EU countries offer high quality education, unique opportunities for personal and professional growth. Find out which of the EU countries foreigners most often choose for higher education
The European Union has long been considered one of the most attractive destinations for students from all over the world seeking a quality education. EU countries offer a variety of study programmes, diplomas that are recognised worldwide, and unique cultural and professional opportunities.
According to Euronews, citing Eurostat data, in 2022, 1.66 million students from abroad, including EU and non-EU countries, studied at higher education institutions across the European Union.
What kind of education do foreigners most often study in the EU?
Statistics show that in 2022, 44% of foreigners in the EU received a bachelor's degree, 45% were enrolled in a master's degree and 9% were preparing for a doctorate.
Which country is the most attractive for studying?
1. Germany
For several years in a row, Germany has been a leader among EU countries in terms of popularity among foreign students. According to Eurostat, in 2022, 403,500 international students studied in Germany, which is a quarter of all international students studying in the EU.
It is worth noting that German state universities provide free tuition for foreigners in most bachelor's and master's degree programmes. Students pay only small administrative fees.
In addition, German universities such as the University of Heidelberg, the Technical University of Munich and the University of Berlin are known for their high level of research and teaching.
2. France
France was the second most popular destination, with 16% of the total number of foreign students studying in the EU in 2022.
France is also a popular destination for students from all over the world, especially for those interested in the humanities and arts.
It is worth noting that France also attracts international students for its culture and art.
This country is known for its prestigious universities, such as the Sorbonne, and business schools, such as HEC Paris.
3. The Netherlands
About 160 thousand international students studied in the Netherlands in 2022. Citizens from other countries are interested in Dutch universities due to the quality of education and the large number of programmes in English. More than 2,000 study programmes at Dutch universities are taught in English, making them accessible to international students who do not speak Dutch.
In addition, Dutch universities such as Leiden University and Delft University of Technology offer internationally recognised programmes.
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What do foreigners study most often in European universities?
In the EU, the most common areas of study for international students were business, administration and law (22% of all international students).
This is followed by engineering, manufacturing and construction (16%), health and social care (15%), arts and humanities (12%), and social sciences, journalism and information (11%).
If you are thinking about studying abroad but don't know where to start, Visit Ukraine specialists will help you at every stage: with choosing a higher education institution, preparing all the necessary documents, and with study programmes that may interest you.
Book a legal consultation on education abroad on our website and we will help you take the first step towards your dream!
We remind you! Ukraine has introduced a new initiative to support students studying on a contract basis. Using the Diia platform, you can now receive a state grant to pay for your studies. Read here to find out who is eligible and how to apply.
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