Top universities to pursue physiotherapy abroad

About Physiotherapy

Learning about the rehabilitation of patients through therapeutic exercise and movement is a critical component of studying physiotherapy. The topic spans all age groups, including sports injuries and individuals healing from illnesses. A physiotherapist uses their extensive practical expertise and scientific knowledge to develop individualized treatment programs unique to each patient. You can pursue a bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. in physiotherapy. You can get the chance to collaborate on an interdisciplinary study with other medical or healthcare students. Keep reading to learn about the top universities to pursue physiotherapy abroad and their benefits.

Why Study Physiotherapy Abroad?

Let’s first get acquainted with the benefits of studying physiotherapy abroad before we get to know the best universities.

• • Best healthcare facilities- You have access to the finest universities worldwide. They are renowned for their cutting-edge infrastructure, medical facilities, and high-quality experiential learning. For overseas students, pursuing a master’s or bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy abroad will prove beneficial.
  • Curriculum- The physiotherapy curricula in colleges abroad align with the business’s needs. It assists you in learning the necessary skills as a physiotherapist in the marketplace.
  • Career and scope- You will have a career with incredibly high returns if you enroll in internationally renowned physiotherapy institutions abroad. According to several academic publications, studying physiotherapy in the US, the UK, Canada, and Australia is worth it.

Top Universities to Pursue Physiotherapy Abroad for International Students | Program Structure

A combination of theoretical and practical learning will be necessary for physiotherapy programs at the bachelor’s level throughout three to four years of study. You can also conduct research projects for learning and evaluation. Additionally, written tests and presentations will count toward your score.

At the master’s level, a program may have a framework comparable to a bachelor’s, although it will be shorter and more concentrated on research and specialized knowledge.

After three or four years, the program can call for extensive study, hands-on experience, or a sizable thesis.

A physiotherapy bachelor’s degree will have modules or electives with a set number of associated credits. Before continuing to the following year of a program, you must earn a predetermined number of credits. Typical modules cover the following subjects-

• Anatomy and physiology
• Cardiorespiratory studies
• Physical activity and exercise
• Research skills
• Professional development
• Dissertation/project

Bachelor’s Programs

• Bachelor’s in Physiotherapy (BPT)
• B.Sc. in Physiotherapy
• B.Sc. in Rehabilitation Studies
• B.Sc. in Kinesiology
• B.Sc. in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology

Read more: Boise State University Courses | Your handy guide to studying here!

Master’s Programs

• Master’s in Physiotherapy (MPT)
• M.Sc. in Physiotherapy
• M.Sc. in Kinesiology
• M.Sc. in Health Services Administration
• M.Sc. in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology

Doctorate in Physiotherapy

• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
• Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPhysio) 

Top Universities to Study Physiotherapy in the USA

Specific reports estimate that the job outlook for physiotherapists will improve by 22% between 2018 and 2028, faster than the average growth rate for all occupations. It is ideal for aspiring physiotherapists to pursue a degree in the USA. The number of universities providing undergraduate and graduate physiotherapy programs is the largest in the USA. Even with a physiotherapy bachelor’s degree from the USA, students can make an average of more than 67,000 USD annually.

Top Universities to Study Physiotherapy in the UK

One of the finest possibilities for overseas students is to study in the UK, particularly if they want to study physiotherapy. The country has many scholarships and funding options available. All pre-registered undergraduate and graduate physiotherapy program students receive funding from the NHS Learning Help Fund of at least $6,363 each year. Eligible students may receive up to $3,818 in additional money. 

Companies that provide financial assistance also help students with loans for maintenance and tuition. 

Top Universities to Study Physiotherapy in Australia

Getting a work visa is nearly a given because physiotherapy is on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL). As a result, many students favor studying in Australia. Students must register with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia to begin their practice after completing either a bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy or a master’s degree in physiotherapy. 

Top Universities to Study Physiotherapy in Canada

Physiotherapy is a highly regulated but in-demand profession in Canada, making it the ideal spot to pursue a professional degree. According to the Canadian government, the demand for physiotherapy will increase between 2019 and 2028. Hence, several universities in Canada are already offering undergraduate and graduate programs in the field. 

Entrance Exam for MPT Abroad 

So you’re dreaming of helping people move better and live pain-free? That’s awesome! But first, you’ve got to navigate those entrance exams—your ticket into the world of physiotherapy. These tests aren’t just hoops to jump through; they’re your first step toward becoming the therapist you want to be.

Exam types and Requirements – If you’re looking to study abroad, you’ll face a mix of tests depending on where you’re heading. Most places will want to make sure you can communicate well (hello, IELTS and TOEFL!), and some might throw in specialized assessments to check if you’ve got what it takes to understand the human body and how to heal it.

What’s On The Menu? – These exams aren’t trying to trip you up—they’re checking if you speak the language of the body. Expect questions on biology (how things live), anatomy (what’s inside us), and physiology (how it all works together). Some might even test how you’d think through a tricky patient scenario. It’s like a preview of the detective work you’ll do as a therapist!

Getting Your Timing Right – Don’t leave this to the last minute! Universities typically want you to register for exams months before you’d actually start studying. The process is usually online these days—pick your date, pay your fee, and mark that calendar!

Making Sure It Counts – Before you spend hours cramming, double-check that the exam you’re taking is actually accepted by your dream schools. Nothing worse than acing the wrong test! Some universities are picky and want their own special entrance exam.

Beyond Just Exams – Tests are just part of the package. Many schools also want to hear your story (that’s the personal statement), have others vouch for you (recommendation letters), and see that you’ve actually spent time in a clinic watching the pros at work.

Winning Strategies – 

• Know Your Enemy: Get intimate with that syllabus—what topics, what format, what scoring system.
• Arm Yourself: Find the right books and online resources that actually cover what you need.
• Battle Training: Taking practice tests is like sparring before the big fight—it shows you where you’re weak.
• Clock Management: In the exam room, time is your most precious resource—practice using it wisely!

Learn all about: Bachelors of Physiotherapy | Courses, subjects, salary

Academic Requirements

It’s challenging to get accepted into a physiotherapy program in the USA. Students need to have an excellent academic history. Before applying, they should have good GPAs and GRE scores. The following educational qualifications are required to enroll in prestigious university physiotherapy programs. 

Bachelor’s

• A foundational or pre-degree course with a 3.0 GPA or higher (on a scale of 4.0)
• Official transcript 
• ACT or SAT score
• Personal statement
• Recommendation letter (optional for some universities)
• Current passport
• Scores on English language proficiency tests like the TOEFL (usually above 90) or IELTS (generally above 6.0)

Master’s 

• A 3.0 GPA or above (on a scale of 4.0) and a bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy or a related area from an authorized university
• Official transcript
• Personal statement 
• Recommendation letters
• Current passport
• Either residency or work experience
• GRE score of at least 290 (although it varies from university)
• Scores on English language proficiency tests like the TOEFL (usually above 90) or IELTS (generally above 6.0)

Physiotherapy Scholarships for International Students 

International students who want to study Physiotherapy abroad can apply for these scholarships 2025-26- 

1. University of Otago 2025 Laura Fergusson Brain Injury Trust Mana Tangata Scholarship (Funded)

Established in 2024 by the University of Otago, in collaboration with the Laura Fergusson Brain Injury Trust. Created in support of the School of Physiotherapy, this scholarship will be awarded annually to two final-year Physiotherapy students of Maori or Pacific ancestry with a genuine interest in

• Type: Undergraduate
• Study in: New Zealand
• Value: $6,000

2. Canadian Government Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships for both National and International Students 2024

The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships program provides funding to the very best postdoctoral applicants, both nationally and internationally, who will positively contribute to the country’s economic, social, and research-based growth.

• Type: Fellowship
• Value: $70,000

3. Mastercard Foundation University Of Gondar 2023 Graduate Scholarships for African Students (Ethiopia)

The University of Gondar provides scholarships for undergraduate and master’s degree programs for students with disabilities through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. ONLY the Graduate scholarship programme is open to applicants for the 2023/24 academic session. The Graduate

• Type: Postgraduate
• Study in: Ethiopia

4. Manchester Metropolitan University 2023 Chancellor’s and Vice-Chancellor’s International Awards

We are committed to recognising high-achieving students and have a comprehensive range of scholarships available. The scholarships below apply to September 2023 entry only.

• Type: College School
• Study in: United Kingdom

Keep reading: Top 9 Physiotherapy jobs

Jobs and Salaries after Studying Physiotherapy Abroad

When you graduate from physiotherapy programs in the USA, you can find work in various public and private hospitals, home healthcare agencies, nursing homes, and doctors’ offices. A physical therapist can expect to make between 60,000 and 155,000 USD annually in the USA.

The following prominent physiotherapy job profiles with indicative salaries-

Key Takeaways

• You can receive an exceptional education in physiotherapy if you study in a country known for its excellent standards in healthcare.
• The USA and Canada frequently refer to studies in physiotherapy as physical therapy. 
• You must have a bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy if you want to pursue a master’s degree.
• The USA, the UK, Canada, and Australia are among the best countries to study physiotherapy.
• Physical Therapist, Osteopath, and Rehabilitation Director are among the job roles you can opt for after completing your education in physiotherapy.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you’re interested in studying abroad and want information on top universities to study Physiotherapy abroad.

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FAQs

Question 1: Which country pays the highest salary to physiotherapists?

Answer: Ireland, Canada, Singapore, and the UK are among the countries that pay the highest salaries to physiotherapists.

Question 2: How much does it cost to study physiotherapy in the USA?

Answer: Tuition prices for MPT and DPT programs for international students in the United States can range from 20,000 USD to 60,000 USD per year.

Question 3: Can you get a job after a Master’s in Physiotherapy in the USA?

Answer: Master’s in physiotherapy graduates in the United States will find many work prospects. If you have the necessary abilities, finding work as a physiotherapist in the United States will not be difficult.

WRITTEN BY

Aastha

Study Abroad Expert

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