While pursuing a master’s degree in the United States definitely offers its own merits, we’re going to compare those with the plentiful benefits of studying abroad. Consider this article your step-by-step guide to achieving that dream of earning a master’s degree abroad, from the initial decisions you’ll want to make to the process of obtaining a student visa, and everything in between.

Reality check: There’s no perfect place. Whether in the US or Europe, each corner of the world has its unique charms and challenges. If only we could combine the best of both worlds and create our own utopia, right? While perfection may be elusive, there are places out there that align more closely with our aspirations. Maybe yours is Europe? If so, keep reading to learn about the pros and cons of living in Europe vs the US.