Master’s degree in Europe: best countries, universities and programs for students in 2024

Why choose Europe for a master’s degree?

Embarking on a master's degree in Europe isn't just about advancing your academic prowess. In 2024, the European educational landscape beckons with compelling reasons for prospective students to make it their academic goal.

Multicultural exposure

New languages

Top education

Big money potential

Affordable tuition

Top-20 European Universities in 2024

Now that we've explored the compelling reasons to pursue a master's degree in Europe, let's look at the top 20 European universities where you can embark on this transformative journey. To provide a comprehensive overview, we've chosen to reference the esteemed QS World University Rankings by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), a globally recognized authority in higher education analysis and insights.

As you consider the best country for your master's studies in Europe, the rankings underscore the UK's prominence. The concentration of top-ranking universities within the UK reaffirms its position as an ideal destination for academic excellence and unparalleled opportunities.

How to get enrolled in a university in Europe?

Once you've set your sights on studying in Europe, understanding the admission process is crucial. Here are some guidelines to enhance your chances of admission and streamline the application process.

Before starting the application process, ensure you have all necessary documents. While document requirements vary between universities, some standard documents include the usual set.

Documents usually required for European universities

Check the papers

Some of them are missing from the package to pply for a university of your dream.

*The mandatory items are marked with red asterisks.

High school academic transcripts

It is important to keep good scores or be able to explain the lower grades

Language proficiency exam results (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)

Usually required of 7.0 and more.

Purpose statement (motivation letter)

This letter should be written by you and contain a small essay on your goals and reasons.

Letter of recommendation

Or several. Usually they are written by professors, teachers and people who can tell more about you as student.

Updated CV

Your academic record up to this moment.

Copy of your ID (passport)

Identification papers will be required at some moment.

Copy of your student visa

Visa will be provided to you upon enrollement, but you need to make sure you consider this step.

Check the papers

Some of them are missing from the package to pply for a university of your dream.

*The mandatory items are marked with red asterisks.

Free and affordable master’s programs in Europe

When it comes to pursuing a master's degree, Europe stands out as a continent that offers not only academic excellence but also diverse options for students seeking affordability. Several European countries, such as Germany, Austria, and Finland, provide either free tuition or relatively economical fees, making education accessible to a broader audience.

While free master's programs in Europe for American students or free master's degrees in Europe for Indian students may pose a challenge due to these citizenship restrictions, there are still numerous universities with considerably low costs. Some countries, notably Germany and Norway, have generous policies regarding tuition fees for non-EU residents.

Let's explore some economically favorable countries and universitiesLet's explore some economically favorable countries and universities.

Germany: best programs for affordable prices

Germany emerges as an outstanding choice for pursuing a master's degree, known for offering some of the best free study programs in Europe. Affordability is a key factor, with the opportunity to study at remarkably low costs, similar to German citizens in state-funded institutions. These universities typically charge only a semester contribution ranging from 120 to 300 euros. However, it's worth noting that the state of Baden-Württemberg does charge tuition fees for international students, specifically 1,500 euros per semester.

Masters in Universität Heidelberg

Austria: pioneering (almost) free education

Austria serves as a prime example of a European country where master's studies can be entirely free. Since 2008, the Austrian government abolished tuition fees in public universities for all students from the EU or EEA. However, for third-country students, a legally set amount per semester is required in most state institutions.

Masters in University of Vienna

Denmark: Nordic education in English

Danish universities have earned acclaim for their quality, achieved through English-taught courses, innovative teaching methods, and, notably, the model of free tuition. While this model is applicable to students from the EU, EEA, and Switzerland, international students still need to pay fees.

Masters in University of Copenhagen

Cost of living and tuition fees for European education

The cost of living in Europe varies significantly from one country to another, with housing typically being the primary expense. Price differences per square meter are noticeable between cities and even within different zones of the same city.

Beyond housing, factors such as

Groceries

Transportation

Healthcare

Leisure

contribute to varying expenses based on your chosen location. Understanding these aspects is crucial for making informed decisions about your budget.

Scholarships for Master’s degrees (MA) in Europe

In Europe, a plethora of scholarships and institutions offer financial aid for master's degree programs. While listing them all would be exhaustive, it's valuable to know where to find the best opportunities.In Europe, a plethora of scholarships and institutions offer financial aid for master's degree programs. While listing them all would be exhaustive, it's valuable to know where to find the best opportunities.