Most Expensive Universities in the World

According to Forbes, the following are the top 10 most expensive colleges in the world for the 2008-2009 academic year, based on estimated tuition and fees:

1. George Washington University, Washington D.C. (US)

Tuition and Fees: $60,963

Located in the heart of Washington D.C., George Washington University (GWU) is not only known for its location in the U.S. capital but also for its high tuition rates. The university’s proximity to the seat of government, prestigious political connections, and renowned programs in fields like law, international relations, and business contribute to the high cost. While the tuition may seem steep, many students at GWU benefit from the university’s strong internships and career opportunities in government and private sectors, which often make the investment worthwhile. The university also boasts impressive research facilities, a diverse student body, and a rigorous academic environment.

2. Sarah Lawrence College, New York (US)
Tuition and Fees: $60,851

Sarah Lawrence College, a small liberal arts college located in Yonkers, New York, is renowned for its intimate, personalized approach to education. The college places a significant emphasis on individualized learning, where students work closely with faculty to design their academic experiences. Known for its creative writing, theatre, and arts programs, Sarah Lawrence also offers a holistic, interdisciplinary approach to education. Despite its high tuition, Sarah Lawrence remains highly sought after for its close-knit academic community and unique focus on creative and intellectual development.

3. Kenyon College, Ohio (US)
Tuition and Fees: $60,685

Located in Gambier, Ohio, Kenyon College is a private liberal arts college that is widely recognized for its rigorous academic programs and exceptional faculty. The high cost of tuition at Kenyon is associated with its reputation for academic excellence, particularly in English literature, creative writing, and history. The college's beautiful rural campus and strong sense of community also make it a desirable destination for many students, despite the significant financial commitment. Kenyon’s commitment to small class sizes and personalized attention contributes to its reputation as one of the top liberal arts colleges in the country.

4. Vassar College, New York (US)
Tuition and Fees: $60,640

Another prestigious New York-based institution, Vassar College is a member of the Seven Sisters (a group of highly selective women’s colleges). Known for its rigorous academics, Vassar is famous for its programs in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. The college has a rich tradition of intellectual excellence and offers an incredibly supportive environment for its students. However, the cost of tuition is a reflection of the high quality of education, as well as the generous financial aid opportunities available to many students. With a strong emphasis on research, campus facilities, and extracurricular opportunities, Vassar remains a top choice for students looking for a challenging, elite liberal arts education.

5. Bucknell University, Pennsylvania (US)
Tuition and Fees: $59,799

Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, offers a high-quality liberal arts education with a focus on undergraduate teaching. With strong programs in engineering, business, and the humanities, Bucknell’s tuition reflects its reputation for academic rigor and strong faculty. The university also provides impressive campus facilities, including state-of-the-art labs and research centers. Known for its small class sizes, Bucknell emphasizes individualized attention and a well-rounded education. Bucknell’s diverse campus and strong commitment to leadership and community service further increase its appeal, despite its high tuition fees.

6. Franklin College, Switzerland
Tuition and Fees: $49,918 (US and Canada)

Located in Lugano, Switzerland, Franklin College offers an American-style liberal arts education in the heart of Europe. The college attracts international students from all over the world due to its unique location and diverse academic offerings. Franklin College’s tuition costs reflect the prestige of studying in Switzerland, a country known for its high living standards and rich cultural history. Students have the opportunity to experience European life while receiving a world-class education, particularly in fields like international relations, business, and arts. The college’s location near major European cities also offers students countless opportunities for internships, research, and cultural immersion.

7. American University of Paris, France
Tuition and Fees: $49,164

The American University of Paris (AUP) offers students the chance to experience an American education in one of the most vibrant cultural hubs of Europe. AUP is known for its international student body and interdisciplinary programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and business. Studying in Paris provides students with unparalleled cultural exposure and access to professional opportunities in international relations, business, and arts. However, the price of attending AUP is steep, reflecting both the cost of living in Paris and the institution’s high-quality academic offerings. For many students, the chance to study in one of the world’s most influential cities makes the expense worthwhile.

8. Imperial College London, UK
Tuition and Fees: $41,925 (Non-resident)

Imperial College London, one of the UK’s top universities, is widely regarded for its outstanding programs in science, engineering, business, and medicine. For non-resident students (those from outside the UK and EU), the cost of tuition is among the highest in the country. Imperial’s high tuition fees reflect the cost of studying at one of the world’s leading research institutions, with state-of-the-art laboratories, cutting-edge research programs, and exceptional academic staff. As a leading institution in the STEM fields, Imperial attracts top students from around the world, making it a competitive and prestigious place to study.

9. National University of Singapore (NUS)
Tuition and Fees: $36,194 (Non-resident)

The National University of Singapore (NUS) is the leading university in Singapore and one of the most prestigious universities in Asia. While tuition for non-residents is relatively high, it is still much lower than that of many Western institutions. NUS is known for its excellent programs in engineering, science, business, and law, and it has consistently ranked among the top universities globally. The university’s high tuition fees reflect its world-class research facilities, top-tier faculty, and its status as a global leader in higher education.

10. University of Melbourne, Australia
Tuition and Fees: $30,463 (Non-resident)

As the top university in Australia, the University of Melbourne offers world-class education to students from around the globe. For non-resident students, the cost of attending is quite high compared to other Australian institutions, reflecting the quality of education and the university’s strong international reputation. The University of Melbourne offers diverse programs in fields such as arts, science, law, and business and is known for its cutting-edge research and vibrant campus life. While the tuition fees are significant, many students consider the experience of studying in one of the world’s most livable cities to be a valuable investment.

 
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