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Top Universities & Programs for Bachelors in Economics Abroad

Did You Know?

Job openings for economists are expected to grow 5% from 2023 to 2033, which is the same as other occupations.

A Bachelor's in Economics is crucial for entry-level positions in fields like economic analysis, policy-making, and data research. These roles require you to possess core skills like critical thinking and a deep understanding of global markets. 

Studying this degree in countries like the USA, UK, or Canada prepares you for a career in both the private and public sectors.

In the USA alone, over 1,000 openings for economist jobs emerge each year. A minimum qualification of a Bachelor's can open doors to working with government agencies and global organizations like the UN. Additionally, pursuing bachelors in economics abroad can lay the foundation for further studies, such as a PhD in Germany

This blog will explore the top universities in the world for Economics and provide insights into your study abroad journey.

Bachelors in Economics Abroad: Overview

A Bachelor's degree in Economics typically takes 3 years and covers important themes like microeconomics, macroeconomics, statistical analysis, and economic theory. This degree prepares you for diverse roles, from economic analyst to policy advisor, providing a foundation for careers in government service or international organizations.

Here’s a brief overview of a Bachelor's in Economics abroad.

Parameter Details
Duration  3 - 4 years
Main Intakes 
  • Winter (January)
  • Fall (September)
Course Level 
  • Bachelor of Economics
  • BA in Economics
  • BS in Economics
  • Economics BSc
Top Universities 
Average Annual Tuition Fee N/A
Entrance Exams Required
  • TOEFL: 80 - 90
  • IELTS: 6.0 - 6.5
  • Cambridge English Test: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency
  • Duolingo English Test: 105
  • Pearson Test of English: 58
Eligibility Criteria
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent 
  • GPA Score: Minimum 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Career Opportunities
Popular Specializations 
  • Financial Economics
  • Labor Economics
  • Health Economics
  • Behavioral Economics
  • Environmental Economics

Before exploring the top universities in detail, let's first understand how a Bachelor's in Economics abroad can benefit you.

Why Pursue Bachelors in Economics Abroad?

Globally renowned universities, such as Harvard University and the University of Oxford, consistently feature in the top 10 of QS rankings for Economics. A Bachelor's degree from these institutions not only makes you highly employable but also opens doors to a future in research and advanced degrees like PhD.

Here’s why pursuing a Bachelors in Economics abroad is beneficial.

  • Global Perspective: Studying Economics abroad allows you to explore various economic systems, policies, and market dynamics. This exposure helps you understand how economies operate differently across regions.
  • Top-Ranking Institutions: Universities like Harvard, Oxford, and MIT offer specialized Economics programs, consistently ranked among the top worldwide.
  • Networking Opportunities: By studying abroad, you’ll meet people from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. This global network can provide valuable mentorship, career advice, and connections throughout your career.
  • Research Opportunities: Many universities abroad offer access to the latest research facilities and projects. Participating in these can help you develop advanced analytical skills, preparing you for roles in academia or policy research.
  • Exposure to Different Teaching Styles: Universities abroad often use a mix of case studies, data analysis, and theoretical frameworks. This equips you with practical skills and problem-solving abilities that are highly valued by employers.
  • Career Flexibility: A Bachelor's in Economics from a prestigious international institution opens career paths like policy-making, finance, and consulting.

Once you’ve understood the benefits of pursuing a Bachelor's in Economics abroad, let’s take a look at the top universities offering this program.

Top Universities for Studying Bachelors in Economics Abroad

Knowing the top universities helps you choose a course that aligns with your goals and fits your budget. An economics degree from a university, like the University of Toronto, will expose you to global economic trends and policy-making. 

This foundation can benefit your future studies and career opportunities in organizations like the World Bank.

Here are the top universities for this program.

University Program Annual Tuition Fees Duration & Deadline
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Bachelor of Science in Economics $85,960 (INR 73.6L)

4 years

Deadline:

6 January 2025 (Closed)

University of Oxford BA in Economics & Management £41,130 (INR 48.3L)

3 years

Deadline:

15 October 2025 

University of Melbourne BA Economics AUD 44,958 (INR 25.2L)

3 years

Deadline:

31 October 2025 (Start year)

University of Toronto Bachelor of Science in Financial Economics

$61,720 (INR 52.8L)

 

4 years

Deadline:

2 February 2025 (Closed)

Harvard University Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) in Economics $57,328 (INR 49.1L)

Deadline:

1 December 2024 (Closed)

University of British Columbia Bachelor of Arts Economics $1,998 (INR 1.7L) per credit hour

4 years

Deadline

15 January 2026 (Winter 2026)

University of Sydney Bachelor of Economics (Honors) AUD 53,600 (INR 30L)

1 year

Deadline

15 May 2025 (Semester 2)

University of Manchester BAEcon Economics £29,500 (INR 34.6L)

3 - 4 years

Deadline

N/A

Apart from top universities, you can also explore well-known universities that align with your career plans.

Popular Universities for Bachelors in Economics Abroad

Popular universities, such as the University of Bonn, can be great alternatives if you’re unable to study at top-tier institutions. They offer high-quality education and are more cost-effective (30% - 50% cheaper) compared to top universities like Harvard University.

Below are some popular universities to study a Bachelors in Economics abroad.

University Program Annual Tuition Fees Duration & Deadline
University of Bonn Bachelor of Arts in Economics €320 (INR 32.1K)

3 years

Deadline:

31 March 2025 (Closed)

University of Washington Bachelor of Arts in Economics $43,209 (INR 37L)

4 years

Deadline:

15 November 2024 (Closed)

University of Montreal Bachelor of Economics CAD 11,521 (INR 7.2L) per trimester

3 years

Deadline:

1 February 2025 (Closed)

University of Warwick Economics BSc £33,520 (INR 39.4L)

3 - 4 years

Deadline:

29 January 2025 (Closed)

Monash University Bachelor of Economics AUD 53,200 (INR 29.8L)

3 years

Deadline:

Rolling 

Arizona State University BS Economics $20,623 (INR 17.6L)

4 years

Deadline

15 January 2025 (Closed)

Next, let’s explore the eligibility criteria required for a Bachelor's in Economics abroad.

Eligibility Criteria for Bachelors in Economics Abroad

Understanding the eligibility requirements is essential for a successful application. Typically, you’ll need a high school diploma with a GPA of around 3.0. Some top universities, like the University of Oxford, may also require SAT or ACT scores. 

For international applicants, proof of English language proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL is necessary. Once you’ve received your confirmation, you can apply for a student visa.

Here are the eligibility requirements for a Bachelor's in Economics abroad.

Criteria  Sub-Criteria Details 
Academic Requirements Educational Qualification High school diploma or equivalent.
GPA Score Minimum 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Academic Transcripts Official documents showing all completed courses and grades from your previous degree.
Standardized Tests GRE N/A
GMAT N/A
SAT 1200 - 1400
ACT 23
English Language Proficiency IELTS 6.0 - 6.5
TOEFL 80 - 90
Cambridge English Test C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency
Duolingo English Test 105
Pearson Test of English  58
Visa requirements Passport Must be valid for the duration of your studies.
Letter of Acceptance Confirmation of selection from a recognized university.
Proof of Funds Bank statements to prove you have sufficient financial resources. 
Academic Transcripts Official documents from previous courses and grades.
Visa Application Form

Relevant student visa application form, such as:

  • DS-160 for the US 
  • Tier 4 for the UK
Visa Fee
  • US: $535 (INR 46.1K)
  • UK: £524 (INR 61.2K)
  • Canada: CAD 150 (INR 9.3K)
Miscellaneous  Statement of Purpose A well-written SOP explaining your goals and motivation.
Letter of Recommendation Typically, 2-3 letters from professors or employers.
Resume/CV Current resume/CV with details of education and experience.

Now that you’ve explored the eligibility requirements, let’s take a look at the application process for studying a Bachelors in Economics abroad.

Application Process for Bachelors in Economics Abroad

The application process is an important step in planning your studies abroad. It begins with submitting your application through the university portal, along with documents like academic transcripts and test scores such as the ACT

If you're an international applicant, you’ll need to provide proof of English language proficiency levels through tests like TOEFL. After receiving your admission confirmation, you can apply for a student visa before traveling.

Here are the application steps you’ll need to follow.

  • Step 1: Send Your Application: Complete your application for the bachelor’s degree, including personal information, academic background, and any required essays or forms.
  • Step 2: Provide Required Documents: Submit the following documents as needed:
    • Academic transcripts
    • Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
    • Letters of recommendation
    • Statement of Purpose (if required)
    • Resume/CV (if required)
    • Standardized tests like SAT
  • Step 3: Attend an Interview: Some universities may request an interview. Be ready to talk about your academic background and reasons for the program.
  • Step 4: Track Your Application: Check your application status on the university portal and promptly respond to any additional document requests.
  • Step 5: Apply for Your Student Visa: Once selected, apply for a visa by providing the following:
    • The acceptance letter from the university
    • Visa application form (specific to the country)
    • Proof of financial support
    • Visa application fee (varies by country)
    • Passport-size photographs
    • Visa application fee payment confirmation

Now, let’s explore the subjects and specializations you will study during a Bachelors in Economics abroad.

Curriculum Details for Bachelors in Economics Abroad

In a Bachelor's in Economics program, you’ll cover core subjects like microeconomics and macroeconomics, with specializations in areas such as development economics. These provide a strong foundation for careers in government, finance, or international organizations. 

Internships and co-op programs offer hands-on experience, helping students connect academic knowledge with real-world economics.

Here’s the curriculum for a Bachelor’s in Economics abroad.

Course Type Programs
Core Subjects
  • Microeconomics
  • Macroeconomics
  • International Economics
  • Public Economics
  • Economic Theory
  • Mathematics for Economics
  • Econometrics
  • Development Economics
Electives or Specialization
  • Financial Economics
  • Labor Economics
  • Health Economics
  • Behavioral Economics
  • Environmental Economics
Other Offerings
  • Internship: practical work experience at financial institutions, government agencies, or private sector companies like banks.
  • Co-op program: Studying and working in roles like economic analysis, gaining practical experience in industries such as banking,
  • Capstone Project: Analyze real-world issues, like market trends, using data and models to propose actionable solutions.

Now, let’s explore the costs associated with studying for a Bachelor's degree in Economics abroad.

Cost of Pursuing Bachelors in Economics Abroad

Tuition fees typically account for 50% to 70% of the total cost of studying abroad, depending on the country and university. For instance, the total cost for an international student pursuing a four-year degree can be around $45,708 (INR 39.1L), though this may vary slightly for a three-year program.

Here is the tuition fee that makes up the cost of studying abroad for Indian students.

Country Annual Tuition Fee (Average) Annual Tuition Fee (INR)
United States $45,708 INR 39.1L
United Kingdom £11,400 - £38,000 INR 13.4L - INR 44.7L
Australia AUD 23,200 to AUD 43,680 INR 13L - INR 24.4L
Germany €100 - €20,000 INR 9.9K - INR 19.9L
Canada CAD 29,714 INR 18.6L
Ireland €9,950 - €35,000 INR 9.9L - INR 34.9L

NoteThe INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate.

Along with tuition fees, you need to account for living costs like accommodation and food. Let’s explore these costs.

Cost of Living Abroad

The cost of living depends on your lifestyle choices and place of residence, and includes expenses for accommodation, food, and clothing. For instance, the cost of living in Canada can amount to CAD 15,000 (INR 9.3L), whereas in Ireland, it is approximately £15,000 (INR 14.9L).

Here’s the detailed breakdown of cost of living abroad.

Country Annual Cost of Living (Average) Cost of Living (INR)
United States $13,200 INR 11.3L
United Kingdom £13,800 INR 16.1L
Australia AUD 29,710 INR 16.5L
Germany €11,904 INR 11.8L
Canada CAD 15,000 INR 9.3L
Ireland €15,000 INR 14.9L

NoteThe INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate.

Students can apply for financial aid, such as scholarships, to reduce the cost of studying abroad. Let’s take a closer look at these options.

Bachelors in Economics Abroad: Scholarships for Students

If you’re planning to study abroad, you’ll need around INR 15L to INR 45L per year, depending on the country and university. While options like study loans are available, scholarships are the best way to reduce costs by 30% to 100%

For example, Chevening Scholarships sponsor around 1,500 students each year to study in the UK for free.

Below are some scholarship options for studying abroad.

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships are awarded by the university, typically in the form of tuition fee reductions or financial grants. For example, the Reach Oxford Scholarship at the University of Oxford covers tuition fees and living costs for undergraduate students.

Here are some internal study abroad scholarships for Indian students.

Scholarship  Type  Details 
Reach Oxford Scholarship Merit-based 

Eligibility: Undergraduate students from developing countries.

Benefits: Covers tuition fees, cost of living, and one return airfare per year.

Cochrane Scholarship

(Monash University)

Merit-based 

Eligibility: International student on:

  • Bridging Visa E
  • Bridging Visa A
  • Temporary Protection Visa
  • Safe Haven Enterprise Visa

Benefits:

  • Covers full tuition fees for up to four years
  • $6,000 (INR 5.1L) annual allowance for the duration of the degree.

Lester B Pearson

(University of Toronto)

Merit-based, University-specific

Eligibility: International students who have shown exceptional academic achievements and leadership skills. 

Benefits: Covers full tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years.

Apart from university-specific internal scholarships, you can also apply for external ones. Let’s explore them in detail.

External Scholarships

Beyond university scholarships, you can explore external ones, typically offered by the government. Indian applicants can apply for the Australia Awards Scholarship, which covers the cost of studying a bachelor's degree in an Australian university.

Here are some external scholarship options.

Scholarship  Type  Details 

Australia Awards Scholarships

 

External merit-based 

Eligibility: Students from developing countries in the Indo-Pacific region.

Benefits: Financial grant to cover full tuition fee, living expenses, flight ticket for travel, and health insurance.

Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship Foundation-Based

Eligibility: International students from countries in the Global South.

Benefits: Full tuition, monthly living expenses of €934 (INR 89.4K), child allowance, and health insurance.

New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) Merit-based, Government-funded 

Eligibility: Indian students studying in applicable universities.

Benefits: Financial aid of NZD 260,000 (INR 1.3L)

Next, let’s discuss the job opportunities available for students after completing bachelors in economics abroad.

Job Opportunities After Bachelors in Economics Abroad

The average salary for an Economics degree holder in the USA is $115,440 (INR 98.9L), which is 73.1% higher than the average wage of $66,621 (INR 57L). A Bachelor's in Economics equips students with skills like financial forecasting, making them well-suited for roles such as a data analyst.
Here are some job opportunities for a Bachelor's in Economics abroad.

Job Role  Average Annual Salary  Average Annual Salary (INR)
Economic Analyst £42,841 INR 50.3L
Risk Analyst $87,528 INR 75L
Policy Advisor  $112,575 INR 96.5L
Data Analyst $72,292 INR 61.9L
Credit Analyst €60,000 INR 60.1L

SourceIndeed, Glassdoor

NoteThe INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

Now, let’s look at some top companies hiring bachelors in economics graduates abroad.

Top Recruiters Hiring Graduates After Bachelors In Economics Abroad

A Bachelor's degree in Economics prepares you for diverse careers, from policy-making to investment banking. Companies like Deloitte are eagerly looking for roles such as financial analyst, requiring skills like risk analysis and economic forecasting.

Here are some top organizations hiring graduates with a Bachelors in Economics abroad.

Top Recruiter Job Role Average Annual Salary
JPMorganChase Risk Analyst $102,519 (INR 87.8L)
World Bank Economist $150,462 (INR 1.2CR)
United Nations (UN) Research Analyst $81,000 (INR 69.4L)
Deloitte  Financial Analyst £42,096 (INR 36L)
HSBC Credit Analyst $85,706 (INR 73.4L)

SourceGlassdoor, Indeed

Finally, let’s understand how upGrad can support you in your plans to study bachelors in economics abroad.

How Can upGrad Help You Bachelors in Economics Abroad?

Studying in the US can be challenging due to the complexity of the process. upGrad simplifies the entire journey by offering expert support, ensuring your journey is smooth.

upGrad offers personalized guidance, helping you make confident decisions. You can get assistance with visa paperwork, scholarships, and targeted IELTS/TOEFL preparation. Additionally, career counseling and resume reviews ensure continuous success.

Begin your study abroad journey today. Book a 1:1 session with upGrad experts to receive personalized guidance on requirements, finances, and the application process for a successful experience!

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861 results found

Bachelor of Science in Economics

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 50.21L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

BSc Economics, Finance and Data Science

Imperial College London, UK

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 39.10L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    OCT 2025
View details

BA in Economics and Management

University of Oxford, UK

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 41.13L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    OCT 2025
View details

Economics, BA (Hons)

University of Cambridge, UK

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 27.02L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    OCT 2025
View details

Economics (BS)

University of Scranton, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 36.60L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Economics (BA)

Stanford University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 52.83L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) in Economics

Harvard University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 45.81L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Economics, BA

University of Pennsylvania, USA

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 45.53L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

Bachelor of Arts in Economics

Yale University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 54.47L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

BA Economics

Cornell University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 55.39L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    JAN 2025
View details

Bachelor of Science in Economics

State University of New York at New Paltz, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 13.70L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

ECONOMICS (BS)

Georgia College, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 10.21L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Bachelor of Arts in Economics

Princeton University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 52.82L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

Applied Economics Master of Science

Johns Hopkins University, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 45.81L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Economics (BA)

University of Michigan, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 49.37L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

MA Economics and Accounting

The University of Edinburgh, UK

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 23.29L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Bachelor of Social Sciences (Honours in Actuarial Studies and Economics)

Australian National University, Australia

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 25.86L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    JUL 2025
View details

ECONOMICS (BA)

University of Mount Union, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 26.06L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Bachelor of Agricultural Economics

McGill University, Canada

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 18.70L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Economics

Northwestern University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 50.54L (Total)
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024
View details
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All information provided on this page is for general use and upGrad Abroad is not responsible for any errors or omissions. The Universities involved in this Program are accredited/recognized in the countries where they are established. Relevant terms and conditions apply.Any action taken upon the information found on this website is strictly at your own risk.

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