When talking about US universities in Europe, there are a lot of possibilities. However, it can be a little difficult to choose.
Europe is becoming a top region for finding study programs in English, even in countries where English is not the local language.
Top reasons to choose a university in Europe
Whether you’re still in high school or if you’re considering getting a master’s degree, here you have nine reasons why you should consider a university in Europe.
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Tuition is Much More Affordable than the US
In continental Europe, the average cost of all the English-taught bachelor’s programs is $7,390 per year.
According to the College Board, the average tuition rates in the US for a bachelor’s degree is $9,410 for in-state tuition at a public university, $23,890 for out-of-state tuition at a public university and $32,410 for a private university. For master’s degrees, the average tuition is $9,050 per year, so the average cost of getting a master is $15,928.
With average tuition at over $30,000, getting a master in Europe is less than half the tuition cost of getting a master from a public university in the US.
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Thousands of Programs You Can Choose From
There are more than 300 European colleges and universities offering more than 1,900 bachelor’s programs in English. There are over 6,500 different master’s programs at 475 schools. All are taught 100% in English.
Many American students don’t speak a foreign language proficiently enough to study at a university that teaches in it. But even in non-anglophone countries in Europe, there are full-degree university programs taught in English. These countries are very welcoming to international students, especially Americans, who want to study there.
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You Will Gain Fluent Language Skills
While a foreign language isn’t necessary to start studying in a university in Europe, students have a wonderful opportunity to really learn a language while they’re there. Many universities in Europe offer free language courses for international students where you can practice through daily interactions with native speakers and with other students. Furthermore, true fluency is gained outside the classroom.
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Avoid the US Admissions Rat Race
The admissions process in the US has become a race to the bottom as students compete with their peers for a single spot in a liberal arts university, convinced by parents and guidance counselors that their survival rests on playing a musical instrument or varsity sport.
Many smart kids don’t do well on standardized tests. But this doesn’t limit them as much when looking outside of the US, as many universities in Europe do not require standardized tests. Many countries see entry into universities as a right, rather than a privilege, so admission standards are not as stringent.
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Gain a Competitive Verge in the Job Market
Students who studied abroad stand out from the crowd when seeking jobs after graduating. The very act of leaving their comfort zone to make a fresh start in a new place builds skills and confidence that will be carried throughout a student’s life.
Silicon Valley billionaire investor, Chris Sacca, describes international study experience as a critical differentiating characteristic among candidates.
In a study published in the Harvard Business Review, people with experience living abroad were better employees because they are likely to create new businesses and to be promoted.
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You Can Earn Your Degree Faster
According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, on average, just 58 percent of US students who started university in the fall of 2012 had earned any degree at all six years later.
In contrast, many bachelor’s degree programs in Europe are completed between three or three-and-a-half-years, because there are fewer general education classes required. Many master’s degree programs are just one year.
Finishing a degree faster is a double benefit for students who avoid taking on more debt and also begin earning a living sooner as employed workers.
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You May be Eligible for Financial Aid
American students may be able to receive US federal loans to study at an international. The Department of Education has a list of international schools participating in its student loan program. Some European universities also provide grants and/or scholarships for foreign students. Why shouldn’t you be one of them?
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Be an Active Participant in the Learning Process
In Europe, the educational experience is rich and students are expected to engage and even encouraged to debate and disagree with the professor. The goal is to help them solve problems and enhance critical thinking skills.
Furthermore, many US universities in Europe use modules or block scheduling, so the number of courses you are taking is limited in number with more intensive study over a shorter period of time.
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Spend Your Weekends & Breaks Exploring the World
Travel opportunities abound when attending a university in Europe. For example, Lille, a city in northern France with multiple universities, is close to major cities such as Brussels, London, and Paris via high-speed rail.
Air travel, especially with the rise of affordable airlines, can be comparable in price to rail travel, so many more destinations open up for short-term move.
What CIS University may offer
CIS University is an American University in Madrid that offers various study abroad programs. It serves as a meeting point between people from all over the world. The academic, and social integration that it offers prepares students for their future in an increasingly international, global community.
CIS University is an uncommonly tight-knit learning community, which is often described as “like a big family.” Administrators and professors do everything they can to ensure that our students are well guided through what will ultimately be one of the biggest events of their lives in an exceedingly international setting.
Most of our staff members and faculty have lived and studied abroad, so we understand the needs of our non-Spanish students who make Madrid their temporary home, as well as the needs of our Spanish students who will ultimately finish up their Bachelor’s Degree elsewhere.
Final words
If choosing a US university in Europe may be a tough decision, think first of all the advantages it will have in your future life. It may seem like something you are not prepared for, but if you are determined and put all your efforts in it, the rewards will astonish you!
So, are you ready to make the next important move in your life? Let us be a part of your bright future!
