You’re a student thinking about studying abroad. The critical question is: where on earth do you go? Perhaps you opt for one of the best countries for international students.
What makes a good country for an international student? For starters, a diverse student community (including plenty of other international students) and an attractive location where you can soak up culture can make a massive difference to your experience. Somewhere with a low cost of living, low tuition fees, and a busy student lifestyle can also be beneficial.
On EDUopinions, student reviewers rate their university experience based on value for money, accommodation quality, internationality, and more. By analysing these ratings, we can comprehensively examine what international students say about universities in these countries.
So, here are the best countries for international students in Europe.
TOP Countries for International Students in Europe 2025
Summary and Methodology
To create our ranking, we filtered verified student reviews posted on the EDUopinions platform in 2023 to include only those from international students. We included only European countries in our ranking, as these countries gather the highest number of reviews on our platform.
The following ranking is based on the ‘overall rating’ provided by students when they review their university. This rating is given separately from the additional factor ratings for professors, internationality, career prospects, value, location, student life, facilities and accommodation. In the ranking, however, we’ll highlight any particularly high scores for these factors that make these destinations even more attractive to international students.
10. Denmark (4.16/5 Rating)
Denmark may be forgotten in favour of other popular student destinations like the Netherlands or Belgium, but it’s an ideal place if you want a taste of Scandi life without the higher price tags of countries like Norway. In fact, Denmark is in the top five for value in this ranking!
Home to top-ranked universities like the University of Copenhagen and Aarhus University, Denmark offers plenty of options for your studies despite its small size. Students also rate the quality of the education highly, giving Denmark high scores for professors and career prospects.
Student Review
University of Southern Denmark offers a transformative educational experience to its students because of its unique blend of intellectual rigor, high academic standards, vibrant community, and abundant resources. The institution wants its students to discuss different viewpoints, be honest with one another, and understand one another.
Student Review
I’m happy to provide a standard student review for Aarhus University:
Aarhus University has provided me with an exceptional educational experience that I am truly grateful for. The university’s commitment to academic excellence, paired with a vibrant and inclusive campus environment, has made my time here truly memorable.
The faculty members at Aarhus University are not only experts in their respective fields but also dedicated educators who genuinely care about their students’ success. The courses are challenging and intellectually stimulating, encouraging critical thinking and personal growth.
One aspect that stands out at Aarhus University is the emphasis on research and practical application of knowledge. The university offers ample opportunities for students to engage in research projects, internships, and extracurricular activities, allowing us to apply what we’ve learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios.
The international atmosphere on campus is another highlight. Aarhus University attracts students from all over the world, fostering a rich cultural exchange and the opportunity to make lifelong friendships. The support services for international students are comprehensive, making the transition to studying in Denmark a smooth process.
The university’s commitment to sustainability and innovation is admirable. Aarhus University actively encourages students to be environmentally conscious and engage in projects that contribute to a better future.
Aarhus University has provided me with a top-notch education, a supportive community, and numerous opportunities for personal and academic growth. I’m proud to be part of the Aarhus University community, and I highly recommend it to prospective students.
9. Hungary (4.19/5 Rating)
Hungary is one of the cheapest places to study abroad: tuition rarely exceeds around €8,000 per year, while Budapest has a 55% more affordable cost of living than Paris! Here, you don’t need to miss out on the big city life; Budapest is known for its creative hubs and multicultural population.
Students highly value that diverse community—EDUopinions reviewers give Hungary the second-highest score on this ranking for internationality. Given its location in Central Europe, Hungary attracts students from both East and West Europe who seek an alternative study destination.
Student Review
From the gorgeous old building with its high ceiling and great stone walls , and its gates facing the danube and liberty bridge , to the new building with its numerous classes and colorful library . Corvinus university is indeed beautiful
but aesthetics aren’t all what matters , as a first year international relations student at corvinus, I have noticed both positive and negative aspects in our study progeamme and in the university itself
When it comes to my programme, the choice of subjects is rather peculiar , mixing too many disciplines all at once without going in depth in any of them . Which makes them sound like random fillers
The teachers are overall okey , except for some seminar teachers who are also students , and who provide an overall below average level of education and seriousness
With that said , I still find education here to be enjoyable , with all the varities of elective subjects you can choose from , and the new soft skills acquired , as well as the relaxed studying schedules which allow you to join one of the many interesting social clubs the university has to offer
I can see great potential in this university, as a matter of fact , improvement can be noticed on a daily basis , the administration is progressing , the uni is introducing new programmes and teaching methods which will certainly benefit both its reputation and the students who take classes in it
Overall , I would consider it an above average university
Student Review
The University of Pécs has a unique international atmosphere, which creates a unique educational environment. The small size of the city may limit recreational opportunities, but it fosters a closer communicative community. There could have been more practice at the undergraduate level due to the peculiarities of the Hungarian education system, but instead the university provides a variety of interesting elective courses with practical assignments, which enriches the educational experience. Many student organizations and activities complement the curriculum, contributing to a well-rounded student experience.
8. Spain (4.19/5 Rating)
As one of the top destinations for international students in Europe, it’s no surprise that Spain appears on our ranking. The University of Barcelona is ranked among the top 200 universities in the world, and EDUopinions reviewers value the quality of the professors at their universities in Spain.
Spain is among the most affordable countries for your study abroad experience, appearing alongside Hungary and Italy. In Spain, you can immerse yourself in a vibrant culture, explore bustling cosmopolitan cities and experience 3,000 hours of sunshine annually.
Student Review
My university is amazing for the course and future that I plan on pursuing. The networking in the university I great and allows you to meet many people from different nations, make great friends, and in some cases meet people with the same vision as you to run a business, or whatever can appear in mind.
Student Review
I had an incredible experience with the BME – Business Management in Europe program at UAB. Having the opportunity to spend a year at UAB was truly enriching. UAB’s multiple campuses offer a unique mix – one in the heart of historic Barcelona, housed in a charming building, and another more modern campus further from the city center, complete with sports facilities, a library, and student accommodations. The university’s extensive course selection and attentive professors made my academic journey exceptional.
7. France (4.20/5 Rating)
France only just beats Spain in our ranking, and students give almost equal value for money scores to these countries, too. A top student destination thanks to its internationally-renowned universities (there are four French institutions in the top 100 in the world) and beautiful study destinations, students rate France highly for internationality, professors, and student life.
Here, you can also study in some of the best student cities in Europe. Outside of Paris, lesser-known places like Rouen and Grenoble are home to top institutions like GEM Alpine Business School and NEOMA Business School, and by getting a degree in France, you’ll open up job opportunities across Europe.
Student Review
During my studies in the Digital Marketing & CRM Master’s programme, I shared the classroom with classmates of more than 20 nationalities. This allowed me not only to learn essential topics in the world of marketing and customer service. But also to get to know other points of view. This has allowed me to work as part of a team in a different and innovative way. I would definitely repeat this experience and I would also recommend it to anyone who is looking for a multicultural study place.
Student Review
For me the University is not only a place of learning but also a place of socialization and integration. Rennes School of Business manage to provide for the students a safe place where we feel welcome to participate and learn, being an important part of the students life. As an international student, I feel that the University gives me the support and motivation I need, not only in the academic field but also in my personal life abroad. The classes are stimulating and the teachers are always available to help the students in every way they need. Overall, the university created a community that encourages students to learn and participate, being the center of all the achievements.
6. Poland (4.23/5 Rating)
In a previous EDUopinions ranking, Poland ranked in the world’s top ten countries for job prospects, beating Germany. Student reviewers give Poland a higher rating for career prospects than Spain or Hungary, so if you want to combine a low cost of living with valuable degree opportunities, this could be the place for you.
Polish universities are frequently included in the lists of the best universities in the world, including institutions like the University of Warsaw and Jagiellonian University, so it’s also not a surprise that student reviewers rate the quality of the professors at Polish universities highly.
Student Review
The campus of the school is exceptionally friendly, and the instructors work hard to ensure that every student succeeds and is treated fairly. This university is a great place to experience the true worth of a degree. The students high level of sociability also adds to the welcoming and pleasant environment. I love everything about the school.
Student Review
I attended Vistula university where I pursued a degree in Computer engineering. The course was what I expected – heavy on programming, algorithms, projects. What I liked most with some courses was the hands-on approach with projects that simulated real-world scenarios. Not every professors was approachable or nice which made it hard sometimes. Learning experience overall wasnt too bad except the hassle with the deans office and how they treat students. The other thing that was missing was job fairs and opportunities in the tech companies. I wouldn’t recommend it to a friend as a first option but would be in the list to a person who is interested in tech; it provided a solid foundation
5. The United Kingdom (4.23/5 Rating)
Long considered one of the best countries for international students in Europe, the UK has had to contend with lower numbers in recent years, in part due to events like Brexit and visa changes. However, if you want to study at the best universities in the world (according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, that would be the University of Oxford), then this is still the place to go.
Across the UK, international students have access to a wide variety of experiences. If you want a taste of a global city, head to a university in London, but if you want a more affordable experience, cities like Manchester, Glasgow, and Leeds offer equally memorable experiences.
Student Review
Overall, my experience at the University of Glasgow has been incredible. The lecturers for Sociology and Social and Public Policy have been great and the courses are interesting and engaging. There are also many exciting ways to get involved outside of coursework such as societies, events at the university Unions, and other opportunities. The University also offers student jobs and internships, which can be a great way to gain experience and help fund your studies. I have taken advantage of many of these opportunities and have worked for the University for three years as well as participated actively in three societies, all of which have made my experience more meaningful. Part of what makes the University so great is the location on the West End of Glasgow which is a great place to live as a student where you can quickly feel at home no matter where you are coming from. While I have felt supported by most of my lecturers, I do feel the University can improve their communication and support to students. For example, the University failed to address the recent housing crisis which impacted many students’ ability to return to campus. Lastly, while the UCU strikes were national, there was limited communication, support, or understanding for the impact the strikes had on our learning. Aside from these external factors, I have loved my experience and would absolutely recommend it to anyone considering studying here.
Student Review
Classes at Goldsmiths are really interactive and the lecturers always do their best to see to it that they include every individual student in the class room. I find this method very useful as I am able to concentrate throughout the entire lecture and learn a lot more than traditional styles of teaching.
4. Belgium (4.27/5 Rating)
Students come to Belgium to soak up history and culture and try the local delicacies, among which frites and beer are just a couple. Here, you can study in picturesque cities like Ghent, Leuven, and Antwerp, living alongside students from around the world. Our reviewers give Belgium high scores for the quality of student accommodation, which is always a plus when you’re living somewhere new for a year or more.
Additionally, EDUopinions reviewers consider this one of the best countries for international students because of the quality of career prospects after graduating. Universities like KU Leuven and Ghent University are internationally renowned, and with Belgium’s proximity to the Netherlands, France, and Germany, there are plenty of options for jobs at international companies.
Student Review
The University of Antwerp is a unique and rare institution that truly values and fosters a global community of students and academics. As an international student, I have been enriched by the experience of studying and living in a new environment, with a new standard of education. Every day has brought new lessons and opportunities for growth. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.
Student Review
AMS is a good school with some good programs. I was in the Master of Finance program and I learnt a lot. Only drawback with this school is that it’s difficult to help you with finding a job in Belgium if you don’t speak Dutch and/or French so I needed to look elsewhere in the EU to land a job.
3. Ireland (4.27/5 Rating)
There are plenty of reasons to study in Ireland, including the presence of large multinational companies (like Google and Meta), the high quality of life, and the great work visas on offer for graduates. Plus, student reviewers give Ireland the highest score of any country on this ranking for internationality; you can guarantee you’ll meet people from all over the world while studying here.
Students also love the value for money and quality of professors when studying in Ireland. In terms of destinations, Dublin offers all the highlights of a large city, top institutions like Trinity College Dublin, and proximity to an incredible coastline and quaint countryside.
Student Review
One of the things that I love most about Trinity College Dublin are all the opportunities it gives to its students to visit many companies and network with potential employers during their studies. The college has strong partnerships with various industries and sectors, and organises regular career fairs, workshops, seminars, and company visits for students. I was able to attend some of these events and meet with representatives from leading organisations such as Google, LinkedIn, Facebook, Honeywell, and many more. Those visits gave me valuable insights into the work culture in such organisations as well as the expectations and challenges of applying for positions.
Student Review
The university is great at welcoming students from abroad. They put a lot of work in making sure that international students feel welcome and supported. There are a lot of opportunities to make friends through clubs and societies. The university is close to the town and has great access to public transport. The professors are friendly and welcoming. All of them have worked in their respective fields before working here, so they have first hand experience. It is a great option if you are looking to go abroad.
2. Sweden (4.40/5 Rating)
Sweden is the second Scandi nation to appear in this ranking, beating other popular student destinations to rank as the second-best country for international students. Although it may not be the most affordable place to study, students love the internationality of its universities and cities and the quality of its professors. Pludish universities get the highest mark of all countries on this list for their facilities, which is definitely a plus if you’re pursuing a practical subject.
Students also rated Sweden highly for the quality of master’s degrees in a previous EDUopinions ranking, so you can be sure this is an excellent choice for your education abroad. There are plenty of options for your studies within the country, from the capital, Stockholm, to the regional Umeå University, where you might catch the Northern Lights on campus.
Student Review
This was by far one of the most enriching experiences in my life. The cultural capital you get in JIBS is priceless and the teachers are amazing professionals. You are pushed to your limits and at the same time you feel inspired. JU and Sweden has this entrepreneural spirit in the air, and more so to achievesomething more. Not so big,but beautiful city filled with so many different nationalities. Such an experience widens a person’s horizon.
Student Review
I think that Lund University is one of the most amazing universities in Sweden and even worldowide. The diversity in Lund University is really amazing and thanks to that I am able to meet people from all around the world. The university host a lot of events so that students can meet each other and integrate. I study at the school of economics and I love it. The professors approach is really practical and they teach us only things that matter in real life like for instance how to cooperate with each other to be effective. I study entrepreneurship and innovation which is one of the universities most advanced masters programme. The programme is intense but I like it since we do a lot of projects and gain practical knowledge. I would recommend studying at Lund University. It requires a lot of work but it’s worth it on the end.
1. Lithuania (4.47/5 Rating)
Did you expect Lithuania to be crowned Europe’s best country for international students? If not, then consider this a sign to research this incredible destination. Home to historic cities (Vilnius’ old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and top universities (including Vilnius University), there are plenty of reasons to head to this Baltic nation for your studies.
Our international student reviewers particularly rate the quality of student life and location at Lithuanian universities; Lithuania gets the highest scores for these factors out of any country on this list. Plus, it’s one of the most affordable countries in Europe, and you’ll have the opportunity to travel to other Baltic states and learn the history of this unique area of Europe during your stay.
Student Review
As a foreigner, I find this place very friendly. All the teachers are happy to help, they can answer any question regarding the studies and much more. The dormitory prices are justified and quality of living is very pleasant. Most of all, it’s great to have an opportunity to communicate with other students. Exchanging cultures is very fun and entertaining. I have met many amazing people here and I hope to meet many more!
Student Review
I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Kaunas University of Technology. The diverse and engaging curriculum provided a solid foundation in my field, and the supportive faculty fostered a positive learning environment. The campus facilities were modern, and the international community added a valuable cultural dimension to my studies. Overall, KTU offered a well-rounded education and a memorable university journey
Conclusion
Ultimately, deciding where to study is up to you, and you should consider many factors when making your decision. Before choosing a destination, consider the subject you want to study, your career preferences after graduation, language barriers, how far away you want to be from your home country, and costs.
At the same time, you can also look to student reviews of your target country or university to help you prepare, especially if you don’t know anyone in the country you’re heading to! International student reviews can be invaluable for making you feel more confident about your decision or deciding between two possible locations.
Want to read more student reviews of top universities in Europe? Check out our blog on student reviews of the top universities in the QS Rankings.
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