Thinking about going to college? You should consider going to Europe! Why? Here are my 10 reasons to study in Europe!
You may wonder how I’m entitled to tell you about this? Well, I am from Europe! To be exact, I am Swiss (and Hungarian), and I went to start college in the United States. I was there for almost 2 years when the pandemic happened and I had to come home.
Because I wasn’t okay with paying $38,000 in tuition for literally online classes, I quit that college and started university in the United Kingdom! So yeah, here are my reasons to study in Europe!
Reason To Study In Europe#1: It Saves You Money
You’re from the United States? You’re probably used to college tuition costs between $20,000 and $50,000 a year. Thought that was normal? Nope!
In many European countries, such as Denmark, Sweden, or Germany tuition is either free, or about $300 a semester. (And there are other countries you can study in for cheap!)
While, of course, you need to account for visa and living costs, in total it is nowhere near as expensive as studying in the United States.
Another comment I want to make here is that while those mentioned countries obviously have their own languages, there are a few English taught universities (or at least courses), so just do your research on that!
PS: If you’re a little less adventurous and want to keep it chill, you can also study in the United Kingdom. Because of the same language and similar culture (ok not super similar but like the most similar compared to the rest of Europe), you might feel more comfortable going there, and that’s ok!
Tuition in the UK is more expensive than other European countries, so as an international student you pay around $15,000 a year depending on the university, but that’s still half than the average US tuition.
Related Post: How To Travel On A Budget In College
2. There Is So Much To Do And See!
With 44 countries on your doorstep, you really can’t complain!
From having croissants overlooking the Eiffel tower to feeding the monster of Loch Ness, you’ll never be short of options. No matter where you go in Europe, I can promise there is amazing things to do and see all around you.
There is a reason I have been to so many countries in Europe. Need inspiration on where to go? Check out this post with the ultimate Europe Travel Bucket List!
Reason #3: Easy Travel Between And Within Countries!
You are probably used to going everywhere by car, but that isn’t necessary for most of Europe. With an interrail train pass that can be used in almost all European countries, and flights starting at literally $10, it is easy to visit other countries, and explore all of Europe.
If you decide to study in London for example, don’t think that you’re limited. For example, a train between the city and Paris takes around 3 hours, and a flight is around 1 hour. Furthermore, public transport within European countries is generally better and more reliable than in the USA.
4. Cheaper Living Costs
As I mentioned in the number 1 reasons to study in Europe, it can be cheaper to study in Europe than in North America. However, it matters where you live.
Switzerland or Iceland for example have quite high living costs, versus the Czech Republic, Albania, or Hungary.
So if cost really is a factor, then you can be particular with where you go. For example, cities such as Budapest and Prague are beautiful cities, with lots to do, while offering great nightlife, and they have a cheaper cost of living compared to cities like as London and Paris.
5. Challenge Yourself Outside Of Your Comfort Zone
Maybe you’re stuck in the same routine, maybe you’re an introvert, maybe you’re just living a comfortable life. Whatever it is, by studying abroad (no matter for how long), you are challenging yourself in a new situation, outside of your comfort zone.
It sounds cliché, but you will learn a lot about yourself, and how you cope in different situations. You will come back from study abroad as a more complete, knowledgeable, and aware individual, all because you challenged yourself and done something new!
6. Experiencing A New Culture
You may or may not know how different people can live across the world, and it is a great experience to learn this in person.
A lot of European countries have great traditions, foods and general ways of life. The culture changes in some countries may be slight, whereas others may be massive, so make sure you do your research, and choose somewhere that you feel comfortable, and somewhere that really fascinates you and you can learn from!
Related Post: The Ultimate Study Abroad Bucket List
7. Different Way Of Learning
Learning in a different country, with a new environment is really beneficial academically. Future employers look for adaptability skills, and study abroad can give you that.
Many countries have different styles of learning compared to the US. For example, in the UK, classes are taught mainly in lecture style, and you’re expected to do more individual research. This is a great skill to learn!
Related Post: How To Network As A Business Student
8. Gaining New Skills
Firstly, even in the application process, there are so many skills you can gain and improve. For example, you need to research exactly where you are going, the local culture, accommodation, etc. This will improve your research skills, while you also manage your time along with your other commitments.
Because of this, you need to be organized and hit all deadlines. While studying abroad, there are so many other skills you will pick up, this may include social skills or independence for example.
Related Post: What To Pack For A Summer In Europe
9. Learning A New Language
This can apply to complete beginners. The classes you take will be in English (unless you’re a language student maybe) so there is no need to stress about the language.
However, if you live in a non-English speaking country, it can be very useful (and recommended) to learn the local language.
You never know when you may need a language, and it is also favorable to employers. If you know the language already or are a language student, it is a great way to practice the language, and really learn it to a deeper level.
10. Study Abroad Looks Great On Your Resume/CV
This is definitely not the most important reason to go on a study abroad, however, it is relevant. Having this on your CV shows a range of different skills, and it shows your willingness to challenge yourself, so make sure you mention it!
Bonus Reason: Making Friends And Memories For Life
There so many reasons to study abroad, but honestly, you will make friends for life. These may be other study abroad students or locals.
Who knows, maybe you will have friends you can visit every summer. (I made friends from like 10 different countries on my study abroad, so I really recommend this haha).
My advice: really take advantage. Explore the area, do something every weekend, and say yes to every opportunity. Going on study abroad can be nerve-wracking, you may worry about making new friends.
But remember, there are others in your situation, and there is support in place to help you. If you have a good attitude, are open to the new culture, and meeting new people, I promise you’ll make friends for life while creating amazing memories!
Related Post: How To Make Friends Abroad
Those were my 10+1 reasons to study in Europe!
I hope it gave you some insight into why studying in Europe can be beneficial, even if you only do it for a semester or two.
Comment below which country you’d go to!
Until soon,
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