15 (GPI 2024)
- Belgium - #16 (GPI 2024)
- Japan - - #17 (GPI 2024)
- Netherlands - #18 (GPI 2024)
- Australia - #19 (GPI 2024)
- Germany - #20 (GPI 2024)
Applicants who plan to apply abroad can consider the above-given countries as well for being safe for study for women. For admission-related queries, sign up for Shiksha Abroad Counselling. You can also write to us in the comments below.
Q: How hard is it to get into University of Tokyo?
Yes, it is slightly hard to get into the University of Tokyo because of its moderatly high acceptance rate. The University of Tokyo acceptance rate is around 34%, which means out of 100 applicants only 34 are accepted. Applicants has to meet the admission requirements and submit all the required documents to get admission at Tokyo University.
Q: Is New Zealand good for Indian students?
With a good educational system, excellent quality of life, and a number of research opportunities, New Zealand offers a lot to international students. Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand has a 39 percent population of overseas citizens, making it a culturally diverse city. Moreover, the post-study work visa in New Zealand can offer up to three years of stay back. As per Stats New Zealand, its unemployment rate is 3.4 percent. Students enrolled in a course of 12 months or more can also work part-time in New Zealand for up to 20 hours a week during the semester and holidays.
Q: Is Singapore Management University hard to get into?
According to various sources, Singapore Management University has an acceptance rate of around 45% which makes it moderately selective for international student admissions. Some of the general admission requirements at the university are given as follows:
- Academic Transcripts
- International Qualifications that are equivalent
- Standardized Test Scores
- Proof of English Language Proficiency
After the student receives an offer letter, they are required to give the admission interview to be enrolled.
Q: What is the acceptance rate for NCI Ireland?
National College of Ireland is one of the best public research universities in the Ireland. The National College of Ireland is among the colleges that do not publish official data on the acceptance rate. However, as per some unofficial sources including EduRank, the National College of Ireland acceptance rate is 52%. This shows that NCI is moderately selective for admissions and international students may find it comparatively tougher to get into. Please note that, the data on the acceptance rate is taken from unofficial source, therefore, it is subject to vary.
Q: How much does University of Tokyo cost for international students?
The University of Tokyo cost for international students is low for undergraduate and graduate study. Students can complete their degree under 3 L. The below table includes the University of Tokyo fees for Indian students:
Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS (3 courses) | INR 3 L | Duration: 2 years |
MA (2 courses) | INR 2 L | Duration: 2 years |
MArch (1 course) | INR 3 L | Duration: 2 years |
MEng (1 course) | INR 3 L | Duration: 2 years |
Q: What is the acceptance rate for Lincoln University New Zealand?
According to various unofficial sources, Lincoln University New Zealand acceptance rate is around 60%. The acceptance rate indicated that the university is moderately selective at the time of admission. So, to get into the university, make sure to have a good academic record and meet the entry requirements such as having 12 years of schooling and minimum percentage for admission to bachelor’s courses. For admission to postgraduate courses, a relevant degree is required with the minimum grade.
Q: How can I apply for Dublin Business School Ireland admissions?
Dublin Business School accepts international applications through the Official Application Portal available on the university's website. Students can refer to the listings below for the steps to apply at DBS Ireland:
Step 1: Open the Application Portal and head to the form
Step 2: Select the student type and course
Step 3: Course selection:
- Select a course type
- Select a course
- Select the year of entry as ‘Year 1’
- Choose the batch commencement date
Step 4: Enter personal details:
- Add details like name, date of birth, contact details, gender, nationality, etc
- Address
- Emergency contact details
Step 5: Keep filling the details and continue until the last step:
- Insert previous education information
- Input other details
Step 6: Submit the application form
Q: What is Switzerland universities acceptance rate for international students?
There are many top ranked universities in Switzerland that offer the best education to students. We have mentioned below Switzerland universities acceptance rate for international students:
| Switzerland Universities | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich | 27% |
| University of Zurich | 19% |
| University of Geneva | 21% |
| University of Fribourg | 8% |
Aishwarya is a professional Writer currently working as a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. She has over 5 years of experience and is skilled at creating Online Content with leveraged knowledge i... Read Full Bio
- Universities in Switzerland27 Universities
- Universities in Japan12 Universities
- Universities in Slovenia3 Universities
- Universities in Portugal4 Universities
- Universities in Singapore46 Universities
- Universities in Austria6 Universities
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