Students get ready to pack your bags and jet off across Europe.
Berlin has been named as the as the top European university city for British students abroad, along with a shortlist featuring many other popular European destinations.
Germany, which largely offers free tuition to students from EU member countries, has ranked top after an analysis of the cost of living, the quality of education, tuition fees and the English taught courses available to study.
The survey, which was organised by TransferWise, the online international banking service, is supposed to help British students make a more informed choice about where they choose to study in Europe.
Unveiling the figures, TransferWise said “We realised students in the UK are simply unaware of the opportunities available to them in Europe, so we thought we’d help them find out what’s on offer.”
The number of students opting for courses abroad has risen significantly in recent years, due to the increase in student fees in the UK. These ‘tuition fee refugees’ are escaping from the highest tuition fees in the world, with average charges of £6,000 per year making UK universities more expensive than comparable institutions in Australia and the US.
Berlin came out on top thanks to its enticing nightlife, efficient and effective transport and its varied culture scene. But which other cities were contenders? Find out below.
Countdown Of The Top Five Cities To Study In Europe
5. Amsterdam(01 of05)
Open Image ModalThe Netherlands might be one of Europe’s smallest countries, but they certainly don’t compromise on experience. The vibrant city fared well in TransferWise’s survey thanks to its theatre, music and history. Beyond the famous coffee and the renowned red light district, nightlife in the city offers something to suit everyone’s tastes. Of course, there are also the health benefits – the principal mode of transport around the city is bicycles. They take over the roads, and have much more right of way than in London. (credit:Sara Winter via Getty Images)
4. Brussels(02 of05)
Open Image ModalThe capital of Belgium and the EU parliament, Brussels is a compact city that provides everything you need, all within easy convenience. Getting around the city is easy enough on foot, but they also have an efficient transport network. Low rent in the city centre means artists are everywhere to be found, and with French, Dutch and German as national languages, you get an unparalleled mix of international communities. (credit:Paola Cravino Photography via Getty Images)
3. Copenhagen(03 of05)
Open Image ModalThere are no tuition fees in Denmark. It’s completely free for EU students. Even better, academic institutions here pride themselves on delivering some great courses in English, and regularly boast top rankings in global tables. But the advantages don’t stop there: Copenhagen, with its coastal landscape, is great for exploration, with many beaches and hikes around the city to enjoy in the sunny months. Being by the waterfront also provides some great food and fish markets, all locally and freshly sourced. (credit:Sean Pavone via Getty Images)
2. Paris(04 of05)
Open Image Modal1. Berlin(05 of05)
Open Image ModalGermany’s capital city has established itself as one of the most popular destinations for young Brits. Tuition is free, and there are increasing numbers of courses in English. The major factor is the cost of living, which is significantly cheaper than in the UK. TransferWise suggest that you’ll be able to find a furnished studio apartment in the vicinity of 500 euro, leaving lots of spare change for drinking (and the German beers are obviously cheap too). Handy, since Berlin has a reputation for its clubs and all night raves. If clubbing isn’t your thing, the culture on offer is incomparable with other European countries – Berlin was at the heart of extreme changes throughout the 20th century and this reflects in its street art, its exhibitions and last standing segments of the Berlin Wall. (credit:Noppasin Wongchum via Getty Images)