Top Countries to Study in Europe for International Students

Studying in Europe is a dream for countless international students chasing academic excellence and life-changing experiences. Imagine yourself wandering through the historic streets, studying at renowned universities, and soaking in the cultures that have shaped the world. The European education area offers all of this and more, with over 1.3 million international students choosing it annually (European Commission).  

But with so many European countries to pick from, where do you start? This guide narrows down the best countries to study in Europe, offering affordability, cultural diversity, and strong career opportunities.  

Spain, France, and Germany consistently rank among the best places to study in Europe for international students, owing to their affordability and offer of post-study work visas, as well as their familiar cultures.  

Why Study in Europe?

Europe’s higher education system attracts over 1.5 million international students yearly. Its appeal lies in its world-class universities and diverse academic offerings. With 496 institutions in the 2025 QS Rankings, the continent ensures high quality education across fields like engineering, business, and the arts (QS Rankings 2025).

There are a number of programs taught in English in Europe, making it easier for non-native speakers to study there. Education costs vary by country; some offer low tuition, while others are budget friendly. Beyond academics, Europe’s student life is unmatched, with festivals, historic sites, and lively cities.

If you add in work permits, Schengen Zone travel, and cities that are buzzing with art and technology, studying in Europe is more than a smart decision, it is a transformative one. Post study job opportunities are a major attraction, with many countries offering visas for job search to graduates. This combination of affordability, culture, and career prospects makes Europe a popular destination for international students.

Key Benefits of Studying in Europe:

• Dual degrees accepted across 45+ countries.
• Post-study work visas for up to two years (three for PhDs).
• English-taught programs in business, technology, and hospitality.
• Home to top-ranked universities with cutting-edge research.
• Experience varied traditions, cultural diversity and languages in close proximity.
• Strong job markets and post-graduation work options.

Heidelberg, Germany: A Hub for Innovation and Education

Germany is a powerhouse for international students, hosting over 400,000 in 2024/25, a 10% jump from the previous year (DAAD 2025). Its education system is famed for its low tuition fees at public universities (Studying in Germany). Engineering and technology programs shine, with 43.1% of international students in these fields. For non-EU students, private universities like Schiller offer English degrees starting at €16,000/year—still a steal compared to the US. 

Heidelberg, a gem of a city, blends history with a youthful vibe. Situated on the banks of the Neckar River, Heidelberg attracts 21% foreign visitors (Heidelberg.de). The city’s 95% employment rate signals strong post-study work opportunities. 

Why Germany?

Listed below are the reasons that make Germany special:   

• Work permits: Post-study visa for 18 months.
• Affordability: A monthly living cost of €934 (blocked account requirement).
• Industries: Engineering, artificial intelligence (AI), sustainable technology.
• Student Numbers: Over 400,000 international students in 2024/25.
• Cost of Living in Heidelberg: Living expenses of €800–€1,200/month; tuition of €1,500/semester.
• Programs: Bachelors and Masters in Sustainability Management, technology, and more.

About Schiller’s Heidelberg Campus

Schiller’s Heidelberg campus, located in the eco-friendly Bahnstadt district, offers modern facilities and internship opportunities with organizations such as SAP. With 55+ nationalities, it is a global hub for studying in Europe in English.

Heidelberg’s cobblestone streets hide a secret: it is a startup hotspot. Schiller students here work on data science projects using real data from Heidelberg’s AI research institutes. The campus also offers dual degrees with the University of Roehampton, letting you earn a UK/US credential without leaving Germany.

By the numbers:

• 55+ nationalities on campus.
• 90,000+ jobs in the Rhine-Neckar region.

Paris, France: Epitome of Culture and Learning

France is more than just the Eiffel Tower; it is Europe's top MBA destination. The country draws over 430,000 international students, up 4.5% in 2023-24, thanks to its cultural allure and top business schools (Campus France 2024). Paris, a global higher education hub, hosts 200+ museums and 30,000+ international companies, boosting career prospects.

The cost of living in Paris ranges from €1,000–€1,500 per month, with tuition at €2,770–€3,770 per year for non-EU students. Students studying in Europe in English can take advantage of English-taught programs.

Why France?

• Post-study visa: Two years for job hunting.
• Networking: 30,000+ international companies in Paris alone.
• Student Numbers: 430,466 international students in 2023–24.
• Cost: €1,000–€1,500 per month; €2,770–€3,770 per year tuition.
• Programs: Bachelors, Masters, and MBA in international business, arts, and diplomacy.

Student Snapshot:

• 40% land jobs in France within six months of graduation.
• 480 parks and gardens within reach for study breaks.

About Schiller’s Paris Campus

Schiller’s Paris campus, located just steps from the Arc de Triomphe, provides students with access to resources such as the American Library of Paris. A 70% international student population ensures a rich cultural experience in a city ranked second in the world for cultural influence.

Imagine interning at UNESCO or NATO while studying. Schiller’s Paris students do exactly that. The campus partners with 200+ firms for internships, and programs like the MBA include consulting projects for startups at Station F, Europe’s largest technology incubator.

Madrid, Spain: Vibrant Culture and Affordable Education

Spain welcomed 241,777 international students in 2022-23, an eight percent rise from the prior year (Spanish Ministry 2025). Spain’s public universities charge as low as €1,500 per year to EU students, while private institutions such as Schiller offer hybrid programs coming online and in-person learning. Madrid, with 45,181 international students, leads as Spain’s top student city (HousingAnywhere).

In terms of cost of living, it is budget-friendly, with an average of €700 to €1,200 per month. English-taught programs cater to those seeking to study in Europe in English.

Why Spain?

• Student Numbers: 241,777 international students in 2022-23.
• Cost: €700–€1,200per month; €750–€2,500 per year tuition.
• Programs: Bachelors, Masters, and MBA , hospitality, and more.
• Cost of living: €800–€1,200 per month (including rent).
• Work while studying: 20 hours per week allowed.
• Top industries: Tourism, renewable energy, technology.

About Schiller’s Madrid Campus

Nestled near the UNESCO-listed Paseo del Prado, Schiller’s Madrid campus is a gem for study abroad in Europe. Partnerships with CityLife ease the transition, enhancing student life for its 70% international students. With 50+ nationalities on campus, students dive into internships at companies like Santander or Telefónica. Programs like International Business and Hospitality Management include real-world projects—think designing sustainable tourism strategies for local firms.

Quick Statistics:

Comparing the Top Destinations 

The following table compares how Germany, France, and Spain rank with respect to international students:

Why Choose Schiller International University?

Schiller International University stands out for its global approach, with campuses in Heidelberg, Paris, and Madrid. In addition to offering bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and MBA programs, it emphasizes experiential learning and study in Europe in English. Dual degrees with the University of Roehampton enhance credentials. With 60 years of history and 50+ nationalities, Schiller fosters a world-class environment. Small classes and career events ensure personalized support and networking, preparing students for global careers.

Study in Europe with Schiller

To study in Europe is to embrace a world of opportunity. Germany’s innovation, France’s cultural depth, and Spain’s vibrant charm make them the top countries to study in Europe for international students. Schiller International University’s campuses in Heidelberg, Paris, and Madrid provides a gateway to these best places to study in Europe, combining high quality education with a rich cultural experience.  

Apply now!

FAQs 

Q1. Which country in Europe is best to study as an international student?

Answer: It depends on your goals. Germany excels in affordability and tech, France in culture and business, and Spain in lifestyle and cost. Each offers unique strengths. 

Q2. Which European country is the easiest to get a student visa?

Answer: Germany, France, and Spain have clear visa processes. Germany’s is notably streamlined, requiring a blocked account and admission letter (Studying in Germany). 

Q3: How much does it cost to study in Europe for international students?

Answer: Costs vary: Germany’s tuition is often free, France charges €2,770–€3,770/year, and Spain €750–€2,500/year. Living expenses range from €700–€1,500/month (Campus France). 

Q4: Where do I find information about scholarships?

Answer: Explore university websites, DAAD for Germany, Campus France for France, and Spain’s Ministry of Education for grants (Spanish Ministry). 

Q5: What is the safest country in Europe?

Answer: Germany, France, and Spain are safe, with Germany often ranking high due to its stable environment.