Course Finder
Blog
Login

Best & Cheapest Countries To Study in Europe – The Complete Guide

Written by  Rachit Agrawal, MBA

Published on Sat, May 4, 2019 11:52 AM   Updated on Tue, December 28, 2021 11:31 AM   15 mins read

Europe is a popular destination for Indian students to study. Students can build their professional careers here thanks to the world-class education system. So, if you’re looking for a fantastic job, this is the greatest place to be. There are numerous prominent academics and lecturers who can assist you in advancing your profession. Expert advice will assist you in dealing with the impending obstacles in your professional life. You will be provided with the best, most healthy environment in which to study.

Why Study in Europe?

Given Europe’s tremendous cultural diversity, studying there is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Because the country has such a diverse range of tastes and perspectives, you get to see life from a different perspective. Almost every European country has a sizable English-speaking population, which is a significant plus for international students.

Advantages

  • Many European universities provide study options that can be personalized to your unique needs and preferences. You can combine and construct a study profile that best fits your career objectives.
  • Excellent Job Opportunities

Europe provides unrivalled exposure and experience, allowing you to advance your profession. Companies are eager to hire overseas employees, and students are encouraged to participate in internships as part of their studies.

  • Travel

While in Europe, you’ll be awarded a Schengen visa, which allows you to travel to 26 countries throughout the continent. There are numerous attractions to visit with your pals, ranging from the majesty of the Eiffel Tower to the complex architecture of Europe’s numerous churches.

Best Countries to Study in Europe

Europe is home to the top student cities in the world, as well as the best institutions, such as the University of Oxford, ETH Zurich, LSE, Sorbonne, University PSL, Technical University of Munich, and others, which constantly rank high in QS World Rankings. Within Europe, cross-border cooperation has aided in the formation of a vast multinational academic culture that conducts cutting-edge research.

For international students, here is a list of the Best Countries in Europe to Study and Work in:

  1. Spain
  2. Switzerland
  3. France
  4. Germany
  5. United Kingdom

Best Country to Study in Europe

Spain

Spain is a fantastic choice for any study abroad program, with a low cost of living, over 70 universities to select from, and a rich historical and cultural setting to explore. Furthermore, studying in Spain will provide you with the opportunity to master the world’s second most commonly spoken language, which will help you advance in your career.

Though Spanish colleges have some of the lowest tuition costs in Europe, it all depends on the school and program you want to attend. Annual tuition expenses at Spanish public institutions range between INR 1 lac and INR 5 lacs on average. Some of the best universities to study in Spain are the University of Barcelona, Pompeu Fabra University, etc.

Switzerland

Despite its modest size in Central Europe, Switzerland has a high quality of life and strong educational and employment prospects, ranking second in the Best Country In Europe To Study. That’s rather remarkable for such a small country, especially because it also boasts two of the world’s greatest colleges! Critical thinking, interactive learning, and active arguing will be at the centre of your classroom learning, equipping you with the skills you’ll need for whichever career path you select.

Private colleges in Switzerland offer a varied spectrum of high-quality education. Both public and private schools offer a broad range of educational opportunities at all levels. Tuition rates at Spanish public institutions range from 4 to 16 lacs per year on average. Some of the best universities to study in Switzerland are the University of Zurich, ETH Zurich, and the University of Geneva.


Check Out: MBA in France


France

In our search for the best country in Europe to study, France came in third. Because of its current clothing, picturesque French Riviera, and lovely Notre-Dame Cathedral, among other attractions, France is at the top of most people’s wish lists. With a prominent education system and over 3,500 public colleges and higher education institutions to select from, a growing number of students are interested in studying in this ancient and captivating location.

Because education in France is supported by the government, tuition costs are low – a Licence degree can be achieved for as little as 200 EUR each year (Rs. 17,000). With annual fees of up to 20,000 EUR, private universities and Grandes Écoles would likewise be more expensive (Rs. 17 Lacs). Students who cannot afford to study in France will be eligible for scholarships, grants, or monthly stipends. Some of the best universities to study in France are Sorbonne Universite, PSL Research University, and Ecole Normale Superieure.

Germany

Germany has some of the top universities in the world, and tuition at German universities is completely free for international students, which is why it is on our list of the Best Countries In Europe To Study. Many classes combine theory and practice, giving you vital knowledge and experience for your future job.

In Germany, the majority of universities are private, government-funded institutions that are available to students. Germany uses the Bologna approach, which divides higher education into Bachelor’s (undergraduate), Master’s (graduate), and PhD (postgraduate) degrees, as well as categorizing institutions into academic, applied science, and art colleges.

Bachelor’s degrees can cost up to 20,000 EUR per year, while Master’s degrees can cost up to 30,000 EUR per year. (between Rs. 17 and Rs. 26 lacs). Some of the best universities to study in Germany are Ludwig Maxmillian University, Heidelberg University, University of Gottingen, etc.

United Kingdom

On the list of the Best Countries in Europe to Study, the United Kingdom ranks fourth. The United Kingdom is home to a slew of internationally recognized universities, several of which appear on Top University lists all over the web. Studying in the United Kingdom also puts you at the crossroads of Europe.

The education system in the United Kingdom is organized into three levels of study: a Bachelor’s degree at the undergraduate level, a Master’s degree at the postgraduate level, and a Doctorate (PhD) at the doctoral level. Bachelor’s degrees take three years in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and four years in Scotland. Master’s degrees usually take one year of full-time study or two years of part-time study. However, PhDs might take up to five years to complete.

International students must spend far more to research in the UK, ranging between £10,000 to £30,000 a year, based on the degree pursued.


Check Out: Cheapest country to study abroad


Cheapest Countries to Study in Europe

Europe’s educational system is considered to be of exceptional quality. That cannot be true, however, of the educational quality in many emerging countries. As a result, students from developing countries are increasingly flocking to Europe in quest of a better education. While the quality of education in Europe is often greater than in most developing nations, the cost of education in Europe is frequently higher, making it more difficult for individuals from developing countries to afford it. While university education in Europe is not inexpensive, certain countries have a less expensive university education system.

  • Estonia
  • Cyprus
  • Lithuania

Estonia

International students studying in Estonia have to pay very modest tuition rates. This includes expenses for both Master’s and Bachelor’s programs. Other international students in Estonia pay 1660 Euros per year, with the exception of medical students who pay more than 1660 Euros per year.

Cyprus

The price that overseas students must pay in Cyprus varies greatly depending on the university and the type of degree they are pursuing. International undergraduate students in Cyprus pay less than 3500 Euros per year if all other factors are equivalent. With the exception of pharmacy, this is true. Postgraduate students pay considerably less tuition, paying between 2000 and 2500 Euros per year.

The cost of living in Cyprus is very reasonable, in addition to the low education prices.

List of colleges with low fees 

  • Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa
  • Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna
  • University of Würzburg
  • University of Mannheim
  • TU Dresden

Lithuania

Lithuania is a European country well-known for its high educational standards. This country provides not only high-quality education but also a high level of living at a low cost to its guests. Lithuania annually welcomes over 3,000 international students and has over 15 higher education institutions to accommodate them.

Study for free in Europe

For international students, Europe has a wide range of cheap study possibilities. European students are entitled to free education in several nations. Non-European students may even be able to study for free in some regions.

Many countries provide free (nearly free) education. You must meet your living expenses). International students, yes, are eligible for free education. Yes, you are qualified for stipends or scholarships (if available). You are permitted to work 20 hours per week (in most countries).


Check Out: How to study abroad for free?


Study in Europe without IELTS

Europe features some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. IELTS or TOEFL exam results may be waived at the following European universities. This is quite an intriguing opportunity. It is simple and quick to study in Europe. IELTS scores are not required for admission or scholarship at some of Europe’s top universities.

Many universities across Europe, one of the most popular studies abroad destinations, offer courses without requiring you to take the IELTS exam. English may be studied in Europe by students from all over the world.

Study VISA Europe

When it comes to staying in Europe for a longer amount of time, almost everyone with a non-EU/EEA nationality requires a visa. Students are frequently needed to submit an application for a student visa (or temporary resident visa for students). You can stay in your host nation for a set period of time with this visa.

Without an IELTS Study visa in Europe

A Student Schengen Visa is a non-IELTS entry permit to the Schengen Zone provided to third-country nationals seeking to enter and stay for a short period of time in any of the member states in order to study.

This visa allows the holder to stay in the Schengen area for up to three months. If your term of study or training lasts longer than that, you must apply for a Long-Stay Study Visa at the embassy of the nation in question.

Study in Europe Scholarships

Europe offers a handful of scholarships for international students. Following are some of the best scholarships for international students to study in Europe:

British Chevening Scholarships (UK)

As part of the UK government’s international scholarship initiative, Chevening Scholarships are awarded to excellent scholars from Chevening-eligible countries around the world. The rewards are usually for a one-year Master’s degree. Tuition, a fixed-rate living stipend (for one person), an economy-class return ticket to the UK, and additional funds to cover necessary expenditures are all included in most Chevening Scholarships.

DAAD Scholarships with Relevance to Developing Countries (Germany)

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships to a wide range of postgraduate courses at German universities that are especially useful to developing countries. The scholarships are open to international students and young professionals from developing countries in Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands, Central and South America, and Central and Eastern Europe. The DAAD sponsors selected programs with a variety of full and partial grants.

Holland Scholarships

The Holland Scholarship is for international students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who intend to study in Holland at one of the member universities for a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. The scholarship will be awarded to you in your first year of study and will be worth € 5,000.

Swedish Institute Study Scholarships (Sweden)

The Swedish Institute provides scholarships to highly qualified overseas students from underdeveloped countries who aspire to study at Swedish universities. Scholarships for studies in Sweden are offered, with a concentration on master’s degrees. The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, certain travel awards, and insurance.

Rhodes Scholarships at University of Oxford (UK)

Cecil Rhodes’ bequest established the world’s oldest and possibly most prestigious international scholarship program in 1902. The Rhodes Scholarships are postgraduate awards given out by the University of Oxford to outstanding international students from a variety of nations. A Rhodes Scholarship covers all academic tuition, a personal stipend, health insurance, and airfare to and from the student’s home country.

Scholarships for Indian students to study in Europe

Both the UK government and universities provide a variety of scholarships and fellowships to Indian students, some of which are highlighted below:

The Commonwealth Scholarships Commission offers a Master’s and PhD program in the United Kingdom to meritorious students from Commonwealth countries, of which India is a part, who have the potential to make major contributions to their countries.

Chevening, The Government of the United Kingdom, offers scholarships to excellent international students, including Indian students, to pursue a one-year postgraduate degree at any UK university in the subject of their choice. The scholarship intends to foster the development of future world leaders.

Newcastle University offers Vice Chancellor’s International Scholarships to undergraduates and postgraduates, including international students.

The Rhodes Scholarships are postgraduate awards awarded to exceptional students, including five Indian students, to study at Oxford University with the goal of developing unselfish future global leaders.

Easiest Country to get PR after studying in Europe.

Germany is the easiest country in Europe to get PR after studying. Germany continues to astonish international students with its simple PR programs and processes, ranking as the fifth most popular academic tourism destination and the best non-English speaking student immigration destination.

Germany continues to pique the interest of historians and explorers around the world due to its magnificent culture that has evolved over thousands of years, powerful history, efficient systems, and competent individuals.

Many students pick Germany for their study because of the country’s attractiveness and the opportunity to learn a new European language. Although the majority of the courses are offered in Dutch, there are several that are taught in English.

Graduates can apply for an 18-month residency permit after completing their education. Students can seek residence under the law on the Entry and Residence of Highly Qualified Workers (2012). However, such a graduate must be able to get a job.

Masters Study in Europe

It’s easy to see why Europe is one of the most popular postgraduate study locations for international students from all around the world. You will be able to benefit from centuries of academic prestige and knowledge accumulated at the world’s oldest universities if you study abroad in Europe. As you progress, you’ll have the opportunity to study new languages, gain international job experience, and demonstrate to potential employers that you have the abilities and expertise needed to succeed in a more globalized world. European countries provide some of the best and cheapest Master’s programs in the world. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Program is one of the noteworthy master’s programs in Europe.

study in europe

FAQ

Which European country is best to study?

Ans. Here is the list of top 10 places to study abroad in Europe:
1. Spain
2. Italy
3. Sweden
4. Netherlands
5. Poland
6. Finland
7. Slovenia
8. Norway

Which is the cheapest country in Europe to study?

Ans. Brussels, the capital of Belgium is the cheapest country to study abroad. The cost of living is relatively low and the quality of living is high.

How can I study in Europe for free?

Ans. Austria is another country where you can study in Europe for free. Students pay a fee of just €363 per semester.

Which exam is required for study in Europe?

Ans. The most important entrance exam to study abroad is GREGMATIELTSTOEFL, SAT, and ACT. These competitive exams can help you in getting students’ financial aid in the form of scholarships.

Is IELTS required for Europe?

Ans. In general, if you are a native English speaker, that is, if English is your country’s native language, you should not take the IELTS or TOEFL. All other applicants from countries where English is not the native language must take the IELTS/TOEFL test to demonstrate their English competence. Nevertheless, some universities do not have the requirement of IELTS for specific programs.

Why study in Europe?

Ans. Europe’s higher education institutions provide world-class education and high-quality Master’s programs in virtually any discipline. Why not take advantage of the opportunity to study abroad and enjoy the one-of-a-kind experience that the continent has to offer? Don’t be concerned that you won’t be able to keep up with the courses because they are taught in a foreign language. Many study programs in English are available at low tuition rates at higher education institutions. 

About the Author & Expert

Avatar

Rachit Agrawal

Author • MBA • 20 Years

Rachit believes in the power of education and has studied from the top institutes of IIIT Allahabad, IIM Calcutta, and Francois Rabelias in France. He has worked as Software Developer with Microsoft and Adobe. Post his MBA, he worked with the world's # 1 consulting firm, The Boston Consulting Group across multiple geographies US, South-East Asia and Europe.

Related Posts

Comments (0)