Study abroad
Study in Cambodia
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in Cambodia
Higher education in Cambodia, in South-East Asia, gives international students a chance to study in a new academic and cultural setting. Universities and other institutions offer programmes at different levels, from first degrees to postgraduate study, across subjects such as business, engineering, health, science and the humanities.
The economy has strengths in tourism, agriculture and culture and heritage, which is reflected in many study options. The main language is Khmer; the availability of English-taught programmes varies between institutions. Start with the subjects available here, then compare institutions, costs and application steps.
Why study in Cambodia?
There is no single reason to study in Cambodia. For some students it is the programme itself; for others it is the setting in South-East Asia, the language or links to a particular industry. It is worth being clear about what matters most to you before comparing options.
- Industry context: Tourism, agriculture and culture and heritage matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Hospitality, Tourism & Events, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences and Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, with options differing between universities.
- Cities and campus life: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Battambang each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
- Culture and language: living in Cambodia means everyday contact with Khmer and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
Talking to current students and reading official course pages will give you a realistic picture of what studying here is like, beyond what any general guide can say.
Top subjects to study in Cambodia
If you are not sure where to start, these areas connect well with Cambodia’s economy and higher-education offer. The list is a starting point rather than a ranking.
- Hospitality, Tourism & Events
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences
- Fashion & Textiles
- Business & Management
- Computing & Information Technology
Because tourism, agriculture and culture and heritage matter locally, students in related fields may find useful context for projects and internships. Each subject has its own page for Cambodia on this site, with its specializations.
Before settling on a subject, compare a few programmes side by side: their modules, how they are taught and assessed, and the options they open up after graduation.
Scholarships to Study in Cambodia
If you need financial support to study in Cambodia, it helps to know where funding usually comes from.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Cambodia
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Funding is never guaranteed: check eligibility, deadlines and what the award includes, and have a plan in case you are not successful. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.
Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.
Intakes to study in Cambodia
There is no national intake date for Cambodia: each university or college sets its own calendar.
Because deadlines differ between universities, keep a simple timeline for each application: when it opens, when it closes, when decisions are expected and how long the visa process may take. Leave room for delays in obtaining documents.
Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.
A simple planning checklist:
- shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
- prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
- apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
- allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation
Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.
Cost of studying in Cambodia
The cost of studying in Cambodia depends on the institution, the programme, the level of study and, sometimes, your nationality.
When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:
- application and registration fees
- course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
- health insurance and any visa or permit costs
- accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme
Longer programmes, foundation years and placements all affect the total you will need, so build your budget from the institution’s current published fees.
It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.
Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.
Student visa requirements to study in Cambodia
Most international students need permission to study in Cambodia, such as a student visa or residence permit, before their course begins.
Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:
- an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
- a valid passport and passport photos
- evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
- health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
- proof of language ability or previous qualifications
Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of Cambodia in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.
Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.
Cost of living in Cambodia
How much you spend while studying in Cambodia varies from student to student and from city to city. Costs in Phnom Penh can differ noticeably from those in Siem Reap or Battambang and smaller towns.
The main costs to plan for are:
- Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
- Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
- Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
- Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
- Insurance and health: any required health cover
- Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life
Ask your institution for its estimate of student living costs and plan for some extra money for arrival and emergencies.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.
FAQs about studying in Cambodia
Why should I study in Cambodia?
It depends on your goals. Cambodia offers programmes across many subjects, a location in South-East Asia and study in Khmer (with some English-taught options). Students interested in tourism, agriculture and culture and heritage may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in Cambodia?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Hospitality, Tourism & Events, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences and Fashion & Textiles. The subjects page for Cambodia lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When should I apply to universities in Cambodia?
Start dates vary between institutions. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.
How much does it cost to study in Cambodia?
Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.
Do international students need a visa to study in Cambodia?
Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of Cambodia.
Are scholarships available for international students in Cambodia?
Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.
Where do international students live in Cambodia?
Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Battambang are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.
Can I study in English in Cambodia?
Many courses are taught in Khmer. Some institutions offer English-taught programmes, but availability varies, so check the language of instruction and language requirements for each course.
Free counselling
Not sure where to begin?
Explore your study-abroad options with guidance.