Study abroad
Study in Samoa
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in Samoa
Samoa is an island nation in the South Pacific. As a small country, it has a limited number of higher-education institutions, mostly based in and around Apia, so it is worth checking exactly which programmes and levels of study are offered locally.
Students interested in agriculture, tourism and conservation may find the local context especially relevant, and many also compare regional institutions or programmes delivered with partners abroad. Because English is an official language, many programmes are taught in English. The sections below explain subjects, intakes, costs, funding and visa steps.
Why study in Samoa?
There is no single reason to study in Samoa. For some students it is the programme itself; for others it is the setting in the South Pacific, the language or links to a particular industry. It is worth being clear about what matters most to you before comparing options.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Hospitality, Tourism & Events and Education, PGCE & Teaching, with options differing between universities.
- Industry context: Agriculture, tourism and conservation matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- A close community: study is centred on Apia, and a small country can mean smaller classes and a close-knit student community.
- Culture and language: living in Samoa means everyday contact with Samoan and English and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
The University of the South Pacific is a regional university owned by twelve Pacific Island countries, with campuses across the region.
Look closely at course content, entry requirements and student support, and think about where you would like the qualification to take you.
Top subjects to study in Samoa
Choosing a subject is the first big decision. For Samoa, the areas below are a sensible place to begin; they reflect local strengths such as agriculture, tourism and conservation, not a league table.
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Hospitality, Tourism & Events
- Education, PGCE & Teaching
- Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies
- Business & Management
- Computing & Information Technology
Links to agriculture, tourism and conservation mean that related courses may include practical projects or industry examples, although this varies by institution. Each subject has its own page for Samoa on this site, with its specializations.
It helps to look at specializations within each area as well: two programmes with the same broad subject can lead in quite different directions.
Universities in Samoa
Samoa has only a few higher-education providers, so compare what each offers with regional and international alternatives. Well-established institutions include:
- National University of Samoa
- The University of the South Pacific (Alafua Campus)
This is not a ranking or a complete list. A strong fit usually comes down to the programme rather than the name: check modules, teaching methods, accreditation, student services and graduate outcomes published by the institution.
Some institutions offer preparatory or foundation courses, placements or joint programmes with partners abroad; these can change the length and cost of your studies.
Scholarships to Study in Samoa
Paying for study in Samoa can involve more than one source of support, and it is worth researching them before you apply for a course.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Samoa
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Most scholarships are competitive and have their own eligibility rules, so none can be taken for granted. Read the conditions carefully, apply early and check whether funding covers tuition, living costs or both. 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 Samoa
In Samoa, the main intake for many programmes is usually around February. Some institutions also admit students around July, although this second intake is usually available for fewer courses. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.
Application deadlines can fall many months before the course begins, especially for competitive programmes and for students who need a visa. Start by checking the deadline for your specific course, then work backwards to leave time for documents, language tests, applications for funding and the visa process.
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 Samoa
Before you commit to a course in Samoa, work out the full cost of the programme, not just the first year’s tuition.
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
Programme length also matters: a longer course or a preparatory year changes the total cost. Always use the current fees published by the institution for the year you plan to start.
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 Samoa
Whether you need a visa to study in Samoa depends mainly on your nationality and the length of your programme.
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 Samoa 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 Samoa
Day-to-day costs in Samoa are shaped by where you live, the type of accommodation you choose and how you get around.
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
On islands and in remote areas, imported goods can raise everyday prices. 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 Samoa
What are the advantages of studying in Samoa?
It depends on your goals. Samoa offers a small, close-knit study environment, a location in the South Pacific and study in Samoan and English. Students interested in agriculture, tourism and conservation may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in Samoa?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Hospitality, Tourism & Events, Education, PGCE & Teaching and Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies. The subjects page for Samoa lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When do courses start in Samoa?
Many programmes start around February. 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 Samoa?
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 Samoa?
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 Samoa.
Are scholarships available for international students in Samoa?
Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.
Which cities are popular with students in Samoa?
Most higher education is based in Apia. Compare housing options and living costs there alongside your course choice.
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