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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:
  • City at night
    AustriaIn the heart of Central Europe, Austria combines world-class universities with a high quality of life, historic cities, alpine scenery and a welcoming atmosphere for international students.
  • Art installation of metal spheres
    BelgiumConsidered by many as the home to the capital of Europe, Belgium has high living standards, rich history and universities offering tuition in several languages.
  • Blossoming flowers and a river flowing around mountains
    BulgariaLocated in South East Europe, Bulgaria offers students affordable tuition fees, vibrant cultural traditions and a rich history set against stunning mountains and Black Sea coastlines.
  • Historical port city with moored ships and red roofed houses
    CroatiaKnown for its Adriatic coastline, Mediterranean climate and fascinating heritage, Croatia offers students affordable living costs, a safe environment and a unique cultural experience.
  • Bright blue sea with rock formations sticking out of it
    CyprusCyprus is a sunny Mediterranean island with rich history, safe cities and English-friendly universities, making it an ideal choice for international students.
  • Colourful houses next to a canal with boats on it
    DenmarkDenmark combines top universities, English-taught programmes, and a safe, student-friendly lifestyle. With vibrant cities, strong research, and easy European travel, it’s an ideal destination for international students.
  • A bridge over water and a tall building next to it
    EstoniaEstonia offers safe, affordable, English-friendly universities with strong tech and innovation focus, ideal for international students.
  • Boats sitting on an open lake
    FinlandKnown for its world-class education, innovative society and breathtaking natural beauty, Finland offers high living standards and degrees taught in English.
  • Colourful buildings next to water with boats
    FranceFrance is a country located in North West Europe known for its culture, food, art and beautiful countryside, and home to some of the best universities in the world.
  • Tree covered mountains with a large lake below them
    GeorgiaExplore Georgia as an international student, from top universities and vibrant cities to affordable living, visas, and student life. Everything you need to plan your studies in this unique country is here.
  • Large white castle surrounded by trees
    GermanyLocated in the heart of Europe, Germany offers students both tradition and modernity, boasting the strongest economy in Europe and low costs of studying.
  • A view of the sea and shoreline of buildings from the top of a mountain
    GibraltarDiscover everything international students need to know about studying in Gibraltar, from universities and visas to lifestyle, costs, and career opportunities.
  • Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Athens, Greece
    GreeceKnown worldwide as the birthplace of democracy and philosophy, Greece combines a rich cultural heritage, Mediterranean lifestyle and universities offering affordable degrees in both Greek and English.
  • People walking around an ancient castle
    HungaryWith its beautiful historic cities, friendly community, cultural festivals and easy access to other European destinations, Hungary provides a truly memorable and inspiring study experience.
  • Colourful city buildings with snow covered mountains in the background
    IcelandLocated in the North Atlantic, Iceland combines a modern, welcoming society with breathtaking natural landscapes and a unique cultural experience.
  • The sea, with rock formations in it, and small pink flowers on those rocks
    IrelandIreland is a welcoming destination for international students, offering high-quality universities, a vibrant cultural scene, and a friendly environment. From Dublin to Galway, explore study options, living costs, visas, and student life across the country.
  • Colourful houses next to a canal with boats
    ItalyKnown for its delicious cuisine, Mediterranean climate and rich history, Italy offers students low living and tuition costs in beautiful settings.
  • City skyline dotted with buildings and trees
    LatviaFind out what it is like to study in Latvia, from universities and daily life to visas, costs and work options, helping you plan a smooth and successful study experience abroad.
  • An aerial photo of a castle with a red roof by a body of water
    LithuaniaExplore this complete guide to studying in Lithuania, a welcoming, affordable, and high-quality European study destination.
  • Historic Cityscape of Valletta, Malta
    MaltaStudy in Malta with affordable tuition and the sun-soaked Mediterranean lifestyle that makes Malta one of Europe’s most welcoming study destinations.
  • Several boats docked up by a row of traditional buildings
    NorwayFamous for its stunning fjords, northern lights and high quality of life, Norway offers students free tuition and a welcoming, safe environment.
  • Colorful buildings in Wroclaw's market square
    PolandLocated in Central Europe, Poland is a dynamic country known for its rich history, vibrant cities, diverse landscapes and a growing reputation for high-quality, affordable education.
  • Colourful buildings in red white and yellow
    PortugalWith good weather all year round, affordable tuition fees and wonderful culture and history, find out why Portugal is such an attractive place to study abroad.
  • Scenic view of snow-capped Bucegi mountains in Romania
    RomaniaDiscover everything you need to know about studying in Romania, from tuition fees and student visas to university rankings, campus life and career prospects in a vibrant and affordable European destination.
  • A white and red castle surrounded by trees
    SlovakiaDiscover Slovakia: a safe, welcoming and affordable Central European country offering quality universities, rich culture, stunning nature and a relaxed lifestyle.
  • Modern architectural installation with blue sky
    SpainA country rich in culture and an increasingly popular destination to international students from around the world, Spain offers top class education and attractive tuition fees.
  • Lady viewing a row of multicoloured huts next to a body of water
    SwedenLocated in the north of Europe and boasting an excellent education system, progressive attitudes and a multicultural society, Sweden offers a warm welcome to international students.
  • Scenic mountains act as a backdrop to building lining a lakefront shoreline
    SwitzerlandLocated in the heart of Europe, Switzerland is a landlocked country renowned for its breathtaking Alpine scenery, exceptional quality of life and world-class education system.
  • Brick built bridge leading over water to a historic old town
    The Czech RepublicStudy in the heart of Europe! The Czech Republic offers world-class universities, affordable living, and a rich cultural heritage. Explore historic cities, stunning castles and a vibrant student life while earning a globally recognised degree in Czechia.
  • Fields full of colourful flowers
    The NetherlandsLocated in North West Europe, The Netherlands offers students affordable tuition fees, a high quality of life and an open minded and progressive society.