Gen Z approves European countries as the top study abroad destination

Introduction

Did you know… more than 12 million international students are expected to enrol in European universities for a study abroad programme. Not really surprising because Europe is a famous study abroad destination for its enriched academic legacy, especially with its Ivy League universities like Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, and more. The cultural diversity is magnanimous, provided the fact that every country has its own community in Europe, which makes it much more inclusive. Many European universities are incredibly affordable, charging zero tuition fees or even offering 100% scholarships for meritorious students.

In this blog, we’ll get to know about the best European countries for international students. Get valuable insights on tuition fees, cost of living, acceptance rate and more.

Germany

Do you want to study abroad in a European country without breaking the bank? Go for Germany. It is one of the cheapest countries in Europe for international students. You pay zero tuition fees for almost every public university and enjoy state-of-the-art infrastructure with well-equipped laboratories and a strong emphasis on research and innovation.

Why Germany?

• Tuition-free education at most public universities
  

• Global recognition for engineering, technology, and business programmes
  

• High employment rates for international graduates

Cost Breakdown (in ₹):

• Tuition Fees (Public Universities): ₹0 (except semester contribution of approx. ₹9,410 – ₹33,000)
  

• Private Universities: ₹9.4 lakhs – ₹18.8 lakhs approx.
  

• Accommodation: Starting from ₹93,351 approx.
  

• Student Visa Fee: ₹7,057 approx.

Top Universities & Acceptance Rates:

Interesting Fact: More than 40 Nobel laureates are known to have been associated with University of Munich such as, Max Planck, Werner Heisenberg, Pope Benedict XVI, Walter Benjamin, Joseph Campbell, Muhammad Iqbal, Karl Loewenstein, Carl Schmitt, Ernst Bloch, and so on.

If you’re looking for the best European countries for international students that combine affordability with top-notch academics, Germany should be your first choice. 

Contact our expert team of overseas consultants at Educafic for application processes, career guidance, and more.

Italy

The lifestyle of Italy is worth a coffee conversation. With avant-garde architecture, to places that have a historical significance and of course, delicious food, Italy is a destination that attracts tourists and overseas education aspirants from all over the world. 

Why Italy?

• Affordable public universities

• Rich culture and relaxed lifestyle
  

• Great for design, fashion, art, and humanities programmes
  

• Opportunity to learn the Italian language as a bonus skill
  

Cost Breakdown (in ₹):

• Tuition Fees (Public Universities): ₹56,462 – ₹3.3 lakhs per year
  

• Living Costs: ₹75,283 – ₹1.12 lakhs/month
  

Top Universities & Acceptance Rates:

Norway

Norway is quite an underrated study abroad destination, probably because people aren’t very aware. But, at Educafic, we will tell you about the untold. Norway is one of the most secure places to be. Free tuition, free medical and healthcare facilities, employers allowing leave on bad mental health days are some of the perks you can expect to enjoy in Norway. 

Why Norway?

• No tuition fees for any nationality at public institutions
  

• Safe, eco-conscious, and peaceful living environment
  

• Unique courses in marine sciences, renewable energy, and Nordic studies
  

• Opportunity to witness the Northern Lights while you scroll through your social media feed
  

Cost Breakdown (in ₹):

• Tuition Fees (Public Universities): Free (semester fee needed: ₹4,705 – ₹9,410)
  

• Living Costs: ₹1.1 lakhs – ₹1.7 lakhs/month

Top Universities & Acceptance Rates:

Getting into a Norwegian university might be competitive, but if you are good at studies and looking for a fuss-free life abroad, Norway is your place.

United Kingdom

The world begins here in the UK. Where are you? More than 70% of interest in international students for European countries is due to the highest standard of education that the UK has set a gazillion years ago. With Ivy Leagues like Brown, Oxford, UCL, Edinburgh, and many more that have institutionalised education not just as a necessity but a legacy to carry forward through the next generation, it is remarkable.

Why the UK?

• Globally recognised degrees
  

• Strong alumni networks and research opportunities
  

• Multicultural environment with world-class cities like London and Edinburgh
  

• Find Courses that are shorter in duration (3 years for undergrad, 1 year for master’s)
  

Cost Breakdown (in ₹):

• Tuition Fees (UG Programs): ₹12 lakhs – ₹42 lakhs/year
  

• Living Expenses: ₹1.4 lakhs – ₹1.5 lakhs/month
  

Top Universities & Acceptance Rates:

Despite the high fees, competitive acceptance, the UK remains one of the best European countries for international students who want to be part of a globally respected academic system. Numerous scholarships like the Chevening and Commonwealth are also available to help reduce costs.

France

France is the perfect definition of quality of life. From affordable education in world-class universities to owning a sophisticated lifestyle, you can have it all. French culture and heritage is ranked #1 by diligent leaders from across the globe. Lets take a look at the tuition costs, acceptance rate of universities, and placement rate to get you prepared.

Cost breakdown (in ₹)

• Tuition Fees: ₹2.1 lakhs to ₹3.6 lakhs per year (public universities)
  

• Living Expenses: Around ₹75,000 to ₹1.2 lakhs per month (depending on city)

Top Universities & Acceptance Rates:

Countries like the Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Ireland, etc. have also been inhibited by international students for quite a few years, especially due to zero-cost or affordable education from world-class institutions.

If you are seeking admission in a European country, reach out to us at Educafic to apply to study abroad in 2025. We will not only assist you with applications, scholarships, and documentation, but we will be your best friend throughout this journey and even post-arrival to get you acquainted with the new environment.

Our team at Educafic wishes you all the best for your study abroad journey!

Also Read: Studying abroad in 2025 made easy with Educafic: A Step-By-Step Guide