How to Apply to Colleges in Europe? 

Are you European but want to study in another country? Do you come from a different continent and look for a good university in the EU? Do you plan to do a semester abroad, or would you like to stay longer? 

In this article, you will find the most important information about how to apply to colleges in Europe. Deadlines, programs, and scholarships for you! 

Apply to Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs in Europe 

Beginning a study program abroad is different than in other countries, especially in the United States. In Europe, early specialization offers you the opportunity to study your main area of interest, right after you finished high school. That means you won’t have a freshman year to decide your major. 

Another fact is that European universities tend to have shorter program durations: you can get your Bachelor’s degree after 3-3.5 years, while Master’s and PhD programs typically last for 1.5-2 years. 

Choose a university to know the application details 

Applying to European colleges might sound like a big change, but it has many benefits during your studies, and even more advantages on the labor market after you finished. 

As an international student, you can 

1. Learn new languages, 
2. Experience different cultures, 
3. Travel a lot, 
4. And build connections that might help you in the future! 

General information about applying 

To start a bachelor’s program, you must be at least 17 years old, and you must have graduated from high school. Another requirement is that you need to know the language of the education. 

To test that, most universities require you to pass a widely recognized language certification exam. The most commonly accepted ones are IELTS or TOEFL, but it’s up to the university to name the acceptable exams. 

However, there are also some universities that do not ask for a language exam certificate. At Budapest Metropolitan University for example, applicants can prove their langauge skills and proficiency at a personal online interview. 

You can start applying to universities via application forms. You need to fill out personal information and attach the necessary documents. Some of the most widely requested documents can be: 

1. A copy of your ID/passport 
2. Transcript of your academic record 
3. A certified translation of your high school diploma and other educational certificates 
4. A personal statement (make sure you spend enough time writing a good statement - it can boost your chances) 
5. Standardized test scores (your SAT or ACT score) 

Tuition fees 

European colleges and universities have reasonable tuition fees. In some cases, especially in Germany or the Scandinavian countries, it might be free for students – however, living costs in Western and Northern Europe can be quite expensive, and getting into these universities can be quite a challenge due to the intense competition. 

Other universities, mostly in Central and Eastern Europe offer study programs with low tuition fees (compared to U.S. colleges). In addition, the living costs in Eastern and Southern countries are way lower and much more affordable. 

Visa and residence permit 

Another game-changer during your application process is that you need to get your visa and residence permit, so taking care of the legal grounds is essential before you move abroad! Therefore, the application process for non-EU students is longer and has more challenges. For example, some countries might only accept a limited number of students for certain degrees. 

Find out more about visa and residence permit to Hungary by clicking here! 

Apply for a Scholarship in Europe 

Most universities are committed to supporting international students. The most popular international scholarship is Erasmus+, but you can find country-specific scholarships here. 

Or, for example, check our scholarships for international students. 

Deadline for university applications in Europe - 2023 

Countries have their unique academic calendars. In some countries, the summer exam period ends in June, while in other countries, students are still preparing for their exams in mid-July. But not just the academic years, but the application deadlines are different too. 

You don’t want to miss your deadline - check out application deadlines at Budapest Metropolitan University! 

METU application process 

Study in the Heart of Europe, Budapest! 

Useful links: 

1. Application process 
2. Apply now! 
3. Living in Hungary