Have you ever dreamed of visiting the Old Continent, travelling to beautiful places and experiencing different cultures? There is no time like the present. You can do all that and get your Masters degree at the same time.
A Eurostat statistic from 2026 shows that 1.83 million students from abroad were undertaking tertiary level studies in Europe. Most of them – 45% – were studying for a Masters degree. The benefits you can enjoy while doing your Masters in Europe are more than you might think. Apart from the generally lower tuition fees compared to the US or Canada (fees vary considerably by country and programme), Europe offers so much more to graduate students.
Gain international work experience while studying in Europe
In most European countries you can work part-time if you have a student visa. Take this opportunity to find a job or an internship. Not only will this help you pay rent or bills, it also means you will have the chance to work in a foreign environment.
International work experience will prove useful to you no matter which country you decide to go to after your degree. Improving your resume, even with something small like a part-time job in France or an internship in Germany, will show your future employers that you are bold and can tackle challenges on an international level.
It is also worth knowing that many European countries offer post-study work rights that allow you to stay after graduation. Germany’s 18-month job-seeker visa and the Netherlands’ Orientation Year permit (Zoekjaar) are two well-known examples, giving graduates a real runway to find employment in Europe before returning home or deciding to stay.
Also read: The Best Side Jobs for University Students
Why Europe is one of the best places to study and travel
Now is your time to explore and discover. With a university calendar comes vacation time and an opportunity to plan. Even with a part-time job, there are still holidays and weekends that give you plenty of time to explore your host country and the surrounding area.
Immersing yourself in a new culture can help you expand your world view, not to mention all the amazing memories you will accumulate and the beautiful pictures you will take. Hop on a train to another city or village and explore their traditions, embark on a one-day bus tour or just visit every charming nook and cranny of the city you are in.
A practical note: while many European cities remain excellent value compared to the US, the cost of living – particularly housing – has risen in cities like Berlin, Amsterdam, and Paris in recent years. Factor this into your budgeting early, and explore student accommodation options through your chosen university before you arrive.
Also read: Moving Back Home with an International Masters Degree
Studying in Europe: the perfect opportunity to learn a new language
Another great opportunity to seize is learning a new language. Doing your Masters in any European country is a great reason not only to delve into an entirely different culture but to learn a new language.
Even if your Masters is taught entirely in English, that does not mean you should not try to learn the native tongue of your host country. Learning a new language gives you endless job opportunities and chances to travel again later in your career.
And the good news is that you do not need to be fluent before you arrive. Many universities offer language classes alongside the Masters curriculum, and simply living in a country is one of the fastest ways to pick up the basics. Check the Language Tests page for guidance on proficiency requirements for international applicants.
English-taught programmes and Erasmus+: two big reasons to choose Europe
One of the most significant developments in European higher education over the last decade is the growth of English-taught Masters programmes. Across Germany, the Netherlands, Scandinavia, and beyond, thousands of programmes are now delivered entirely in English. Language is no longer a barrier to studying in Europe for most international students.
Europe is also home to Erasmus+, the EU’s flagship education exchange programme, which supports student mobility, joint degree programmes, and international partnerships across more than 30 countries. Even if you are studying at a non-EU institution, many European universities have Erasmus+ partnerships. It is worth asking your prospective school what international exchange options are built into the programme.
Also read: Mastering the English Language for Your Study Abroad: Tips for Non-Native Speakers
Enjoy art, history, and food: European culture beyond the classroom
The Old Continent is full of history and art to marvel at, not to mention local cuisines. Every major city in Europe has an array of museums, cathedrals, galleries, chapels, historical houses and more, that encompass the complex history and beauty of each place.
Europe is also home to some of the best chefs in the world. You would not want to miss out on some of the most exquisite dishes you will ever try. Eating pizza in Italy is just better.
Beyond food, European cities consistently rank among the highest in global quality-of-life indices for safety, public transport, green spaces, and cultural life. For international students, this makes day-to-day life outside the classroom as enriching as what happens inside it.
Enrolling in a Masters programme in Europe is a great way to explore and experience a different part of the world while still working towards your career goals. In the end you will have expanded your world view and you will have a newly found appreciation for the world we live in.
Frequently asked questions about studying for a Masters in Europe
Can international students work while studying in Europe?
Yes, in most European countries international students with a valid student visa can work part-time, typically up to 20 hours per week during term time. Regulations vary by country, so check the specific rules for your host country before you arrive.
Is studying in Europe cheaper than in the US?
Generally yes, though this varies significantly by country and programme. Countries like Germany, France, and the Netherlands offer comparatively low tuition fees, and some public universities in Germany charge little to no tuition for international students. However, the cost of living in major student cities has risen in recent years, particularly for housing.
Do I need to speak the local language to study in Europe?
Not necessarily. Thousands of Masters programmes across Europe are taught entirely in English. You will, however, need to meet the English proficiency requirements of your chosen programme – typically via IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.
Which European countries are most popular for international Masters students?
Germany is one of the most popular destination, hosting around 420,000 international students and doctoral candidates as of 2025, according to DAAD. France, the Netherlands, and Spain are also among the most popular destinations for international Masters students.
Can I stay in Europe after completing my Masters?
Many European countries offer post-study work visas or job-seeker permits that allow graduates to remain after graduation. Germany’s 18-month job-seeker visa and the Netherlands’ Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) are two of the most well-known examples.
Originally published: 2 December 2021
Updated: 6 October 2026
