Lana Oconnell
The definition of an international student in the EU varies depending on the country and institution. In the UK, for example, students from the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland are now considered international students and pay the same fees as non-EU students. However, EU nationals with settled status may still be eligible for 'home fee status' and pay the same fees as UK nationals. On the other hand, a non-EU student can be considered an EU equivalent student if they hold citizenship in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, or San Marino, or have dual citizenship with an EU country. Additionally, individuals with a permanent resident permit or refugee status in an EU country may also be considered EU students in some cases. When it comes to postgraduate studies in the EU, international students are expected to possess internationally recognized qualifications and may need to meet specific language requirements. Overall, the term international student in the EU context can encompass a range of students from both inside and outside the EU, depending on the specific context and institution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition of an EU student | A citizen of one of the 27 EU member states. |
| Countries included | Finland, Denmark, Belgium, Italy, France, Poland and others. |
| Special cases | Refugees in any EU country, individuals with a permanent resident permit, citizens of Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and San Marino. |
| Residence rights | Right to live in the EU country for the duration of studies if enrolled in an approved educational establishment and with sufficient income. |
| Permanent residence | If you have lived legally in another EU country for a continuous period of 5 years, you acquire the right of permanent residence. |
| Student visas | Required for courses longer than 6 months. |
| Student fees | EU students pay the same fees as international students in the UK. |
| Student finance | Student Finance England provides financial support for undergraduate, postgraduate, and further education. |
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What You'll Learn
EU students in the UK
The UK is a popular destination for international students, attracting over 750,000 each year, including 120,000 from the EU. EU students are welcome in the UK and are eligible for scholarships, health surcharge refunds, and post-study work visas. The UK offers a top-quality education with global job prospects, and its universities are among the oldest and most respected worldwide. Four of the world's top ten universities and 28 of the top 200 are in the UK.
EU students have access to unique courses, generous scholarships, and the Graduate route visa, which allows them to explore their future without time pressure. The UK also offers enriching and practical education, with one-year master's programmes that save time and money. EU students can improve their English in a native-speaking setting, and additional English courses and language support are provided by universities to aid non-native English speakers.
- EU students now pay the same fees as international students in the UK, but universities set their fees, so these can vary.
- EU nationals with settled status may be eligible for 'home fee status' and pay the same fees as UK nationals.
- Irish nationals in the UK or the Republic of Ireland are treated like UK students for fees and funding due to the UK-Ireland Common Travel Area agreement.
- UK nationals living in the EU may be eligible for 'home fee status', subject to eligibility criteria.
- EU students in the UK for longer than six months need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) but may be eligible for a refund.
- Most EU students need a student visa, but those who arrived before 31 December 2020 and have settled status do not.
EU students seeking to study in the UK can seek advice from the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) and organisations like EU Students in the UK, which offers free advice and support to EU students interested in studying in the UK.
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Non-EU students in the EU
If you are a non-EU student who wishes to study in the EU, you may be eligible for a range of scholarships offered by EU governments and universities. These scholarships often take the form of tuition fee waivers or partial tuition fee waivers, bringing your fees down to the level of an EEA student. Some scholarships also cover additional costs such as visas, residence permits, health insurance, and living expenses. Here are some examples of scholarships available to non-EU students in the EU:
- NL Scholarship for Non-EU/EEA Students (Netherlands): Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, this scholarship is for international students from outside the EEA pursuing bachelor's or master's degrees at Dutch research universities or universities of applied sciences. The scholarship amount is €5,000.
- Leiden University Excellence Scholarships (Netherlands): The LExS program offers scholarships of €10,000, €15,000, or a total tuition fee waiver minus the home fee to outstanding non-EU/EEA students pursuing MA, MSc, or LL.M. programs at Leiden University.
- University of Maastricht High Potential Scholarships (Netherlands): UM offers these scholarships to talented students from outside the EEA to pursue master's or graduate programs (excluding the School of Business and Economics). The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, insurance, and visa costs.
- Radboud University Scholarship Programme (Netherlands): The Radboud Scholarship offers talented non-EEA students the opportunity to receive a scholarship covering 25% to 100% of their tuition fees, as well as additional costs such as visas, residence permits, and insurance.
- Lund University Global Scholarships for Non-EU/EEA Students (Sweden): This scholarship program is for top academic students from outside the EU/EEA (including Switzerland) pursuing a master's degree program at Lund University. The scholarships may cover 25% to 100% of the tuition fee, but do not cover living costs.
- Chalmers IPOET Scholarships (Sweden): Chalmers University offers around 50 IPOET scholarships to fee-paying students from outside the EU/EEA pursuing master's degree programs at the university.
- KTH Scholarships (Sweden): KTH offers a limited number of tuition fee waivers for citizens from non-EU/EEA/EFTA countries enrolled in master's programs at KTH.
- Emile Boutmy Scholarships for International Students (France): Sciences Po offers these scholarships to attract top international students from outside the EU who are first-time applicants and have been admitted to undergraduate or master's programs at the university. The scholarship amounts range from €3,000 to €12,300 for undergraduate studies and €5,000 to €10,000 for postgraduate studies.
- University of Oulu International Scholarships (Finland): The University of Oulu provides scholarships to academically talented international students.
- Danish Government Scholarships for Non-EU/EEA Students (Denmark): The Danish Ministry of Education offers scholarships to highly qualified and motivated international students from outside the EU/EEA who wish to pursue full-degree higher education programs in Denmark.
In addition to scholarships, there are other opportunities and considerations for non-EU students wishing to study in the EU:
- Residence Rights: As a non-EU student studying in an EU country, you have the right to live in that country for the duration of your studies, provided you are enrolled in an approved educational establishment and have sufficient income to live without needing income support. After three months, you may be required to register your residence with local authorities to maintain your right to stay.
- Right to Permanent Residence: If you live in an EU country continuously for five years, meeting the conditions to stay, you automatically acquire the right of permanent residence and can stay in that country indefinitely.
- Work Opportunities: In some EU countries, like the Netherlands, non-EU students may be allowed to work part-time during their studies. However, they may need a work permit, which the employer typically applies for. Additionally, non-EU students may have access to internship opportunities, but they also need a work permit to ensure they are not underpaid.
- Exchange Programs: The EU-funded Intra-Africa Academic Mobility scheme organises and supports study exchanges for African master's and doctoral students in another African country.
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EU students in non-EU countries
Tuition Fees and Costs
Tuition fees for EU students in non-EU countries can vary. In the UK, for instance, students from the EU, EEA, and Switzerland now pay the same fees as international students, although there may be exceptions for those with settled status or specific university discounts. In contrast, some countries like Germany and Norway (a non-EU country) do not charge tuition fees to international students, including those from the EU, for many undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Other European countries offer low tuition fees and affordable living costs, making studying abroad financially feasible for EU students.
Admission Procedures and Requirements
Non-EU students, including those from the EU, may need to follow specific admission procedures when applying to universities in non-EU countries. For example, in France, non-European students residing in Europe must directly contact the higher education institutions and file a request for enrolment. They may also need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of language proficiency and residence permits.
Residence Rights and Visa Requirements
EU students planning to study in a non-EU country should be aware of the residence rights and visa requirements. While studying in an EU country, non-EU students have the right to live in the country for the duration of their studies if they are enrolled in an approved educational institution and have sufficient income. Similar requirements may exist in non-EU countries, and students may need to register their residence after a certain period. Additionally, visa requirements may differ, and non-EU students may need to obtain a student visa or a specific type of visa for doctoral programmes.
Exchange Opportunities
The EU also offers exchange opportunities for non-EU students worldwide. For example, the EU-funded Intra-Africa Academic Mobility scheme organises and supports exchanges for African students in another African country.
Overall, EU students planning to study in a non-EU country should research the specific requirements, costs, and opportunities associated with their destination country. Understanding the admission procedures, tuition fees, residence rights, and visa requirements will help ensure a smooth transition to studying outside the EU.
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Residence rights
EU citizens have the right to move to any EU country to live, work, or study. They can stay in another EU country for up to three months without registering. However, if they intend to stay longer, they may need to register their residence. After three months, the host country may require them to register with local authorities to confirm their right to stay as a student. EU citizens who have lived legally in another EU country for a continuous period of five years automatically acquire the right of permanent residence in that country.
Non-EU citizens who wish to study in the EU will typically need a residence permit. The requirements and procedures for obtaining a student residence permit may vary depending on the country. For example, in Germany, international students must obtain a student residence permit to enrol in a German educational institution. This permit is typically valid for one year and can be extended for the duration of the study program. The Ausländerbehörde (Foreigner's Authority) is responsible for handling residence permit applications. Non-EU citizens may also need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of sufficient income, health insurance, and a valid visa (if required).
Special Cases
There are also special cases where non-EU students can be considered "EU equivalent students." For example, at the International Univpm, a non-EU student can be considered an EU equivalent student if they hold citizenship of specific countries (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, or San Marino) or have dual citizenship, including an EU country. Additionally, holding a regular residence permit issued by the Italian government or a "Carta di soggiorno" for UK citizens can also grant EU equivalent status.
It's important to note that residence rights may vary from country to country within the EU, and specific universities may have their own requirements and guidelines. International students should always refer to the official websites and authorities of their intended country of study to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding residence rights and requirements.
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Language requirements
English Language Requirements
To study at a university in Europe, international students may need to demonstrate proficiency in English, especially if the programme is taught in English. Universities across Europe generally require students to have at least a B2 level of English, which can be proven through recognised tests such as IELTS, TOEFL iBT, or academic tests like IELTS Academic and IELTS Online. It is important to note that IELTS test results are valid for two years, and universities may accept older test results as long as they are available for verification.
Some universities may also accept other forms of documentation, such as a certificate or letter stating that English was the language of instruction during your previous studies. This could include a bachelor's degree or 60 ECTS credits from certain countries with English as the language of instruction.
Other Language Requirements
In addition to English, international students may need to meet the local language requirements of the country they plan to study in. For example, German language proficiency is required for admission to universities in Germany, such as Heidelberg University, which accepts the Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH) Level 2 or TestDaF with a minimum result of TDN 4.
Similarly, the College of Europe, with English and French as its working languages, requires students to have a minimum level of C1 in English and B1/B2 in French. They also offer language courses in French, German, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, and Arabic, where students can add another language to their skillset.
Planning and Preparation
It is important to check the specific language requirements of your chosen university and programme before applying. Each university's website should outline the required language tests and proficiency levels needed for admission. Additionally, it is recommended to take language proficiency tests well in advance, as it can take a few weeks to receive the results, and test scores must be valid at the time of application submission.
Furthermore, learning the local language can greatly benefit your overall experience, helping you communicate easily with locals and improving your job prospects for part-time or full-time work during your studies.
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Frequently asked questions
An international student in the EU is a citizen of a non-EU country enrolled in a degree programme at an EU university. EU international students come from different countries and cultural backgrounds, making the EU a diverse cultural hub.
International students are expected to possess internationally recognised qualifications to qualify for postgraduate studies in the EU. They may also need to meet language qualifications, as the language of instruction varies across EU institutions.
The EU is recognised worldwide for providing quality higher education at reasonable costs. International students can benefit from diverse course options and the opportunity to experience diverse cultures.
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