Studying abroad in Europe

Learn more about becoming an international student in Europe

Europe is one of the world’s most popular study destinations for international students, attracting millions of international students every year.

With a rich history of academic excellence, hundreds of universities ranked among the best globally and a huge variety of cultures within a relatively small area, Europe offers something for every student.

Why study in Europe?

Academic reputation – Europe is home to some of the world’s oldest and most respected universities, as well as modern institutions leading in research and innovation.
Diversity of choice – From global hub cities such as London, Paris and Berlin to smaller student-friendly towns, you’ll find a wide range of study environments.
English-taught programmes – Thousands of Bachelor’s and Master’s courses are available taught in English, alongside opportunities to learn local languages.
Affordability – Many countries, including Germany, Italy and the Nordic nations offer low-cost or even tuition-free education for international students.

The European Higher Education Area

Most European countries are part of the Bologna Process, which means degree structures are standardised (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) and credits that you earn at a European university are easily transferable across borders through the ECTS system.

This makes it simpler to study, transfer, or continue your education in different countries within Europe.

Travel and lifestyle

Studying in Europe gives you the chance to experience life in a multicultural and interconnected region:

With the Schengen visa system, students can often travel across multiple countries on a single visa.
Erasmus+ exchanges allow you to spend a semester or year at a partner university elsewhere in Europe.
Travel is affordable and convenient, with low-cost airlines and rail networks linking major cities.
Beyond your studies, you can immerse yourself in Europe’s cultural diversity, festivals, cuisine and history.

Career opportunities

Europe is home to global companies, international organisations and cutting-edge research centres.

Studying here can open doors to internships, part-time work and long-term career opportunities. Many countries also allow graduates to stay and work after finishing their degree.

Choosing the right country

Your choice of study destination will depend on factors such as language, tuition fees, cost of living, and career goals. Each European country has its own strengths and student experience.

Explore our A-Z of complete country guides to learn more: