Indian students turn to Europe for higher education and better work opportunities

As tuition fees and living costs soar in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, Indian students are now choosing more affordable European countries for higher education. Austria, Malta, Portugal, and Spain are emerging as preferred destinations due to lower fees, affordable living, and post-study work opportunities, as per a report by The Times of India.

These nations offer English-taught courses, simpler visa rules, and a range of educational programs. This shift marks a growing trend of Indian students looking beyond traditional destinations.

Indian students are increasingly picking European countries such as Austria, Malta, Portugal, and Spain for their education. These countries offer lower living costs, quality education, and clear job pathways after graduation.

Affordable living is one of the main reasons for this shift. In Austria, on-campus housing ranges between €250 and €1,000 per month, and off-campus flats cost €250 to €700 in cities like Vienna and Graz. Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) ranges from €350 to €1,200 per month.

Malta offers similar options. On-campus housing costs €250 to €700 per month. Off-campus flats range from €300 to €1,200, and PBSAs start at €600 per month.

Portugal’s on-campus housing is priced between €150 and €800 per month. Flats outside campuses cost between €250 and €1,000. Spain has similar housing options, though some on-campus rates are listed weekly, ranging from €200 to €700, and off-campus flats cost between €400 and €1,300 per week.

European universities are also gaining popularity. Austria’s University of Vienna and Technische Universität Wien offer courses in engineering and social sciences. The University of Malta is noted for programs in IT, health sciences, and business. Portugal has the University of Lisbon and the University of Porto, strong in data science and management. Spain features institutions like the University of Barcelona and Complutense University of Madrid offering courses in medicine, architecture, and social sciences, according to the TOI report.

These countries allow students to work 20 hours per week during their studies. After graduation, Austria provides a 12-month Jobseeker’s Residence Permit. Malta offers a one-year internship visa, extendable with a job offer. Portugal gives an 18-month job search permit, and Spain allows a one-year post-study permit with possible renewal for high-demand jobs.

Portugal also offers a startup visa, supporting students interested in launching tech businesses after graduation.

Monthly living costs in these countries range from €675 to €1,400, making them more budget-friendly compared to other global education hubs. With affordable education, strong career prospects, and supportive visa policies, Austria, Malta, Portugal, and Spain are now at the forefront of higher education choices for Indian students.

(With inputs from TOI)