10 Best Countries to Study in Europe in 2025

Some of the best countries to study in Europe are 1. Germany, 2. France, 3. UK, 4. Netherlands, 5. Spain and more. Europe is the most popular study abroad destination among Indian students. According to Eurostat, 1.5 million international students are studying in Europe till 2023. Out of this huge 1.5 million students, 50K+ are Indian students. Indian students prefer European countries compared to USA and Canada, as they offer a quality education at low price, world-wide recognized degrees, a vibrant student life and numerous post graduation work opportunities. 

The EU (European Union) countries are home to some of the finest educational institutions in the world including 5000+ universities across 44 countries. The perks of studying in Europe include learning new languages, experiencing different cultures and visiting some of the most beautiful landscapes across Europe. With all these advantages in place, let us explore the countries to study in Europe.

The below infographic lists the top 10 countries to study in Europe.

1. Germany

Germany ranks as the best country to study in Europe, primarily due to its low tuition fees at public universities. With 51 top QS-ranked universities, Germany offers high-quality courses taught in English, catering specifically to international students. Among its prestigious institutions are the Technical University of Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Heidelberg University, and RWTH Aachen University. Attractive scholarship and funding opportunities further enhance Germany's appeal to international students. Bordered by nine countries, Germany boasts rich cultural diversity. It ranks 24th on the World Happiness Index and provides a vibrant and colorful student life, contributing to its top position on the list.

 

Number of International Students: 458,210

Cost of Living (Per Month): £1,500 to £2,500

Average Tuition Fees:  £10,000 to £20,000 in Private Universities. 

Scholarships:  DAAD Scholarship Germany , Erasmus Scholarship Programs in Germany, Heinrich Boll Scholarships for International Students

2. France

Similar to Germany, France ranks second among the best countries to study in Europe. Located in Western Europe, France is home to prestigious institutions such as Sorbonne University, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, and Paris Sciences et Lettres University, which emphasize research and analysis over purely theoretical education. Each year, France welcomes approximately 400,000 international students. Notable scholarships, such as the Amba-Dalmia Scholarship Programme and the Charpak Scholarship, can significantly reduce tuition fees. Ranked 27th on the World Happiness Index, France is renowned for its rich history, art, cuisine, museums, and fashion. Graduating from a French university, symbolized by standing as tall as the Eiffel Tower, can make you highly competitive in the job market.

Number of International Students: 412,000

Cost of Living (Per Month): £2,708.14 per month

Average Tuition Fees:  £2,770 to £3,770. 

Scholarships:  Eiffel Scholarship, MOPGA scholarship, ERASMUS+

3. United Kingdom

Ranked third among the best countries to study in Europe, the United Kingdom is situated in northwestern Europe. The UK boasts some of the highest-ranked universities in the world, including the University of Cambridge, the University of Oxford, and Imperial College London, among many other top QS-ranked institutions. These universities offer a rich, research-focused curriculum that aligns with current job market trends. As an English-speaking country outside of the European Union (EU), the UK is particularly accessible for international students. Numerous scholarships are available to help reduce the cost of studying, and there are many part-time job opportunities to manage living expenses. Additionally, the UK offers the chance to explore the scenic beauty of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, providing a comprehensive and enriching experience.

 

Number of International Students: 679,970

Cost of Living (Per Month): £2,571

Average Tuition Fees: £10,000 to £40,000

Scholarships: Chevening Scholarship, Rhodes Scholarship, Erasmus Mundus

4. Netherlands

The Netherlands is among the best countries for education in Europe, featuring top universities such as the University of Amsterdam, Utrecht University, and the University of Groningen. The Netherlands is also located in northwestern Europe like the UK. The country is particularly renowned for its programs in entrepreneurship and engineering. Many students in the Netherlands come from EU nations, and over 50,000 Indian students have enrolled in Dutch colleges to date. Like the UK, the Netherlands is an English-speaking country, making it accessible for international students. The Netherlands also boasts high employment rates, enhancing its appeal. Beyond academics, the country offers stunning scenic beauty and is known for its architectural marvels. Ranked 5th on the World Happiness Index, the Netherlands presents numerous advantages, making it one of the best choices for studying in Europe.

 

Number of International Students: 122,550
 
Cost of Living (Per Month): £1200 to £1400

Average Tuition Fees:  £15,000 to £25,000 

Scholarships: NL Scholarship, University of Twente, Leiden University Excellence Scholarships 

5. Spain

Spain, located in Southwestern Europe, is not only a top tourist destination but also a preferred choice for international students wishing to study in Europe. The country boasts renowned universities such as the University of Barcelona and the Complutense University of Madrid, which offer high-quality education at an affordable cost. Additionally, the University of Salamanca, one of the oldest universities in the world, adds to Spain's academic prestige. International students benefit from ample part-time job opportunities and favorable post-study work prospects. The visa process is smooth and straightforward, making it easier for students to navigate. Spain is particularly attractive for those interested in studying business, design, or architecture. Beyond academics, the country offers numerous attractions, including the Sagrada Familia, Alhambra, and Paella Valenciana. With its combination of quality education, affordable living, and a ranking of 34th on the World Happiness Index, Spain is a highly preferred destination for studying abroad.

 

Number of International Students: 235,080

Cost of Living (Per Month): £2683 to £3000 

Average Tuition Fees:  £20,000 to £30,000

Scholarships: UIC Barcelona Scholarships, EADA Scholarships, The Fulbright Program

6. Italy

Italy is renowned not only for its pizzas and pastas but also for its exceptional education system. Situated in south-central Europe, Italy is historically one of the best countries to study in Europe. International students flock to Italy for higher education at prestigious institutions such as Sapienza University of Rome and Politecnico di Milano. Italy is also home to the world’s oldest university, the University of Bologna, established in the late 12th century. Students benefit from ample part-time job opportunities, and visa regulations allow graduates to stay up to 12 months to search for employment. Italy offers a vibrant student life with plenty of beautiful places to explore, from the capital city of Rome to the romantic city of Venice. You can enjoy the scenic beauty and architectural marvels of old Roman buildings, take a boat ride in Venice, and visit landmarks like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Colosseum, the oldest amphitheater. Italy is a culturally rich and diverse country, providing opportunities to collaborate with people from various backgrounds and to learn the Italian language and culture.

 

Number of International Students: 126,000

Cost of Living (Per Month): £1796 to £2500

Average Tuition Fees: £900 to £4000

Scholarships:  University of Milan Excellence Scholarships, EDISU Piemonte scholarships, Bologna University study grants for international students

7. Switzerland

Switzerland, often regarded as one of the most beautiful places on Earth, is also a highly sought-after destination for studying in Europe. Located in west-central Europe, the country is surrounded by the stunning Alps mountains. Switzerland is home to top universities, including ETH Zurich, which is ranked number 7 in the QS World Rankings. Other prestigious institutions include the University of Zurich and the University of Geneva. Renowned for its banking and finance industries, Swiss universities excel in fundamental research, applied sciences and arts, and teacher education. Students in Switzerland benefit from a multicultural environment, providing opportunities to learn from diverse perspectives. Additionally, Switzerland is famous for its world-class Swiss chocolates, a delight for any chocolate lover.

 

Number of International Students: 168,190

Cost of Living (Per Month): £3511 to £4500

Average Tuition Fees: £1000 to £2500 

Scholarships: Swiss Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Students, ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarships, EPFL Excellence Scholarships 

8. Sweden

Sweden, a Scandinavian nation, is one of the best countries to study in Europe. Located on the Scandinavian Peninsula, this Nordic country features numerous coastal islands, boreal forests, and glaciated mountains. Sweden hosts notable universities such as KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Lund University, Stockholm University, and Uppsala University. Although Swedish is the official language, universities offer a wide range of courses in English. As an international student, you will have the opportunity to meet diverse people, experience different cultures, and learn Swedish. Students from the EU/EEA can study in Sweden for free. The country offers abundant job opportunities in industries such as steel, automotive components, industrial equipment, and food processing equipment. There are numerous socializing opportunities, and some of the best places to visit include Gamla Stan, the Royal Palace in Stockholm, and the city of Visby.

 

Number of International Students: 41,697

Cost of Living (Per Month): £2750 to £3700

Average Tuition Fees: £6400 to £12,000

Scholarships: BTH Scholarships, Chalmers university of technology scholarships, Dalarna University Scholarships, Halmstad University Scholarships, Lund university Scholarships.

9. Ireland

Ireland is rapidly becoming a popular study destination for international students and is one of the best places to study in Europe. Located in northwestern Europe, Ireland is the third-largest island in the continent. The country is home to numerous affordable universities, such as Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, and the National College of Ireland. While Irish is the national language, many courses are offered in English to accommodate international students. Popular fields of study in Ireland include business, IT, and life sciences. A significant portion of the student population comes from outside Ireland. Known as the Emerald Isle, Ireland has a rich history and is welcoming to culturally diverse people. The country features many attractions, including parks, museums, lush greenscapes, and castles. With a student visa, you can study and explore the country. Additionally, Ireland offers post-study work opportunities.

 

Number of International Students: 35,140

Cost of Living (Per Month): £852 to £2000

Cost of Studying:  9,850 EUR to 25,000 EUR 

Scholarships: The Government of Ireland Scholarships, The Walsh Fellowships, DIT Centenary Scholarship Programme

10. Portugal

Portugal, located in southern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula, is an attractive destination for studying in Europe. The country boasts top QS-ranked universities such as the University of Porto, the University of Lisbon, and Universidade NOVA de Lisboa. International students are drawn to Portugal for its excellent infrastructure and lower tuition fees. Popular fields of study include medicine, journalism, and social sciences. While Portuguese is the official language, many universities offer courses in English. Portugal is rich in architectural heritage, with buildings dating back to the 1500s-1800s, making it an excellent choice for those who want to explore historical sites while pursuing their education.

 

Number of International Students: 70,000

Cost of Living (Per Month): £1900 to £2500

Cost of Studying:  £2500 to £3500

Scholarships: NF International Scholarships, Strategic support international scholarships, University of Aveiro masters international awards.

Also check: Best cities to study in Europe

Conclusion

To wrap up, we've delved into the best countries to study in Europe, considering factors like international student acceptance rates, living costs, academic expenses, top-tier universities, and local attractions. Alongside the previously discussed nations, Finland, Austria, and Denmark stand out as equally welcoming options for students. Your choice of country should align with your personal preferences, desired courses of study, financial considerations, and available scholarship opportunities. Kanan International can guide you through selecting the ideal destination, narrowing down university choices, navigating visa applications, and organizing your travel plans to study in Europe.