Europe

With a long history of pioneering higher education, Europe is home to many of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities – and many of the most exciting and attractive student cities.

European countries, and their universities, are of course all very different – in terms of language, lifestyle and living costs. However, under the Bologna Process, European universities are working to standardize degree systems. For EU students, choosing to study in Europe outside your home country should be relatively straightforward, with tuition fees charged at local rates (currently) and no visa requirements.

Many European universities are renowned for teaching and research excellence. You can look at the world QS rankings here:

Choosing a course

Choosing a course at a European university is a bit more tricky than applying to English speaking countries. Some courses are taught in English and others in the country's native language, so you must do your research carefully. Some European universities may give you the option to study in their language, or in English (e.g. some French universities), but other courses are only taught in one language or another.

Refer to the university's website for information on courses and language.

European course details can be done using the individual university websites, and you can search for courses here: www.bachelorsportal.eu/

Applying

Applications are submitted to each university separately. Check the website carefully to ensure you are aware of the application deadlines and requirements, as they vary between each institution.

Most courses require you to submit an online application, along with:

An academic transcript
Evidence of proficiency in the language (if not an English taught course)
If you are not a native English speaker, evidence of English proficiency (either through a test such as IELTS or evidence or attending an English school for a number of years)
A motivation letter/personal statement
School reference/ recommendation

Study abroad while at university & Erasmus+

Students can also study abroad for up to a year in participating degree courses. Look out for degree programmes which state 'Study Abroad' as an option - often you can choose whether to do this during your time as an undergraduate, or choose to apply to a course which stipulates one of the years will be abroad (often on a language course)

Courses with a built-in course in Europe are often for 4 years - check the specific details of courses you are interested in.

The Erasmus+ scheme promotes study and work placements in Europe. You can apply for a study placement, once you are an undergraduate, with partner universities in Europe. Some departments also offer work placements at host organisations. Check out the Erasmus page for further information on participating universities in the Erasmus+ scheme:

Funding

Study in Europe cannot be financed through a UK student loan, but EU students will be eligible to pay the domestic rate rather than the international rate . Any course undertaken will nee to be privately funded, and the guideline costs vary between countries and institutions. Check the relevant university's webpage for further information.