Affordable cross-country travel, sunny weather, breathtaking mountains, gorgeous beaches and a mix of history and culture, Europe truly has a lot to offer. With some of the best schools in the world for everything from cooking to business, Europe is one of the most attractive destinations for international students. With several European countries offering free education to citizens, it means even more reason to consider why you should get a European passport.
Why Study in Europe?
Europe offers quality education, with some of the most high-ranking universities which also offer English-speaking programs. The availability of programs in a widely accepted language makes it an accessible option for international students worldwide. European degrees are shorter than North American ones which allows you to save your tuition cost and living expenses by at least a year.
What’s more, the cost and ease of travelling from one country to another allows one to experience diverse cultures contributing to personal development. But just how do you go about studying in Europe as a Canadian?
Where Do I Start?
Budget Out Your Total Expenses
There are many countries in Europe where education is free, but the cost of living can be a bit high. It is also important to ensure that the law in that country allows part-time work (if that is something you are planning to do to meet your expenses). Consider the cost of your accommodation, health insurance, transportation expenses, day to day living expenses (such as groceries, going out with friends, books etc.) and tuition.
Pick Your Country
While it is important to consider expenses, it is also imperative to consider which country’s economy is hustling and bustling and presents more employment opportunities for new graduates. You should factor in the living conditions, climate, and politics of the country you decide to choose as that will determine the course of your student years in that country.
How Do I Apply?
Conduct thorough research for the countries/cities that fit the above criteria, check the admission requirements of potential universities and fee requirements to streamline your options.
If budget and time permits, it might be worth paying the universities a visit to talk to existing students, check out student accommodations, take a university tour and get a preview of how life would be like at a European university. It will also allow you to get a feel for the city and help see if it is a good fit.
Explore the programs that fit with what you want to do, shortlist the universities you are seeking admission to and review their application requirements. Start working on application requirements such as admission forms, essays, and other required admission formalities. Also check to see if the universities offer any grants/scholarships that you can qualify for.
If you are a Canadian citizen, you are automatically eligible for a Schengen visa under the visa-free travel agreement and if you have European ancestry, our experts at EuroPassport can help you obtain your legal European citizenship. So, once you are accepted, all that is required of you is to arrange travel and accommodation!
Want to Learn More?
Thinking about studying in Europe? With a European citizenship, studying in Europe becomes much easier. EuroPassport makes the process of acquiring your EU citizenship by descent simpler than ever before. Our expert legal & genealogical team takes all the headache out of completing your citizenship application and obtaining your passport. We source all the documents required to get you the citizenship you deserve!
If you’re interested in applying for European citizenship by ancestry, take our quick pre-screening assessment today and find out if you may be eligible.
Have more questions about the process and whether you may be eligible? Check out our FAQs or contact us today to learn more.