5 Great Reasons to Study Abroad in Europe Full-Time

Artwork by Richard Walther

As high school draws to a close you have a tough decision to make: where will you go to college? You are probably finding it to be a daunting task. You have to juggle all the criteria you have in mind — what do you want to study? Small or big school? Where can you get in? What can you afford? As you start to narrow down your list, you might be alarmed to find that relatively quickly your options are dwindling. If you’re anything like I was, you’re also looking for a new adventure and wondering where you’re going to have the most fun and make great friends. We at StudEU, want to throw a new option into the ring: have you ever thought about earning your degree in Europe?

Many people don’t realize that you do not need to be a citizen of a European country to study full-time in Europe. The continent has a shrinking and aging population and is in desperate need of fresh talent. As a result, Europe has decided to roll out the welcome mat for students from across the world by making it easier than ever to study there.

Skeptical? Maybe you’re thinking — “I don’t speak a foreign language” or “I can’t afford that”. According to a 2006 survey, 51% of Europeans speak English. More recent data from 2019 shows that in 18 countries 60% or more speak English. European universities are world-class with 15 universities in the world’s top 50. This doesn’t mean education is expensive though, as education is often government-subsidized. In countries like Germany, Iceland, or Norway Americans can study at public universities for free.

As you see studying in Europe is a real possibility. More than that, it’s a lot of fun and overall a great idea! Without further ado, here are our top 5 reasons to study in Europe:

1. Delve into culture — Europe’s 51 nations are a mishmash of different cultures. Each country had thousands of years to develop its own culture. By studying in Europe, you’ll get to truly experience first hand the epic history, delicious food, awe-striking art, and everything which makes Europe special. It’s all dazzlingly different but at the same time familiar, as much of Western culture is rooted in European culture.
2. Cross your travel goals off your bucket list — Once you’re in Europe it’s cheap and easy to explore the continent. Take advantage of Europe’s excellent public transport and budget airlines to cruise the canals of Venice, admire the art of the Louvre, have a beer at Oktoberfest, or whatever else might be on your bucket list!
3. A different way of learning — In Europe universities generally give you more freedom, but in turn, require a higher degree of independent learning. Many universities don’t give you homework and there are no quizzes. Sounds good right! You aren’t required to go to class and participation grades are unheard of. Universities expect you to take control of your learning journey.
4. Socialize — This list wouldn’t be complete without talking about Europe’s liberal drinking laws (or perhaps it would be more accurate to call them “sensible”). If you are 18 you are considered an adult and are allowed to drink. Consequently, clubs and bars are also open to you. Visit one of Europe’s legendary clubs to party from dusk till dawn!
5. Be independent — As you may have already picked up on from the last two points, Europe gives young adults a high degree of independence. Universities don’t baby their students. There are no RA’s, shared rooms, guest policies, mandatory meal plans, attendance requirements, and so on. Of course, all this comes with much more responsibility.

Moving to Europe for college could be a fantastic option. We recommend giving it a think and having a chat with your parents. If you want to look into it further and could use some help, consider getting in touch about StudEU’s Explore service at studeu.net.