11 Best European Countries to Study: The Ultimate Guide to Your International Education Dreams

There are more than 5,000 universities across 44 countries in Europe and every year, thousands of students from India apply to these universities. The continent has become a popular choice for international students because of its top-quality education, strong professional connections, and great job opportunities. Besides academics, students also get to experience different cultures and work on innovative projects that connect them to global career paths. To help you decide, we’ve put together a complete list of the best European countries to study abroad.

Top 11 European Countries for International Students

From a focus on traditional arts and culture to a blend of developing technologies and businesses, each European country offers unique learning experiences. Explore these countries to learn more about the best European countries to study and work in.

1. Germany

Germany is home to many world-class universities, especially known for their strong programs in engineering, science, and technology. These fields are highly respected, and students benefit from Germany’s close ties with industries, giving them opportunities to build valuable connections for their future careers.

Unlike many other countries, most public universities in Germany charge little to no tuition fees, even for international students. This makes it one of the most affordable study destinations, especially when considering the quality of education offered. This financial advantage is a major factor in drawing students from around the world.

On top of that, Germany has a strong international student community. With around 2.8 million international students, which is roughly 20% of the country’s student body, it’s clear that students from all over the world feel welcomed and supported. 

i. Top Universities

Here are the top universities in Germany: 

• Technical University of Munich
• LMU Munich
• Universität Heidelberg
• Humboldt University of Berlin
• RWTH Aachen University

ii. Fees

Here are the semester fees for different programs in Germany: 

Program	Bachelors	Masters	PhD
Fees	₹23,000- ₹2.7 lakh	₹23,000- ₹32,000	Free

2. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is one of the best European countries to study for Indian students. It is known for its high-quality education, particularly its interdisciplinary courses and strong research programs. Many UK universities consistently rank among the best in the world, with four out of the top ten universities globally located in the UK. This reputation for academic excellence makes the UK an attractive destination for students seeking a world-class education.

Another advantage of studying in the UK is the shorter duration of its degree programs. Many undergraduate degrees can be completed in just three years, and some master’s programs take only one year. This means students can enter the workforce sooner, which can save time and money. 

In addition to all this, international students in the UK are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours a week during term time. This helps students manage their living expenses and tuition fees, making the UK more financially accessible.

i. Top Universities

These are the top universities in the UK:

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• Imperial College London
• UCL
• University of Edinburgh

ii. Fees

Here are the fees for different programs in the UK: 

Program	Bachelors	Masters	PhD
Fees	₹14 LPA – ₹24.5 LPA	₹14 LPA – ₹28 LPA	₹14 LPA – ₹24.5 LPA

3. France

Did you know that over 350,000 international students choose to study in France each year? This is why it’s no surprise it is one of the best European countries to study for international students. France offers a blend of world-class education, a welcoming environment, and a high quality of life. The country boasts the 7th best education system globally, with 39 of its institutions ranking among the top universities in the world. This makes France an attractive destination for students seeking academic excellence across a wide range of disciplines.

In addition to its strong educational credentials, France is frequently rated as the 5th most student-friendly country in Europe. This ranking is thanks to its vibrant student life that is enriched by France’s rich cultural heritage, diverse population, and numerous social activities. 

France also offers practical benefits for students. The country has an affordable healthcare system, which ensures that students can access high-quality medical care without significant financial strain. 

Pro Tip: To enhance your proficiency in the French language, consider enrolling in a comprehensive French language course. This course will help you learn the basics of the language so that you can communicate effortlessly with the locals.

i. Top Universities

These are the top universities in France:

• Paris Sciences et Lettres – PSL Research University Paris
• Université Paris-Saclay
• Institut Polytechnique de Paris
• Sorbonne University
• Université Paris Cité

ii. Fees

Here are the fees for different programs in France: 

Program	Bachelors	Masters	PhD
Fees	₹2.7 LPA – ₹3.75 LPA	₹5.1 LPA – ₹8.1 LPA	₹5.1 LPA – ₹8.1 LPA

4. Netherlands

Each year, students from over 150 countries come to the Netherlands to benefit from its high-quality education system and the abundance of opportunities available after graduation. The country offers more than 1,700 programs at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and other levels, covering a wide range of fields, such as Accounting, Engineering, Health Care, Social Science, Law, and Computer Science.

In addition to the diverse academic programs, the Netherlands also makes it easier for international students to finance their studies. Many major financial institutions in the country offer educational loans at attractive interest rates, making it more convenient for students to manage their expenses. 

i. Top Universities

These are the top universities in the Netherlands:

• Delft University of Technology
• University of Amsterdam
• Wageningen University & Research
• Leiden University
• University of Groningen

ii. Fees

Here are the fees for different programs in the Netherlands: 

Program	Bachelors	Masters	PhD
Fees	₹7.4 LPA – ₹11 LPA	₹11 LPA – ₹18 LPA	₹11 LPA – ₹18 LPA

5. Finland

Finland is known as the happiest country in the world, Finland boasts one of the best education systems globally, attracting over 14,000 international students. Finnish universities consistently rank among the top 3 percent worldwide, and the country outperforms major nations like the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand in math, science, and reading scores.

Beyond academics, Finland offers a high standard of living for students, with excellent education and healthcare systems. The cost of living is also reasonable, especially with the availability of numerous student discounts for food and transportation across the country. All these factors make Finland a preferred choice for students looking for quality education and a balanced lifestyle.

i. Top Universities

These are the top universities in Finland:

• University of Helsinki
• Aalto University
• Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology LUT
• University of Oulu
• Tampere University

ii. Fees

Here are the fees for different programs in Finland:

Program	Bachelors	Masters	PhD
Fees	₹5.5 LPA – ₹11 LPA	₹7.5 LPA – ₹16 LPA	Free

6. Switzerland

Switzerland is one of the best European countries to study for international students. Although it’s a small country with only 8 million residents, it consistently excels in international university rankings and offers more than 3,000 degree programs, including 700 in English. The country is home to 12 universities, many of which are globally recognized, such as ETH Zurich, the University of Geneva, and the University of St. Gallen.

In addition to world-class education, Switzerland provides excellent job opportunities. The country hosts numerous multinational companies like Nestlé, Roche, Novartis, Vitol, and Swiss Re, where students can pursue career prospects. Moreover, Swiss universities benefit from substantial government subsidies, making tuition fees lower compared to many other countries. This combination of top-tier education, career opportunities, and affordable tuition makes Switzerland a leading choice for international students.

i. Top Universities

These are the top universities in Switzerland:

• ETH Zurich
• École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
• University of Zurich
• University of Bern
• University of Basel

ii. Fees

Here are the fees for different programs in Switzerland:

Program	Bachelors	Masters	PhD
Fees	₹1 LPA – ₹40 LPA	₹1.5 LPA – ₹40 LPA	₹1 LPA – ₹2 LPA

7. Italy

Italy offers a rich blend of history, culture, and academic excellence. It is home to the world’s oldest university, the University of Bologna. The country attracts students from all over the globe as it has a longstanding tradition of higher education.

Italy excels in providing a robust educational infrastructure, with diverse programs ranging from humanities to sciences. Moreover, the country offers a vibrant student life, with numerous cultural experiences, historic sites, and culinary delights. Italy also provides ample career opportunities in industries such as design, automotive, and tourism. The cost of living in Italy is relatively affordable compared to other Western European countries, and many universities offer scholarships and financial aid to international students.

i. Top Universities

These are the top universities in Italy:

• University of Bologna
• Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa
• Sapienza University of Rome
• University of Padua
• Politecnico di Milano

ii. Fees

Here are the fees for different programs in Italy:

Program	Bachelors	Masters	PhD
Fees	₹2.1 LPA – ₹4.2 LPA	₹2.8 LPA – ₹5.6 LPA	₹2.8 LPA – ₹5.6 LPA

8. Sweden

Sweden is one of the best European countries to study. The country offers over 1,000 degree programs taught entirely in English, attracting students from around the world. Sweden’s higher education system is highly regarded globally, emphasizing group work and independent study over traditional lectures. This approach fosters critical thinking, creativity, and personal responsibility, which are key values in Swedish education.

The appeal of studying in Sweden is reflected in the growing number of international students enrolling in its universities and colleges. With an admission rate above 50%, many students find Sweden an accessible and attractive option for pursuing higher education.

In addition to its educational excellence, Sweden offers a high quality of life. The country is known for its strong social support systems, including healthcare and public services, which contribute to a comfortable and secure living environment for students. 

i. Top Universities

These are the top universities in Sweden:

• Karolinska Institute
• KTH Royal Institute of Technology
• Lund University
• Uppsala University
• Stockholm University

ii. Fees

Here are the fees for different programs in Sweden:

Program	Bachelors	Masters	PhD
Fees	₹6.5 LPA – ₹12 LPA	₹6.5 LPA – ₹12 LPA	Free

9. Spain

Spain is a top choice for international students in Europe, offering a blend of academic excellence, affordability, and vibrant cultural experiences. The country is home to several prestigious universities that are particularly renowned for their programs in humanities, social sciences, and arts, making Spain an attractive destination for students interested in these fields.

One of the major advantages of studying in Spain is the affordability of tuition fees, which are relatively low compared to other Western European countries. Public universities in Spain generally have lower fees than private institutions, making higher education more accessible. 

Additionally, there are various scholarships available for international students, including those offered by the Spanish Ministry of Education, Erasmus+, and specific university grants, further easing the financial burden. Beyond academics, Spain provides ample part-time job opportunities for students, allowing them to work up to 20 hours per week. 

Pro Tip: You can enroll in a Spanish-speaking course to build a basic proficiency in the language.

i. Top Universities

These are the top universities in Spain:

• University of Barcelona
• Autonomous University of Barcelona
• Pompeu Fabra University
• University of Navarra
• Autonomous University of Madrid

ii. Fees

Here are the fees for different programs in Spain:

Program	Bachelors	Masters	PhD
Fees	₹5.5 LPA – ₹18 LPA	₹5.5 LPA – ₹27 LPA	Neglible to ₹1.8 LPA

10. Denmark

Denmark is the best European country for international students, attracting approximately 18,000 applicants each year. The country’s combination of a high standard of living, excellent educational institutions, and a welcoming, student-friendly environment makes it one of the top choices for international students in Europe. Denmark’s education system is also highly regarded, with a variety of institutions offering top-quality programs across different fields of study. 

The country is home to several of the most affordable and student-friendly cities globally, including Copenhagen, Aarhus, Aalborg, Roskilde, and Odense. Copenhagen, the capital, is a vibrant city with around 500,000 residents, offering a dynamic urban environment. Despite its status as a major European capital, the cost of living in Copenhagen is relatively manageable, with a minimum estimated monthly expense of around ₹88,000.

i. Top Universities

These are the top universities in Denmark:

• University of Copenhagen
• Aarhus University
• Technical University of Denmark
• Aalborg University
• University of Southern Denmark

ii. Fees

Here are the fees for different programs in Denmark:

Program	Bachelors	Masters	PhD
Fees	₹5.5 LPA – ₹14 LPA	₹7.4 LPA – ₹14 LPA	Free

11. Austria

Thanks to its excellent education system and strong research opportunities, Austria is a top choice for international students. Austrian universities are known for their high academic standards, making them attractive to students worldwide. 

The capital, Vienna, is loved for its rich cultural history and stunning scenery, offering a vibrant student life. Tuition fees in Austria are also affordable, and for European students, many programs are nearly free. Austria’s universities, like the University of Vienna, which is both the oldest and one of the best in the country, consistently rank high in global university rankings.

i. Top Universities

These are the top universities in Austria:

• University of Vienna
• Medical University of Graz
• Medical University of Vienna
• Medical University of Innsbruck
• TU Wien

ii. Fees

Here are the fees for different programs in Austria:

Program	Bachelors	Masters	PhD
Fees	₹1.3 LPA – ₹18 LPA	₹1.3 LPA – ₹23 LPA	₹1.3 LPA – ₹13 LPA

Conclusion

When choosing a country to study abroad, it’s important to think about various factors like tuition fees, living costs, university rankings, and job opportunities after graduation. In this blog, you’ll find a detailed list of the best European countries to study in, along with information about unique programs and tuition fees for international students at different levels.

If you need personalized help, you can check out Internshala’s Study Abroad Program, which is tailored to your academic interests, work experience, and future career goals. You will get to choose your dream course from 4K universities. 

And if you’re looking for ways to fund your studies, then do check out the blog on how to get a scholarship to study abroad.

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