Over 1.76 million international students are studying in the EU, with nearly 45% enrolled in master's programs. Interest from countries like India is also rising; student numbers from cities like Lucknow have grown by 40%, driven by affordable tuition, post-study visas, and simpler entry routes.
Masters programs in Europe typically last 1–2 years and cover fields such as engineering, business, data science, and public policy. Courses combine theory with applied learning through research or industry projects, offering options ranging from MSc and MA to niche specializations such as Artificial Intelligence and sustainability.
With affordable tuition, post-study work (PSW) options, and a wide range of English-taught courses, Europe remains a top destination for postgraduate education.
Masters Programs in Europe: Overview
Masters programs in Europe are structured around 120 ECTS credits, with universities like ETH Zurich and the University of Oxford offering flexible extensions for research or internships.
Tuition for masters degree in Europe varies sharply; non‑EU students in countries like the Netherlands or Finland pay between €6,000 (INR 6L) and €20,000 (INR 20L) annually, while Universities in Switzerland charge as low as CHF 1,600 (INR 1.7L). Here’s an overview of key program features, course types, costs, and top institutions.
Feature
Details
Duration
1 – 2 years (120 ECTS), extendable with dissertation or internships
Intakes
Main intake: Fall (September/October)
Secondary intake: Spring (January/February, limited programs) and Summer
While structure and duration help set expectations, the real pull lies in what a European degree can unlock. Let’s explore why students worldwide are actively choosing Europe.
Why Pursue Masters Programs in Europe?
Masters Europe programs are structured under the Bologna system, offering 1– 2 year degrees that are internationally recognized and credit-transferable across more than 40 countries. Universities adhere to a 90–120 ECTS credit framework, ensuring consistency in academic standards and facilitating global mobility.
Here are the key reasons to consider a master’s in Europe:
Low or No Tuition Fees: Public universities in Germany, Norway, and Austria charge no tuition to international students. In France and the Netherlands, programs typically cost between €2,000 (INR 2L) and €20,000 (INR 20L) annually, well below tuition levels in the U.S. or the UK.
Strong Employment Outcomes: Business school graduates in Europe earn around $88,500 (INR 75L) in finance and $85,000 (INR 72.8L) in consulting (FT). Master's programs in tech and analytics have job placement rates exceeding 90% within six months.
Industry-Linked Curriculum: Programs embed internships, company-led research, or Erasmus+ placements. German, French, and Swedish universities lead in integrating real-world training with academic study.
Post-Study Work Options: Germany, Ireland, and the Netherlands offer 18 to 24-month post-study visas, providing graduates with a defined window to gain local work experience and offset their educational costs.
International Learning Environment: Over 1.76 million international students study in the EU. English-taught programs are standard, even in countries like Italy or Finland, attracting students from Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Together, these benefits make masters Europe program one of the most cost-effective and career-aligned destinations for postgraduate study.
Strong employability and academic flexibility mean little without quality institutions. Let’s now look at the top universities driving this trend across Europe.
Top Universities Offering Masters Programs in Europe
Europe’s top-ranked universities combine academic strength with affordability. ETH Zurich charges just CHF 730 (INR 78K) per semester, while PSL Paris offers full master's degree programs under €601 (INR 60K) annually.
At the other end, Imperial College London’s STEM-focused programs can reach up to £40,800 (INR 47.5L) per year. The table below highlights key programs, tuition, and deadlines across leading institutions.
University
Program
Semester Tuition Fees
Duration & Deadline
ETH Zurich
MSc in Computer Science, MSc in Physics, MSc in Architecture
CHF 730 (INR 78K) per semester (for students including EU/EFTA)
MSc in Environmental Management, MSc in Engineering
SEK 135,000 to SEK 170,000 (INR 12L to INR 15.2L)
Duration: 2 years
Deadline: 15 January 2025 (Closed)
University of Amsterdam
MSc in Business Administration, MSc in Artificial Intelligence
€17,100 (INR 17.1L)
Duration: 1-2 years
Deadline: September 2025
Uppsala University
MSc in Sustainable Development, MSc in Computer Science
SEK 50,000 to SEK 72,500 (INR 4.5L to INR 6.5L)
Duration: 2 years
Deadline: 15 January 2025 (Closed)
Once you've explored the top options, the next step is understanding whether you meet the academic and language benchmarks for masters degree in Europe. Here's what most universities require.
Eligibility Requirements for Masters Programs in Europe
European universities typically require a minimum 3-year bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS) with at least a 2.5–3.0 GPA or 55–75% academic score. While a GRE is rarely needed, proof of funds, such as €10,332 (INR 10.3L) for Germany, and IELTS 6.5+ are mandatory for visa processing.
The table below outlines the complete academic, language, and visa-related eligibility criteria.
Criteria
Sub-Criteria
Details
Academic Requirements
Educational Qualification
Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years, 180 ECTS) in a relevant field for Master’s programs
Some programs may require a specific background (e.g., social sciences, engineering, life sciences)
Academic Score
2.5–3.0/4.0 or 55–75% (UK programs typically require 2:1 or 2:2 honours, which is roughly 60–70%)
Academic Transcripts
Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions must be translated and/or evaluated
Usually 1–2 (sometimes 3) from academic or professional referees
Resume/CV
Required: resume format should detail education, skills, and relevant experience
Work or Internship Experience
Not always required, but recommended for programs, especially business, management, or professional master’s
Meeting the criteria is only the starting point. Applying to European universities involves specific steps and documents. Let’s take a look at it.
Application Process to Apply for Masters Programs in Europe
Applying to masters programs in Europe involves more than just meeting academic requirements; it also requires managing deadlines, preparing documents, and aligning with each country’s unique process.
Since there’s no single admission portal across Europe, every university has its own timeline and submission format, making early planning essential. Here’s how to guide the process in clear steps:
Step 1: Research & Shortlist Programs: Choose a country and an ideal course, taught or research-based, based on your career goals, language of instruction, and budget. Check ECTS credits, modules, research opportunities, and whether there are Erasmus or internship options.
Step 2: Check Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet requirements: a relevant bachelor’s degree (minimum GPA ~2.5–3.0/4.0), and proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5–7.0 or TOEFL iBT 90+). Business programs may ask for the GRE/GMAT.
Step 4: Prepare and Submit Documents: Once eligibility and test results are confirmed, assemble the documents required by your chosen universities. Typical requirements include:
Test score reports (IELTS/TOEFL/GRE, if applicable)
Proof of funds and a passport copy
Step 4: Apply via University Portals: Apply directly through university portals (e.g., TUMonline, Studielink, or each institution’s system). There’s no central application system like UCAS for master’s.
Step 5: Apply for a Visa/Residence Permit: Once you get an offer, apply for a national or Schengen long-stay student visa (Type D). Required documents include:
Valid passport
Acceptance letter
Financial proof
Health insurance
Accommodation proof
Biometric data
Step 6: Arrange Pre‑Departure Essentials: After visa approval, finalize housing, health insurance, and travel arrangements. Universities such as ETH Zurich and Uppsala University may require pre-arrival forms, enrollment confirmation, and participation in an orientation program.
With applications in progress, it helps to understand how these masters Europe programs are built, from core modules to specialisation tracks. Here's how European master’s degrees are academically structured.
Masters Programs in Europe: Course Structure & Specialization
Master’s programs in Europe are structured around core modules like advanced research methods, policy frameworks, and discipline‑specific subjects such as AI, environmental law, or cultural science programs (BS). Students can customize their degree through specialisations like Sustainable Engineering or Human Rights.
The table below breaks down the academic structure and specialization tracks for masters programs in Europe.
Alongside academic planning, budgeting for tuition and living expenses plays a major role in decision-making. Let’s explore what to expect financially.
Cost of Studying Masters Programs in Europe
Monthly student expenses in Europe range from €800 to €2,300 (INR 80K to INR 2.3L), depending on location, with housing and tuition being the largest contributors. Countries like Germany and France offer low tuition but vary in living costs.
The table below breaks down the typical monthly cost of living in Europe for international master’s students.
Purpose
Monthly Expenses (EUR)
Monthly Expenses (INR)
Tuition Fees
€250–€1,500 (semester fee per month average)
INR 25K to INR 1.5L
Housing
€300–€800
INR 30K to INR 80K
Food and Groceries
€200–€400
INR 20K to INR 40K
Books and Course Materials
€50–€100
INR 5K to INR 10K
Transport
€50–€100
INR 5K to INR 10K
Health Insurance
€20–€200
INR 2K to INR 20K
Miscellaneous Cost (Socializing, Travel etc)
€100–€200
INR 10K to INR 20K
Note:
INR conversions are based on the current exchange rate.
Monthly expenses are averaged in EUR for consistency, but actual figures may vary based on country-specific currency rates, city type, and student lifestyle.
Although tuition can vary widely, several internal and external scholarships can significantly reduce costs. Here's how you can access financial support for pursuing masters programs in Europe.
Scholarships & Financial Aids for Pursuing Masters Programs in Europe
With tuition ranging from €243 at PSL to over £40,000 at Imperial, financial support is crucial for many international students. European universities and third-party organisations offer full or partial scholarships based on merit, academic record, and country of origin.
Let’s explore both internal and external funding options available across top institutions.
Internal Scholarships
Universities like Oxford, Lund, ETH Zurich, and Uppsala offer merit-based fully funded scholarships, some covering full tuition, others offering support up to CHF 12,000 (INR 12.9L) or £19,237 (INR 22.3L) annually. These are competitive and usually awarded to students with top academic credentials and leadership potential.
The table below lists notable internal awards and their key criteria.
Scholarship
Type
Details
Lund University Global Scholarship
Merit-based
Eligibility: Proven track record of high academic performance and a strong fit for Lund University’s programmes
Benefits: 100% of tuition
Weidenfeld‑Hoffmann Scholarships (Oxford)
Merit-based
Eligibility: Graduates/professionals from emerging economies with leadership potential
Eligibility: Good result in Bachelor’s degree programme (Grade A)
Benefits: Up to CHF 12,000 (INR 12.9L)
Uppsala University Global Scholarship
Merit-based
Eligibility: Citizens of countries outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland
Benefits: Full tuition fee
If you're applying across countries or programs, external funding bodies also provide substantial aid. Here's a list of global and regional scholarships worth considering.
External Scholarships
External funding options like the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship and Sweden’s SI Global Professionals scheme support students across countries, with grants ranging from INR3L to over SEK 12,000 (INR 1L) monthly. Indian nationals can also access private awards such as Education Future and WeMakeScholars scholarships.
The table below summarises popular external schemes and their benefits.
Scholarship
Type
Details
SI Scholarship for Global Professionals
Merit-based
Eligibility: Must have applied to a Master's programme in Sweden
Eligibility: Applicant should be an Indian national with a valid Indian passport
Benefits: Up to INR 10L
WeMakeScholars Scholarship
Merit-based
Eligibility: Indian citizenship with 55% in 10th and 12th standard
Benefits: Up to INR 3L
Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
Merit-based
Eligibility: A relevant Bachelor's degree or equivalent, and not having previously received an EMJMD scholarship
Benefits: €1,000 (INR 1L)
Once funded and completed, a masters Europe degree can open doors to high-paying careers in tech, policy, and consulting. Here's what graduates typically move into.
Career Opportunities After Completing Masters Programs in Europe
Graduates from European master’s programs see strong job opportunities in Europe. Public policy professionals and international relations experts can earn over €100,000 (INR 1Cr) annually, while AI/ ML engineers average €65,000 (INR 65L).
Fields like consulting, data science, and environmental management also report competitive salaries across Germany, France, and the Netherlands. The table below outlines key job roles and earnings after masters degree in Europe.
INR conversions are based on the current exchange rate.
Salaries vary by country, setting (e.g., hospital vs. industry), experience, and specialization.
These are average national figures; compensation may be higher in major hubs like the U.S., Switzerland, or Canada.
Understanding salary ranges is helpful, but knowing which companies are actively hiring offers sharper insight. Below are major employers recruiting master's graduates across Europe.
Top Recruiters
Graduates from European master's programs are actively hired across the Information Technology, consulting, engineering, finance, and manufacturing sectors. Employers value international degrees for their academic strength, research focus, and strong alignment with industry needs.
Leading companies in Europe offer structured graduate schemes, early-career tracks, and rotational roles, especially in Germany, France, the Netherlands, and the UK. Top recruiters include:
Siemens: Hires master's graduates for roles in digital engineering, smart infrastructure, and automation systems. Programs run across Germany and other EU nations.
Airbus: Offers graduate entry points in aerospace engineering, materials science, and production planning, with hubs in France, Germany, and Spain.
Bosch: Recruits for embedded systems, software development, and product design. Germany remains the most prominent intake location.
BMW Group: Focuses on sustainability, innovation, and manufacturing roles. Entry-level positions span engineering, IT, and operations.
PwC: Offers rotational programs in financial consulting, cyber risk, and ESG analysis. The UK and France are major hiring markets.
Amazon: Operates graduate schemes in operations, supply chain management, and business intelligence across France, Luxembourg, and Germany.
BlackRock: Recruits for analyst roles in finance, portfolio strategy, and tech operations, with European offices in Budapest, London, and Zurich.
These companies actively seek international master's graduates due to their research exposure, multilingual abilities, and adaptability to complex regulatory and business environments.
From university selection to post-admission support, expert guidance can simplify your study abroad journey. Here's how upGrad assists you at every stage for masters degree in Europe.
How Can upGrad Support Your Journey to Study Masters Programs in Europe?
Studying for a master’s in Europe involves several steps, from selecting the right country and university to meeting academic and language requirements. Choosing a program aligned with your career goals, be it in data science, business, or public policy, is crucial.
upGrad guides you from the start by helping you shortlist Master’s programs that match your background and ambitions. Their experts offer one-on-one support with SOPs, LORs, test prep, scholarships, visa planning, and final application checks.
Book a 1:1 session with an upGrad expert today to avoid common errors, select the right master's program, and ensure your application meets the standards of European universities.
FAQs
What are the advantages of choosing a non-English-speaking country for a master's program in Europe?
Studying in a non-English-speaking European country often comes with lower tuition. Public universities in Germany, Austria, and Norway frequently charge no tuition, even for non‑EU students. You gain linguistic skills and cultural immersion, boosting adaptability and job prospects.
How do European credit systems (like ECTS) affect the duration and transferability of master’s degrees?
Master’s programs under the Bologna Process use ECTS, reflecting workload and ensuring consistency across Europe. One ECTS equals 25–30 hours of work. This system facilitates credit transfers and programme recognition across universities, helping students smoothly continue their education.
Are there any countries in Europe where international students can study a master’s degree tuition-free?
Yes. Germany, Norway, Austria, and Sweden offer tuition-free master's programs at public universities to international students. The Netherlands and France have moderate fees (€2,000–€20,000 or INR 2L to INR 20L per year), which are significantly lower than those in the U.S. or the UK.
Can I work part-time while pursuing a master's in Europe, and what are the restrictions?
Yes. In Germany, non-EU students can work 120 full or 240 half days per year. France allows up to 964 hours annually (~20 hours/week). Finland caps the average at 30 hours/week. The Netherlands requires employer permits for up to 16 hours/week.
How do dual-degree or joint-master’s programs work between European universities?
Dual/joint master’s are structured through university partnerships or Erasmus Mundus consortia. Students study at two or more institutions, earning either separate degrees (dual) or a single jointly awarded diploma. Tuition is administered by host universities, often with funding from the Erasmus Mundus program.
What’s the difference between taught and research-based master’s programs in Europe?
Taught master’s involves structured coursework (60–90 ECTS) and an optional project. Research-based degrees have minimal coursework and focus on thesis/research (often 60+ ECTS). Taught programs suit industry entry; research paths feed into PhD or R&D careers.
Are there any age limits or work experience requirements for applying to European master’s programs?
European universities usually impose no age limits. Work experience is not mandatory, except for specific professional courses (e.g., MBA, executive master’s). Some Erasmus Mundus and Germany DAAD scholarships may require 1–2 years of relevant post-graduate experience.
How competitive are admissions for top European master's programs compared to US or UK counterparts?
Top European programs (e.g., ETH Zurich, EPFL, LSE) are highly competitive, requiring GPAs ≥3.2/4.0, strong IELTS/TOEFL scores, and standout SOPs/LORs. Admission rates often hover around 10–20%, comparable to those of mid-tier US and UK universities.
Can I transfer from a European master’s program to a university on another continent?
Yes. Since ECTS credits are widely recognised, universities in Australia, Canada, and the US often accept them. However, transfer decisions depend on the receiving institution's policies, accreditation, and course equivalences. Strong academic records and course mapping enhance transfer success.
What cultural or academic challenges do international students typically face while studying in Europe?
Common challenges include adapting to varied teaching styles, ranging from lecture-heavy systems in Italy to seminar-driven formats in the Netherlands, as well as guiding language barriers in daily life, and adjusting to different social norms, such as formality in Germany or indirect communication in Scandinavia.
Which European countries offer post-study work visas after completing a master’s degree?
Germany grants an 18-month job-seeker visa; France provides an APS visa now extendable up to 5 years. The Netherlands offers a 12-month Orientation Year visa, Sweden gives a 12-month residence permit, Ireland allows 24 months, and the UK offers 2–3 years under its Graduate Route.
