Many colleges in Europe welcome American students and tend to have lower tuition fees than colleges in the United States. Students can also often complete a degree in a shorter time frame than it takes in the US. With 40 different countries making up the continent, American students have a wide range of choices of where to study. Some of the colleges and universities are located in beautiful, historically important cities. Exposure to different cultures, history, and the opportunity to learn different languages are some of the benefits of studying in Europe.
Explore options for how to go to college in Europe as an American
As an American wanting to go to college in Europe you need to start by identifying institutions and programs that match your interests and career goals. After you have a list, you can start narrowing it down to a specific country and a program.
“Beyond the States” offers insights into accredited degree programs across Europe. You can explore an extensive database that includes more than 11,600 English-taught programs. One of the most popular packages it offers is the Perfect Placement package. It offers you access to the database and personalized guidance to help you with program selection and college admissions. Online courses are also available for you to learn more about topics like choosing a university and the European college admissions process. You should read a complete review on EduReviewer to find out more about this useful platform. For every student seeking admission abroad, it’s a must-have resource.
Evaluate European colleges for American students
To evaluate the different colleges, you will need to ask some of the following questions:
- How many international students study at the college?
- How does the college rank internationally?
- What are the admission requirements?
- What are the tuition fees and living expenses?
- What courses are available?
- Are there support services available?
Checking the QS World University Ranks will give you the commonly accepted rankings of universities across the world. The other information should be available on the college website.
Check application deadlines at colleges in Europe for American students
The semesters at European colleges are different from those in U.S. colleges. At most colleges in Europe, the deadline for early application is in November or December. The deadline for the regular application process is usually in January or February. You need to make sure you’re aware of the application deadlines for the college you want to attend. It’s important to begin the application process as early as possible as you may experience unexpected challenges. You need enough time to gather all the documents and sometimes colleges may request additional documentation.
Find out about scholarships and student aid
Student Aid is available from the U.S. government for students interested in studying in Europe. The Federal Student Aid website has a list of all of the European colleges that participate in the program. Many scholarships based in the U.S. can also be applied to schools outside of the country. The European university you want to attend may also have student aid you can apply for.
Admission requirements at universities in Europe for American students
Every college in Europe has its own admission requirements. All of them will need you to have a high school diploma or equivalent to participate in undergraduate programs. You may need certain grades to do specific courses.
You will have to fill out an application and submit academic qualifications such as your GPA, SAT, and/or ACT scores. The school you select may require you to pass an entrance examination to be eligible for enrollment.
Many colleges also have English proficiency requirements and accept standardized tests like TOEFL and IELTS. Your application will also include an appeal letter for college admission. Most colleges have an online submission system where you can submit your documents and pay your admission fees.
Apply for a study visa to study at colleges in Europe for Americans
Once you have been accepted into a particular program, you can start your application for a study visa. The visa requirements vary by country but you will normally have to supply the following:
- Valid passport
- Acceptance letter from European college
- Bank statements as proof of your financial means
- Medical insurance policy
- Criminal background check
When you arrive in the country where you will study for your degree, you may need to approach the local immigration service to get a residence permit.
Adjusting to life at college in Europe for American students
As an American student, you need to be prepared for the differences in the way of life in Europe. You will need to overcome language barriers and adapt to the local customs and traditions. Knowing something about these beforehand can prevent too much of a culture shock.
You will also need to adapt to a different type of academic environment. Teaching styles and classroom etiquette may be different from what you’re familiar with.
It can be difficult to find accommodation in Europe so you need to start looking as soon as you’re accepted. You may choose to live in accommodation on campus, in a private apartment, or in a shared house.
Healthcare isn’t free for American students so you will need to get it through the college or a private company.
Public transport in Europe is affordable and reliable so it offers you the best way to get around.
Can Americans get into a free college in Europe?
Americans may have the question “Is College in Europe free?” In Europe, free college is often available for local and EU citizens.
Whether college education in Europe is free for Americans will depend on factors such as the country, what you’re studying, and your qualifications. Public universities in Sweden, Norway, Iceland, and Germany are free for some American students. However, the cost of living in these countries is often higher than in the U.S.
It may be difficult for Americans to get into a free college in Europe. However, countries such as Greece, Slovenia, Hungary, and Poland have very affordable tuition fees and the cost of living is low. The only disadvantage may be limited courses in English.
Additional support for students at American schools in Europe
Many colleges in Europe offer additional services to international students. For example, you may get help finding accommodation and have access to local language training, career counseling, and mental health counseling.
How to go to college in England as an American
As an American student, you may want to go to the UK to study at one of its top universities. England is not a part of the European Union and the process to get into a college is a little different. You will obviously still need to meet the university entrance requirements. In England, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) processes all international applications. You will need to create a UCAS profile to submit your application.
Conclusion
As an American student studying at a European university, you will meet people from all over the world. The memories you create when studying abroad will last a lifetime. You will have a chance to explore and broaden your horizons. Your degree and the international experience you gain may just give you a competitive edge in the job market.