5 Best Countries to Study in Europe

Updated on: 14 Apr 2021

Studying abroad is indeed a good opportunity for you. This is not just because of the exposure to the real world and a different education system, but also because you get the opportunity to travel to a new country and learn how to live alone in a different place. But it is essential to decide upon the right country based on many factors that you should be considering before taking the plunge. 

To help you out with that, we’ve narrowed down the information on the top 5 countries in Europe where you might decide to complete your higher studies.  During your study years, you can choose to stay in preferable second homes known as purpose-built student accommodations in your favorite country in Europe. 

#1 Spain

The country of Spain has always managed to grab the topmost position globally mainly because of its high level of adventure and rich culture. Spain is a great choice for any study abroad option as it is home to prestigious universities like Universidad de Salamanca, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, University of Barcelona (Universitat de Barcelona), and many more. Spain has a long history of higher education, with its oldest university, Universidad de Salamanca, dating back to 1218. While living in the country and attaining higher education you also get the chance to learn Spanish, the second most spoken language in the world. 

The cost of living in this country is also relatively low with over 70 universities to choose from, and a rich historical and artistic landscape that you can explore in leisure. During your study years, you can stay in brand-new state of the art student housing options located in the heart of the city near Universities. These are the best places to live specifically for those who are looking for the ultimate student lifestyle balance. The public transport facilities also include metros in most major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia. In Spain, metro tickets and special passes for students let you travel on all types of public transportation, from city buses to suburban trains. 
 

#2 Netherlands

This country has also scored well and is remaining consistent in the global ranking of being the second-best international study destination. The country is home to universities like Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), University of Amsterdam, and the Eindhoven University of Technology, to add a few. Such universities have scored well both in the teaching quality (#3 in Europe) and career goals (#4) rankings. 

Students willing to settle down should consider the overall living cost which is a roundabout of 650 - 920 EUR/month in major Dutch student cities. You can choose from a range of off-campus accommodations in the Netherlands where rentals are available for both short- and long-term stays. The room choices include- studios, and shared apartments. The public transport system which comprises buses, metro, tram, and ferries offer economical options of travel and exploration across the country. 
 

#3 Switzerland

Switzerland is a small country in Central Europe but has high acclaim for its impressive quality of life and fantastic opportunities for education and careers. With a global rank of 2 in Europe the country excels in its teaching quality and career opportunities. Switzerland has a number of prestigious academic institutions like the University of Zurich, the University of Geneva, and the University of Bern, and so on. In short, Switzerland offers an excellent array of universities and rewarding educational possibilities.

As per the cost of living is concerned a university student spends an average of CHF 1,062 every month on his or her living costs. You can secure affordable PBSAs with onsite amenities available at no additional cost. You can also live in close proximity to universities and safe public transport network consisting of train, tram and bus networks alongside extensive cycling routes in cities of this country. 
 

#4 France

France is one of the oldest and most historically rich nations in the world, known for their fine cuisine, fashion and art. Earning a ranking of #2 in the Culture category within Europe, France is into most of the bucket lists travel plans of people. Not just being the top tourist destination, this country is a good study abroad destination. There are over 3,000 institutions of higher education offering an array of degree options, including some of the world’s best, ‘studying in France’ opportunities for everyone. 

The costs of living here are also relatively reasonable with PBSAs available in apartments and studios. There can be shared apartment options as well where apart from the rooms other facilities like kitchen and washroom are usually shared equally by all the residents. France also has the most extensive public transport system with buses and trains available near student residences as well. Train travel in Europe is really cheap, and it's the easiest way to get around France.
 

# 5 United Kingdom

Commonly known as the United Kingdom (UK or U.K.) or Britain, The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is a sovereign country with the best in the education system of the UK.  Many students from all over the world seek out degree programs in the UK, and they have plenty of reason to do it! The UK is home to an abundance of world-recognized universities like the University of Oxford, Durham University and Imperial College London many of which consistently rank in top university lists around the web. 

The cost of living in this country is also 12.21% lower than in the United States. So it is quite affordable to live in student-specific homes with onsite amenities and added security features. So the UK can be the best option for higher studies as all major cities are very well connected by public transport, whether by tram, train, coach, or local bus. London alone is served by six airports and ther than this there is a tube network which makes traveling a breeze.

With the countries mentioned here,  you get the opportunity of making the best choice from the countries you want to study in Europe. A comparison, therefore, is essential with regards to top academic institutions, cost of living, student accommodations and public transport in these countries. 

To help you out in the overseas accommodation hunt, University Living, a global student marketplace, offers accommodation related services to help students book budget-friendly living spaces in top favorite cities in major European countries. 

This blog is a guest contribution of University Living.

• MS in Europe 
• MBA in Europe 

First published date: 19 Dec 2020