How to choose a university in Europe

When it comes to finding a university in Europe, the differences between universities and countries can be tricky to navigate and it can be daunting to discern best fit and make a decision. When it comes to figuring out where to study in Europe, a good place to start is university rankings, but sometimes you need to delve a bit deeper to find the right country for you. 

Rankings

If you want to attend a prestigious law school or top-ranked business school with good connections post-graduation, you might start with a ranking list.

Or if you are seeking a school for environmental science research, you may desire a programme with a top science department and internship opportunities, and reviewing a ranking list could provide ideas on where to apply.  However, while this may be a good place to start, many factors beyond name-brand universities and rankings should be taken into consideration.

Language of instruction

When it comes to selecting a university destination in Europe, language is something important to bear in mind. For example, is the programme in English, or is it delivered in the native language of the country? Perhaps there is a hybrid option?

This is important to consider, because perhaps you may only want to study in English, which then gives post-study work options in English-speaking countries.

If the programme is offered in a different language, is there a language requirement for the course (for example, French or German at specific level) and would you be able to demonstrate your proficiency to the required level?

Thus, understanding the language of instruction are a good starting point after rankings to help narrow down your options.

Tuition and lifestyle costs

Another thing to consider is the price of tuition. Depending on a person’s passport, the cost will differ greatly.

For example, a European Union citizen will have much cheaper tuition at universities in EU countries versus an American student; the cost will also vary between EU and non-EU countries in Europe.

Since Brexit, UK tuition fee costs have changed for non-UK citizens, and tuition costs have also changed significantly for UK-based students wishing to study in Europe.

However, some countries, such as the Netherlands, have very affordable tuition rates for both local Dutch students and international students. And although this is enticing, finding housing in the Netherlands can be tricky and/or expensive depending on the city.

So another point to consider when narrowing down your university options is the overall cost of tuition, housing, and general living costs. Some private universities may still be quite expensive in comparison to US university costs, whereas other options may either be mid-range or very affordable, depending on your family budget and individual circumstances.

Climate and community

Finally, aside from university rankings, language of study and budgetary concerns, lifestyle and climate is another overlooked but equally important factor to consider when finalising your university application list.

Europe offers great variety in the experiences you will have outside the classroom.

For example, the Spanish lifestyle is arguably more relaxed than Germany’s, but the German lifestyle may be considered more efficient and organised. In a similar comparison, bigger cities such as Berlin, Amsterdam or Paris may have quite a frenetic buzz, whereas more rural or smaller cities in the outskirts of European capital cities may offer more balance.

In bigger cities students may have easier access to public transportation or easy walking routes to class whereas in smaller or more remote cities students may need a bike or a car.

Safety and social options that exist in the wider community are also important to note.

Considering the climate is also important – being in a colder, rainier climate can impact some students’ well-being, while other might not adjust well to hotter temperatures. It all comes down to personal preference and what each location offers; this is important to consider because you will be spending just as much time, if not more, outside the university.

So, when it comes to finding a university in Europe, you  have to dive deep to understand the pros and cons of the options available.

What works for you as a student? What languages do you speak, or wish to learn, or have access to in the community to study/communicate/work in? What is your total budget when it comes to tuition, housing, and lifestyle requirements? Will you live with family, on campus, or in the community? What are your lifestyle “non-negotiables”?

When researching European options, rankings may be a good place to begin but also considering the above aspects will ensure you are putting your best foot forward in compiling a curated list that leads to a successful study journey.