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5 Best Countries for a Great Study Abroad in Europe


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If you looking for scoring the perfect year abroad, you have probably searched for unis in England, Germany, and France. But this is where most students from the States and Canada end up, leaving you less room to meet people outside your familiar culture circle.

This is why we put together a list of the best universities in Europe for an awesome year abroad. All of them are listed by the Top Universities in the top 50 universities in the world, offering great higher education systems with thrilling study abroad experiences. If you are worried about keeping up with the curriculum and all the fun you’ll be having abroad, check out this new student service: fireessay.com

5. Czech Republic

Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, Czech Republic (Image: LenDog64)

This tiny country in the center of Europe has an age-old heritage for high-quality education, especially in the sciences, medicine, and engineering. If you are interested in spending time in the fourteenth-century lecture halls then pick Charles University. Founded in 1348, it is located in Prague, listed as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

There are lots of programmes offered in English and Czech really mean business when it comes to exchanging programmes.

After a couple of decades of running EU-US exchanges they’ve polished their curriculum and extra-curriculum activities, and absolutely nailed it with fun events for international students. And if this isn’t enough, the cost of living here is still relatively cheap, in comparison to the UK or Germany.

4. Portugal

Portugal
Portugal (Image: Vitor Oliveira)

Apart from its magnificent historical and cultural tradition, Portugal boasts amazing weather throughout the year. If you are sporty and outdoorsy then this coastal warm and sunny country is for you. But this predominantly beach culture doesn’t spoil the quality of higher education here.

The University of Porto, for instance, is the highest-ranked in the country and is one of the places to study abroad in the world. If you are more interested in the social sciences, then explore some universities in Lisbon. Portuguese definitely know how to have fun, so you will make some unforgettable memories if you befriend local students.

3. Sweden

Sweden
Sweden (Image: Rofi)

Although located in Nordic Europe, Sweden is very diverse and friendly in its nature. With one of the highest indexes for quality of life in the world, the Swedish are pros in equality and friendliness towards foreign cultures.

English is the second language here, so you can enjoy a truly European experience but without the hassle of constantly reaching out for your dictionary. Additionally, the best Scandinavian universities are here, mainly because critical thinking is what drives their education to the top of the world’s lists.

If you want to study at the most prestigious university in the region, and one of the most respected in Europe, head straight for Lund University.

2. Belgium

Belgium
Belgium (Image: dimitrisvetsikas1969)

Conveniently located in the middle of many major European countries, Belgium is perfect for Euro trips using your student discounts.

Although one of the main languages is French, there are plenty of options to continue your studies in English. There is a good reason why the main EU institutions are based in Brussels – with its multicultural background and diversity, the city impersonates united Europe.

Since it is so small, you are very likely to see most of it in just one year, including thrilling cities and the gorgeous countryside. To make your experience a notch up, apply for an exchange at Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (KU Leuven), which is the highest-ranked Belgian university.

1. Italy

Italy
Italy (Image: ErvinGjata)

And our most favourite place to study in Europe is, of course, Italy. Some of the oldest universities in the world are still alive and well in this astonishingly beautiful country.

The everlasting tradition of food, architecture, culture, and sciences is enough to sweep anybody from their feet. Although universities in Rome, Bologna, and Florence might be tempting, the highest-ranking university in the country is based in the capital of fashion – Politecnico di Milano. Social life in Italy is out of this world: from nightclubs to mega ancient libraries, there is no shortage of opportunities to meet exciting Italians.

Students also love practicing their English, so you are pretty much guaranteed to make friends through language exchange cafes. Italy outshines many other European countries with its innovation and creativity, as well as remarkable cuisine.

If you do visit Rome, check out these English book stores.

 

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About the author

Mae has travelled to over 40 countries and lived in 8. Born in St. Petersburg, Mae grew up in Lithuania and has spent most of her adult life in the UK. She has been blogging for over 8 years and is the lead editor on Travel Belles.

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