Why Study in Europe – Top Universities, Courses, Scope Etc.

A stable political environment, robust economy, and a world-class education system answer your ‘why study in Europe’ inquiry. Every year millions of international students flock to Europe, primarily due to its welcoming culture and proven excellence in future employment. However, if you are still unsure, read the article to know why you should choose Europe as your study abroad destination.

Read More: Guide to Settle in Europe

Reasons to Study in Europe

Europe has been one of the most popular and livable continents for ages. It also has a long and proud history of providing world-class education through some of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities. As per the QS World Rankings, Europe tops the chart with the highest number of universities on the list with 483 universities. United Kingdom (UK) still leads the Europe continent with maximum universities in the list of top institutions, followed by Germany, France, and Denmark. Let us have a look at some of the top reasons why Europe is one of the best study abroad destinations. 

1. Top Universities in Europe

Europe houses some of the best and oldest universities in the world. Therefore, you can expect world-class education and scope for research in Europe. These universities offer multiple courses and specialization options to choose from. Among the top universities in the world, maximum universities are based in Europe. 

Here is a list of the top 10 European universities as per the QS World University Rankings 2023.

 Source: QS World University Rankings, 2023

Read More: Study in Europe without IELTS

2. Quality of Education in Europe

Many European countries such as Germany, France, and the UK are considered world leaders in offering quality education. Even if you are not able to make it to the top colleges, you will still receive an education that is top-notch. You will also get to learn first-hand from some of the most venerated professors in the world. Europe has been one of the frontrunners in the industrial revolution; therefore, most European countries take pride in excellent educational infrastructure. All the universities in Europe are accredited by the ministry of education of the base country. 

As per the 5th pillar (higher education and training) of the Global Competitiveness Index 2017-2018, six out of ten countries belong to Europe. Singapore is on the top, and Finland holds second place. Other European countries that made a place on the list are the Netherlands (#4), Switzerland (#5), Denmark (#6), Norway (#8), Germany (#15), and more. 

Here is a brief of five countries offering quality education to international students in Europe:

i. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom (UK) is known for quality education, teaching methodology, and top world universities. Most of the universities that rank high in the world are from the UK. There are over 160 universities and colleges in the UK that offer degree programs to students. The University of Cambridge, the University of Oxford, Imperial College of London, UCL, and the University of Edinburgh are some of the top and oldest universities in the world. 

ii. Germany

Germany is known for offering quality education at lower or no tuition fees. Most of the universities in the country are state-funded; hence, education is affordable in Germany. There are different types of universities in Germany that offer tailored programs to students. Technical Univeristy of Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität are some of the top universities in Germany.

iii. France

The types of higher education institutions in France include universities, grande école, and specialized schools. There are over 3,500 public and private institutions that offer higher education in France. Université PSL, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, and Sorbonne University are some of the top universities in France.  

iv. Netherland

Higher education in Netherland is either research-oriented or profession-oriented. The country has 14 government-funded research universities and over 40 government-funded universities for applied sciences. The University of Amsterdam, Delft University of Technology, and Utrecht University are some of the top universities in the Netherland.

v. Denmark

Higher education in Denmark is offered by four types of institutions – Academies of professional higher education, university colleges, universities, and university-level institutions for education in arts. Danish universities are also known to quality education to students. The University of  Copenhagen, Technical University of Denmark, and Aarhus University are some of the top universities in Denmark. 

3. Courses and Specializations

Not many colleges and universities in the world offer the kind of variety in courses as well as specializations that are offered in Europe. From engineering and medicine to music and art, the range of specializations is huge. There is something for everybody in Europe. From arts to zoology, you will find several courses in Europe without compromising on quality. You can easily apply and get accepted, especially if you have already finished a course from there earlier. The courses vary in duration and also have a different fee structure that varies widely based on the country and the university that you pick to pursue. Some of the most promising courses that are offered by European colleges are MBA, Graphic Designing, Computer Science and IT, Engineering and Technology, Environmental Science, and Law.

Here are lists of some of the subject specializations grouped into five broad subject areas and the top universities offering the same, basis QS World University Ranking by Subject 2022.

Please add table headings for each of these

Arts and Humanities 

Engineering and Technology 

Life Sciences and Medicine 

Natural Sciences

Social Science & Management

4. Umpteen Career Opportunities

European countries allow international students to work on a part-time basis while they study. However, they need to meet some of the conditions. Due to the booming economy, there is usually no shortage of work which means that the students can find several well-paid jobs that can even help them cover a part of their education expenses. Some European countries also offer Post Study Work Visa (PSW) visas to students after completing their courses. Studying in a European nation also increases your chances of building  a strong career. International experiences can add significant value to your resume if you seek a job in your home country (India). Also, it becomes easier for you to get a job in Europe itself with a degree from the continent. And if you are planning to immigrate to a country in Europe, it makes a great first step to get an education from there. Here are a few countries and the PSW visa duration they offer to international students. 

Read More: Best countries to study abroad for Indian Students

5. Affordable Education

Compared to countries like the US, Australia, Canada, and others, the tuition fee charged by most public universities in Europe is lesser. In some of the European countries, there is no tuition fee at all. Also, the students can try getting scholarships and explore other financial support options while studying on European university campuses.

6. Multiple Languages

Although you can speak English in Europe, you also get a chance to learn more than 20 languages, including French, Italian, German, Spanish, and Polish. As you learn a new language, you get exposed to a new culture that opens your mind to a new world. You also increase your employability by learning new languages. 

7. Travel Opportunities

Research says the more you travel, the better you get with your creative thinking. Many European countries offer student visas, making travel hassle-free for them. Also, most European countries use a single currency (Euro), which makes it easier for the students to trot around.

Read More: Study Abroad with great affordability and efficiency

8. Rich Heritage

Some of the most significant events in the world, took place in Europe. The origin of several ideas, concepts, and theories started on this continent. You can get excellent guidance in industry, politics, finance, philosophy, fashion, literature, arts, economics, sociology, and anthropology here. Several European cities such as London, Paris, Edinburgh, Berlin, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Vienna, and Prague take pride in their world-class architecture and fascinating historical antecedents, making studying in these cities a memorable learning experience. Also, some of the oldest universities in the world, belong to Europe. University of Bologna (1088), Italy; University of Oxford, United Kingdom, (1096-1167);  University of Salamanca (1134), Spain; the University of Paris, France (1160-1250); and the University of Cambridge (1209), UK, are some of the oldest universities in the world that are based in Europe.  

9. Global Exposure

Studying in a European country offers you global exposure to all prospects. Besides quality education, studying in a European country offers you great exposure in terms of better career opportunities, a strong professional network, and overall development. Along with some of the best educators in the world, European universities also offer modern facilities, state-of-the-art technology, and industry-oriented coursework to their students. You can also access their comprehensive libraries that house a wide collection of books and multimedia. Europe is also a center of software innovation and development. Some of the most renowned technology companies across the world such as Skype, Spotify, Trivago, Supercell, and SAP, started in Europe. This increases your chances to begin your career with renowned organizations.

Study abroad with upGrad Abroad

upGrad Abroad offers flexible study solutions to help aspirants achieve their foreign education dreams through collaborations with the top international universities. You can pursue courses with us at one-fifth the cost while getting the same PSWP benefit and more. To know more, get in touch with our counsellors now. 

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