Best Universities in Europe in 2024

Europe is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world, offering top-tier education, diverse cultures, and vibrant student life. If you are in the process of deciding which are the best places to study in Europe, this guide will provide an in-depth look at the best universities in Europe, highlighting their strengths, key features, and what makes them stand out on the global stage.

How many English-taught degrees are there in Europe?

Besides the programmes provided by universities in the UK, which (of course) all teach in English, there are plenty of English-taught study programmes for international students on our portals, all located in Europe:

• 30,000+ English-taught Bachelor’s degrees in Europe
• 30,000+ English-taught Master’s degrees in Europe
• 7,000+ English-taught PhD’s degrees in Europe
• 10,000+ English-taught fully online and blended degrees in Europe

* The list above includes available UK degrees.

1. University of Oxford

• Top 0.1% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Oxford (United Kingdom), 150,000 people

The University of Oxford, established in 1096, holds the distinction of being the oldest university in the English-speaking world and among the oldest in Europe. It consistently secures a place among the top universities globally, renowned for its academic excellence and rich history. Oxford's journey is intertwined with the city's evolution, transitioning from a medieval scholarly institution to a modern university. Its iconic architecture and centuries-old traditions continue to captivate students and scholars worldwide. Oxford offers a diverse array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs spanning humanities, sciences, and social sciences. The tutorial system, a unique feature of Oxford's teaching method, ensures personalised education. Oxford takes pride in its illustrious alumni, which include 28 British Prime Ministers, numerous international leaders, Nobel laureates, and influential figures in various fields like Stephen Hawking and J.R.R. Tolkien. The university is a collection of 38 independent colleges, each with its distinct character and community. Students relish a vibrant campus life with many societies, sports clubs, and cultural activities.

2. University of Cambridge

• Top 0.1% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Cambridge (United Kingdom), 140,000 people

The University of Cambridge, established in 1209, is a leading global university renowned for its academic rigour and innovative research. Cambridge's rich history is marked by its contribution to academia and society. The university has been at the forefront of educational reform and scientific discovery for over 800 years. Cambridge offers a broad spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Its emphasis on small-group teaching, known as supervisions, provides students with in-depth understanding and critical thinking skills. Cambridge has produced notable alumni, including Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and 15 British Prime Ministers. Its alumni network spans various industries and countries. The university is made up of 31 autonomous colleges, each fostering a close-knit community. Students engage in a wide range of extracurricular activities, from rowing to drama and music.

3. Imperial College

• Top 0.1% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: London (United Kingdom), 9 mil. people

Imperial College London, founded in 1907, is a science-focused institution known for its excellence in research and innovation. Originally part of the University of London, Imperial became an independent university in 2007. It has since become a leader in science, engineering, medicine, and business. Imperial offers specialised programs in science, engineering, medicine, and business, emphasising practical experience and research opportunities. Imperial's alumni include Nobel laureates, prominent scientists, and influential business leaders, such as Sir Alexander Fleming, who discovered penicillin. Located in the heart of London, Imperial provides a vibrant and multicultural campus life. Students have access to cutting-edge facilities and numerous student clubs and societies.

4. University College London (UCL)

• Top 0.1% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: London (United Kingdom), 9 mil. people

University College London (UCL), established in 1826, is a leading multidisciplinary university known for its research and teaching excellence. UCL was the first university in London and the first in England to admit students regardless of their religion. It has a strong tradition of challenging the status quo and promoting social justice. UCL offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines, including arts and humanities, social sciences, engineering, and medical sciences. UCL's alumni include Mahatma Gandhi, Alexander Graham Bell, and numerous other influential figures in politics, science, and the arts. UCL's central London location offers students access to the city's cultural and professional opportunities. The university has a lively campus with numerous student organisations and events.

5. ETH Zurich

• Top 0.1% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Zürich (Switzerland), 400,000 people

ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, established in 1855, is a world-leading science and technology university in Switzerland. ETH Zurich has a storied history of excellence in science and engineering, contributing significantly to Switzerland's reputation for innovation. ETH Zurich offers a range of programs focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, with a strong emphasis on research. Alumni include Albert Einstein and other Nobel laureates, showcasing its role in producing leading scientists and innovators. The university provides a dynamic campus life with state-of-the-art facilities, numerous student organisations, and a beautiful location in Zurich.

6. University of Edinburgh

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Edinburgh (United Kingdom), 520,000 people

The University of Edinburgh, founded in 1582, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK. Edinburgh's history is steeped in intellectual and scientific achievement, contributing significantly to the Scottish Enlightenment and beyond. The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, particularly in humanities, social sciences, and medical sciences. Notable alumni include Charles Darwin, Sir Walter Scott, and former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown, highlighting Edinburgh's influence across various fields. Edinburgh offers a vibrant student life with a mix of historic and modern facilities. Students can engage in various activities, from academic societies to sports and arts.

7. King's College London

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: London (United Kingdom), 9 mil. people

King's College London, founded in 1829, is a leading research university located in the heart of London. King's has a rich history of contributing to major societal advancements, including pioneering work in the development of DNA structure. King's offers diverse programs in fields such as humanities, law, science, health, and social science, known for integrating research with teaching. King's notable alumni include Florence Nightingale, Desmond Tutu, and Virginia Woolf, demonstrating its broad impact on various sectors. With its central London campuses, King's offers students a dynamic urban experience with numerous academic, cultural, and social activities.

8. University of Manchester

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Manchester, United Kingdom, 550,000 people

The University of Manchester, established in 1824, is known for its strong research output and innovative teaching methods. Manchester has a history of pioneering research, including the development of the modern computer and the discovery of graphene. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, particularly strong in science and engineering, business, and humanities. Alumni include Nobel laureates such as Ernest Rutherford and economists like Sir Arthur Lewis, highlighting Manchester's academic excellence. Manchester's campus life is vibrant, with over 400 student societies, excellent facilities, and a rich cultural scene in the city.

9. Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Lausanne, Switzerland, 130,000 people

The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), founded in 1853, is one of Europe’s most innovative and cosmopolitan technical universities. EPFL has a rich tradition of excellence in engineering and natural sciences, playing a key role in Switzerland's technological advancement. EPFL offers a wide range of programs in engineering, basic sciences, and architecture, known for their interdisciplinary approach. Notable alumni include physicist Jacques Dubochet, reflecting EPFL's impact on science and technology. The Lausanne campus offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, cutting-edge facilities, and a picturesque setting near Lake Geneva.

10. Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU)

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: München (Germany), 1.4 mil. people

Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU) Munich, established in 1472, is one of Europe’s leading research universities, renowned for its academic excellence. LMU has a rich history of academic and scientific achievements, contributing significantly to various fields of study. LMU offers a wide range of programs in humanities, social sciences, medicine, and natural sciences, known for their interdisciplinary approach. Notable alumni include Max Planck and Thomas Mann, reflecting LMU's broad impact on science and literature. The university offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student organisations, cultural activities, and modern facilities in Munich.

11. Paris-Saclay University

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Bures-sur-Yvette (Paris suburb, France), 10,000 people

Paris-Saclay University traces its roots back to 1150 when the University of Paris, one of the oldest universities in Europe, was established. However, its modern form took shape in the early 2000s and quickly became a leading research university in France, known for its scientific and technological research. Paris-Saclay is a relatively new university, formed by merging several existing institutions to create a world-class research hub. The university offers a wide range of programs in science, engineering, social sciences, and humanities, known for their research excellence. As a young institution, Paris-Saclay is rapidly building its reputation and alumni network, already making significant contributions to science and technology. The university provides a dynamic campus life with state-of-the-art facilities, numerous student organisations, and a vibrant location near Paris.

12. Technical University of Munich

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: München (Germany), 1.4 mil. people

The Technical University of Munich (TUM), founded in 1868, is a leading technical university in Germany, known for its research and innovation in science and engineering. TUM has a rich tradition of excellence in engineering and technology, contributing significantly to Germany's industrial and scientific prowess. TUM offers a wide range of programs in engineering, natural sciences, life sciences, and social sciences, known for their practical approach. Notable alumni include Rudolf Diesel (yes, he invented that engine) and Nobel laureate Gerhard Ertl, highlighting TUM's role in technological advancements. The university provides a dynamic campus life with state-of-the-art facilities, numerous student organisations, and a vibrant location in Munich.

13. Sorbonne University

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Paris (France), 2.1 mil. people

Sorbonne University, founded in 1257, is one of the most prestigious universities in France, known for its rich academic tradition. Sorbonne has a long history of academic excellence, contributing significantly to the intellectual and cultural development of France. The university offers a broad range of programs in humanities, sciences, and medicine, known for their interdisciplinary approach. Notable alumni include Marie Curie and Victor Hugo, reflecting Sorbonne's broad impact on science and literature. The university offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student organisations, cultural events, and modern facilities in the heart of Paris.

14. KU Leuven

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Brussels (Belgium), 1.2 mil. people

KU Leuven, founded in 1425, is Belgium’s largest and oldest university, known for its research and academic excellence. KU Leuven has a rich history of contributing to academic and scientific advancements, significantly impacting various fields. The university offers a broad range of programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering, known for their interdisciplinary approach. Notable alumni include theologian Erasmus and several Nobel laureates, highlighting KU Leuven's influence in various fields. The university provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organisations, cultural activities, and modern facilities in Leuven.

15. Heidelberg University

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Heidelberg (Germany), 160,000 people

Heidelberg University, founded in 1386, is Germany’s oldest university, renowned for its research and academic excellence. Heidelberg has a storied history of contributing to academic and scientific advancements, significantly impacting various fields. The university offers a broad range of programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and medicine, known for their interdisciplinary approach. Notable alumni include philosopher Karl Jaspers and Nobel laureate Otto Warburg, reflecting Heidelberg's influence across various disciplines. The university offers a rich campus life with numerous student organisations, cultural events, and modern facilities in the historic city of Heidelberg.

16. University of Amsterdam

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Amsterdam (Netherlands), 820,000 people

The University of Amsterdam, founded in 1632, is one of Europe’s most prominent research universities, known for its academic excellence. Amsterdam has a rich history of contributing to academic and scientific advancements, significantly impacting various fields. The university offers a wide range of programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering, known for their interdisciplinary approach. Notable alumni include Nobel laureate Tobias Asser and writer Anne Frank, reflecting Amsterdam's broad impact on science and literature. The university offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student organisations, cultural activities, and modern facilities in Amsterdam.

17. University of Copenhagen

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Copenhagen (Denmark), 600,000 people

The University of Copenhagen, founded in 1479, is Denmark’s largest and oldest university, known for its research and academic excellence. Copenhagen has a rich history of contributing to academic and scientific advancements, significantly impacting various fields. The university offers a broad range of programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and health sciences, known for their interdisciplinary approach. Notable alumni include physicist Niels Bohr and philosopher Søren Kierkegaard, reflecting Copenhagen's broad impact on science and humanities. The university provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organisations, cultural activities, and modern facilities in Copenhagen.

18. University of Zurich

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Zurich (Switzerland), 400,000 people

The University of Zurich, founded in 1833, is the largest university in Switzerland, known for its broad academic offerings and research. Zurich has a long history of academic excellence, contributing significantly to Switzerland's educational and research landscape. The university offers a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, including law, economics, medicine, and the humanities. Alumni include Carl Jung and several Nobel laureates, highlighting Zurich's influence in various fields. The university provides a rich campus life with numerous student organisations, cultural events, and modern facilities in the heart of Zurich.

19. University of Bristol

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Bristol (United Kingdom), 460,000 people

The University of Bristol, founded in 1876, is known for its strong emphasis on research and high academic standards. Bristol has a rich history of innovation, being the first university in the UK to admit women on an equal basis to men. The university offers a wide array of programs across various disciplines, with particular strengths in engineering, science, and the humanities. Notable alumni include Paul Dirac, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist, and actor Simon Pegg, reflecting its diverse and accomplished alumni network. Located in the vibrant city of Bristol, the university provides a lively campus life with numerous cultural, academic, and social opportunities.

20. University of Glasgow

• Top 0.5% in the world
• Number of students:
• City and population: Glasgow (United Kingdom), 630,000 people

The University of Glasgow, founded in 1451, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK. It has a rich history of academic excellence and has played a significant role in the Scottish Enlightenment and beyond. Glasgow offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, sciences, and social sciences, with a strong emphasis on research and innovation. Notable alumni include renowned physicist Lord Kelvin, economist Adam Smith, and writer and philosopher John Buchan, highlighting Glasgow's influence across various fields. The university's vibrant campus life is characterised by its beautiful historic buildings, state-of-the-art facilities, and a wide array of student societies and cultural activities, providing a dynamic and enriching environment for students.

In conclusion…

Europe's top universities offer a rich blend of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and vibrant student life. Whether you're looking for cutting-edge research opportunities, world-class teaching, or a dynamic campus experience, these institutions provide a solid foundation for your academic and professional future. Explore these prestigious universities and embark on a transformative educational journey.

How we did this…

The list of best universities in Belgium is based on our Studyportals University Meta Ranking, which blends the world's most prestigious international rankings.  

Other resources…

• A Guide on Where to Study in Europe
• How to Apply to a University in Europe in 2023
• Europe Study Visa: the Complete Guide

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Do European universities offer online study programs?

Yes, many European universities offer online study programs. There are over 50 English-taught fully online and blended degrees available in Europe. These programs provide flexibility for students who wish to balance their studies with other commitments.

Can I study part-time at European universities?

Yes, many European universities offer part-time study options. This allows students to balance their education with work or personal commitments. Part-time programs are available at various levels, including bachelor's, master's, and PhD degrees.

Which universities in Europe are the most affordable?

The most affordable universities in Europe often include public institutions in countries like Germany, where many universities charge low or no tuition fees for international students. Other countries with affordable options include Austria, Norway, and Finland, which offer high-quality education at relatively low costs. Eastern Europe is also worth considering, and it is known for providing top quality higher education at lower cost than elsewhere on the continent.

Can international students work while studying in Europe?

Yes, international students can work while studying in Europe. The specific regulations vary by country. Generally, EU/EEA students have the right to work without restrictions, while non-EU/EEA students can typically work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. It's important to check the specific work regulations for the country where you plan to study.