6 Best Places to Study Abroad for Sports Fanatics & Student Athletes
Authored By:
Love competition, teamwork, and staying active – but also want to study abroad? You’re not alone. The good news: Student athletes don’t have to choose between their sport and seeing the world. There are exciting places to study abroad for sports fanatics where athletics, movement, and global learning go hand in hand. From international sports culture to hands-on athletic experiences, the right program can help you stay active while earning credits abroad!
Is it Worth Studying Abroad as a Student Athlete?
Absolutely! Student athlete study abroad experiences offer more than a change of scenery – they expose students to new training styles, sports traditions, and approaches to competition. Many study abroad experiences offer flexibility that helps students balance academics with physical activity, sports-focused excursions, and access to gyms, fields, and outdoor spaces. Beyond fitness, studying abroad can strengthen adaptability, discipline, and cross-cultural communication – skills that matter both in sports and beyond.
Read More: How to Study Abroad If You’re a College Athlete
Best Places to Study Abroad as a Student Athlete
From study abroad locations with deep sports traditions to cities where staying active is part of everyday life, these destinations offer student athletes the chance to train their global mindset while keeping movement and competition in their routine.
Featured City #1: Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is one of the best places to study abroad for sports, especially for students interested in soccer, sports business, and athletic culture. With FC Barcelona setting the tone, the city thrives on competition and performance. Between beach workouts, bike-friendly streets, and constant pickup games, it’s an ideal environment for motivated student athletes.
Featured City #2: London, England
London is a top choice when it comes to places to study abroad for student athletes. From Premier League matches to historic stadiums, the city offers nonstop sports inspiration. Student athletes can experience world-class athletics while studying in a city known for discipline, teamwork, and global competition.
Featured City #3: Sydney, Australia
For student athletes who love the outdoors, Sydney delivers. Surfing, swimming, running coastal trails, and joining local sports clubs are all part of everyday life. It’s a standout option for those asking student athletes where to study abroad if they want movement built into their routine.
Featured City #3: Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo offers a unique take on athletic discipline and performance. Student athletes can experience Japan’s approach to training, wellness, and teamwork while studying in one of the world’s most innovative cities. It’s an exciting choice for athletes curious about global sports culture beyond the Western lens.
Featured City #4: Dublin, Ireland
Dublin’s sports culture is deeply rooted in community, making it one of the most welcoming places to study abroad for sports fanatics. From rugby and soccer to traditional Gaelic games, student athletes can connect with local teams and experience how sports bring people together.
Featured City #5: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is an electrifying destination for anyone who lives and breathes sport. Soccer is ingrained in the city’s identity – from massive stadiums like La Bombonera and River Plate’s Monumental to thriving amateur leagues and street football culture. Beyond soccer, fans can enjoy polo (Argentina is a polo powerhouse), rugby matches, and plenty of outdoor recreation.
Featured City #6: Cape Town, South Africa
With easy access to hiking, trail running, surfing, cycling, and ocean swimming, Cape Town naturally supports an active lifestyle. Sports like rugby, cricket, and soccer are central to South African culture, giving student athletes the chance to experience both elite competition and community-based sports.
Discover CIEE Golf is Global
If golf is your sport – or you just love competition – CIEE Golf is Global is your chance to see how athletics and global education intersect. Taking place February 1-4, 2026, at Osprey Point Golf Course in Boca Raton, Florida, and hosted by Florida Atlantic University Women’s Golf during the 2026 Florida Atlantic Paradise Invitational, this interactive event lets students show off their drives, dial in their putts, and take on fun on-course challenges. Each challenge you complete earns you an entry to win one of 10 FREE CIEE Study Abroad programs. It’s a hands-on way to explore how sports and global experiences connect!
Study Abroad as a Student Athlete with CIEE
CIEE makes student athlete study abroad possible with programs designed to keep you active, academically on track, and immersed in global sports culture. Whether you’re competing at a high level or simply passionate about staying in the game, CIEE helps students find the right fit. Ready to take your sport worldwide?