Top Universities in Europe for International Bachelor's Degrees

Top Universities in Europe for International Bachelor's Degrees
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Every student dreams about making a career out of their passion, but very rarely do they get the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills from the best faculty across the globe. But what if you get the once-in-a-lifetime chance of completing your education from the top universities in Europe for international bachelor's degrees? Sounds fun and exciting? Or are you scared at the thought of moving to another country for your higher studies?

Well, hold on to that adrenaline rush and fear because this can be true for you if you manage to get your paperwork and educational choices in line. Confused? Well, if you are dreaming about finding the best university for your career, why not get some international experience from the top leaders in the world? 

From a robust economy to a world-class education system and stable political environment, Europe gives it all to its students and career enthusiasts. One of the primary reasons international students dream about studying in Europe is because of its welcoming culture as well as the future employment prospects available for suitable candidates.

Why Study in Europe?

Selecting the right university is just like laying the basic foundation of your house. If you do not want to compromise your education or future job opportunities, remember that your university will play a crucial role in determining your future. Whether it's the faculty, the educational resources, or internship opportunities, the right university will always help you to take the risk to become a successful professional in the industry.

But the question still remains as to why select the best European universities for international bachelor's programs. The most significant advantage of studying at these universities is getting a wide range of education options while keeping your budget intact.

Let's get an overview of the advantages of European universities for international students:

  1. Get out of your comfort zone and connect with the people working with large and small companies, which can help lay the foundation for your next career move.
  2. Get free access to cheap transport facilities to roam around the lush greenery of picturesque European countries.
  3. There is a long list of international scholarship opportunities and financial support which can help you to get the best education, absolutely free of charge.
  4. The world's best universities are all located in Europe, and the cross-border cooperation has made it the finest international academic community, offering you top-notch education and the most outstanding faculty globally.
  5. You get to study in English while learning other languages due to your encounters with multiple European linguistic communities.

Criteria for Choosing the Right University

Now that you know the importance of selecting the best top European institutions for international undergraduates, let's check the factors to consider making a better selection:

  • Start with selecting your line of work and your strong skills which align with the course
  • Since you will be enrolling in any of the European universities for international students, you must set aside a strict budget for your entire tenure there.
  • Always look for a career-focused education institution that can help you with a range of career services and opportunities to gain practical skills that can help you succeed in your modern workplace.
  • Make a list of the universities in Europe with English-taught bachelor's degrees with the best faculty facilities to narrow down your choices.
  • Always refer to the students' testimonials and grow your network by connecting to the university alumni to get a clear picture of the university offerings and future prospects.
  • Try to understand the student experience these European universities offer and whether they can add value to your academic journey.
  • Look for affordable universities in Europe for international students who make no compromises with their education facilities and internship opportunities.
  • Lastly, understand the admission requirements for international students in European universities in detail to maximize the opportunity for getting selected.

Top Universities in Europe

Before getting all excited about your application, have you prepared the potential list of the top-rated European universities ranking for international bachelor's programs? If not, we have it covered for you. Here is the list of the best university and the scholarships for international undergraduates in Europe for your reference:

Technical University of Munich

The first one on the list is the Technical University of Munich. It offers engineering, medicine, technology, and applied and natural sciences programs. It was founded in 1868 and system-accredited by the Swiss Center of Accreditation and Quality Assu­rance in Higher Edu­cation (OAQ) on 14 May 2014. It has more than 50,000 students. The university has been the habitat for around 18 Nobel Prize winners. Some programs to consider here include a B.Sc in Aerospace, a Bachelors in Chemical Engineering, a B.Eng. in Electronics and Data Engineering, a Bachelor in Management and Technology, a B.Sc in Sustainable Management and Technology, etc.

University of Oxford

The University of Oxford, the famous collegiate research university in England, offers incredible bachelor's programs in Europe for foreigners. It is the oldest university in the English world and has been the world's second-oldest university in continuous education. It was established around 927 years ago and has notable alumni such as Rishi Sunak, Indira Gandhi, Harold Wilson, Theresa May, Bill Clinton, Stephen Hawking, Dorothy Hodgkin, Oscar Wilde, Rowan Atkinson, Hugh Grant, etc. 

Some of the undergraduate courses here include sectors like Archaeology and Anthropology, Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, Biochemistry (Molecular and Cellular), Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Chemistry, Classical Archaeology and Ancient History, Classics and Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, Classics and Modern Languages, Computer Science and Philosophy, Fine Art, Foundation Year in Humanities, Foundation Year in PPE (Philosophy, Politics and Economics), Mathematics and Philosophy, Medicine (graduate-entry/accelerated), Modern Languages, Music, Physics, etc.

Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich

The famous Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich is next on the list. It is one of the best universities in Europe for bachelor's programs. Established in 1472, this one has ranked high as the 54th university globally and 2nd in Germany as per the 2024 QS World University Rankings. The Times Higher Education Ranking 2023 gave this brand the title of 33rd ranking university in the world. 

Some of the notable programs available for international aspirants include American History, Culture and Society, Ancient Oriental Studies, Astrophysics, Biochemistry, Data Science, Economics, English Studies, Epidemiology, Evolution, Ecology and Systematics, Financial and Insurance Mathematics, Geobiology and Paleobiology, Geomaterials and Geochemistry, Geophysics, Human Biology — Principles of Health and Disease, Insurance, Executive Master, International Health, Journalism, Media & Globalisation, Logic and Philosophy of Science, Management - International Triple Degree, Management and Digital Technologies, Meteorology, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Neuro-Cognitive Psychology, Neuroscience, Physics, Plant Science, Psychology: Learning Sciences, Quantitative Economics, Quantum Science & Technology, Software Engineering, Statistics and Data Science, Theoretical and Mathematical Physics.

University of Manchester

The University of Manchester is known for being the house of 25 Nobel prizes and for offering students substantial opportunities while building an ambitious community. It operates significant cultural assets like The Whitworth Art Gallery, The Manchester Museum, The Tabley House Collection and the Jodrell Bank Observatory – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, The John Rylands Library, etc. 

Founded in 2004, it has been the academic destination for notable people like Benedict Cumberbatch, Peter Flannery, Martin Amis, Francis Thompson, Stephen Hodder, Paul Waterhouse, Dalibor Vesely, etc. Some of the programs available for international students include Aerospace Engineering, American Studies, Arabic and French, Archaeology, Art History and English Literature, Biochemistry with Entrepreneurship, Biology, Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering with Energy and Environment, Classical Studies, Criminology, Dentistry, Earth and Planetary Sciences, Economics and Data Analytics, Electronic Engineering, Film Studies and Linguistics, Geography, Management, Mechanical Engineering, etc.  

Heidelberg University

The Heidelberg University was established in 1386 and is known for offering incredible faculty in humanities and social sciences, life sciences, law, natural and engineering sciences, and medicine. It also provides attractive scholarship programs for the students to fulfil their career aspirations without compromising due to budget. Some of the bachelor's programs are related to American Studies, Ancient History, Anthropology, Biochemistry, Biology, Biosciences, Chemistry, Classical Archelogy, Management, Earth Sciences, European Art History, Philosophy, Political Science, Public Law, Slavic Studies, Translation Studies, etc.

Application Process and Requirements

So, you already have made a list of the top-ranked European universities for bachelor's degrees for your future. Let's check out the requirements for studying in this country as an international student:

  • To apply to any European university, you must accurately fill out the application form for the selected one.
  • Once the application form is filled out, you must submit the language test results to prove your efficiency in selecting the language. You might have to appear for the GRE or GMAT exams in a few cases.
  • You must submit academic certificates supporting the education qualifications you will apply to the university. The academic certificates will include your school pass certificates, semester and project details, etc.
  • You need to submit a well-defined statement of purpose or SOP to inform the authorities why you selected this university and course.
  • Get a letter of recommendation specifying your characteristics, qualities, academic capabilities and future professional prospects.
  • If one aspires to work, provide proof of work experience, which can be the last employment joining letter or salary slips.
  • Make a powerful resume outlining the critical skills and details to impress the admission officers.
  • You need to submit properly -sized and latest photographs for the application.
  • Along with this, you might have to also submit a list of additional documents as per the university regulations.

Scholarship Opportunities 

One of the fundamental reasons students are enthusiastic about selecting the best European colleges for undergraduate degrees is their diverse funding and scholarship opportunities for international students. Here is a list of the top European scholarships available for international students:

  1. Holland Scholarships
  2. Lund University Global Scholarships for Non-EU/EEA Students
  3. Kreditkortsval's Scholarship Program for Economics Students
  4. VSBfonds Grant
  5. Individual Travel Grant
  6. Scholarships for Japanese Students
  7. Collins Rupp, P.C. Moving Forward Scholarship
  8. Lawyers of Tomorrow Scholarship
  9. The Annual IELTSing Scholarship
  10. Clean And Recovery Scholarship Essay Contest
  11. $1,000 All Star Verified Scholarship
  12. NextLevel Student Scholarship
  13. VRL Scholarship Program
  14. Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest
  15. Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program
  16. Pearl Lemon Scholarship
  17. Dr. Martin Blank – SYB Scholarship
  18. Drs. Anthony and Joanne Edmonds Study Abroad Scholarship
  19. Visionary Women Scholarship
  20. Global Diversity Scholarship

Conclusion

If you study abroad in Europe for a bachelor's degree, it will be a fulfilling and exciting journey for you. But, it is also essential to remember some points while selecting the right country and university for your higher education. Understand the higher education system in Europe and which can align with your career prospects. Know the line of work, internship opportunities, visa and application processes to reserve your place for the next few academic years.

Also, do not skip getting mandatory health insurance before you start your academic journey here in Europe. The countries are very strict about this policy and make no compromises. Check all the national information portals to get a clear picture before you start filling out your university applications. 

Still waiting? Read, research and get ready to include your credentials in the list of international students in European universities. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top universities in Europe for international bachelor's degrees?

A long list of universities in Europe offers the finest education to international students. Some of the countries to consider include the following:

Country

Top Universities

Germany 

IU International University of Applied Sciences, University of Bonn, RWTH Aachen University

Switzerland

ETH Zurich, University of Zurich, University of Geneva, University of St. Gallen

The United Kingdom

University of Cambridge, University College London, University of Oxford, Imperial College London, The University of Edinburgh, University of Bristol, University of Manchester, King's College London, etc. 

The Netherlands

University of Amsterdam, University of Twente, University of Maastricht

France

Sorbonne University, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, University of Paris

Spain

Pompeu Fabra University, Autonomous University of Barcelona, University of Barcelona

Sweden

University of Boras and Linnaeus University

Denmark

University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University, Technical University of Denmark

Portugal

Catholic University of Portugal, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Instituto Superior Técnico

How do European universities compare to universities in other parts of the world for bachelor's degrees?

European universities are known for offering more depth and focusing on the specific area of study for the students. Students can complete their bachelor’s typically within three years in one particular subject and even get attractive scholarships to cover their tuition fees and accommodation expenses. In other countries, students are allowed to study in college with an undeclared major, which is a strict no-no for European universities. One needs to enrol in a specific degree program in Europe.

Are international bachelor's degrees in Europe taught in English?

Although not every course is taught in English, there are thousands of options available for career enthusiasts looking for opportunities to complete their graduation from any reputed European university. Most of the highly renowned universities in the European countries prefer to teach in English to motivate more students to enrol every year from all over the globe. 

What are the admission requirements for international students at European universities?

The basic requirements for an international student at any European university include:

  • Application Form 
  • Exam scores
  • Academic certificates
  • Health Insurance
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Work experience certificates
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Passport size recent photographs
  • Language proficiency test
  • Financial proof
  • Proof of accommodation in Europe
  • Receipt of the visa application fees, etc. 

Are there scholarships available for international students pursuing bachelor's degrees in Europe?

Every year, the top European universities allocate millions of Euros worth of funding opportunities and programs for the students to fulfil their career aspirations without compromise. Some of the notable scholarships available for international students are Times Law Awards, The Ziegert Scholarship, Future Legal Mind Award, DAAD Scholarships, Amsterdam Merit Scholarship, etc. 

Some of the best courses to select for bachelor's degrees include business and management, computer science and IT, electrical engineering, civil engineering, medicine, architecture, design, international relations, economics, graphic designing, language studies, biotechnology, marketing, law, etc. 

How long does it take to complete a bachelor's degree in Europe?

A typical bachelor's degree offered by any reputed European university is of the duration of 3 years. One might need 3-4 years or 180-240 credits to complete their graduation successfully. 

Can I work part-time while studying for a bachelor's degree in Europe?

The student's study permit will govern his rights to work part-time jobs while pursuing higher education in Europe. Generally, international students are allowed to work on campus throughout their tenure without applying for additional work permits. However, if one plans to work for off-campus companies, he must apply for a work permit accordingly. Depending on each European country, the rules and regulations vary for the students' work permits. 

What is the cost of living for international students in European cities?

The cost of living in any country tends to depend on one's lifestyle choices. In the case of the students planning to study in European countries, they need to calculate the expenses for food, tuition, rent and entertainment. Typically, it can be around €9600 per annum. Health insurance is mandatory for international students, costing approximately €80 monthly. The tuition fees vary from 6,000 to 45,000 EUR/year for public universities and 12,000 to 25,000 EUR/year for private ones. 

Are there any language proficiency requirements for international students in Europe?

Yes, the candidates from other non-English speaking countries need to appear for IELTS and additional language proficiency as per the university requirements.