10 Best Countries to Study in Europe in 2024

Europe is renowned for its rich heritage, diverse landscapes, and historic landmarks, making it a top destination. According to Statista, European nations host the second-highest number of international students from across the globe. A report by the European Higher Education Area(EHEA) states that around 51% of the universities in the European Union reported a higher number of international students in 2023 than in 2022.

Many students choose Europe for their higher education abroad owing to the exceptional academic standards,  global perspectives, and affordable or even free education at various European universities. 

Here, we will discuss the top 10 best countries to study in Europe for international students.

Why Study in Europe?

Many countries in Europe are home to some of the most highly ranked universities in the world and offer excellent educational benefits and a multicultural academic environment. Listed below are some of the benefits of studying at European universities.

1. Build your Resume

Getting a degree from Europe will help you stand out and build your resume. Alongside this internship opportunities and seminars organized by the universities will help you build a strong network.

2. Much Lower Tuition Fees than the US

If you opt for a university in the US, the tuition fees will be much more than at an institution in Europe. Moreover, there are many scholarships available to reduce the cost further.

For example, while Johns Hopkins University and the University of Michigan charge over $50,000 annually(INR 41,76,082), European universities like LMU and the University of Amsterdam have significantly lower tuition fees, often under €2,530(INR 2,28,530).

3. Easy Travel Options Throughout the Continent

Most of the countries in Europe are small in size and are located close to each other. It has made traveling in Europe easier. So, you can travel around on a budget.  Thus, some of the best countries to study in Europe also offer you a chance to satisfy your travel bug.

4. World-Class Education

Europe is home to 36 out of the 100 best universities globally as per the QS World University Rankings 2025 and has a strong community of international academicians. 

5. Career Opportunities

Studying in Europe opens up numerous career opportunities. Many universities have strong links with global industries, offering internships and networking opportunities that can lead to valuable job prospects. The fourth quarter of 2023 saw an employment rate of 75.5% in the European Union.

Following is the list of best European countries for international students in 2024-2025. The factors that help decide the list include accessibility to high-quality teaching, personality development, achievement of career goals, lifestyle, culture, and opportunities.

Also Read:- Why Study in Europe - Top 9 Reasons to Study in Europe

Top 10 European Countries for Studying Abroad

1. Germany

Germany is one of the most favored study destinations for students who want to study in Europe. It is the center of many activities since it shares its borders with 11 countries. The country boasts 43,000 Indian students, comprising the largest number of international students in the country.

Germany has the largest economy in Europe, with a GDP of 4.121 billion euros in 2023, thereby offering opportunities for students to fulfill their career goals while studying at the world’s oldest and most well-known universities.

Another advantage of studying at a German university that has added to their advantage is that public universities do not charge tuition fees. Doctoral studies are free, while you will have to pay a nominal semester fee for master’s courses. This makes Germany one of the cheapest countries to study in Europe.

Best for - Many public universities offer free tuition for international students. Known for Quality education in engineering, technology, and scientific research.

Best Universities in Germany

Cost of Studying in Germany

For public college €250 per semester (INR22,354), and for private college €20,000 per year (INR 17,88,334).

Cost of Living in Germany

€12,000  (INR 10,73,000) per year.

Happiness Index Ranking

24

2. Switzerland

Career-driven students who want to pursue careers in the banking or finance sector choose Switzerland for their higher studies. It is popular for having one of the most complex and advanced economies globally, making it one of the best countries to study in Europe.

Switzerland is not just the land of the highest mountain peaks in Europe, but it is also well-known for ground-breaking research opportunities, attracting numerous talented students.

Best for - Courses in German, French, Italian, and English are offered for multilingual education. High living standards ensure an excellent quality of life and safety.

Best Universities in Switzerland

Cost of Studying

CHF 730 per semester. Additional costs, including living expenses, range from CHF 16,000 to CHF 26,000 per year​.

Cost of Living

CHF 1500 to CHF 2500 (INR 1,39,892 to INR 2,33,153) per month without rent.

Happiness Index Ranking

9

3. The United Kingdom

A country that houses colleges like King’s College London, Cambridge, Oxford, and University College London is one of the best higher education providers. Scotland, Wales, England, and Northern Ireland attract international students every year. Universities in the UK offer a wide range of courses to choose from.

London boasts a large international students’ community and provides the chance to meet people from various cultures and backgrounds. Besides academic excellence, the UK is a place for adventurous students to explore William Shakespeare’s home in England, Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, and castles in Wales.

Best for - Home to prestigious universities, rich history, and diverse culture. The country provides a unique student life experience. Scholarships and student loans are available for international students​.

Best Universities in United Kingdom

Cost of Studying in United Kingdom

For undergraduate courses, £11,400 to £38,000 (INR 12,07,404 to INR 40,24,682 ), and for postgraduate courses, £9,000 to £30,000 (INR 9,53,214 to INR 31,77,380).

Cost of Living in United Kingdom

£811.5 (INR 85,948) per month without rent.

Happiness Index Ranking

20

4. The Netherlands

The Netherlands is one of the best Schengen countries for international students. It hosts several international students every year, with more than 2,000 university programs taught in English. The emphasis on a student-centered teaching style and an innovation-driven curriculum train students to become experts in their fields. Universities in the Netherlands offer a degree that integrates current events and issues.

The Netherlands is different from other countries because the Dutch government is keen on retaining international talent. It provides a residence permit for students to stay back for one year after graduation, making it a popular destination to make a career after completing the degree.

Best for - Known for innovative teaching methods and courses. Friendly towards international students, with a high quality of life​.

Best Universities in Netherlands

Cost of Studying in Netherlands

€9,000 to €15,000 (INR 8,04,677 to INR 13,41,128)  per year for undergraduate courses and €8,500 and €10,500   (INR 7,59,973 to INR 9,38,790) per year for postgraduate courses.

Cost of Living in Netherlands

€968.7 ( INR 86,610) per month without rent

Happiness Index Ranking

6

5. France

Over 3500 higher education institutions and public universities form a part of the country’s education system. Tuition fees at French public universities are nominal as the government subsidizes education.

Best for - Low tuition fees compared to other countries and rich in art, culture, and history, enhancing the overall educational experience.

Best Universities in France

Cost of Studying in France

€ 10,000 (INR 8,94,085) per year.

Cost of Living in France

€952.7 (INR 85,116) per month without rent.

Happiness Index Ranking

27

6. Spain

Spanish people are well-known for their inclusivity. Besides, the universities in Spain have affordable tuition fees compared to the US and the UK, and students can budget their living expenses in the country.

Besides being home to some of the distinguished business schools, the Journalism, Hospitality, and Social Sciences courses are the most in demand in Spain.

Best for - Known for its lively culture, festivals, and social scene, offering a vibrant student life. Strong programs in fields such as architecture, arts, and humanities.

Best Universities in Spain

Cost of Studying in Spain

€1,500–€18,000 per year (₹1,36,327–₹16,35,924).

Cost of Living in Spain

€704.3 (INR 62,933) per month without rent.

Happiness Index Ranking

36

7. Sweden

Sweden has earned a top place amongst the Scandinavian countries for higher education. The country has educational institutions like the University of Boras and Linnaeus University, which provide creative and progressive education.

Considered a hub of innovation and inclusiveness, students who earn degrees from universities in Sweden get many exciting opportunities, especially in the tech industry. Another added advantage of working in Sweden is work-life balance, which the country’s people enjoy, along with an incredible sense of well-being.

Best for - Sweden is a global leader in sustainability and environmental science education. Swedish universities emphasize innovation, critical thinking, and creative approaches to problem-solving.

Best Universities in Sweden

Cost of Studying in Sweden

SEK 90,000-140,000 (INR 7,14,472 to INR 11,11,401) for each academic year.

Cost of Living in Sweden

SEK37,411 (INR 2,97,098) per month.

Happiness Index Ranking

4

8. Denmark

Excelling in factors like study costs, teaching quality, and career goals, Denmark can be considered as  one of the best countries to study in Europe. It provides 1300 courses and 700-degree programs which are taught in English. The Danish education system shares excellent links with the industry, thereby helping students gain critical skills.

Best for - Danish universities and cities are leaders in sustainability and green technology, providing a great environment for studying environmental sciences and related fields.

Best Universities in Denmark 

Cost of Studying in Denmark

DKK 10,000 to 17,000 (INR 8,93,826 to 15,19,504) for each academic year.

Cost of Living in Denmark

DKK13203.53 (INR 1,59,890) per month.

Happiness Index Ranking

2

9. Portugal

Portugal is home to some of the oldest higher educational institutions like the Catholic University of Portugal, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, and Instituto Superior Técnico. Besides excellent higher education, Portugal offers a friendly and lively atmosphere.

Lower tuition fees and living costs attract many international students to the country. Every year, Lisbon and Porto welcome students worldwide who want to make a career in Journalism, Medicine, Social Sciences, and even law. 

Best for - Portugal is known for its strong programs in fields such as marine sciences, engineering, and humanities.

Best Universities in Portugal

Cost of Studying in Portugal

€3,000 to €8,000 (INR 2,71,069 to INR 7,22,720) per year depending on the program.

Cost of Living in Portugal

€800 to €1,200 (INR 72,279 to INR1,08,419) per month 

Happiness Index Ranking

55

10. Italy

Italy ranks among the best European countries for international students as the universities are popular for quality education. Arts, world history, and architecture are some of the most preferred courses.

You should choose universities like the University of Pavia, University of Siena, and Politecnico di Torino because of their excellent teaching facilities and opportunities to network with potential employers.

Best for - Offers an immersive cultural experience with its rich history, art, and architecture. Cities like Florence, Rome, and Venice are living museums. Generally, tuition fees and cost of living are lower compared to other Western European countries.

Best Universities in Italy

Cost of Studying in Italy

€400 to €4500 (INR 35,748 to INR 4,02,173) for each year

Cost of Living in Italy

€1423 (INR 1,28,536) per month

Happiness Index Ranking

41

Key Criteria for Selecting Top Study Destinations in Europe 

Studying in European countries can be a life-changing experience. If you are wondering which is the best Schengen country to study, you must consider several factors.

Here are some of the important criteria that you must keep in mind to choose the best countries to study in Europe:-

1. University Rankings and Programs

University rankings will help you start with institutions that are well-known for the discipline of your choice, be it law, business, environmental science, and the rest. Give equal consideration to programs that have strong research, internship, and post-graduation prospects regardless of their perceived prestige.

2. Language of Instruction

Check if the program is being offered in English or any other language. It also influences your prospects of securing a job in any English-speaking country and the necessity of English language competency.

3. Tuition and Living Costs

Survey tuition fees because they are comparatively charged according to your nationality and the university's location. It is important to look at total living expenses, as they may differ significantly across different states or regions.

Learn More:- A Guide to Cost of Living in Europe for International Students

4. Visa and Immigration Requirements

Research for citizenship availability and limitations of visas is important for whoever is traveling to the desired country for study.

Also Read:- How to Settle in Europe in 2024

5. Career Opportunities and Alumni Network

The university is expected to provide appropriate services, job networking, and alumni associations. These may have huge implications on the employment opportunities for students and their careers after the program.

6. Personal Preferences and Support Services

It is important to keep some points in mind, like how far the place is from family members, what leisure activities they can engage in around that town, and whether there are facilities that are likely to be of great benefit to the international students.

Conclusion

Choosing a European study destination involves weighing university rankings, costs, and cultural fit. From Germany's robust economy to France's cultural allure, Europe offers diverse, affordable, and high-quality education. Evaluate these factors to find your perfect academic match for a rewarding study abroad experience.