Should I Study in Europe or South America? Key Factors to Compare

Should you study abroad in Europe or South America? The best choice depends on your budget, academic goals, language interests, and the kind of experience you want outside the classroom.

Both regions offer semester programs, summer courses, language study, and opportunities to learn about different cultures. Europe may appeal to students who want to visit multiple countries in one trip, while South America may be a strong fit for students interested in Spanish or Portuguese, Latin American studies, and life in cities such as Buenos Aires, Santiago, and Lima.

This guide compares study abroad in Europe and South America by cost, language, travel, academics, daily life, and practical requirements. You'll also find programs in both regions to help you compare actual options, or you can browse programs in Europe and South America on your own.

Europe vs. South America: Quick Comparison

7 Factors to Consider When Studying Abroad in Europe vs. South America

The comparison table provides a starting point, but your experience will depend on the country, city, program, and length of stay. Here's what to consider before deciding where to study abroad.

1. Number of International Students in Each Region

Europe is the leading destination region for U.S. students studying abroad for academic credit. According to NAFSA's summary of Open Doors data from the Institute of International Education, 64.1% of these students went to Europe during the 2023–24 academic year. Latin America and the Caribbean accounted for 10.5%.

These figures help explain why Europe features prominently in many U.S. university study abroad offerings. Spain, Italy, the United Kingdom, and France were among the leading destinations for U.S. students during that academic year.

However, popularity does not tell you which region is a better fit. The data measures U.S. students receiving academic credit through their home institutions, not every international student or every type of overseas study program. It also groups South America with a broader region for the Latin America figure.

2. Language

Language can shape your classes, friendships, and everyday routines. Both regions offer programs taught in English, but the languages you encounter outside class will depend on your destination.

In Europe, English-taught courses are available in destinations such as Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Czech Republic. Availability depends on the institution and subject. You can also choose a program that includes local-language classes or requires some proficiency in the language of instruction.

If you want to learn Spanish, Spain offers a chance to practice it in daily life. Italy, France, Germany, Portugal, and other destinations offer similar opportunities to build language skills in a local setting. You can browse study abroad in Spain, Italy, or Germany to see what's available.

In South America, Spanish is the main language in most countries, including Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia. Brazil is the major exception, where Portuguese is the primary language.

You don't necessarily need advanced Spanish or Portuguese to study abroad in the region. Some programs offer courses in English, beginner language classes, or a combination of English-taught academics and local-language study. The Buenos Aires, Cusco, and Chile programs featured below, for example, offer English-taught options. Others require stronger language skills, particularly for courses taught at local universities. If you want to build your skills before or during your program, language schools are another option.

Before applying, check the language of instruction and the proficiency requirements. Also consider how much you want to use the local language outside class. A program taught in English can still provide opportunities to practice Spanish or Portuguese in shops, cafés, and daily conversations.

3. Cost

Cost can make a big difference, but comparing Europe and South America with a single average is difficult. Program fees, accommodation, meals, transportation, and airfare can vary substantially within each region.

As a starting point, here are the program fees listed on GoAbroad for the programs featured later in this guide. Semester-length programs in Europe range from $15,350 to $29,126, and semester-length programs in South America range from $11,995 to $22,909. Shorter programs cost less. A two-week program in Seville starts at $3,450, while programs in Chile and Buenos Aires start at $4,750 for two and four weeks, respectively.

These figures are examples, not regional averages, and the fees cover different things. For example, the Florence program's fee includes housing, program activities, and airport pickup, while the Universidad Austral fee excludes meals, daily transportation, and optional excursions. A provider may bundle tuition, housing, insurance, excursions, and on-site support into one price, while another may charge separately for some of those expenses.

When budgeting, compare:

• Program fees: Tuition, academic credit, and provider services.
• Housing: Residence halls, apartments, or homestays, including whether utilities are covered. GoAbroad's accommodations page can help you compare options.
• Food: Meal plans, included meals, and expected grocery or restaurant expenses.
• Transportation: Local transit passes, airport transfers, and travel between cities.
• Additional expenses: Flights, visa fees, insurance not included in the program, textbooks, and personal spending.

A lower program fee does not always mean a lower total cost. Request a complete breakdown and estimate your expenses for the full length of the program. 

Explore study abroad scholarships and financial aid for study abroad

4. Travel Ease & Accessibility

How easily you can get around affects your experience both during the school week and on free weekends.

Europe has extensive rail and bus networks, along with short-haul flights connecting many destinations. Depending on your location, you may be able to visit another country on a weekend without a long journey. However, travel time and cost still depend on the route, season, and local connections.

South America has intercity buses and domestic flights connecting major destinations. Buses can be useful for regional travel, but journeys between countries or distant cities may take considerably longer than a short trip within Europe. If you want to explore several places, consider how much time and money you'll need for transportation. GoAbroad's flights and transportation page can help you compare options.

Accessibility deserves separate consideration. Neither region is uniformly accessible, and the experience can differ between a modern university building, a historic city center, and a rural excursion.

If you have mobility, sensory, learning, or other access requirements, ask providers about accessible housing, classrooms, public transport, excursions, and local support. Request specific information about the facilities and accommodations available rather than relying on a general statement that a destination is accessible.

5. Academic Style & Student Support

Your academic experience depends more on the institution and program than on the continent itself.

In Europe, study abroad programs may place you in courses designed for international students, classes alongside local university students, or a mix of both. Subjects can include art history, business, politics, engineering, sciences, and European studies.

In South America, programs may focus on Spanish or Portuguese, Latin American studies, political and social issues, business, environmental studies, and other subjects. Some place students in courses at local universities, while others use a dedicated international study center.

Before choosing, find out how the academic arrangement works.

• Course selection: Are classes designed for visiting students, or will you enroll alongside local students?
• Language of instruction: Are courses taught in English, Spanish, Portuguese, or a combination?
• Credit transfer: Which institution awards the credits, and what documentation will your home university need?
• Academic support: Is advising available for course selection, registration, and academic concerns?
• On-site support: Who can help with housing, health concerns, emergencies, or difficulties adjusting to local life?

Do not assume that a course will count toward your degree simply because a program offers academic credit. Confirm credit transfer and course equivalencies with your home university before committing.

6. Daily Life & Culture

Daily life will look different depending on where you go, even within the same region.

In Europe, you might spend free time visiting museums, exploring historic neighborhoods, attending local festivals, or using public transport to visit nearby towns. Each country has its own language, food traditions, social norms, and pace of life. A semester in Florence will not feel the same as a semester in Prague or Lisbon.

In South America, your routine might include exploring city neighborhoods, attending cultural events, visiting local markets, or learning about regional history. Buenos Aires offers a large urban environment, while Cusco provides access to Andean history and landscapes. Santiago combines city life with access to mountain settings, although the practicalities of visiting them depend on the season and your schedule. To see what's available in one country, browse study abroad in Argentina.

Think about what you want your experience to include outside class. You might prefer access to museums and neighboring countries, or you might be more interested in learning Spanish, studying regional history, or spending time in a particular landscape.

The best way to understand daily life is to research the specific city and program, not just the region.

7. Safety, Visas, & Entry Requirements

Safety and entry requirements should be part of your decision from the beginning. Neither Europe nor South America can be assigned one safety rating because conditions differ by country, city, and neighborhood.

For safety and health planning:

• Check your government's current travel advisories for the specific destination.
• Research local guidance on crime, public transportation, health care, and common travel risks.
• Ask the program provider about housing security, emergency contacts, insurance, and on-site support. You can also compare travel insurance through MyGoAbroad.
• Check whether your health insurance covers treatment abroad and whether any vaccinations or health precautions are recommended.

The U.S. Department of State publishes country-specific travel advisories for U.S. travelers, and students with another citizenship should consult their own government's travel advice as well. On the health side, the CDC lists yellow fever as a risk in parts of South America and recommends vaccination for most travelers aged 9 months and older who are headed to those areas, so check your specific destination well before you travel.

Visa requirements also depend on your citizenship, destination, length of stay, and program type. A short summer course may have different requirements from a semester at a university. Some students may be eligible to enter without a student visa for a limited stay, while others need advance authorization. GoAbroad's guide to study abroad visa requirements explains the common visa types, and the embassy directory can help you find the right office.

Before paying a deposit, check the destination's official immigration or consular guidance. Confirm the application timeline, required documents, permitted length of stay, and whether you need to arrange a visa before departure. Passports and visas is a good place to start.

Once you've considered these factors, the next step is to compare actual programs. The options below offer examples of different destinations, program lengths, and fee structures.

Study Abroad Programs to Consider in Europe

Here are some programs in Europe to help you picture what's possible. These listings cover different locations and program lengths, so compare the details carefully rather than treating the listed fees as equivalent. For more ideas, read GoAbroad's guide to the best study abroad programs in Europe.

1. Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

Explore Seville while taking courses at institutions that include Universidad Pablo de Olavide, the WorldStrides Global Campus, or the University of Seville. The program offers courses for different levels of Spanish proficiency, with subjects including business, economics, history, culture, and education.

• Where: Seville, Spain
• When: Year-round options, including fall, spring, summer, winter, and academic year
• Duration and listed fee: From $3,450 for two weeks
• What the fee includes: Tuition and fees, some accommodation, some program activity costs, orientation, on-site support, and academic credit

The listing is open to American and Canadian students aged 18–25. Confirm the current dates, full fee breakdown, and eligibility requirements before applying.

2. Study Abroad in Prague, Czech Republic with WorldStrides

Prague offers a setting for studying subjects such as international relations, business, European studies, history, and liberal arts. Students can attend institutions including Anglo-American University, Charles University, or Prague University of Economics and Business, with support from an on-site team and opportunities to explore the Czech capital.

• Where: Prague, Czech Republic
• When: Fall, spring, summer, or academic year options
• Duration and listed fee: From $15,350 per semester
• What the fee includes: Tuition and fees, some accommodation, some program activity costs, orientation, on-site support, and academic credit

The listing is open to American and Canadian students aged 18–25. Check which housing and activities are included in the specific term you're considering.

3. SAI Study Abroad at Florence University of the Arts, Italy

Study in Florence through a program at Florence University of the Arts. Course options span subjects such as literature, sciences, business, economics, history, fine arts, graphic design, and health sciences, taught in English. SAI also coordinates enrollment, course selection, housing, insurance, and transcripts, with support before departure and while you're in Florence.

• Where: Florence, Italy
• When: Fall, spring, summer, or academic year options
• Duration and listed fee: From $17,100 per semester
• What the fee includes: Tuition and fees, housing, all program activity costs, Wi-Fi, medical and accident insurance, airport pickup, orientations, laundry, academic advising, transcript fees, and academic credit

The program is open to students of all nationalities aged 18–25. Review the full fee breakdown to see which meals, travel expenses, and other personal costs are not covered.

4. CIEE Open Campus Block in Berlin, Germany

Customize your time in Berlin with a program that lasts 6, 12, or 18 weeks. You'll take CIEE courses and online courses through CIEE's academic partner, ASU, while exploring a city known for its start-up scene, sustainability initiatives, and historic landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall Memorial.

• Where: Berlin, Germany
• When: Fall, spring, or academic year; the listing covers 2026 and 2027
• Duration and listed fee: From $21,975 for 18 weeks
• What the fee includes: Tuition and fees, housing, travel insurance, medical and accident insurance, some program activity costs, orientations, on-site and emergency support, internship placement, and academic credit

The listing is open to American students of all ages and education levels. The listed fee is for the 18-week option, so confirm the fee for shorter blocks.

5. Direct Enrollment at Trinity College Dublin, Ireland with IES Abroad

Enroll directly at Trinity College Dublin while IES Abroad provides advising, housing, orientation, and support. It's an option for students who want to take classes at an Irish university without arranging every detail on their own.

• Where: Dublin, Ireland
• When: Fall, spring, or academic year
• Duration and listed fee: $29,126 per semester
• What the fee includes: Housing, program advising, orientation, on-site support, and academic credit. Meals are not provided.

The listing is open to students of all nationalities aged 18 and older. Ask IES Abroad for the full fee breakdown so you know exactly what the semester price covers.

6. Full-Semester Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with the Spanish Institute for Global Education

The Spanish Institute for Global Education offers semester and academic-year study in Seville. The program combines Spanish language and area-studies courses with the chance to enroll in classes at the University of Seville, Pablo de Olavide University, or EUSA University Center, while living with a Spanish host family.

• Where: Seville, Spain
• When: Fall, spring, or academic year; the listing covers 2026 through 2028
• Duration and listed fee: About $16,900 per semester
• What the fee includes: Tuition, housing, meals, transportation, insurance, academic advising, transcript fees, and academic credit

The listing is open to students of all nationalities aged 18–35. Confirm the exact fee for your term and what the meal plan covers.

Study Abroad Programs to Consider in South America

Here are some programs in South America to help you picture what's possible. These examples include semester-length options and shorter programs, with choices for students interested in Spanish, local culture, and regional studies. For more ideas, read GoAbroad's guide to the best study abroad programs in South America.

1. Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

Study at the University of Belgrano in Buenos Aires, taking courses in English or Spanish while exploring Latin American studies. The program offers a mix of academic study, local activities, excursions, and support from an on-site team, including Spanish courses at all levels, even beginning.

• Where: Buenos Aires, Argentina
• When: Fall, spring, or summer options
• Duration and listed fee: From $4,750 for four weeks
• What the fee includes: Tuition and fees, some accommodation, some program activity costs, orientation, on-site support, and academic credit

The listing includes options for American and Canadian students aged 18–25. Since the program offers different lengths of stay, verify the fee for your chosen term rather than assuming the four-week price applies to a semester.

2. Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru with WorldStrides

Study in Cusco, a city shaped by Inca and Spanish history, through the Universidad de Salamanca Cursos Internacionales en Cusco program at the WorldStrides Global Campus. Courses may be available in English, Spanish, or Quechua, taught by local and visiting faculty, and the program includes opportunities to visit nearby sites such as the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

• Where: Cusco, Peru
• When: Fall or spring
• Duration and listed fee: From $11,995 per semester
• What the fee includes: Tuition and fees, some accommodation, some program activity costs, orientation, on-site support, and academic credit

The listing is for American and Canadian students aged 18–25. Check the housing arrangement, course language, and the full cost breakdown before deciding.

3. Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

Study in the coastal sister cities of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso or Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez, with courses in Spanish and English alongside local and international students. The program also includes Spanish lessons, daily practice with locals, and a business internship placement option through Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso.

• Where: Valparaíso and Viña del Mar, Chile
• When: Fall, spring, or summer options
• Duration and listed fee: From $4,750 for two weeks
• What the fee includes: Tuition and fees, some accommodation, some program activity costs, orientation, on-site support, and academic credit

The listing is for American and Canadian students aged 18–25. Because the program offers different lengths of stay, verify the fee for your chosen term rather than assuming the two-week price applies to a semester.

4. Expanish Semester Abroad in Buenos Aires

This semester program combines academic study with opportunities to explore Argentine society, history, and culture. Courses encourage students to engage with local perspectives while developing Spanish language skills. Weekly cultural activities, excursions, and social events provide opportunities to experience the city beyond the classroom.

• Where: Buenos Aires, Argentina
• When: Fall, spring, or trimester options; the listing covers 2027 through 2029
• Duration and listed fee: From $14,950 for 16 weeks
• What the fee includes: Tuition and fees, housing, all program activity costs, Wi-Fi, travel insurance, some meals, a welcome dinner, airport pickup, orientation, language lessons, textbooks and course materials, transcript fees, academic credit, and emergency support

The listing is for American students aged 18–25. Check which meals are included, along with any additional expenses for flights, visas, and personal travel.

5. SIT Study Abroad: Argentina: People, Environment, and Climate Change in Patagonia and Antarctica

Based in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, this semester explores Patagonia's environments and biodiversity, the conservation challenges linked to climate change, and the people who live there. You'll apply scientific research tools to marine biodiversity, visit the Beagle Channel and Tierra del Fuego, and finish with a 10-day expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula.

• Where: Ushuaia, Argentina, with excursions in Chile and Antarctica
• When: Fall or spring; the listing covers 2026 and 2027
• Duration and listed fee: $22,909 per semester
• What the fee includes: Tuition and fees, housing, all program activity costs, medical and accident insurance, emergency support, on-site staff support, internship placement, and academic credit

The listing is open to students of all nationalities aged 18–30, and GoAbroad named the program a Top Rated Program for study abroad in Argentina in 2025. Confirm the current dates and what the fee covers for your term.

6. Study Abroad in Argentina at Universidad Austral

This program in Buenos Aires offers a semester of university study with subjects including business, communications, engineering, law, biomedical sciences, and Latin American studies. Students can choose English-taught courses if they meet the language requirements or pursue courses taught in Spanish with the required proficiency.

• Where: Buenos Aires, Argentina
• When: Fall or spring; the listing covers 2026 through 2028
• Duration and listed fee: $15,995 per semester
• What the fee includes: Tuition for up to 15 credits, housing, airport pickup, medical and travel insurance, academic support, and orientation

The listing is open to students of all nationalities aged 18–35, at the junior level or above. Flights, visa fees, meals, daily transportation, and optional excursions are not included in the stated fee.

So, Which Region Should You Choose for Study Abroad?

Neither region is the right choice for every student. Start with your academic priorities, budget, language goals, and the kind of daily life you want while abroad.

Choose Europe If

• You want to compare programs across several countries and academic systems.
• You want access to English-taught courses in a range of destinations.
• You are interested in European history, art, politics, business, or regional studies.
• You want to explore nearby countries during weekends or school breaks.
• You find a program whose location, course options, and total cost fit your needs.

Choose South America If

• You want to study Spanish or Portuguese in a local setting.
• You are interested in Latin American history, politics, culture, or environmental studies.
• You want to experience cities such as Buenos Aires, Santiago, or Lima.
• You are interested in a program that connects academic study with regional issues or local communities.
• You find a program whose location, course options, and total cost fit your needs.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Decide

If you're still unsure, answer these questions before narrowing your shortlist.

• What can I realistically spend? Include the program fee, housing, food, transportation, airfare, insurance, visa fees, and personal expenses.
• Which language do I want to use or learn? Consider whether you want English-taught classes, language lessons, or a program that requires existing proficiency.
• What do I want from the academic experience? Identify your priorities, such as earning credit toward your major, exploring a new subject, completing an internship, or studying a regional issue.
• How long can I stay abroad? A short summer program may fit your schedule, while a semester or academic year provides more time to settle into local life.
• How much travel do I want to do? Consider whether you prefer visiting nearby countries or spending more time exploring one country or region.
• What support do I need? Ask about housing, accessibility, health care, academic advising, emergency assistance, and other services relevant to you.
• Will my credits transfer? Confirm course equivalencies and approval with your home university before enrolling.

You don't need to answer every question immediately. Use them to identify the two or three factors that matter most, then compare programs against those priorities.

Ready to Compare Study Abroad Programs in Europe
& South America?

Choosing between Europe and South America comes down to cost, language, travel, academic options, and the experience you want from your time abroad. Europe offers a range of countries and study settings within a relatively connected region, while South America offers opportunities to study Spanish or Portuguese and explore the histories and cultures of individual countries.

The region is only the starting point. A program's location, courses, duration, support services, and total cost can make a bigger difference to your experience than the continent itself.

GoAbroad is your pre-departure HQ. Compare thousands of study, volunteer, teach, and intern abroad programs, read verified reviews from past participants, and save your favorites in MyGoAbroad.