Last Updated on June 3, 2025
We selected these countries based on the following criteria: 1. The ranking of global universities in political science and international relations.​ 2. Gaining experience and studying international policy.​ 3. Policies about student visas and the rights of international students to work after finishing their studies.​ 3. Expense of tuition and living as a student (the cost of studying and living).​ 4. How easy is it for graduates to find jobs globally
Working in international relations in a foreign country allows you to: 1. Gain access to the most respected IR and political science departments in the country. 2. Being close to the United Nations, WTO, EU, and important embassies. 3. Concentrating on conflict resolution, diplomacy, guiding the globe, and the rights of humans. 3. Classes taught in English and a multicultural environment. 4. Chances to work in the country after studies and meet people worldwide
Best Countries to Study International Relations:
- United States : Ivy League schools and strong diplomatic hubs
- United Kingdom : Home to LSE and historic institutions
- Switzerland : Heart of diplomacy and international NGOs
- France :Â Strategic location and leading global affairs programs
- Germany : Affordable education and policy-oriented degrees
- Netherlands : Globally focused, English-taught IR programs
- Canada : Peacekeeping legacy and multicultural exposure
- Australia : Asia-Pacific focus and high graduate employability
- Belgium : Host to EU institutions and policy think tanks
- Sweden : Human rights leadership and global development programs
Best Countries for a Master’s in International Relations in 2025
Which country is best for master’s in international relations in 2025?
The top countries offering advanced IR degrees include:
- United Kingdom – LSE, University of Oxford
- United States – Harvard Kennedy, Georgetown SFS
- Switzerland – The Graduate Institute, Geneva
- France – Sciences Po, Paris School of International Affairs
- Germany – Hertie School, University of Heidelberg
These programs offer intensive policy training, high-level internships, and global reputations.
International Relations Demand in 2025
Is international relations in high demand?
Yes. International relations remains a high-demand field, especially with growing global challenges like climate diplomacy, migration, cyber warfare, and multilateral cooperation.
Employers include:
- United Nations and global NGOs
- Foreign ministries and embassies
- Think tanks and policy institutions
- International development agencies
- Multinational corporations
Best European Countries to Study International Relations
10 Best Countries to Study International Relations in 2025 in Europe
Here is a regional breakdown focused on Europe:
| Country | Notable Universities | Highlights |
| United Kingdom | LSE, University of Oxford | Premier IR programs, strong research |
| Switzerland | The Graduate Institute, University of Geneva | Home to UN agencies and international NGOs |
| France | Sciences Po, Paris-Sorbonne | Strategic policy hubs and EU engagement |
| Germany | Hertie School, Freie Universität Berlin | Affordable, research-intensive |
| Netherlands | Leiden University, University of Amsterdam | Globally focused, English-taught programs |
Best Cities to Study International Relations
Where are the best cities for international relations students?
These cities are diplomatic and academic powerhouses:
- Geneva – UN headquarters, international NGOs
- Washington, D.C. – Global policymaking and think tanks
- London – Major global city with access to embassies and policy circles
- Paris – Cultural diplomacy and EU institutions
- Brussels – Capital of the European Union and global diplomacy
What Is the Best Undergraduate Degree for International Relations?
Best undergrad majors for international relations:
- Bachelor in International Relations
- Bachelor in Political Science
- Bachelor in Global Affairs
- Bachelor in Economics
- Bachelor in History or Sociology
Key Factors for Choosing the Best Countries to Study International Relations Abroad
Before selecting your destination, consider the following:
- University rankings for IR and political science
- Access to internships at international organizations
- English-taught programs and global student networks
- Proximity to embassies, UN bodies, or EU agencies
- Post-study work visa opportunities
- Emphasis on diplomacy, security, or global development
- Scholarships and tuition affordability
- Alumni networks in government or NGOs
United States
Reasons why the USA is one of the best countries to study international relations abroad
- Home to top global IR programs (e.g., Harvard, Georgetown)
- Capital cities offer networking in embassies, think tanks
- Diverse program offerings: security, development, diplomacy
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation
Top Universities
| University Name | Global Ranking (2025) | Average Yearly Tuition Fees |
| Georgetown University (SFS) | #1 in IR | $59,784 |
| Harvard Kennedy School | #3 in Global Affairs | $56,456 |
| Johns Hopkins (SAIS) | Top 5 | $52,500 |
| Columbia University (SIPA) | Top 10 | $54,132 |
| American University | Top 30 | $48,250 |
United Kingdom
Reasons why the UK is one of the best countries to study international relations abroad
- Globally ranked universities like LSE and Oxford
- Access to embassies and policy hubs
- Shorter master’s programs (typically 1 year)
- Accredited by top international institutions
Top Universities
| University Name | Global Ranking (2025) | Average Yearly Tuition Fees |
| London School of Economics (LSE) | #2 in IR | £25,224 |
| University of Oxford | #5 in Global Studies | £27,500 |
| University of Cambridge | Top 10 | £26,000 |
| King’s College London | Top 30 | £24,000 |
| SOAS University of London | Top 50 | £21,000 |
Switzerland
Reasons why Switzerland is one of the best countries to study international relations abroad
- Global hub for diplomacy and NGOs
- High living standards and safety
- French/English-taught degrees
- Internship access at WTO, WHO, UN, and Red Cross
Top Universities
| University Name | Global Ranking (2025) | Average Yearly Tuition Fees |
| The Graduate Institute, Geneva | #6 in IR | CHF 9,000 |
| University of Geneva | Top 50 | CHF 1,000–CHF 1,500 |
| University of Lausanne | Top 100 | CHF 1,500 |
France
Reasons why France is one of the best countries to study international relations abroad
- Strategic role in global politics and the EU
- Affordable public university fees
- Leading IR school: Sciences Po
- Paris is a hub for international diplomacy
Top Universities
| University Name | Global Ranking (2025) | Average Yearly Tuition Fees |
| Sciences Po – PSIA | #4 in International Affairs | €10,700 |
| Paris-Sorbonne University | Top 100 | €2,770 |
| University of Strasbourg | Top 150 | €3,000 |
| Aix-Marseille University | Top 200 | €2,500 |
Germany
Reasons why Germany is one of the best countries to study international relations abroad
- Low or no tuition fees
- Strong public institutions offering IR programs
- Focus on EU affairs and multilateralism
- High demand for policy professionals
Top Universities
| University Name | Global Ranking (2025) | Average Yearly Tuition Fees |
| Hertie School, Berlin | Top 50 | €17,500 |
| Freie Universität Berlin | Top 100 | €1,500 (semester fees) |
| University of Heidelberg | Top 150 | ~€300–€500 per semester |
| University of Bremen | Top 200 | ~€350 per semester |
Canada
Reasons why Canada is one of the best countries to study international relations abroad
- Known for peacekeeping and diplomacy
- Emphasis on inclusive and indigenous perspectives
- Work permits after graduation
- English/French bilingual exposure
Top Universities
| University Name | Global Ranking (2025) | Average Yearly Tuition Fees |
| University of Toronto | Top 10 | CAD $45,000 |
| University of British Columbia | Top 25 | CAD $39,000 |
| McGill University | Top 50 | CAD $34,000 |
| Carleton University (NPSIA) | Top 100 | CAD $28,000 |
Australia
Reasons why Australia is one of the best countries to study international relations abroad
- Asia-Pacific focus and regional diplomacy
- High student satisfaction and safety
- Work visa pathways after study
- Vibrant multicultural cities
Top Universities
| University Name | Global Ranking (2025) | Average Yearly Tuition Fees |
| Australian National University (ANU) | Top 10 in IR | AUD $45,600 |
| University of Sydney | Top 50 | AUD $43,000 |
| Monash University | Top 100 | AUD $41,000 |
| University of Melbourne | Top 50 | AUD $44,000 |
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General Procedure for Applying to an International Relations Program Abroad
- Research and shortlist universities based on curriculum, reputation, and costs
- Check eligibility criteria (GPA, language tests, experience)
- Prepare documents: Statement of Purpose, CV, LORs, transcripts
- Apply via university portals or centralized platforms
- Prepare for interviews or written assessments
- Apply for student visas and explore scholarships
Final thoughts on the 10 Best Countries to Study International Relations in 2025
Where you study international relations in 2025 can affect your international career. Studying in these locations allows Indian students to get exposure that is widely recognized, complete a top-ranked IR course and look for jobs internationally. Plan wisely. Your career in diplomacy is beginning today.
FAQs:
Which country is best for Indian students to study international relations in 2025?
The UK, USA, and Canada are top picks for Indian students due to globally ranked IR programs and post-study work options.
Where can I study international relations in Europe in 2025?
Top European IR destinations include the UK, Germany, Netherlands, France, and Sweden.
What are the 10 best countries to study international relations from India?
USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, Netherlands, Sweden, France, Switzerland, and Singapore are ideal choices for Indian students.
Which country is best to study and work as an international student?
Canada and Germany offer affordable education, quality IR programs, and excellent work opportunities during and after graduation.
Which is the best university for international relations in the world?
Harvard, Oxford, Sciences Po, LSE, and Georgetown rank among the top universities for international relations globally.
Bhaskarjyoti Paul is a seasoned content writer with over three years of experience within the ed-tech space. Specialising in study abroad and academic content, Bhaskarjyoti excels at creating SEO-optimized articles that drive traffic and engagement and blog and website content that engages and informs readers. Bhaskarjyoti handles social media content for Admissify, designs compelling narratives and spearheads engagement across multiple platforms. With a desire to help students and a keen eye for detail, Bhaskarjyoti brings a wealth of knowledge to every project.
