Study in Europe in English 2026: Low-Cost Master's & Visas
Study in Europe in English — affordable tuition in Germany, the Netherlands, Ireland and the Nordics, English-taught master's programmes, requirements and scholarships.
▶ Free College Predictor & study-abroad toolsOverview of English-Taught Programs in Europe
Thousands of English-taught master's programmes exist across Europe. Germany offers free or very low tuition; the Netherlands charges roughly EUR 6,000–25,000 per year; Ireland EUR 9,000–20,000; and the Nordics range from free (for some) to EUR 7,000–20,000. Most programmes run 1–2 years. Confirm current tuition and scholarship policies with universities, as they change annually.
Germany: Tuition-Free or Nearly Free
Most German public universities charge little or no tuition for master's programmes, including for international students in most states (typically a small semester fee). Living costs run about EUR 850–1,200 per month, and health insurance is required. Germany offers many English-taught master's in engineering, business, IT and the sciences. You typically need a bachelor's degree, motivation letter, and English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL 80–100, IELTS 6–6.5).
Netherlands: Affordable and English-Friendly
The Netherlands has many English-taught programmes. Tuition ranges roughly EUR 6,000–25,000 per year depending on the institution. Living costs are about EUR 1,000–1,500 per month in big cities, lower elsewhere. English is widely spoken, making daily life easy. Top universities offer scholarships, and the student visa requires proof of funds for the first year plus an acceptance letter.
Ireland, the Nordics, and Others
Ireland: public universities charge roughly EUR 9,000–16,000 per year, with a 2-year post-study work option. Denmark, Sweden and Finland: free for EU students and EUR 6,000–16,000 for others, with higher living costs. France charges low public-university fees, and Spain is moderate. All offer English-taught programmes in major cities. Confirm current policies with each country's education ministry.
English Proficiency and Application Requirements
Most European universities accept TOEFL (80–100), IELTS (6–6.5), or PTE (58–75), and some accept the Duolingo English Test. German programmes may ask for some German if the course is bilingual. Applications usually open in autumn for the following autumn intake; apply 4–6 months ahead. Prepare transcripts, references, a CV and a statement of purpose in English.
Visa, Scholarships, and Next Steps
Most European countries grant student visas/residence permits for the programme length, with renewals. You must show proof of funds for living costs and tuition. Scholarships include Erasmus Mundus (full tuition plus stipend), DAAD (Germany), and many university awards. Search MastersPortal and university sites, and apply to several programmes and scholarships in parallel. Build your English score now — practise free on LandingPrep to meet requirements comfortably.