International students happiest in Norway

International students in Norway are the happiest in Europe, according to the results of a new study.

The StudyPortals International Student Satisfaction Awards 2016, based on more than 15,965 responses from international students in Europe, found that international students have expressed the highest satisfaction in Norway, Ireland and Poland.

Norway, with an average student satisfaction score of 9.3, overtook last year’s first placed country Ireland to top the rankings. Ireland, with a score of 9.2 slipped to send, while Poland was third, with a score of 9.1.

Students who study in Norway emphasised the high level of education and the variety of courses on offer. They have also noted the helpful, open, and knowledgeable lecturers, along with the great student community and beautiful nature that make the experience even more pleasant.

Within Ireland, students were impressed with the diverse, international student community, the well-organised universities that were ready for exchange students, and the great foundation that was laid for their future careers. The students also commented on the Irish population being very friendly and hospitable.

Lastly, Poland is for the first time among the top three of the International Student Satisfaction Awards. The country was appreciated for its lively student environment, great cities, nice people and cheap housing options.

Overall, international students are reporting increased satisfaction with their study abroad experience (8.8 this year on average, compared to 8.6 in 2015). However, the score is still slightly lower than it was in 2014. More countries are scoring above 9.0 this year – an achievement only Ireland managed last year. In addition, only 7 per cent of all students scored their international experience as 6 or lower this year.

Spain has the highest number of winning universities (27), based on 1,583 reviews, showing the scale of its Erasmus network. Germany is also doing a great job, with 15 universities awarded in 2016.

Article published 26th September 2016