Have you been waiting for the perfect opportunity to study in Europe but don’t know where to start? Don’t fret! In this guide, you will find information about the best universities in Europe.
Learn about their location, background, academic programs, tuition fees, and rankings. Why are rankings important you may ask?
University rankings can help you evaluate the university’s academic reputation, quality of teaching, teacher-to-student ratio, and other factors.
After all, you want to make sure that you choose the right university for you. Keep in mind that tuition costs will depend on your nationality and field of study.
While some universities offer free tuition, others require high fees for their specialized programs such as MBAs and medical degrees.
10. Sorbonne University (France)
Created in 2018 by the merger of the Paris-Sorbonne University and Pierre and Marie Curie University, Sorbonne Université is a multidisciplinary research university located in the heart of Paris.
With an enrollment of 55,300 students, Sorbonne University promotes diversity, creativity, innovation, and openness to the world. This is evidenced by its international student body and its extensive outlook which includes partnerships with international universities as well as research projects and initiatives undertaken in collaboration with global partners.
By combining its research and educational activities, Sorbonne Université produces unique and distinctive knowledge which is sought after by academics, research centers and institutions worldwide.
Moreover, the university is actively involved in producing cutting-edge research in the fields of science, culture, and social sciences. It also contributes to the well-being of society through its research and actions that help to create a more sustainable and equitable world.
Sorbonne Academic Programs:
Most of the programs offered at Sorbonne are taught in French with some master’s programs taught in English.
Sorbonne offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in a wide range of subjects across three faculties: the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, the Faculty of Science and Engineering, and the Faculty of Medicine.
Sorbonne Tuition Fees 2023 – 2024:
There are no tuition fees at French universities, however, the following registration fees apply to most students:
- Bachelor’s degree: 170€ (~ $193 USD) per year.
- Master’s degree: 243€ (~$276 USD) per year.
- Doctorate degree: 380€ (~$431 USD) per year.
Sorbonne Rankings:
- #3 France and #83 by QS World University Rankings
- #10 Best Universities in Europe and #46 Best Global Universities by US News
- #42 World Rank, #4 National Rank by Center for World University Rankings.
Website: https://www.sorbonne-universite.fr/en
You may also want to read: How to Study in France
9. University of Amsterdam (Netherlands)
The University of Amsterdam (UvA) dates back to 1632 when it was founded as the Athenaeum Illustre. Four centuries later, UvA has grown into a leading research university with over 34,000 students and 3,000 Ph.D. researchers from 100 different nationalities.
UvA is widely known for its focus on innovation, research, and international science. Its dedication to research and innovation has given rise to numerous initiatives such as Amsterdam Science Park, the University of Amsterdam Innovation Exchange (UVAIX), and the University of Amsterdam Incubator (UAINC).
These initiatives have enabled UvA to stay ahead of the curve in terms of developing groundbreaking research and innovative solutions.
UvA also provides a comprehensive range of courses and programmes to help equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their chosen fields.
With an impressive network of over 250 partners in industry, education and research, UvA is committed to creating a learning environment that is both stimulating and inspiring.
UvA Academic Programs:
The University of Amsterdam offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Arts, Humanities, Business, Media Communications, Economics, Behavioural Sciences, Law, Science, Technology, Medicine, Dentistry, and Social Sciences.
While most academic programs are taught in Dutch, there are about 20 bachelor’s and over 200 master’s programs taught in English.
UvA Tuition Fees 2023:
*Home students are students who come from EU or EEA Member States, Switzerland, or Suriname. Home students pay statutory tuition fees. International students pay institutional fees depending on the program of study.
- Bachelor’s and Master’s home students*: €2,314 – €4,700 (~ $2,522 – $5,124 USD) per year
- Undergraduate international students: €8,600 – €23,340 ($9,375 – $25,444 USD) per year
- Postgraduate international students: €10,700 – €25,740 ($11,665 – $28,061 USD) per year
UvA Rankings:
- #9 Best Universities in Europe and #38 Best Global Universities by US News
- #1 in the Netherlands and #55 in World University Rankings by QS
- #2 in the Netherlands and #65 Worldwide by Times Higher Education
Website: https://www.uva.nl/en/home
8. University of Munich (Germany)
Founded in 1472, the University of Munich (Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München aka LMU) is one of the leading research universities in Germany and Europe.
With campuses across Munich, the university has an enrollment of over 52,000 students. LMU is home to diverse students, professors, and researchers from more than 130 countries. It is also renowned as one of the best European universities for American students and international graduates.
LMU’s research focuses on a variety of topics, from medicine and the natural sciences to the humanities and social sciences. LMU is responsible for huge strides in scientific innovation, such as creating the first atomic clock in 1952. In addition, LMU has been involved in groundbreaking research in fields ranging from mathematics to medicine.
Furthermore, the University of Munich has strong connections with local and international businesses, providing students with internships, research opportunities, and consulting projects. It also provides access to top-notch research facilities, including the research center at Garching, and Munich’s own research library.
University of Munich Academic Programs:
LMU offers over 300 programs including undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and online study programs in a wide variety of subjects such as Arts, Humanities, Law, Economics, Social Sciences, Mathematics, Science, Medicine, and Veterinary Medicine.
Additionally, LMU offers a few specialized programs taught in English ranging from American History to Neuroscience.
University of Munich Tuition Fees 2023:
Tuition is free at this top university, except for some specialized English-taught programs that may charge an affordable tuition fee.
There are also some student fees required. Currently, the student union fee is €75,00 and the additional fee (transportation) for the semester ticket is €72,00 = €147,00 (~ $167 USD).
University of Munich Rankings:
- #10 Best Universities in Europe and #46 Best Global Universities ranking by US News
- #64 World University Rankings by QS
- #1 Germany, #32 Worldwide ranking by Times Higher Education
Website: https://www.lmu.de/en/index.html
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7. University of Copenhagen (Denmark)
The University of Copenhagen (UCPH) was founded in 1479 in Denmark as a center for learning, research, creativity, and critical thinking.
Today, UCPH has 4 campuses, 9 Nobel Laureates, 8 museums and research gardens, and an enrollment of over 37,000 students including approximately 4,000 international students.
This European university is also known for its strong focus on research-oriented education and for its emphasis on sustainable and innovative strategies.
Through its commitment to interdisciplinary research and a broad academic program, UCPH provides students with the opportunity to study a wide range of topics, from natural sciences to humanities and from engineering to medicine.
Furthermore, the University of Copenhagenn encourages collaboration and exchange with leading research institutions from around the world.
With this strong focus on quality education, UCPH is well placed to support its students in becoming leaders in their fields and in creating real tangible change.
UCPH Academic Programs:
The University of Copenhagen offers undergraduate and Postgraduate programs in Humanities, Law, Social Sciences, Health and Medical Sciences, Science, and Theology.
While some Master’s programs are taught in English, all undergraduate programs are taught in Danish.
UCPH Tuition Fees 2023:
- Tuition is free for students from Denmark and Nordic Countries.
- International students (students from countries outside of the EU/EEA or Non-Nordic Countries): €10,000 to €17,000 ($11,367 – $19,300 USD) per academic year, depending on the program.
UCPH Rankings:
- #8 Best Universities in Europe and #37 Best Global Universities by US News
- #26 Best Universities in Europe Rankings by QS
- #1 Denmark, #34 Europe ranking by Times Higher Education
Website: https://www.ku.dk/english/
6. The University of Edinburgh (Scotland)
Officially opened in 1583, the University of Edinburgh is one of the oldest universities in Scotland and in the United Kingdom. This top university is also one of the most popular among university applicants receiving over 60,000 undergraduate applications per year.
As a research-intensive university, the University of Edinburgh offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs and courses. Additionally, the university also offers online programs and online courses on platforms such as Coursera and EdX.
Furthermore, the University of Edinburgh is an internationally renowned institution, consistently ranked in the top 50 universities worldwide. The university has an impressive number of Nobel Prize laureates and is known for producing many knowledge-driven discoveries.
Notable alumni include Charles Darwin, Alexander Graham Bell, and Robert Louis Stevenson, all of whom have gone on to make significant contributions to science and the arts.
University of Edinburgh Academic Programs:
The University of Edinburgh offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Arts, Business, Divinity, Economics, Education, Engineering, Humanities, Informatics, Languages, Law, Mathematics, Medicine, Social Sciences, Science, and Veterinary Medicine.
Each program has a distinct set of admissions requirements.
Tuition Fees for 2023 per year:
- Undergraduate home (Scotland) students: £1,820 GBP (~ $2471 USD)
- Undergraduate rest of the UK (outside Scotland) students: £9,250 GBP (~ $12,561 USD)
- Undergraduate international students: £24,500 – £49,900 GBP (~ $31,260 – $63,663 USD)
- Postgraduate home (Scotland) students: £2,000 – £35,900 GBP (~ $2,715 – $48,750 USD)
- Postgraduate rest of the UK (outside Scotland) students: £2,000 – £35,900 GBP (~$2,551 – $48,750 USD)
- Postgraduate international students: £3,835 – £49,900 GBP (~$4,892 – $63,663 USD)
- Online program fees: £2,400 – £24,100 GBP (~$3,260 – $32,727 USD)
University of Edinburgh Rankings:
- #16 World University Rankings and #2 Best student city in the UK by QS
- #18 World’s most international universities and Top 10 for graduates’ employability by Times Higher Education
Website: https://www.ed.ac.uk/
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5. ETH Zurich (Switzerland)
Founded by the Swiss Federal Government in 1854, ETH Zurich is consistently recognized as one of the top universities in Europe.
ETH Zurich focuses primarily on engineering, technology, science, and mathematics. Students come from 121 countries, one-third are female, and 98% of Master’s graduates find employment after one year.
The university boasts world-leading researchers, Nobel Laureates, and a host of other innovators who work together to create a learning environment that truly offers something for everyone.
Students at ETH Zurich can take classes, pursue research projects, and create start-ups in a truly international atmosphere. This rich diversity is key to the ETH Zurich experience, as it enables students to make connections and build their skillset in a truly global context.
ETH Zurich Academic Programs:
ETH Zurich offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Architecture and Civil Engineering, Engineering Sciences, Natural Sciences and Mathematics, System-oriented Natural Sciences, Management, and Social Sciences.
ETH Zurich Tuition Fees 2023:
These rates apply to Swiss and international students.
- Undergraduate and Postgraduate (Master’s) Students: CHF 730 (~$830 USD) per semester.
- Doctoral Students: CHF 1’500 (~$1,627 USD) One-time fee for the entire doctorate program due after registration for the doctoral examination.
ETH Zurich Rankings:
- #6 World University Rankings by QS
- #5 Best Universities in Europe and #26 Best Global Universities ranking by US News
- #29 World Rank, #1 National Rank University by Center for World University Rankings.
Website: https://ethz.ch/
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4. Imperial College London (United Kingdom)
Imperial College London is a science-focused university founded in 1907. Over 17,000 students attend the college with multiple campuses around London allowing direct access to research centers and business hubs.
Among its research centers are the Data Science Institute, the Institute of Global Health Innovation, and the Centre for Hedge Fund Research.
Imperial College London offers over 140 courses that span the breadth of science, technology, medicine, engineering, business, and the humanities.
Students have access to extensive resources, including the Imperial College Library and various industry partners and employers.
Imperial College London has an impressive list of alumni, including 14 Nobel Prize winners, three Fields Medalists, and many prominent scientists, businesses, and entrepreneurs.
Imperial College Academic Programs:
Imperial College offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Science, Engineering, Business, Economics, Mathematics, Medicine, Public Health, Science Communication, Data Science, and Machine Learning.
Imperial College Tuition Fees 2023:
- Undergraduate home (UK) students: £9,250 GBP (~ $11,804 USD) per year
- Undergraduate international students: £36,700 – £50,400 GBP ($46,824 – $64,300 USD) per year
- Postgraduate home (UK) students: £4,712 – £61,500 GBP ($6,010 – $78,441 USD) per year
- Postgraduate international students: £17,500 – £61,500 GBP ($22,320 – $78,441 USD) per year
Imperial College Rankings:
- #3 in Europe and #7 in the world by QS World University Rankings
- #3 in Europe and #12 in the world by Times Higher Education
- #4 Best University in Europe and #20 Best Global Universities ranking by US News
Website: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/
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3. University College London (United Kingdom)
Founded in 1826, University College London was the first university to be established in London, the first to admit women and the first university to admit students regardless of their religion.
Today, University College London is recognized as one of the top global research centers and the largest university in the United Kingdom based on student enrollment.
Its facilities and services stretch far beyond its main campus in Bloomsbury, London, with its impressive alumni network and research collaborations operating worldwide.
University College London offers more than 5,000 courses and 325 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, ensuring that every student is able to find the right academic fit that will suit their needs and provide the opportunity to excel.
Additionally, with its commitment to creating 21st-century global citizens, UCL believes in utilizing modern technology and innovative teaching methods to create a learning experience that is unique and tailored to the individual.
University College London Academic Programs:
University College London offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Arts And Humanities, Brain Sciences, Business, Engineering, Education, Law, Life Sciences, Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Medical Sciences, Population Health Sciences, and Social and Historical Sciences.
University College London Tuition Fees 2023:
- Undergraduate home (UK) students: £9,250 GBP (~ $12,560 USD) per year
- Undergraduate international students: £24,000 – £35,000 GBP ($31,640 – $82,700 USD) per year
- Postgraduate home (UK) students: £4,700 – £45,000 GBP ($5,995 – $57,400 USD) per program
- Postgraduate international students: £5,400 – £57,700 GBP ($6,888 – $73,603 USD) per program
University College London Rankings:
- #8 World University Rankings by QS
- #3 in Best Global Universities in Europe and #16 in Best Global Universities by US News
- #19 World Rank, #3 National Rank by Center for World University Rankings.
Website: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/
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2. University of Cambridge (United Kingdom)
Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge is the second oldest university in the English-speaking world. Located in the city of Cambridge, the university is about 55 miles north of London or about 2 hours north by train.
Cambridge is currently at the heart of the high-tech Silicon Fen with many start-up companies in industries such as technology and bioscience.
The University of Cambridge is also home to a number of renowned researchers and academics, who have achieved numerous awards, including 121 Nobel Prizes. The university has a long and distinguished history of academic excellence.
In addition to the world-renowned academic staff, the university is also renowned for its beautiful and historic architecture. The university has a total of 31 constituent colleges, most of which are situated in the quaint city center, providing a stunning backdrop for a university city experience.
Not only is Cambridge renowned for its academic excellence, but it is also a vibrant cultural hub for students, with numerous galleries, art spaces, museums, and a variety of student-run societies and clubs that offer students the opportunity to explore and experience the best of the city.
University of Cambridge Academic Programs:
The University of Cambridge offers undergraduate, master, and doctorate degrees in Arts & Humanities, Business & Social Sciences, Language & Culture, Medicine & Health, Engineering, and Science & Technology.
University of Cambridge Tuition Fees 2023:
Course tuition fees depend on the field of study.
- Undergraduate home (UK) students: £9,250 GBP (~ $12,560 USD) per year
- Undergraduate international students: £24,507 – £63,990 GBP ($31,640 – $82,700 USD) per year
- Postgraduate home (UK) students: £9,387 – £80,000 GBP ($11,979 – $102,098 USD) per program
- Postgraduate international students: £23,607 – £80,000 GBP ($30,130 – $102,098 USD) per program
University of Cambridge Rankings:
- #8 Best Global Universities by US News
- #3 Global World Rankings 2022 by QS
- #4 World Rank, #1 National Rank, #3 Quality of Education Rank by Center for World University Rankings
Website: https://www.cam.ac.uk/
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1. University of Oxford (United Kingdom)
Founded in 1096, the University of Oxford is considered the oldest university in the English-speaking world.
Located in the beautiful city of Oxford, students can easily travel to and from London (1 hour by train) and expand their access to a whole world of educational, research, and career opportunities.
It is an incredible institution that has a long and valued history with a wide range of alumni that includes 56 Nobel Prize winners and 30 Prime Ministers.
Oxford University provides more than 22,000 students with a world-class education, and the campus is home to several world-renowned libraries, museums, and lecture halls.
With over 180 societies and over 100 sports clubs, students can find a wide variety of extra-curricular activities to add to their education and explore different interests.
Oxford offers a unique opportunity to explore the twists and turns of history, the beauty of the city, and the freedom of expanding your boundaries.
University of Oxford Academic Programs:
The University of Oxford offers undergraduate and graduate programs in Arts & Humanities, Business & Social Sciences, Language & Cultural, Medicine & Health, and Engineering Science & Technology
University of Oxford Tuition Fees 2023:
Course tuition fees depend on the field of study.
- Undergraduate home (UK) students: £9,250 GBP (~ $12,528 USD) per year
- Undergraduate international students: £28,950 – £44,240 GBP (~ $36,944 – $56,456 USD) per year
- Postgraduate home (UK) students: £8,960 – £78,510 GBP (~ $11,433 – $100,183 USD) per program
- Postgraduate international students: £29,700 – £78,510 GBP (~ $37,901 – $100,183 USD) per program
University of Oxford Rankings:
- #5 Best Global Universities Ranking by US News
- #1 World University, #1 European Teaching, #3 World Reputation by Times Higher Education
- #5 World Rank, #2 National Rank, #7 Quality of Education by Center for World University Rankings.
Website: https://www.ox.ac.uk/
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Bonus: Technical University of Munich (Germany)
Known for its excellent academics, amazing faculty, and cutting-edge technology, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) is one of Europe’s best universities.
The University has invested heavily in modernizing its campus and facilities, offering students a learning experience like no other. With its array of libraries, research centers, and dedicated computer labs, the Technische Universität München makes sure its students have the resources to help them succeed.
Over 50,000 students attend Munich’s technical university and 37% are international students. TUM also features 6 global locations in San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Mumbai, Singapore, Beijing, and Brussels.
Technical University Academic Programs
TUM offers 181 degree programs in engineering, natural sciences, life sciences, management, political sciences, social sciences, and medicine.
Technical University Tuition Fees 2023
Tuition is free at this technical university. However, there are some student fees required. Currently, the student union fee is €75,00 and the additional fee (transportation) for the semester ticket is €72,00 = €147,00 (~ $167 USD).
Technical University Rankings
- #4 Best Global Universities in Germany, #25 Best Global Universities in Europe by US News
- #30 World University by Times Higher Education Rankings
Denisse Romero
Denisse is a global education and communications consultant, as well as the main person behind MacQuil. As an international mentor and frequent traveler, she enjoys sharing information to help anyone travel, study or work abroad.
Denisse holds a Master's in Management from GWU, a Master's in Education from Harvard University and an Executive Coaching Certificate from the University of Cambridge.
