Study Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) Abroad in 2025

Before choosing a top country to study Humanities and Social Sciences abroad, you need to consider various factors such as your budget and eligibility for the courses. Once all of that is sorted, you may refer to the list of the best countries for Humanities and Social Sciences for international students:

• Study in UK: The United Kingdom is known for its globally recognised programmes, valuable employment opportunities, and diverse environment, which makes it one of the most popular destinations for studying abroad.
• Study in US: Universities in the United States nurture the intellect in several fields of the Humanities and Social Sciences. As per the latest QS World University Rankings, seven colleges in the US are listed among the 10 best institutions for humanities and arts. These include Harvard University, the University of California, Berkeley, and Yale University.
• Study in Canada: Canada is another popular choice among foreign students since it offers a culturally diverse, welcoming, and inclusive environment. Some of the leading universities for Humanities and Social Sciences include the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia.
• Study in Germany: You can also consider Germany for taking up Humanities or Social Sciences since it offers valuable courses at affordable prices to international students. As per the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, many German institutions are ranked among the best universities worldwide for Humanities and Arts.
• Study in Australia: Australian universities follow a research-oriented approach to education, with a multitude of specialisations and cutting-edge amenities that can enrich your experience. The leading institutions offering valuable courses in Humanities and Social Sciences include the Australian National University, the University of Sydney, and the University of Melbourne.

Here is the list of the top Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) courses to study abroad:

Popular Subjects under Humanities

• History: University of California (Berkeley), University of Cambridge
• English Literature: University of Oxford, Harvard University
• Classical Studies: Columbia University, University College London
• Philosophy: Yale University, Princeton University

Popular Subjects under Social Sciences

• Economics: University of Chicago, Harvard University
• Political Science: Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Anthropology: New York University, Yale University
• International Relations: University of Tokyo, University of Cambridge
• Psychology: Princeton University, Yale University
• Sociology: University of California (Berkeley), University of Oxford

Here is a list of the top universities that offer outstanding courses in Humanities and Social Sciences abroad to international students:

Source: The information mentioned in the table has been taken from official university websites.

A Master in Humanities and Social Sciences abroad requires having a bachelor’s degree with a good score, relevant coursework, and standardised test results, while a Bachelor in HUMSS abroad requires a 10+2 from a recognised board of education with other specific requirements if any. Here are the following eligibility criteria for HUMSS courses abroad:

Standardised Test Scores: Most universities require proof of the candidate’s English proficiency in the form of IELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT scores. A TOEFL iBT score of at least 80 -100+ is considered the standard for being eligible for a foreign university, while for IELTS Academic, the minimum required score is 6.5 - 7.0 bands.

Academic Qualifications:

• For Masters Programme: A bachelor’s degree in a field relevant to the course is usually needed, with a minimum score (GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0). Apart from this, certain universities might require specific coursework in disciplines such as History, Language, or a particular Social Science subject.
• For Bachelors Programme: 10+2 with the minimum communicated GPA or percentage from an internationally recognised board of education in Humanities as the main subject (or equivalent alternate).

Supporting Documents: As for the documentation required, candidates should submit recommendation letters from their mentors or professors. Additionally, a statement of purpose outlining the academic goals and interests of the candidate is crucial in this regard.

Other Considerations: Some universities have more requirements for specific programmes or courses in the Humanities and Social Sciences. As such, aspirants need to note such clauses while going through the information released by the respective university in this regard.

Here is a round-up of the application process that aspirants from the Philippines can expect when it comes to enrolling in a course in Humanities and Social Sciences abroad:

• Researching the Programmes: Begin the process by researching courses that are aligned with your career goals and academic interests. Make sure to consider factors such as the expertise of the faculty, the curriculum, the cultural environment, and the location.
• Preparing the Documents: Next, prepare the necessary documents, which include your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, SOPs, and proof of language proficiency. Note that every university has specific requirements, so it’s best to review the application guidelines carefully.
• Submitting Applications: Make sure to submit the applications for admission by the deadlines mentioned in the latest application notices. Universities nowadays use online portals for applications, so be careful to submit all the required materials and pay the corresponding application fees.
• Making Arrangements for the Visa and Travel: Once an applicant is accepted by a university, they will need to apply for a student visa for the country they have chosen to study in. Also, they should make the necessary arrangements for health insurance, accommodation, and travelling to the country. It is also essential to make oneself familiar with the social and cultural norms of the country to ensure a smooth transition.

It is advised to plan your application journey a year ahead to avoid last minute rush. Give ample time to country research, course and university shortlisting, exam preparation, university application, document arrangements, scholarship application, sorting out finances, visa filing and accommodation hunting.

The cost involved in studying social sciences and humanities courses abroad would largely depend on the choice of country and university, along with the lifestyle preferred. Here is an average estimate of the costs that students from the Philippines can expect in 2025:

Tuition for Humanities and Social Sciences courses abroad can cost between USD 20,000 and USD 60,000 annually. Here are the estimates for some well-known universities:

Source: The above annual tuition fee range has been sourced from the official university website and is subject to change. Students looking to apply are advised to get in touch with our counsellors for the updated fee structure.

Living expenses in countries such as the US may range from US $10,000 - $20,000 annually, which translates to US $1,200 - $2,500 per month. A rough breakdown of the expenses is as follows:

Numerous opportunities for scholarship and financial aid are available to global students, including applicants from the Philippines, who are willing to study Humanities and Social Sciences abroad. The organisations offering such scholarships include government associations, academic institutions, and several international bodies.

1. Chevening Scholarship

• Country: United Kingdom
• Eligibility: Filipino nationals having a solid academic background, leadership potential, and a minimum of two years of work experience can apply for this scholarship.
• Deadline: Early November (annually)

2. Australia Award Scholarship

• Country: Australia
• Eligibility: Experts in the Philippines who are employed in significant development sectors are eligible. Also, they must promise to apply the newly acquired knowledge after returning to their home country.
• Deadline: Early May or Late April (annually)

3. Fulbright Foreign Student Programme

• Country: United States (US)
• Eligibility: Filipino nationals with a solid academic record, holding a Bachelor’s degree, and intending to return to the Philippines after completion of studies are eligible for this scholarship.
• Deadline: April 30 (annually)

It is advisable to search for suitable scholarships and awards and check their grant money, and eligibility criteria to apply well on time, avoid competition and increase your chances of winning.

Filipino students studying HUMSS courses abroad can pursue a wide range of careers, which include roles in international and government organisations, consulting, education, and media. Here is a list of career opportunities after Humanities and Social Sciences in Philippines, along with the respective salary ranges:

Source: Indeed Philippines

Pursuing Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) courses abroad opens doors to global perspectives and personal growth. With the best universities for HUMSS, students gain top-notch education and exposure. From diverse career opportunities abroad to meeting the right admission requirements for HUMSS abroad, the journey is both enriching and rewarding for aspiring learners.

Kickstart your global journey with AECC and explore top Humanities and Social Sciences courses abroad. Get expert guidance on admission requirements and the best universities to unlock global career opportunities!