Study in Western Europe

Although Europe is the world's second smallest continent by surface area, it's well known by its exceptionally high level of higher education. In Europe, there are many universities that have long traditions of quality teaching and research. For example, University of Cambridge which according to the QS World University Rankings is the highest ranked university in the world, was formed in 1209.

There are thousands of universities and colleges in Europe, offering a huge variety of courses to choose from. Whether you prefer a large leading research university or a smaller specialized college, you can be certain to find what you are looking for. There is a wide variety of different study programmes available and it's relatively easy to find a course in any area of your interest whether it is Science, History, Psychology, Medicine, Economics, Mathemathics or Social Sciences.

With 50 countries and 600 million people speaking 48 languages, Europe is the perfect place for those who seek for a fantastic cultural experience. Although many universities offer courses in English, you will have the chance to learn in Spanish, German, French or any other local language. If you have always wanted to learn a new language then studying in Europe offer plenty of chances to master either a widespread or more exotic language.

The Bologna Process that has been carried out in most European countries makes it easier for students to study abroad and have their qualifications recognized in all countries joined the Bologna Process. Since the graduate qualifications are unified, the graduate degree is worth the same regardless of the country you study in.

The cost of studying and living in Europe varies considerably by country. Since higher education is one top priority for Europe it is generally much cheaper to obtain a higher education than in the United States for example. There are numerous scholarships available and tuition fees are either moderate or not charged at all.

For more information, please contact StudyWesternEurope EU <- click for e-mail

Why would you send your daughter to an all Girls’ School?

Quality and Transferability of a study in Europe

It is important that your qualifications are internationally recognised. Transferable qualifications aid mobility, making it easier for you to move from studying to launching a career, or to further study elsewhere. In Europe, a number of instruments have been developed to ensure that your qualifications mean something and are recognised, wherever you choose to go.

European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS)
The ECTS was introduced to ensure that periods of study abroad were recognised, thereby enhancing the quality and volume of student mobility in Europe. Recently, the ECTS has been developing into an accumulation system and is increasingly becoming a general reference for national credit systems. It supports the objectives of the Bologna Process by making study programmes easy to read and compare for local and foreign students and by facilitating mobility and academic recognition.

The Diploma Supplement (DS)
The non-recognition and poor evaluation of qualifications is now a global problem. The Diploma Supplement is a document attached to a higher education diploma that provides a standardised description of the nature, level, context, content and status of the studies that were successfully completed by the graduate. The Diploma Supplement provides transparency and facilitates academic and professional recognition of qualifications (diplomas, degrees, certificates).

The DS offers students: a diploma that is more readable and easily comparable abroad; a precise description of their academic career and the competencies acquired during the study period; an objective description of their achievements and competencies; easier access to opportunities for work or further study abroad; improved employability.

The European Quality Charter for Mobility
The European Quality Charter for Mobility [PDF: 69.8KB] offers guidance for periods of mobility in another country for the purposes of formal and non-formal learning. It is aimed at students, trainees, volunteers, teachers and trainers, with a view to enhancing their personal and professional development. The Charter consists of ten principles implemented on a voluntary and flexible basis.

Excerpts from the EU web site: http://ec.europa.eu/education/study-in-europe/