Study in Europe
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Study in Europe: Top Universities, Courses, Fees, Scholarship (2025)
Europe is one of the most sought-after destinations to study in Europe, especially for international students from India. Securing a Europe study visa opens the door to some of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, offering a unique blend of academic excellence, affordable education, and rich cultural diversity.
According to recent statistics, over 1.33 million Indian students have chosen Europe as their academic destination, attracted by the consistency and high quality of the continent’s higher education system. While tuition fees and grading systems vary by country, the unified framework of the EHEA ensures smooth degree recognition and credit transfer, making studying in Europe a truly global experience.
Why Study in Europe?
Students who choose to study in Europe gain access to a highly rewarding academic and cultural experience. With strong education systems, generous scholarships, and promising career opportunities, Europe remains a top choice for Indian and international students.
Key benefits include:
-
Access to 688 QS-ranked universities across leading countries like Germany, Ireland, France, Spain, Switzerland, and the UK
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Participation in the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), ensuring standardized education and smooth credit transfer via ECTS
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A wide range of English-taught programs in high-demand fields such as STEM, business, and law
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18-month post-study work permits in select countries, enabling international students to build careers abroad
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Affordable tuition fees ranging from €6,000 to €15,000 per academic year
-
Scholarships valued between €1,515 and €10,000, easing the cost of studying abroad
-
Fast and efficient visa processing — Europe study visas issued within 30 to 90 days
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Over 108,000 student visas issued in 2023, highlighting the region’s growing popularity
-
Safe, well-connected, and vibrant student cities with excellent public transportation
Choosing to study in Europe not only ensures access to a world-class education but also prepares students for global careers through mobility, multicultural exposure, and a unified academic framework.
Europe Study Visa Types (for Indian Students)
Indian students aspiring to study in Europe must first understand the different Europe study visa types available, which vary based on the duration and type of study program.
1. Schengen Student Visa for Short-Term Studies (Up to 90 Days)
The Schengen Student Visa is suitable for Indian students enrolling in short-term courses, language programs, or exchange programs lasting less than 90 days within any Schengen country. Key application requirements include a valid passport, university admission or invitation letter, proof of financial means (such as bank statements or sponsorship), travel health insurance, and a completed visa application form. This visa also allows travel across the Schengen Area, enabling students to explore multiple countries during their study period.
2. National Student Visa for Long-Term Studies (More Than 90 Days)
For full-time degree courses, diploma programs, or long-term studies exceeding 90 days, Indian students must apply for a National Student Visa specific to the European country where they plan to study. The requirements typically include a valid passport, acceptance letter from a recognized university, proof of financial support to cover tuition fees and living expenses, valid health insurance, and a completed visa form. Additional documents like language proficiency certificates (IELTS, TOEFL) or medical reports may also be necessary. Since student visa requirements vary by country in Europe, it is essential to check the official embassy or consulate website for country-specific guidance.
Best European Countries to Study Abroad
Europe remains one of the most sought-after study destinations for international students, thanks to its academic excellence, diverse cultures, and excellent career pathways. With 688 QS-ranked universities spread across the continent, many located in cities with top Quality of Life Index rankings, Europe offers an unmatched higher education experience.
For students—especially from India—popular EU countries to study abroad offer much more than academic prestige. From English-taught programs to affordable tuition, vibrant student life, and post-study work visas, Europe provides the complete package for a successful academic and professional journey.
Popular EU countries to study abroad
When planning to study in Europe, students consider key factors such as global rankings, affordability, post-graduation employment options, and exposure to a multicultural environment.
Some of the most popular EU countries to study abroad are:
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Germany – Known for tuition-free education at public universities, especially in engineering, IT, and business
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France – Offers globally ranked universities, rich cultural heritage, and strong programs in fashion, business, and the arts
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Ireland – Home to top tech and pharmaceutical companies, with English-medium education and generous graduate work visas
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Spain – Offers affordable tuition, vibrant cities, and a growing number of English-taught programs
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Switzerland – A hub for hospitality, finance, and innovation, with several QS-ranked institutions
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Netherlands – Known for progressive education and over 2,000 English-taught programs
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Sweden – Offers high-quality education, innovation-focused courses, and scholarships for international students
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Belgium – Great for international law, politics, and EU studies, thanks to its multilingual environment and central location
Choosing any of these popular EU countries to study abroad provides not only an exceptional academic experience but also a pathway to long-term career opportunities in Europe.
Study in Germany
Germany ranks as the fourth best country for overseas education owing to its world-class education system and robust job market. Some of the most preferred universities in Germany include Heidelberg University, the Technical University of Berlin, RWTH Aachen University, and the University of Freiburg.
*Want to study in Germany? Y-Axis is here to provide complete assistance!
Study in France
France is known for its excellent educational programs, analogous Grandes Ecoles system, outstanding career options, and modern infrastructure. The best universities in France include Sorbonne University, Psl Universite Paris, University of Bordeaux, and Nantes University.
*Want to study in France? Y-Axis is here for end-to-end assistance!
Study in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is one of the top destinations to study abroad for students seeking a career in technology, engineering, or business. Dutch universities such as Radboud University, Maastricht University, and the University of Amsterdam are some of the best universities in the world.
*Want to study in the Netherlands? Y-Axis is here to provide expert assistance!
Study in the UK
The UK is known for its high-quality education, cultural diversity, and unwavering support of international students. Some of the top universities in the UK include Imperial College of London, University of Edinburgh, King’s College London, and University of Bristol.
*Want to study in the UK? Y-Axis is here to provide complete guidance!
Study in Sweden
Sweden is also known as the land of innovations. It is one of the top destinations to study abroad as the country offers world-class education options and a robust job market. The country is famous for its student-centric nature, which is offered at universities like Uppsala University, Stockholm University, University of Gothenburg, and Umea University.
*Willing to study in Sweden? Y-Axis is here to provide personalized guidance!
Emerging Study Destinations in Europe
Study in Poland
Poland is emerging as one of the top EU countries for study purposes. Recent reports state that the high success rate of Polish student visas and the wide range of post-study work opportunities are the primary reasons why most international students study in Poland.
*Willing to study in Poland? Y-Axis is here to guide you through the process!
Study in Portugal
Portugal's low cost of living and diverse education opportunities have made it a top destination for studying in Europe. The top universities in Portugal include the University of Porto, the University of Lisbon, the Nova School of Business, and the University of Madeira.
Study in Spain
Spain is becoming an ideal study-abroad destination because of the wide range of courses and programs offered by 25 QS world-ranking universities. The country boasts a success rate of 97% for student visas. The major universities in Spain include the University of Barcelona, the University of Navarra, and the University of Granada.
*Want to study in Spain? Y-Axis 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 |
Switzerland |
|
|
2 |
UK |
|
|
3 |
UK |
|
|
4 |
UK |
|
|
5 |
UK |
|
|
6 |
UK |
|
|
7 |
UK |
|
|
8 |
UK |
|
|
9 |
France |
|
|
10 |
EPFL |
Switzerland |
What are the Best Universities in Europe?
Europe is the top destination for the best universities. A total of 688 universities are ranked as the best in Europe. EU universities are ranked top due to educational quality, advanced infrastructure, research facilities, affordable education, and many other sustainable 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 Y-Axis Course Recommendation Services to find the right course for you!
Studying in Europe without IELTS
International students from non-English speaking countries like India are required to demonstrate English language proficiency while seeking admission to universities abroad. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the most widely accepted and globally recognized English language proficiency test. However, IELTS is not mandatory and is not the only language proficiency test you can take to demonstrate your proficiency in English. Many European universities do not have a compulsory IELTS requirement, allowing you to 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:
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL ibt
- CELPIP
- Duolingo English Test (DET)
*Want to improve your language test results? Avail Y-Axis Coaching Services to ace your language proficiency scores!
Why apply for a Europe study visa?
European countries are the best option for studying abroad. It is the place for the world’s top universities. The country offers many scholarships for international students. Many of the universities in Europe are renowned for quality education with affordability. Students seek excellent career prospects by opting for European countries for their education. Y-Axis can fulfill your dream of studying in Europe with all the guidance and help you need.
*Need assistance to Study Abroad? Y-Axis is here to assist you in all the ways.
Student Visa Requirements for Europe
With a plethora of countries to choose from, Europe is ideal for students seeking knowledge and high career prospects. International students willing to study in Europe will require a Europe study visa to migrate and stay there as legal residents. Each country has different student visa requirements based on the course type you are willing to pursue. The visa requirements might also vary based on your nationality or country of origin.
Types of Europe Student Visa
For students intending to study in Europe, there are a variety of visa possibilities. The following are the most important:
- Europe Schengen Visa: This is a three-month temporary student visa for international students who intend to study in a Schengen country. Once it expires, this visa can be extended, and if a student is accepted into his or her visa program, he or she can apply for a residency permit. A Schengen study visa may be granted without an IELTS or other language exam if the organization does not need it.
- Long-Stay Visa: This visa is usually awarded to international students who enroll in courses or programs that require a stay of more than six months. A residency permit is also included with this visa.
- Student Visa in Europe: This is the most common visa for international students. Once a student has received an offer of admission or an admission letter, they can apply for this visa. Students are typically permitted to enter the country to pursue a particular course or program at 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 highly preferred destination for many students who want to establish themselves abroad. Students can ensure high-quality education in their respective disciplines and a friendly multicultural environment.
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 cost for non-EU students ranges between € 60 to € 100 for students below 12 years and € 35 - € 170 for adults. The visa fee varies depending upon the country you choose and your origin country. It is subjective to change as per the rules and regulations of the government.
Cost of studying in Europe
The cost of studying in European universities depends on your course, country, and University. In some countries, subsidized education is available. Y-Axis can advise you on your options based on your educational goals and financial resources.
|
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
Certain European countries allow students to work a stipulated number of hours yearly. However, this can only be part-time work 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 countries offer scholarships and grants to support students financially. Each country has scholarship schemes provided to international students willing to study there. Based on the institution offering the financial support, scholarships in Europe can be categorized into two major types:
- Government-funded scholarships: As evident from their name, these scholarships are funded by the government and awarded to students based on their merit, family financial status, or other special criteria. Some of the popular government-funded scholarship programs in Europe are GATES Cambridge Scholarship, DAAD, Fulbright Scholarships, and Erasmus Mundus Scholarships.
- University-funded scholarships: These scholarships are funded by the University you are enrolled in. Depending on the University, the scholarship can be based on the student's needs, merit, or financial aid. Some famous European universities providing scholarship programs include 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) |
|
€ 14,400 |
|
|
50% waivers on tuition costs |
|
|
€ 18,000 |
|
|
SEK 12,000 |
|
|
£30,000 |
|
|
€ 3,600 |
|
|
£45,000 |
|
|
Bocconi Merit and International Awards |
€ 12,000 |
|
€10,332 |
|
|
Felix Scholarships |
£16,164 |
*Looking to study abroad? Y-Axis is here to help you find top scholarships to study abroad!
Living in Europe: Costs and Accommodation
The cost of living in Europe for international students depends on certain factors like the country, the study program chosen, the University enrolled in, and lifestyle habits. The table below provides an approximate cost 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
According to recent statistical data, there are around 18.8 million jobs in Europe across 20+ sectors. International graduates willing to work abroad can explore the robust job market in Europe after completing their studies. The average annual salary range in Europe is around €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 Y-Axis Resume Writing Services for personalized assistance!
Post-graduation work visas in Europe
International students can apply for a work visa in Europe after receiving a valid job offer. Each European country has its own requirements and eligibility criteria for work visas. Some of the popular work visas in Europe, along with the cost of acquiring them, are listed in the table below:
|
Type of Work Visa |
Cost (in Euros) |
|
€ 75 |
|
|
€ 99 |
|
|
€ 80 |
|
|
€ 190 |
|
|
€ 690 |
|
|
€ 500 |
|
|
€ 120 |
|
|
€ 695 |
|
|
€ 80 |
|
|
€ 180 |
|
|
€ 590 |
|
|
€ 285 |
|
|
€ 50 |
|
|
€ 160 |
|
|
€ 610 |
Conclusion
Choosing to study in Europe is a smart move for international students seeking high-quality education, multicultural learning, and access to a global job market. With well-structured academic systems, internationally ranked European universities, and extensive career opportunities across various sectors, Europe offers far more than just a degree.
From gaining global exposure to building strong professional networks, studying in Europe can be the ideal gateway to a successful international career. Whether you're aiming for world-class education or long-term career prospects in Europe, this vibrant continent is the perfect launchpad for your future
Europe study visa 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 can consider certain factors, such as the cost of studying, courses offered, cultural environment, career opportunities, and languages spoken, to decide whether to choose between Western and Eastern Europe for your studies.
What are the most affordable universities in Europe?
Ans: The top 10 affordable universities in Europe include 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).
How can Y-Axis help you?
Y-Axis, the world’s No.1 overseas immigration and student visa consultancy, can assist you by giving end-to-end support to aspirants who wish to study in Europe. The support process includes:
- 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.
- Y-Axis Job Search Services will help you find relevant jobs in Europe.
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