The prospect of studying in Europe is incredibly exciting for students worldwide. Plus, the sheer variety and vastness of the region mean that almost every student can find their perfect fit if they decide to study in Europe.
Similarly, the wide range of options and significant variation can make it difficult to gain a thorough understanding of what it’s like to study in Europe.
Why study in Europe?
In many ways, Europe is the origin of Western civilization. Its different histories, cultures, languages, cuisines, and climates provide foreign undergraduates with an abundance of options.
So, what are some of the major elements attracting students to Europe for higher education?
1. Study in Europe for cultural diversity
Many European countries host international students from throughout the world. It’s hardly surprising, given all of the benefits we’ll discuss in this piece – plus many more that we won’t get into (such as postgraduate residence pathways, popular exchange programs, and scholarship options)!
As a result, European study locations frequently provide arriving students with a welcoming and lively environment.
For example, around 21 % of students in Belgian higher education are international students, meaning they are from outside Belgium and studying at Belgian institutions.
2. Student life in Europe is vibrant and dynamic
Of course, the diversity of international students enhances the vibrant student life in many of these European destinations.
Students will have access to a variety of attractions, including cosmopolitan cities, museums, historical sites, entertainment options, high-end retail boutiques, and local farmers’ markets. In short, they will all discover limitless options for inquiry and variety.
Furthermore, because so many students are arriving in a completely new environment, frequently where they know no one, institutions go above and beyond to provide additional activities and develop a strong sense of belonging.:
3. Studying in Europe might offer a world-class education that is affordable.
Many European countries have high-performing higher education institutions that are well-known for their innovation and research. However, their entrance hurdles are frequently lower than those of their global competitors.
For example, while the KU Leuven and the University of British Columbia are roughly equal in most rankings, the grades required of applicants varies significantly.
European institutions are frequently brimming with highly qualified faculty and carefully considered courses, in addition to being more intellectually accessible while maintaining excellence and rigor. Together, they impart important hard skills and a thorough understanding.
For example, students are first given a solid theoretical foundation in the subject they’re learning, followed by more practical instruction. This leads to real-world, immersive encounters via competitive and enriching initiatives.
4. Studying in Europe offers good career chances.
People who study in Europe are more likely to obtain a world-class education, which increases their chances of landing a wonderful career.
However, it is not just the high level of education at many European colleges that increases employability. In fact, many have good relationships with leading employers and can arrange lucrative industry placements, internships, and other opportunities for their students.
Hotelschool, for example, arranges two intensive 6-month assignments as part of their curriculum. This is in addition to practical education in the on-site hotels, restaurants, and pubs, as well as in the classroom.
5. Tuition fees are often lower in Europe
We understand that the cost of tuition is an important concern for many of the students we deal with around the world. In reality, for some students, the cost of attending university in another nation may be a significant barrier.
This is another reason why European countries are popular among international school students: they are becoming more affordable in comparison to prominent locations such as the United States and the United Kingdom. And in certain countries (like much of Germany and Belgium for EU students), studying in Europe is completely almost free!
And in regions where tuition costs still exist (which are often considerably lower than in other popular destinations), there are frequently a plethora of scholarship options available for international students, which are far more difficult to obtain in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom.
6. Many European degrees are taught in English
For some students, another perceived barrier to studying at university in Europe could be the fear that they can’t speak the native language.
But many courses are actually taught in English. Plus, because general English proficiency is so high in lots of these countries, students should have an easy time conversing with locals.
This not only makes getting into programmes easier, it also has a whole host of benefits during and after students’ studies!
After all, studying in English in a country where that isn’t the national language means students get to perfect two languages, becoming all the more multilingual. And we all know how valued that is by employers!
7. Many European degrees are taught in English
According to SchengenVisaInfo.com, many European nations are members of the Schengen Area, and a student visa from one of those countries allows international undergraduates to travel to any of the other 29.
And travel isn’t simply uncomplicated in terms of legality; most European nations are well connected by low-cost trains, buses, and airlines.
Of course, it’s not just students with the travel bug who can benefit from these more open borders. They also open up opportunities which can help students boost their employability and build their CVs before and after graduation.
From being more globally-minded or culturally aware, to speaking multiple languages, all the way to exchange and work placement opportunities in other countries, there are countless ways that making the most of the Schengen Area could brighten students’ future prospects.
Final Thoughts
Studying in Europe is doubtless an exciting prospect. But while its variety may exhilarate students – and means everyone can find their ideal academic home – it can also make university research and decision-making all the more daunting!
Students (and often their counsellors…) will have to dedicate plenty of thought, time and research as they weigh up European education options.