A Guide To The Top European Universities
Why study in Europe?
UK universities are highly respected, known for their academic rigour, rich histories and culture. European universities outside of the UK are also increasingly popular and international, offering a myriad of opportunities for students looking to broaden their horizons. The best European universities offer a unique blend of rigorous academic education, tradition and innovation. European universities are some of the oldest and best globally.
Choosing the right undergraduate courses in Europe can seem daunting. But we’re here to help. Whether it’s business studies, arts and humanities or sciences, Europe has it all. Many European universities are committed to recruiting more global students, with many programmes taught in English.
What are the best European universities? What are the best European universities outside of the UK?
Here’s a list of some of the best European universities and some of the European universities most popular with international students.
ETH Zurich (Switzerland)
Université PSL (France)
Technical University of Munich (Germany)
LMU Munich (Germany)
University of Heidelberg (Germany)
University of Paris-Saclay (France)
Sorbonne University (France)
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (Switzerland)
Bocconi University (Italy)
IE Business School (Spain)
INSEAD (France)
Bologna University (Italy)
Trinity College, Dublin (Ireland)
University Esade (Spain)
How do I find the best European university for me?
Unlike in the US, most European university programmes and applications are focused around a specific area of study (more like the UK system). This offers the opportunity to go in-depth and specialise from day one, in one area. Your intended area of focus will shape where you should apply.
Some of the best universities in Europe for medicine include: Karolinska Institute (Sweden), Charité – Universitätsmedizin (Berlin/Germany), LMU Munich (Germany), ETH (Zurich/Switzerland), KU Leuven (Belgium), Erasmus University (Rotterdam/Netherlands), Sorbonne University (Paris/France).
Some of the best universities in Europe for business, finance and economics: Bocconi University (Italy, HEC Paris (France), INSEAD (France), Tilburg University (Netherlands), IE University (Spain), Erasmus University Rotterdam (Netherlands), ETH Zurich (Switzerland), University of Mannheim (Germany).
Some of the best universities in Europe for law/the best law schools in Europe include: Université Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne (France), Leiden University (Netherlands), KU Leuven (Belgium), Tilburg University (Netherlands), Maastricht University (Netherlands), Humboldt University (Berlin, Germany), Ludwig Maximillians Universitat Munchen (Germany), University of Bologna (Italy), Trinity College Dublin (Ireland), Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (Belgium), Ruprecht Karls Universitat Heidelberg (Germany)
How do I apply to top European universities?
Applying to European universities starts with choosing the right undergraduate school and courses that fit your ambitions and interests. Take your time to explore the options, considering what you're passionate about and where you see yourself in the future. And where you’ll enjoy living. Whether it’s Italy’s historical marvels and artistic heritage, France’s longstanding academic prestige or Spain’s warm climate and top business schools.
The application itself will depend on the precise country, university and course involves several key components, depending on the precise university and programme. Key steps can include academic transcripts, a personal statement where you share your story and motivations, interviews, testing (including SAT/ACT and/or individual university tests) and letters of recommendation.
Deadlines are crucial for applying to the best European universities. They can vary widely between different European countries and institutions and some European universities have various application rounds. Planning your application timeline will keep you on track and stress-free. Starting early gives you plenty of time to gather all you need for a strong application.
How do I get into the best European universities?
With the plethora of options available across the best European universities, facing the application process can seem daunting. This is where J&J Education steps in. Our expertise in European applications ensures you find a program that aligns perfectly with your aspirations - and helps you get your dream European university offer. We guide you through every step of the application process and build a personalised applications strategy and timeline, making your dream of studying in Europe a reality. Connect with us today to start your academic adventure.
