Study in Europe: Best Universities, Programs, Fees, Scholarship (2025)

Europe is one of the top destinations to study for Indian students looking to study abroad. The EU is preferred because of its concentration of some of the world’s best universities, among other benefits like affordability in terms of expenses, quality of education, diversity in institutions, post-study work, and residence opportunities.

Recent statistics data places 1.33 million Indian students moving to Europe to pursue studies. Some of the most desired EU countries that are Indian students’ choices are Germany, Ireland, France, Spain, Switzerland, and the UK. Every country has its own nationally controlled higher education system but is not a member of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). The grading and fees for study are different from country to country. These are However, the structure of higher educational institutions remains the same across Europe.

Why Study in Europe?

Here are a few reasons why international students choose to study in Europe:

  • 688 QS Ranking Universities
  • 18 Months of Post-Study Work Permit
  • 108,000 Student Visas issued in 2023
  • Tuition Fees: € 6,000 – € 15,000 /academic year
  • Scholarship worth: € 1,515 to € 10,000
  • Get a Visa in 30 to 90 Days

Top Reasons to Study in Europe in 2025 

The following are the significant reasons to choose Europe as your study destination in 2025:

  • Innovative courses and programs 
  • World-class research opportunities 
  • Affordable opportunities for research and innovation 
  • Exposure to the global job market 
  • Lucrative post-study work opportunities 
  • Easy to travel to and explore other languages and cultures 
  • Same educational framework followed throughout all EU countries 

Best European Countries to Study Abroad 

Europe has 688 QS Ranking Universities in some of the cities listed under the top countries for the Quality of Life Index. Factors that determine what to look for when selecting a study abroad country include university rankings, adventure, lifestyle and culture, opportunities for personal development, and career opportunities.

Popular EU countries to study abroad

Some of the most popular EU countries to study abroad are:

Study in Germany 

Germany is the fourth best destination for international education due to its high-quality education system and strong employment market. Heidelberg University, Technical University of Berlin, RWTH Aachen University, and the University of Freiburg are some of the most sought-after universities in Germany.

*Looking to study in Germany? Ekasotaka is here to offer full support!

Study in France 

France has great educational programs, similar Grandes Ecoles system, tremendous career opportunities, and contemporary infrastructure. Some of the best universities in France are Sorbonne University, Psl Universite Paris, University of Bordeaux, and Nantes University. 

*Want to study in France? Ekasotaka is here for end-to-end assistance!

Study in the Netherlands 

The Netherlands is among the leading countries to study abroad for students who want to pursue a career in technology, engineering, or business. Some of the best universities in the world include Radboud University, Maastricht University, and the University of Amsterdam, which are located in the Netherlands

*Want to study in the Netherlands? Ekasotaka is here to provide expert assistance!

Study in the UK 

The UK is particularly famous for excellent education, cosmopolitan culture, and strong encouragement of international students. Some of the best colleges in the UK are Imperial College of London, University of Edinburgh, King’s College London, and University of Bristol.

*Want to study in the UK? Ekasotaka is here to provide complete guidance! 

Study in Sweden 

Sweden is also referred to as the country of innovations. The country ranks as one of the best countries in which to study abroad due to the provision of world-class study opportunities and a strong labor market. The country is renowned for its student-centered approach, which is provided in institutions such as Uppsala University, Stockholm University, University of Gothenburg, and Umea University.

*Willing to study in Sweden? Ekasotaka is here to provide personalized guidance! 

Emerging Study Destinations in Europe 

Study in Poland 

Poland is becoming one of the best EU nations for study-related purposes. Recent reports indicate that the increased success rate of Polish student visas and the ample opportunities for post-study work are the key factors as to why most foreign students study in Poland. 

*Willing to study in Poland? Ekasotaka is here to guide you through the process! 

Study in Portugal 

The low cost of living and the variety of educational opportunities in Portugal have made it one of the most sought-after destinations for studying in Europe. Some of the best universities in Portugal are the University of Porto, the University of Lisbon, the Nova School of Business, and the University of Madeira. 

Study in Spain 

Spain is fast emerging as an excellent destination to study abroad due to the sheer variety of programs and courses that 25 QS world-ranking institutions have to offerSpain has 97% success rate for student visas. The universities in Spain that are major and popular include the University of Barcelona, the University of Navarra, and the University of Granada. 

*Want to study in Spain? Ekasotaka is here to provide complete assistance! 

Top 10 European Universities to consider in 2025 

The table below lists the top 10 European Universities as per the QS Ranking of European Universities 2025:

QS Ranking

Name of the University

Country

1

ETH Zurich

Switzerland

2

Imperial College London

UK

3

University of Oxford

UK

4

University of Cambridge

UK

5

UCL London

UK

6

University of Edinburgh

UK

7

University of Manchester

UK

8

King’s College London

UK

9

Universite PSL

France

10

EPFL

Switzerland

What are the Best Universities in Europe?

Europe has the highest number of best universities. There are 688 universities listed as the best in Europe. The best universities from the EU are ranked number one because of the quality of educationhigh-class infrastructure, research centerslow education costs, and numerous other green factors. 

  • University of Oxford 
  • University of Cambridge
  • Imperial College London
  • UCL
  • University of Edinburgh
  • King’s College London
  • London School of Economics and Political Science 
  • University of Manchester
  • University of Bristol
  • University of Glasgow

How do you choose the right University for your course?

Choosing the right University in Europe involves the following steps:

  • Choose the course you are willing to study 
  • Research about the universities offering the course 
  • Go through the course program offered by the University 
  • Consider the tuition fee and other costs 
  • Look for visa options and approval rates 
  • Apply for the visa and migrate to the country 

Popular courses to study in Europe 

Some of the popular courses to study in Europe are listed below:

  • Business and Management 
  • Engineering and Technology 
  • Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence 
  • Computer Science and Data Science 
  • Humanities and Social Science 
  • Medicine and Health Sciences 
  • Fashion and Designing 
  • Law and management 
  • Art and Architecture

The table below lists the best European universities for the popular courses to study in Europe:

Course

Best European Universities

Business and Management

London Business School

University of Cambridge

University of Amsterdam

University of Edinburgh

Imperial College London

Engineering and Technology

ETH Zurich

University of Oxford

University of Cambridge

RWTH Aachen University

UCL

Universitat Heidelberg

Computer Science and Data Science

Technical University of Munich

Delft University of Technology

University of Edinburgh

Imperial College London

University of Glasgow

Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

University of Amsterdam

University of Oxford

University of Edinburgh

University of Leeds

University of Warwick

Medicine and Health Sciences

UCL

Imperial College London

University of Munich

University of Cambridge

University of Copenhagen

Universitat Heidelberg

Fashion, Designing, and Architecture

London College of Fashion

University of Bedfordshire

University of Vienna

University of Oslo

Uppsala Universitat

*Confused about which course to choose? Avail Ekasotaka Course Recommendation Services to find the right course for you! 

Studying in Europe without IELTS

Non-English speaking international students from countriessuchasIndia needto prove English language proficiency whenapplyingfor admission to foreign universities. The mostuniversally accepted and recognized English language proficiencytestis the InternationalEnglish Language TestingSystem (IELTS)Nevertheless, IELTS is not obligatory and is not the sole language proficiency test you can use to prove your English proficiencyMost European universities do not require a mandatory IELTSand you can study in Europe without IELTS.

Top 10 countries to study in Europe without IELTS 

The following countries allow you to study in Europe without taking the IELTS exam:

  • Germany 
  • France
  • Italy 
  • Belgium 
  • Poland 
  • Sweden 
  • Spain 
  • Norway 
  • Denmark
  • Finland

Certain universities in these European countries allow you to study there without the IELTS requirement. However, you might be asked to provide other language proficiency test results to demonstrate your language proficiency. 

Alternatives to prove language proficiency 

You can take the following language tests to demonstrate English language proficiency to study in Europe: 

*Want to improve your language test results? Avail Ekasotaka Coaching Services to ace your language proficiency scores! 

Why apply for a European student Visa?

European nations are the most preferable to study abroad. It is the destination of the worldbest universities. The nation has numerous scholarships available for foreign students. Most of the European countries’ universities are famous for quality education at reasonable prices. Students pursue great career opportunities by choosing European nations as their destination to study. Y-Axis can make your dream come true to study in Europe with all the assistance and guidance you require.

*Need assistance to Study Abroad? Ekasotaka is here to assist you in all the ways.

Student Visa Requirements for Europe 

With so many countries to select from, Europe is the perfect destination for students looking for knowledge and great career opportunitiesForeign students who are willing to study in Europe will need a student visa to move and reside there as legitimate residents. Student visa requirements tend to differ depending on the type of course you are willing to undertake. The visa requirements may also depend on your country of origin or nationality

Types of Europe Student Visa

For those students who are planning to study in Europe, there are numerous visa options. The most significant of these are as follows:

Europe Schengen Visa: This is a temporary student visa for threemonths for foreign students who aregoing to study in a Schengen stateAfter it has expiredthe visa can be prolonged, and if onegetsinto his or her visa program, he or she can apply for a residency permit. WithoutIELTSoranyotherlanguagetest,aSchengenstudyvisacanbeawarded if the organization does not require it.

Long-Stay Visa: This visa is generally granted to foreign students who take up studies in programs or courses that necessitate a stay of over six months. A residence permit is also attached to this visa.

Student Visa in Europe: This is the most popular visa for foreign students. After a student receives an admission offer or an admission letter, then he can apply for this visa. Students are usually allowed to enter the nation in order to study a specific course or program in that University.

Europe Student Visa Eligibility

  • No age restriction. Anyone above 17 years of age is allowed to apply. 
  • Must score 50% above in their previous academics. 
  • Some universities conduct admission tests to offer seats. 
  • Some countries require English proficiency test results.
  • Check the University’s portal for other admission requirements to European universities. 

Europe Study Visa Requirements

  • Visa application form for selected country
  • Proof of meeting the age requirement of the country
  • Valid documentation from a European university
  • Documents and evidence of adequate finances to meet your expenses
  • Flight tickets
  • Proof of meeting the language requirement

Intakes in Europe

The European Universities allow three intakes per year: 

Intakes

Study Program

Admission deadlines

Spring

Undergraduate and Postgraduate

August to December

Fall

Undergraduate and Postgraduate

December to January

Summer

Undergraduate and Postgraduate

May to August

Benefits of Studying in Europe

Europe is the most sought-after place for most students who wish to settle overseas. Students can guarantee quality education in their respective fields and a welcoming multicultural atmosphere.

Renowned Universities 

  • Study Scholarships and Tuition Fee Waivers in some Countries
  • Many job opportunities
  • Multicultural environment
  • Cost-effective education

How to apply for a European Student Visa?

Step 1: Check whether you can apply for a European visa.

Step 2: Get ready with all the required documents.

Step 3: Apply for a Europe visa online.

Step 4: Wait for the approval status.

Step 5: Fly to Europe for your education.

Europe Student Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a European student visa is 2 to 6 months, and the approval time varies depending on the visa type.

Europe Student Visa Cost

The Europe Visa fee for non-EU students will cost between € 60 to € 100 for students under 12 years and € 35 – € 170 for adults. The visa fee will depend on your choice of country and the country you are coming from. It is open to change as per the government’s rules and regulations.

Cost of studying in Europe

The price of studying at universities in Europe varies with your course, nation, and University. Subsidized education is offered in some nations. Ekasotaka can guide you on your choice depending on your aims of study and available finances.

Study Program

Average Tuition Fees in EUR

Bachelor’s Degrees

€ 4,500 /year for EU/EEA-students

€ 8,600 EUR/year for students outside EU/EEA

Master’s Degree

€ 5,100 /year for EU/EEA-students

€ 10,170 /year for students outside EU/EEA

Working in Europe while studying

Some European nations have provisions under which students are permitted to work a specified number of hours per yearThis is subject to being only part-time and not full-time.

Working in Europe after graduation

European countries offer various employment opportunities for graduates. To stay in the country, graduates must apply for temporary residence or a work permit soon after graduating. Your Y-Axis consultant can guide you through this process so you can better plan your educational and professional journey in Europe.

How to fund your studies in Europe?

European nations provide scholarships and grants to finance studentsEvery nation has scholarship programs offered to foreign students who are ready to pursue their studies there. Depending on the institution providing the financial aidEuropean scholarships can be divided into two broad categories:

. Government-funded scholarships: As is clear from their name, these scholarships are funded by the government and are given to students based on their merit, family‘s financial condition, or special criteria. Some of the most sought-after government-funded scholarship schemes in Europe are GATES Cambridge Scholarship, DAAD, Fulbright Scholarships, and Erasmus Mundus Scholarships.

  • University-funded scholarships: These scholarships are sponsored by the University you study atThe scholarship may be need-based, merit-based, or based on financial aid depending on the University. Some well-known European universities offering scholarship schemes are the University of Cambridge, the University of Amsterdam, Maastricht University, the University of Oxford, and Bocconi University.

Top 10 Scholarships in Europe for International Students

The table below has the list of international student scholarships in Europe for Indian students: 

Name of the Scholarship

Amount (Per Year)

DAAD Scholarship Programs

€ 14,400

EMS Undergraduate Scholarship

50% waivers on tuition costs

EMS Scholarship for Master’s and doctoral courses

€ 18,000

Swedish Institute Scholarships

SEK 12,000

Chevening Scholarship

£30,000

Deutschland Stipendium National Scholarship Programme

€ 3,600

GATES Cambridge Scholarship 

£45,000

Bocconi Merit and International Awards

€ 12,000

Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarship

€10,332

Felix Scholarships 

£16,164

 *Looking to study abroad? Ekasotaka is here to help you find top scholarships to study abroad! 

Living in Europe: Costs and Accommodation 

The price of living in Europe as an international student varies with respect to some variables such as the country, chosen study programenrolled University, and lifestyle. The following table gives an approximate price of living for international students in Europe:

Expenses

Average Amount (in Euros)

Tuition fee

€2,000 – €20,000 per year

Accommodation

€300-€1200 per month

Food

€150-€300 per month

Health Insurance

€200-€1000 per year

Others

€150-€800 per month

Accommodation options for International Students in Europe 

International students willing to migrate to Europe can consider the following types of accommodation options: 

Type of Accommodation

Average Monthly Rent

Student Halls

€240-€460

Hostels

€250-€500

Private Rental

€600-€12,000

University Residences

€250-€750

Post-Graduation Work Opportunities in Europe 

As per recent statistical information, there are approximately 18.8 million jobs in Europe in 20+ sectors. International graduates who are willing to work abroad can look for the strong job market in Europe upon graduation. The average yearly salary range in Europe is approximately €40,130- €48,720. 

Top 10 In-demand jobs in Europe 

The table below has the list of the top 10 in-demand jobs in Europe:

Occupation

Average annual salary

IT and Software

€ 1,10,000

Engineering

€ 95,000

Accounting and Finance

€ 1,00,000

Human Resource Management

€ 70,000

Hospitality

€ 68,000

Sales and Marketing

€ 66,028

Healthcare

€ 1,20,000

STEM

€ 1,35,000

Teaching

€ 85,000

Nursing

€ 1,00,000

Read more…

Most in-demand occupations in Europe

Tips for international students to find jobs in Europe 

Here are some tips for international students looking for jobs in Europe:

  • Build your professional network 
  • Learn skills that are in demand 
  • Improve your language proficiency 
  • Keep upskilling yourself
  • Make an ATS-Friendly Resume

*Need help with your resume? Avail Ekasotaka Resume Writing Services for personalized assistance! 

Post-graduation work visas in Europe 

These work visas can be obtained by foreign students after having a valid work offer. Individual requirements and specifications for work visas vary from one country to another in Europe. Some of the most sought-after work visas across Europe, the price of getting them, have been tabulated below: 

Type of Work Visa

Cost (in Euros)

Germany Work Visa 

€ 75

France Work Visa

€ 99

Spain Work Visa

€ 80

Sweden Work Visa

€ 190

Finland Work Visa 

€ 690

Ireland Work Visa

€ 500

Italy Work Visa

€ 120

United Kingdom Work Visa

€ 695

Switzerland Work Visa

€ 80

Belgium Work Visa

€ 180

Denmark Work Visa

€ 590

Netherlands Work Visa

€ 285

Luxembourg Work Visa

€ 50

Austria Work Visa

€ 160

Norway Work Visa

€ 610

Conclusion 

European nations are an excellent choice for students seeking to study overseasEuropean nations have well-established education systems. Students who pursue studies in Europe gain access to the European job market and experience global exposure. Moving to Europe can be a stepping stone towards your desired profession

How can Ekasotaka help you? 

EkasotakaNo.1 overseas immigration and student visa consultancy in the world, can help you by providing end-to-end assistance to candidates who want to study in Europe. The process of support is

  • Free Counselling: Free Counselling on university and course selection.
  • Campus Ready Program: Fly to Europe with the best and ideal course. 
  • Y-Path gives the best suitable ideas about your study and career options.
  • Europe Immigration: Our expert team helps you to migrate overseas
  • Ekasotaka Search Services will help you find relevant jobs in Europe. 

FAQs

How do I apply to universities in Europe?

Ans: Applying for European universities involves the following steps:

Step 1: Choose the course you are willing to study 

Step 2: Research about the universities offering the course 

Step 3: Go through the course program offered by the University 

Step 4: Consider the tuition fee and other costs 

Step 5: Look for visa options and approval rates 

Step 6: Apply for the visa and migrate to the country 

What are the best scholarships for Indian students?

Ans: Some of the best scholarships for Indian students willing to study in Europe are:

  • DAAD Scholarship Programs
  • EMS Undergraduate Scholarship
  • EMS Scholarship for Master’s and doctoral courses
  • Swedish Institute Scholarships
  • Chevening Scholarship
  • Deutschland Stipendium National Scholarship Programme
  • GATES Cambridge Scholarship 
  • Bocconi Merit and International Awards
  • Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarship
  • Felix Scholarships

Are there English-taught programs in Europe?

Ans: Yes, there are more than 30,000 English-taught programs for both Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees. 

What are the oldest universities in Europe?

Ans: Some of the oldest European universities include the University of Bologna, the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, the University of Naples Federico II, the University of Salamanca, the University of Paris, and the University of St Andrews.

How do I choose between Western and Eastern Europe for studying?

Ans: You may look at some factors, including the expense of studying, courses available, cultural setting, career prospects, and languages used, to determine whether to make a decision between Western and Eastern Europe for study.

What are the most affordable universities in Europe?

Ans: The 10 most affordable universities in Europe are the University of Vienna (Austria), Free University of Berlin (Germany), University of Gottingen (Germany), RWTH Aachen University (Germany), Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa (Italy), Scoular Superiore Sant’Anna (Italy), TU Dresden (Germany), Heidelberg University (Germany), University of Pisa (Italy), and Léonard de Vinci University College (Belgium). 

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