Study Political Science Abroad 2025
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics, employment for political scientists is projected to grow by 3% through 2032, at the same pace as the growth projected for other professions. As global governance grows more complex and interconnected, understanding how political systems function across borders is more important than ever. By choosing to study political science abroad in 2025, students can learn about political science on an international scale: countries and systems of governance, nations, and international relations through a multiperspective approach. This programme is ideal for students aspiring to pursue careers in public service, international development, or global organisations.
Key Benefits of Studying Political Science Abroad
- Gain insight into diverse political systems and cultures through a multicultural academic environment. Exposure to a variety of perspectives will enhance your understanding of governance, diplomacy, and global political structures.
- The engagement in courses in universities is closely connected to other international bodies, e.g., the United Nations, the European Union, or regional policy think tanks.
- Develop strong skills in critical thinking, research, and policymaking that are applicable across sectors and international borders.
- Take part in political simulations in the real world, policy analysis laboratories, and fieldwork that combine theory and practice.
- Build a solid foundation for careers in leadership, public service, diplomacy, or roles within international NGOs and advocacy organisations.
- Explore key areas such as international development, international law, environmental politics, and human rights.
For students interested in shaping public policy, representing national interests, or working on global issues, political science offers a powerful academic and professional foundation.
Types of Courses to Study Political Science Abroad
Universities and Higher Education Institutions across the globe offer a variety of courses for those wishing to study political science abroad. Here is a list of the popular political science courses abroad, tailored to diverse interests in governance, diplomacy, and international affairs.
| Programme Name | Duration | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| BA in Political Science | 3–4 years | Students completing high school who want a foundational degree in politics, governance, and theory |
| BA in Global Politics / Government & IR | 3–4 years | Those keen to explore international relations, comparative politics, and global governance |
| MA in International Relations | 1–2 years | Graduates interested in diplomacy, foreign policy, and global affairs |
| MSc in Public Policy | 1–2 years | Students aiming for careers in government, policy research, or NGOs |
| MA in Political Theory | 1–2 years | Those with a strong interest in philosophy, political ideologies, and ethics |
| MSc in Security Studies / Geopolitics | 1–2 years | Ideal for students focused on defence, conflict studies, and international security |
| Master’s in Human Rights / Public Administration | 1–2 years | Students planning careers in advocacy, civil service, or multilateral institutions |
Many universities offer interdisciplinary options or dual degrees combining political science with economics, sociology, law, or development studies.
Best Countries to Study Political Science Abroad
Choosing the right country to study political science abroad goes beyond academic reputation. It should also include your exposure to political systems, access to global networks, and post-study work options. Here are five destinations that combine academic excellence with strong career outcomes for international students in 2025.
| Country | Focus Area | Post-Study Work Rights |
|---|---|---|
| USA | Public policy, international affairs, global governance, think tank research | Up to 3 years (STEM OPT extension applicable in some cases) |
| UK | Political theory, governance, international relations, and diplomacy | 2 years (Graduate Route) for international students |
| Canada | Multicultural policy, peace and conflict studies, global development | Up to 3 years (Post-Graduation Work Permit) |
| Netherlands | EU governance, international law, global governance, diplomacy | 1-year search visa; extendable via an orientation year permit |
| Australia | Asia-Pacific politics, democratic systems, and foreign policy | 2 to 4 years based on qualification and region |
These countries not only provide world-class education but also offer valuable post-study work options that support international students in gaining practical experience after graduation.
Top Universities to Study Political Science Abroad
The next big step in your decision-making process is finalising the right university to study political science abroad. The following universities consistently rank at the top globally for Political Science, International Relations, and related fields. The rankings are based on QS Subject Rankings for Politics (2024/25) and THE Social Sciences subject list.
| University Name | QS World University Rankings by Subject for Politics 2025 |
|---|---|
| Harvard University, Cambridge, USA | #1 |
| University of Oxford, Oxford, UK | #2 |
| Princeton University, Princeton, USA | #3 |
| Sciences Po, Paris, France | #4 |
| Stanford University, Stanford, USA | =5 |
| The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), London, UK | =5 |
| University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK | #7 |
| Yale University, New Haven, USA | #8 |
| University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, USA | #9 |
| National University of Singapore, Singapore | #10 |
Admission Requirements to Study Political Science Abroad
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate programme, political science degrees abroad generally have straightforward academic and document requirements. Listed below are some of the admission requirements you will have to satisfy to study political science abroad.
| Level | Eligibility | Documents Needed |
|---|---|---|
| UG | Completion of 10+2 with a background in arts, humanities, or social sciences | Academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), IELTS Academic/TOEFL iBT score |
| PG | Bachelor’s degree in political science, international relations, sociology, law, or related fields | UG degree transcript, SOP, LORs, Resume/CV, IELTS Academic/TOEFL iBT score |
Note: Some universities may also require additional admission requirements like writing samples or subject-specific tests, especially at the postgraduate level.
Tuition Fees and Living Costs to Study Political Science Abroad
A crucial element to figure out when planning to study political science abroad is understanding the overall costs of studying abroad. Below is a breakdown of average tuition fees and living costs by country for undergraduate, postgraduate, and research-level programmes, based on data from universities and visa guidelines.
| Country | Annual UG Fees | Annual PG Fees | Annual Living Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | US $18,000 – $62,000 | US $19,000 – $68,000 | US $12,000 – $24,000 |
| UK | £14,000 – £33,500 | £9,000 – £36,500 | £1,483/month – £1,136/month (London, Outside London)* |
| Canada | CA $20,000 – $50,000 | CA $20,000 – $50,000 | CA $22,895 |
| Australia | AU $25,000 – $50,000 | AU $35,000 – $60,000 | AU $29,710* |
*These are the minimum financial requirements set by the UK, Canada, and Australia, respectively, for international students. These costs represent the average cost of living while studying in these countries. International students wishing to study political science abroad in any one of these two countries must provide proof of having these exact funds or more at the time of applying for the respective student visas.
In some countries like the US, Canada, and Australia, PhD courses may provide a partial or complete exemption from the tuition fee, accompanied by a stipend. Diploma or graduate certificate programmes, which can be covered in a short period of time, are normally cheaper, with the annual rate being USD $10,000 to $20,000.
Scholarships to Study Political Science Abroad
A wide range of study abroad scholarships and financial aid options to study political science abroad are available for international students. Some of the noticeable scholarships that may help to mitigate the cost of studying abroad are as follows:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Chevening Scholarships, UK | Citizens of India, with a commitment to return, holding an undergraduate degree required for a UK PG degree, and having at least 2 years of work experience gained after graduating from the UG degree. | Full tuition, travel costs, and a monthly stipend |
| Fulbright Programme, USA | Citizens of India, with a commitment to return, residing in India at the time of application, and displaying a high level of English proficiency. Must possess a US-equivalent UG degree with at least 55% marks, with a minimum of 3 years of work experience by the time of application. | Tuition, airfare, living allowance, Visa support and health insurance |
| Erasmus+, EU Member States | Have an EU-equivalent UG/PG degree in the relevant field of study, and should not have been a resident of the EU member states in the past 5 years. Candidates must provide proof of English proficiency if the degree they studied was not taught in English | Tuition fees, travel allowance, and monthly stipend |
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, Canada | Must be nominated by only one Canadian HEI and be enrolled in your first doctoral programme. Candidates must also display a high level of academic performance. | CA $50,000 per year for up to 3 years |
| Country-Specific University Scholarships | Depends on the university, commonly depending on merit or need | Partial or full tuition fee waivers, sometimes stipends |
Many universities also offer dedicated scholarships for international political science students. Be sure to check university websites for up-to-date information on available funding.
Career Opportunities After Studying Political Science Courses Abroad
Graduates who choose to study political science abroad are equipped for diverse roles across public, private, and non-profit sectors. Some of the most popular jobs, the average salary (according to the statistics in the USA), and the most frequently opted sectors by graduates are listed below.
| Job Role | Average Annual Salary (in USD) | Sector |
|---|---|---|
| Diplomat / Foreign Service Officer | US $58,000 – $164,000 | Government / Foreign Affairs |
| Policy Analyst | US $50,000 – $130,000 | Think Tanks / Research Institutes |
| Public Affairs Officer | US $55,000 – $120,000 | Government / Media |
| NGO Consultant | US $30,000 – $120,000 | Non-Governmental Organisations |
| Urban and Regional Planner | US $50,000 - $120,000 | Federal/State Government and Real Estate Development |
Salaries vary depending on experience, location, and organisation size. Entry-level positions or internships typically offer lower remuneration but valuable professional experience.
For globally minded students interested in governance and diplomacy, studying political science abroad offers a strong academic and professional foundation. The subject provides a critical skill in analysis, diplomacy, and leadership, making you ready to assume a relevant position in government, international organisations, non-governmental organisations, and others. If you are ready to start your journey in influencing the policies of the future, connect with expert AECC study abroad counsellors and learn everything you need to know to study political science abroad now.