English-Taught Programs in Europe

You can study in Europe in English

Across Europe, many universities offer degree programmes taught entirely in English, even in countries where English is not the main local language. This makes Europe accessible to international students who do not speak the local language.

That said, availability varies a lot by country, university, and subject. English-taught programmes are generally more common at master's level than at bachelor's level, so the level you are applying for affects how many options you will find.

Where English-taught programmes are common

English-taught options are widely available in several countries — the Netherlands and the Nordic countries (such as Sweden, Denmark, and Finland) are well known for offering many, and Germany, France, Italy, Spain and others also offer English-taught degrees, particularly at master's level.

The exact number and range of programmes differ by country and change over time, so use the official study portals and university course catalogues to see what is currently offered for your subject and level.

How to find them

The most reliable way to find English-taught programmes is to search the official "study in" portal for each country and the course catalogues on individual university websites, filtering by language of instruction and level.

Many national portals let you filter programmes by "taught in English". Always confirm the language of instruction, entry requirements, and deadlines on the official university programme page before applying.

• Search each country's official study portal (e.g. studyinnl.org for the Netherlands)
• Filter by language of instruction = English and by degree level
• Confirm details on the individual university programme page

English-language proof

If your programme is taught in English and English is not your first language, universities usually require proof of English proficiency. Commonly accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, and in some cases the Duolingo English Test, but the tests accepted and the minimum scores are set by each university.

Never assume a particular test or score will be accepted. Check the specific programme's admission page for which tests it accepts and the required minimum, and verify the current requirement on the official source.

• Common tests: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, Duolingo English Test (acceptance varies)
• Minimum scores and accepted tests are set per university and programme

A note on local language and daily life

Even if your degree is fully in English, learning some of the local language can help with daily life, part-time opportunities, and integration. Many universities offer local-language courses for international students.

This is a practical consideration, not an admission requirement for an English-taught programme. Check what language support your university offers.