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10 Best Places to Study Foreign Languages and Literature Abroad

July 27, 2017

If you’re pursuing a degree in either foreign languages or literature (or both), you’ll certainly want to consider studying abroad. You’ll gain firsthand, immersive experience of the regional language and dialects, while having direct access to the academic resources and local scholarship that will help you interpret and understand the literary culture. Here are some of the best places to begin your international education.

1. France

France is not only home to some of history’s greatest poets, novelists and essayists, but many expatriates produced some of their greatest works of literature both during and after their time living in France. (The works of Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Henry Miller and Richard Wright were all heavily inspired by their time in Paris.) Studying abroad in France will help you absorb the language and culture of a highly influential and historically rich country.

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2. Germany

Germany is one of the most popular study abroad destinations in the world, and for good reason. Regardless of your major, Germany offers international students an abundance of academic and professional development. And for students of literature, it is an exceptionally diverse and stimulating environment. Hermann Hesse, Thomas Mann, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Berthold Brecht are only a few of Germany’s most globally respected and renowned writers.

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3. Italy

There isn’t a more beautiful or more inspirational country to study languages and literature than in Italy. With its abundant libraries, diverse museums and breathtaking scenery, students can immerse themselves in a region that produced Giovanni Boccaccio, Elena Ferrante and Dario Fo.

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4. Spain

Study the Spanish language and its regional dialects right in the heart of Pamplona! Be inspired by the glorious cathedrals, and enjoy summer festivities like the San Fermin Festival, which is held yearly from July 6-14.

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5. Japan

Japan has a rich ancient literary tradition that has influenced artists around the world for centuries. The national reverence for literature is celebrated annually at the Spring International Literary Festival in Tokyo.

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6. England, United Kingdom

There is no better place to study English literature than the birthplace of the bard himself. Become acquainted with historic and contemporary literary notables as you enjoy London’s diverse cultural attractions and fascinating people.

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7. Australia

Australia is one of the most dynamic literary nations, with a flourishing publishing industry and some of the world’s most respected and renowned authors. Melbourne, in particular, is a creative hub with one of the most comprehensive libraries in the nation. It also has received a UNESCO City of Literature designation. Moreover, if you’re interested in studying the works of Indigenous Australian writers and their themes, you won’t find a better, more resource-rich region.

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8. Finland

Finnish is one of the most difficult languages to learn, so those seeking fluency would be wise to go right to the heartland! In addition to the language and cultural immersion studying abroad in Finland provides, you are also going to have the opportunity to study some of the most influential modern and classic works of Finnish literature, and see how Finnish folklore continues to heavily influence modern writers.

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9. China

Although students of classical literature will find much to appreciate in Chinese literary culture, studying abroad in China has a wide variety of practical professional advantages. International students will find that the study of Chinese literature and languages will help them understand a nation that is becoming a dominant economic force, and may help them stand apart in a competitive job market

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10. South Korea

South Korea is becoming an increasingly viable economic, technological and cultural power; developing a familiarity with the language and culture is simply a sound career strategy. By studying abroad in South Korea, you have access to fascinating and valuable cultural and academic resources, which can help to make you an exceptional and sought-after job candidate.

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Since 1979, ISEP Study Abroad has introduced students of all backgrounds to the far corners of the world, helping them to supplement their education with the invaluable experience of living among different cultures. With university partnerships spreading across more than 50 countries, we offer students the support and resources they need to fulfill their dream of an international education. If you want to study engineering abroad at one of our many dynamic member institutions, please visit our search page.

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