Europe has been the top study-abroad location for decades. Whether it is its thriving economy or robust employment landscape, various reasons make Europe one of the best study overseas destinations.
From higher quality education and attractive job opportunities to a better quality of life and global exposure, there are endless benefits of studying in Europe.
If you have been searching for the best European countries to study, this blog is for you. We will discuss the top countries in Europe for students, along with some additional tips to help you plan your study abroad.
Overview: 10 Best European Countries for Education
Country |
Top Universities |
Approx. Cost of Living (per person in USD) |
Germany | TUM Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University, Humboldt University of Berlin | $1581 |
United Kingdom | University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London | $2183 |
France | University Paris Cite, Sorbonne Universite, University Paris Saclay | $1542 |
Netherlands | University of Amsterdam, Utrecht University, Leiden University | $1945 |
Spain | University of Barcelona, Autonomous University of Barcelona, University of Valencia | $1383 |
Switzerland | ETH Zurich, University of Zurich, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne | $2896 |
Denmark | University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University, Technical University of Denmark | $1923 |
Italy | University of Bologna, University of Padua, Sapienza University Rome | $1423 |
Sweden | Karolinska Institutet, Uppsala University, Stockholm University | $1578 |
Austria | Medical University of Vienna, University of Vienna, Medical University of Graz | $1743 |
What are the Best European Countries to Study?
Whether you are planning to pursue your bachelor's or master's in Europe, here are the top countries you should consider moving to:
Germany
Best for: Tuition-free education, engineering courses.
Germany is the first country on our list of the best European countries for education. The country is famous for its world-class education system, which is mainly for higher studies. Many private and public universities in Germany offer high-quality and advanced degree programs in English and German.
While the country offers study programs across all educational fields, it is particularly known for its engineering courses. Another reason why Germany is among the most sought-after study destinations is its cost-effective education system.
A majority of public universities here charge minimal to zero tuition fees for international students. Not only public universities but also German private universities offer an affordable fee structure compared to other countries.
United Kingdom
Best for: Prestigious institutions and research opportunities
The United Kingdom is a dream study destination for students from all over the world. With the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, the nation is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world. One of the most highlighting features of the British Education System is its emphasis on deep research and critical thinking.
From engineering to medicine to finance and others, you can find various undergraduate and postgraduate courses in the UK. In addition to other benefits, studying in the UK offers a diverse cultural experience due to a huge student population.
France
Best for: Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences
France is among the best European countries for education. It boasts an excellent education system and a rich cultural environment. There are many remarkable universities, such as Sorbonne Universite and the University of Paris, that are known for their excellence in fields like science, arts, and humanities.
You can easily find various study programs in both French and English. Apart from education, France also offers plenty of job opportunities, making it an ideal place for career growth.
Netherlands
Best for: Architecture, engineering and design studies.
The Netherlands can be the answer to your question: what are the top European countries for study? The Dutch education system is known for being technology and research-oriented. Thus, it offers an excellent scope for education in fields of information technology and technology.
Besides, there are many other perks of living and studying in the Netherlands. These include a stable economy, a growing job market, a beautiful landscape, and a higher standard of living.
Spain
Best for: Affordable education in arts and social sciences.
Spain is named among the good European countries to study for international students. Not only does it have a vibrant culture, but it also has a robust education system.
Institutions like the University of Barcelona and the Complutense University of Madrid are renowned for their advanced study programs in the fields of arts, social sciences and humanities.
There are plenty of study programs for bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees in Spanish and English. Aside from the educational scenario, Spain offers an affordable cost of living and a pleasant climate that make it a perfect country to plan your further studies.
Switzerland
Best for: Business, finance and accounting courses.
Breathtaking natural beauty and dream tourist locations are not the only things Switzerland is known for. It also has a reputation among the top European countries for study.
It is home to some world-class universities, such as ETH and the University of Zurich, which offer excellent programs in banking, accounting and engineering.
In addition to a high-quality education, Switzerland is facing a huge shortage of skilled professionals, just like the rest of Europe. Once your education is complete, you can consider working in Switzerland for benefits like impressive salaries and a great work-life balance.
Denmark
Best for: Life sciences and sustainability studies.
Denmark's education landscape is all about technology, innovation and critical thinking. Over the years, this Scandinavian country has gained a place among the top European countries to study.
It offers a collaborative and highly supportive environment for international students to thrive and build successful careers. Apart from education and lucrative employment opportunities, Denmark also offers a higher quality of life and a safe living environment.
Italy
Best for: Fashion and architecture
Those who are looking for the best European countries for education with affordable cost of living should definitely consider Italy. As one of the emerging economies in Europe, studying in Italy brings many advantages.
From affordable education and low cost of living to a vibrant culture and welcoming people, there are many reasons to pursue your higher education in Italy. Besides, Italy has great cultural and historical significance that makes it an appealing destination for both students and job seekers.
Sweden
Best for: Engineering and IT
Next on our list of the best European countries to study is Sweden. It is a progressive European nation with a reputation for providing fair and high-quality education.
There is a wide availability of English-taught programs for master's and bachelor's degrees. This means that you can easily pursue any degree without having to learn Swedish.
In addition to this, Sweden is a beautiful country with numerous scenic locations and natural phenomena.
Austria
Best for: Medicine, Arts, Music
If you are looking for the top European medical schools, consider Austrian universities. The Medical University of Graz and the Medical University of Vienna are among the top-ranked medical schools in Europe.
Austria offers top-notch education and reasonable fees and costs of living. It is also located centrally in Europe, making it ideal for those looking for a multicultural experience.
Things to Keep in Mind When Studying Abroad
Studying in Europe is highly rewarding in terms of education quality and career prospects. However, moving abroad as a student has its own challenges. We have compiled a list of things to help you plan your study abroad journey with ease.
Research Your Destination
Numerous European countries are known for their educational excellence. However, many factors need to be considered when choosing a country to study in.
These include cost of living, fees, job availability, education landscape, and safety. Research and select the best destination based on these aforementioned factors.
Research the Course and University
It is also necessary to research the university and course you are planning to enrol in, not only the country. Some fraudulent global institutes scam international students by offering fake degree programs.
So, the university ranking at the top of your search results is not necessarily the best option for you. Instead, it might be a fake institution with heavily paid advertisements to lure students like you.
So, take enough time to learn about the course and the university. To do this, contact the graduating students and professors teaching the courses.
Create Financial Plan
Financial management is perhaps the biggest challenge faced by students studying overseas. Before moving abroad, create an efficient budget for different areas, such as tuition fees, accommodation and other living expenses.
Also, many universities offer grants and scholarships to international students. Keep looking for those to support your educational expenses. Besides, you can also consider part-time jobs to sustain your student life in a foreign country.
Arrange Accommodation in Advance
Searching for decent accommodation is one of the most important things for international students.
Moreover, higher rents are also a matter of concern for students living abroad. It is always suggested that you find accommodation before moving to the country.
Do careful research and compare multiple options to select the one that fits your budget. If possible, consider living in shared apartments to save some money.
Learn About Visa Requirements
Obtaining a student visa is one of the most critical steps when planning to study abroad. Depending on the country you are planning to visit, the visa process can take anywhere from a week to a month.
Hence, make sure to understand the visa requirements and process and apply as soon as you get your admission letter.
Keep Necessary Documents
Documents are very important when living abroad. These include your visa, passport, ID proof, residence permit, travel insurance, college admission letter, educational certificates, etc.
Make sure to keep all these documents in place at the time of beginning your overseas journey.
Purchase Insurance
Travel health insurance is a mandatory requirement for international students in most European countries. It is a crucial document that helps you manage your unforeseen expenses during your stay in the country.
So, choose a travel insurance plan carefully. A good idea is to carry out a
student travel plan comparison to select the right plan as per your requirements.
Look Out for Part-time Jobs
Most international students take up part-time employment to manage their living expenses while studying. Some popular student jobs with good pay rates include library assistant, tutor, freelancer, waiter, cashier, and receptionist.
Note that there can be some restrictions on the number and type of work students can engage in. The majority of countries allow students to work around 18-20 hours per week during their semesters.
Build Professional Network
A lucrative job and a successful career are the main reasons behind studying abroad. If you believe in the same, then start building a solid professional network right from your university days.
This will help you learn about the work culture and find desired job prospects after graduation. The most effective ways to do this include building a strong LinkedIn profile, attending networking events, pursuing internships, and so on.
Final Words
Studying in Europe can provide an immersive and enriching experience. The availability of top educational institutions and a progressive learning environment are among the main reasons that students choose to study overseas.
By getting admission into the top European universities, you can give your career a much-needed boost and build the life you dream of.
We have discussed the top European countries to study abroad. We hope it helps in making an informed decision.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cheapest European countries to study abroad?
Germany, Spain, and Italy are among the cheapest European countries to study abroad.
What are the best European countries for masters?
Germany, Switzerland, Netherlands, and France are among the top European countries for postgraduate study programs.
Is studying abroad expensive?
Yes. Studying abroad can be slightly expensive as compared to studying in India. However, there are multiple ways to cover your education and living expenses abroad. These include scholarships, grants, part-time jobs, student loans, etc.