Getting a U.S. degree at American universities in Europe
Photo by Karolina Grabowska
There is a large number of American universities and colleges in Europe. These are not only popular with Europeans, but also American students looking to do an exchange or even get their full U.S. degree while immersing themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Europe.
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An American university in Europe is an institution that follows the American system of education, offering programmes and degrees that are similar to those found in universities in the United States. These universities are accredited by recognised U.S. accrediting bodies, ensuring that students’ education meets the U.S. Department of Education standards.
Some programmes offer a dual degree option: Then, you can get an American-accredited degree and a locally accredited degree.
If you’re looking to get your Bachelor or Master at an American university or college in Europe, there are plenty of options in various countries. Here are some of the top American universities in Europe:
| University | Campus | Accredited by | Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| American University of Rome | Rome, Italy | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) | 650+ |
| Anglo-American University | Prague, Czechia | Czech Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), and WSCUC Accreditation | 800+ |
| Bard College Berlin | Berlin, Germany | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) | 300 |
| Central European University | Vienna, Austria | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) | 1,400+ |
| Franklin University Switzerland | Lugano, Switzerland | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) | 400+ |
| Irish American University/American College Dublin | Dublin, Ireland | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) | 100+ |
| John Cabot University | Rome, Italy | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) | 1,700+ |
| Richmond American University London | London, United Kingdom | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), Office for Students (OfS) and Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) | 1,000+ |
| The American College of Greece | Athens, Greece | New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) | 5,100+ |
| The American University of Paris | Paris, France | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) | 1,100+ |
| University of New York in Prague | Prague, Czechia | The British Accreditation Council for Independent Further and Higher Education. Degrees awarded by: State University of New York, Empire State University; and Dublin Business School | 800+ |
| Webster Vienna Private University | Vienna, Austria | Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Accreditation Austria (AQ Austria) | 500+ |
Most American universities in Europe are accredited by the US-based Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The above is just a selection: There are dozens more colleges on the continent! Global American Higher Education has a dashboard with all institutions worldwide.
Pursuing an American degree in a European country offers a unique combination of global recognition, diverse learning experiences, and cultural immersion that can positively contribute to the students’ personal and professional growth.
These are some of its main benefits:
High-Quality Education: American universities in Europe mantain the same high standards and academic rigor as their equivalent institutions in the United States, with degrees often also accredited by U.S. bodies.
Lower tuition fees: In most cases, American universities in Europe offer more affordable tuition fees compared to studying in the United States, making it a cost-effective option.
Global Community: These universities attract a diverse student body from around the world, creating a multicultural learning environment that exposes students to different perspectives and cultures.
Career Opportunities: Studying in Europe can offer access to internships and job opportunities within multinational companies and organizations, enhancing students’ employability.
Familiarity: If you are an American student, you’ll be more familiar with the curriculum.
On average, tuition fees at American Universities in Europe are between €4,000 and €18,000 a year for Bachelor’s degrees and between €5,000 and €20,000 a year for Master’s degrees. Tuition fees differ between EU and non-EU students.
Application fees range between €50 to €100 and are typically non-refundable.
Keep in mind that besides application and tuition fees, there may be other costs, such as fees for language tests, visas, and additional administrative expenses.
Yes, there are scholarships available for international students. Some are merit-based or even targeted at students from a specific country or region. For instance:
Additionally, if you qualify for financial aid in the U.S., you may be able to use it at an American university abroad.
In general, universities require an application form, transcripts of records, standardised test scores, proof of identity, and an application fee during enrollment. However, each university has its own unique set of entry requirements. Some might ask for letters of recommendation, a personal statement or essay, or a portfolio for art degrees.
It is best to check the application guide on the university’s website or contact their office to learn about specific requirements.
In conclusion, American universities in Europe offer a unique opportunity to gain a high-quality education in a multicultural environment. With lower tuition fees than their U.S. counterparts and a wide range of programmes, these institutions are an excellent choice for students seeking an international education experience.
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