For many students and parents, safety is one of the most important factors when deciding where to study.
That is why knowing the safest countries in the world for international students matters. After all, you will be thousands of kilometres away from family and friends, in an unfamiliar environment.
Europe is the world’s safest study-abroad destination. In the 2025 Global Peace Index by Vision of Humanity, 14 European countries ranked among the world’s top 20 most peaceful nations.
The rankings are based on each country’s overall Global Peace Index (GPI) score, which measures peacefulness using 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators.
The lower the score, the safer and more peaceful the country.
Where are the safest countries in the world to study abroad in 2026?
Iceland is the most peaceful country in the world.
1. Iceland
Iceland is the most peaceful and secure country in the world.It excels in safety, security and militarisation. It also boasts low crime rates and a tight community.
Here, international students will find top-quality universities offering academic programmes across a wide range of fields, from agriculture and environmental studies to arts and design.
If you choose to study in Iceland, you will have the opportunity to explore the country’s beautiful landscapes, such as waterfalls, geysers and volcanoes, with little worry about much else.
Top universities in Iceland:
- University of Iceland (#582)
- Reykjavík University
- University of Akureyri
Denmark is not only one of the safest countries in the world but also the world’s second happiest.
2. Denmark
Over the years, Denmark has maintained a reputation asone of the most socially and economically developed countries in the world, with high standards of living, friendly communities and low crime rates. They’re ranked as the second-happiest country in the world, according to the World Happiness Report.
The country is also known for its excellent and innovative education system, with qualifications recognised worldwide.In 2025, 8,685 international students travelled to Denmark to experience the country’s peaceful environment and world-class institutions.
The country boasts a number of universities in the QS World University Rankings 2026: Top global universities.
Top universities in Denmark:
- University of Copenhagen (#101)
- Technical University of Denmark (#107)
- Aarhus University (#131)
- University of Southern Denmark (SDU) (=#303)
In Ireland, one of the safest countries in the world, it’s safe, serene and smiley all year round.
3. Ireland
Ireland is one of the safest countries in the world. Though a small country, it is big in warmth, earning the title of one of the friendliest country for international students.
The country is home to a rich history and vibrant cities, such as Dublin and Galway, which allow students to explore stunning landscapes like the River Liffey and Connemara.
Here, you will find universities that are renowned for their high-quality education and strong educational system. The country boasts numerous world-class universities.
Top universities in Ireland:
- Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin (#75)
- University College Dublin (#118)
- University College Cork (#246)
- University of Galway (#284)
4. New Zealand
New Zealand is growing in popularity among international students due to its breathtaking landscapes, high-quality education and welcoming environment.
It also attracts a high number of international students every year as it is one of the safest countries in the world.
TheCode of Practice for Pastoral Care for international students states that all students are entitled to be treated fairly, and educators must follow all the regulations set in place. Educators are required to sign this document before beginning the enrollment of students.
The country is also home toworld-class universities that provide a high standard of education across various disciplines.
Top universities in New Zealand:
- The University of Auckland (#65)
- University of Otago (=#197)
- Massey University (=#230)
- Victoria University of Wellington (=#240)
Austria is one of the most beautiful countries for international students to study in.
5. Austria
Fourth on the 2025 Global Peace Index is Austria. It is located in Central Europe and boasts low crime rates and a healthy economy.
To complement these advantages, Austria has an excellent higher education system with affordable tuition fees — even for international students.
Like most European countries, Austrian students, nationals of all European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) member countries, generallydo not pay tuition fees at public universities. For students outside these countries, you can expect to pay726.72 euros (≈US$850.85).
Although the locals speak several dialects of German, English is still widely spoken by the majority of its population.
Top universities in Austria:
- University of Vienna (#152)
- Technische Universität Wien (=#197)
- Universität Innsbruck (=#350)
- Graz University of Technology (#427)
6. Singapore
Singapore is famed for its political stability, high living standards, extremely efficient public transport system, clean environment and low crime rates.
It is currently the safest country in Asia and sixth in the world.According to theGlobal Peace Index, Singapore has a point of 1.357, thanks to the country’s zero tolerance for physical and mental abuse and strict laws in place for the safety and security of international students.
Although small, this is a country that punches above its weight when it comes to education. Top universities, such as the National University of Singapore (NUS) (#8) and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) (#12), are often ranked among Asia’s best.
Many international universities also have branches in Singapore, including James Cook University, INSEAD, and Curtin University.
Top universities in Singapore:
- National University of Singapore (#8)
- Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (#12)
- Singapore Management University (=#511)
- Singapore University of Technology and Design (=#519)
Today, Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, with a national policy that prohibits Japan from establishing a military or solving international conflicts through violence.
7. Japan
Aside from delicious seafood, anime, and cherry blossoms, Japan is known for its exceptionally safe environment today.Its high levels of public safety, cleanliness and order have placed it twelfth on theGlobal Peace Index with a score of 1.44.
Japan is one of the most advanced countries in the world of technology, making it a popular choice for students wanting to pursue higher education in engineering, technology and science.
From ancient temples and tranquil gardens to bustling metropolises like Tokyo and Osaka, there is something for everyone. Its universities are consistently ranked top in Asia.
Top universities in Japan:
- The University of Tokyo (#36)
- Kyoto University (#57)
- Tokyo Institute of Technology (#85)
- Osaka University (#91)
8. Canada
Canada is home to many prestigious universities like McGill University, University of Toronto and University of British Columbia.
If studying in Canada is your dream, safety is something you do not have to worry about. Ranked 14th on theGlobal Peace Index, it is one of the safest countries in the world.
Canadians are well known for their warmth and kindness, making the country an excellent choice for international students.
Top universities in Canada:
- McGill University (#14)
- University of Toronto (#29)
- University of British Columbia (#40)
- University of Alberta (#94)
9. Finland
It is almost impossible to find a more perfect study-abroad destination for international students than Finland.
Not only does the country rank 10th on theGlobal Peace Index with a score of 1.42, but Finland has been voted as thehappiest country in the world for eight consecutive years, according to theWorld Happiness Report.
Finland’s education is also relatively affordable.
Top universities in Finland:
- Aalto University (=#114)
- University of Helsinki (=#116)
- University of Oulu (#342)
- University of Turku (#366)
10. Sweden
Peaceful, friendly, stable — that’s what it’s like to live in Sweden.The country is also among the top countries with thesafest traffic in the world, with 20 traffic deaths per million inhabitants.
Many of Sweden’s big cities, like Stockholm and Gothenburg, have grown into multicultural hubs welcoming students from all around the world. Here, you will find opportunities for everyone, as the country has much to offer in terms of education, work and leisure.
Top universities in Sweden:
- Lund University (=#72)
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology (=#78)
- Uppsala University (#93)
- Stockholm University (=#147)
11. Switzerland
Known as one of the safest countries in the world for international students, Switzerland consistently ranks high for safety, low crime rates, and political stability.
Students often report feeling safe walking alone at night and using public transport. In fact, in Switzerland, it is considered common to leave your belongings unattended in libraries or cafes.
Besides political neutrality, low crime rate, and strong social systems, Switzerland offers a high standard of living, clean air, and excellent healthcare. Don’t forget the efficient public transportation.
Given all these factors, it is no surprise that Switzerland ranks fourth in the 2025 Global Peace Index, with a score of 1.294.
Top universities in Zurich:
- ETH Zurich (#7)
- EPFL – École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (=#22)
- University of Zurich (#100)
- University of Geneva (=#155)
Every year, the Global Peace Index releases a list of the safest countries in the world for international students.
As you would expect, the analysis ranks these countries based on the absence of violence or the fear of violence when assessing a nation’s level of peace.
But safety extends beyond crime too.
It includes the tolerance and acceptance of a community where diversity is celebrated. Where students from various backgrounds can engage freely with others, fostering cross-cultural understanding and lifelong friendships.
Safety also includes reliable public transportation and well-maintained campuses and public spaces. All this combined allows students to fully immerse themselves in their university and host country with peace of mind.
The 2026 Global Terrorism Index from the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP) reported Pakistan as the country most affected by terrorism in 2025, following a significant resurgence in attacks. The country experienced 1,139 deaths and 1,045 incidents — the highest figures recorded since 2013.
Based on the report’s findings, the countries most affected by terrorism in 2026 are:
Disclaimer: This article was last updated on May 13, 2026.
