Are you unsure whether to study in the USA or Europe? Which destination will help you thrive as an international student?
To get the right answer to this question, you need to consider many factors. From the education system to top universities to career opportunities, every aspect matters.
By the end of this blog, you will be able to decide whether studying in the USA is a good idea, or whether Europe is better for you.
USA vs. Europe: key highlights
Before we dig deep into various aspects of studying in the USA vs. Europe, here are some key differences you can check out:
| Aspect | USA | Europe |
| Popular courses | STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), Business, and Medicine | Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Engineering, Business, and Law |
| Top universities | Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Princeton, University of Chicago | Oxford, Cambridge, ETH Zurich, Sorbonne, TU Munich |
| Admission requirements | SAT/ACT for bachelor’s GRE/GMAT for master’sTOEFL/IELTS for English proficiencyStrong academic records |
Varies by countryMostly IELTS/TOEFLSome countries require specific entrance exams like the TestAS (Germany) |
| Avg. cost of a bachelor’s degree | INR 21.27 lakhs – INR 42.53 lakhs per year at private universities | INR 4.42 lakhs – INR 17.7 lakhs per year, public universities offer lower fees or free education (e.g., Germany, Norway) |
| Avg. cost of a master’s degree | INR 17.01 lakhs – INR 51.04 lakhs per year at private universities | INR 8.85 lakhs – INR 2.21 lakhs per year; some public institutions charge nominal fees |
| Scholarships | Fulbright, Inlaks Scholarships, Tata Scholarship for Cornell, AAUW International Fellowships | Erasmus Mundus, DAAD (Germany), Eiffel Scholarships (France), Chevening Scholarships (UK) |
| Student visa requirements | F1 Visa requires proof of financial stability, SEVIS fee payment, and intent to return to India | Varies by country; Schengen Visa for many EU countries, Tier 4 Visa for the UK |
| Popular industries | Technology, Engineering, Healthcare, Finance, Business Management | Research, Academia, Technology, Arts, Engineering, Social Sciences |
| Employment opportunities | 1-year OPT (Optional Practical Training) post-graduation; STEM graduates get a 2-year extension | Post-study work visa varies by country (2 years in the UK, 18 months in Germany); job markets are competitive but robust in tech and research |
| Climate | Diverse; cold winters in the North, warm in the South, and varied coastal climates | Mostly temperate with colder winters in Northern Europe and Mediterranean climate in Southern Europe |
Popular courses in the USA vs. Europe
Where the USA is known for its business, STEM, and medicinal programs, European countries are mostly known for their humanities, arts, engineering, law, business, and social sciences programs.
Popular courses in the USA for international students
Here is a list of top courses offered by universities in the USA, that are in high demand amongst top recruiters:
| Fields of study | Top universities offering the program |
| Computer Science | MIT, Stanford, Carnegie Mellon, UC Berkeley |
| Engineering | MIT, Stanford, Caltech, Georgia Tech |
| Business Administration | Harvard, Wharton (UPenn), Stanford, Columbia |
| Medicine | Harvard, Johns Hopkins, Stanford, UCLA |
| Data Science | MIT, UC Berkeley, NYU, University of Michigan |
| Law | Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Columbia |
| Biotechnology | Harvard, MIT, UC San Diego, Johns Hopkins |
| Public Health | Johns Hopkins, Harvard, Columbia, University of Michigan |
| Artificial Intelligence | Stanford, MIT, Carnegie Mellon, UC Berkeley |
| Economics | Harvard, MIT, University of Chicago, Stanford |
Popular courses in Europe for international students
Here is a list of top courses offered by European universities that are in high demand amongst top recruiters:
| Fields of study | Top universities offering the program |
| Medicine | University of Cambridge, Karolinska Institute, Heidelberg University |
| Engineering | ETH Zurich, TU Munich, Imperial College London, Delft University of Technology |
| Environmental Science | University of Edinburgh, University of Copenhagen, Wageningen University |
| Fashion Design | Polimoda (Italy), Central Saint Martins (London), Istituto Marangoni (Milan) |
| Computer Science | University of Cambridge, ETH Zurich, Technical University of Munich |
| Economics | London School of Economics, University of Oxford, Université PSL |
| Architecture | TU Delft, ETH Zurich, Politecnico di Milano, University of Edinburgh |
| Political Science | Sciences Po, University of Amsterdam, University of Copenhagen |
| Artificial Intelligence | University of Amsterdam, KU Leuven, University of Edinburgh |
| Business & Management | London School of Economics, INSEAD, HEC Paris, Bocconi |
Also Read: Top Exams For Studying Abroad [Comprehensive Guide]
Top universities in the USA vs. Europe
From MIT to the University of Oxford to ETH Zurich, the USA and Europe have many high-ranking universities offering quality education globally.
Top universities in the USA in 2025
Here are the 10 highest-ranking universities in the USA as per QS World University Rankings 2025:
| Universities | QS global rankings |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 |
| Harvard University | 4 |
| Stanford University | 6 |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 10 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 11 |
| University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 12 |
| Cornell University | 16 |
| University of Chicago | 21 |
| Princeton University | 22 |
| Yale University | 23 |
Top universities in Europe in 2025
Here are the 10 highest-ranking universities in Europe as per QS World University Rankings 2025:
| Universities | QS global rankings |
| Imperial College London, United Kingdom | 2 |
| University of Oxford, United Kingdom | 3 |
| University of Cambridge, United Kingdom | 5 |
| ETH Zurich, Switzerland | 7 |
| UCL, United Kingdom | 9 |
| Université PSL, France | 24 |
| EPFL – École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne, Switzerland | 26 |
| The University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom | 27 |
| Technical University of Munich, Germany | 28 |
| The University of Manchester, United Kingdom | =34 |
While the QS World University Rankings provide valuable insights, relying solely on them isn’t always the best approach to finding the right university. Rankings don’t consider key personal factors like return on investment (ROI), your chances of admission, and how easily you can secure an education loan for the program. That’s where SelectRight (by GradRight) comes in.
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Also Read: 5 Most Affordable Universities in the USA for Indian Students
Admission requirements for universities in the USA vs. Europe
Admission requirements can vary highly for different programs, universities, and countries. However, we have compiled a list of common admission requirements for the USA and Europe, that you can check out:
Admission requirements for the USA
Undergraduate programs:
- You must hold a high school diploma or equivalent with good grades. The GPA requirements vary for different programs and universities. According to Forbes, a GPA above 2.0 (in a 4-point-scale) can be considered a good GPA.
- You must submit your SAT or ACT scores.
- You must also prove your English proficiency by submitting test scores for TOEFL/ PTE/ IELTS, etc.
- Universities also require you to submit essays or personal statements/ SOPs (Statement of Purpose). Here’s a great way for you to write a stellar SOP.
- You will have to submit 2-3 letters of recommendation.
- To strengthen your application, some universities also ask for your extracurricular achievements.
Graduate programs:
- You must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Some programs require a bachelor’s degree to be in a field relevant to the program you’re pursuing for a master’s, whereas some don’t.
- You may have to submit your GMAT/GRE scores as well. The requirements vary for different universities and departments within them. For instance, for an MS in Business Analytics, MIT Sloan requires you to submit your GMAT/GRE scores, whereas The University of Texas doesn’t require it but allows you to submit the scores if you feel they boost your application.
- You must submit a Statement of Purpose and 1-3 Letters of Recommendation (LORs). The numbers for LORs also vary for different departments within a university. For instance, the College of Engineering and Computer Science at the University of Michigan-Dearborn requires 2 LORs, whereas the College of Business requires only one.
- You must submit your academic transcripts and other academic records.
- Universities also require you to submit your CV/resume.
- Some professional programs may also require work experience.
Admission requirements for Europe
Undergraduate programs:
- You must hold a high school diploma, which should be equivalent to 12 years of schooling in the European school system.
- For English-taught programs, you will have to submit your English test scores. For non-English programs, you must submit your test scores proving proficiency in that language.
- To study in some countries, you may also have to pass entrance exams (e.g., TestAS for Germany).
- You will also have to submit personal statements and letters of recommendation.
Graduate programs:
- You must hold a bachelor’s degree and have relevant coursework.
- For English-taught programs, you will have to submit your English test scores. You must submit your test scores for non-English programs proving proficiency in that language.
- You will also have to submit personal statements and letters of recommendation.
- Some programs/universities may also require you to submit your research proposals.
- You must submit your updated CV/ resume and documents proving your work experience, if needed.
Also read: A guide to SOPs for UK universities
Cost of a bachelor’s degree in the USA vs. Europe
Tuition fees for a bachelor’s degree in the USA can cost INR 17 lakhs to INR 42.6 lakhs+ per year and INR 32.1 lakhs or more in Europe. You can check out some top universities with their tuition to get a better idea of the cost of a bachelor’s degree in the USA vs. Europe:
| Universities in the USA | Tuition cost* | European universities | Tuition cost* |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | INR 52.8 lakhs/year | ETH Zurich | INR 69,220/Semester |
| Stanford University | INR 16.4 lakhs/quarter | Imperial College London | INR 33.9 lakhs – INR 35.3 lakhs/year |
| Harvard University | INR 48.2 lakhs/year | The University of Cambridge | INR 27.5 lakhs – INR 71.8 lakhs/year |
| New York University | INR 14.4 lakhs – INR 56.6 lakhs/year | University of Amsterdam | INR 7.8 lakhs/year and above |
| University of Chicago | INR 57.4 lakhs/year | Istituto Marangoni | INR 7.5 lakhs – INR 22.5 lakhs/year |
*The costs are average and may vary for different programs.
Cost of a master’s degree in the USA vs. Europe
Tuition fees for a master’s degree can cost INR 38.3 lakhs per year or more in the USA and INR 32.1 lakhs per year or more in Europe. You can check out some top universities with their tuition to get a better idea of the cost of a graduate program in the USA vs. Europe:
| US universities | Tuition cost* | European universities | Tuition cost* |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | INR 71.1 lakhs/year | ETH Zurich | INR 69,220/Semester |
| Stanford University | INR 10.4 lakhs – INR 21.8 lakhs/quarter | Imperial College London | INR 71.9 lakhs/year |
| Harvard University | INR 54.2 lakhs/year | The University of Cambridge | INR 33.5 lakhs/year and above |
| New York University | INR 34.9 lakhs – INR 96.6 lakhs/year | University of Amsterdam | INR 14 lakhs/year and above |
| University of Chicago | Varies per quarter for every program | Istituto Marangoni | INR 23.8 lakhs – INR 29.9 lakhs/year |
*The costs are average and may vary for different programs.
Scholarships for international students for the USA vs. Europe
Here are some top scholarships for international students to study in the USA vs. Europe:
| Country/Region | Scholarships | Details |
| USA | Fulbright Program | For postgraduate studies, based on academic merit and leadership potential |
| AAUW International Fellowships | For women pursuing postgraduate studies in the USA | |
| Tata Scholarship for Cornell University | For Indian undergraduate students at Cornell University | |
| Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships | Open to Indian students; partial to full funding for top US universities | |
| Yale Global Scholars | Competitive summer program scholarship for high school students | |
| Europe | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree Scholarships | Fully funded scholarships for joint programs across multiple European countries |
| Eiffel Scholarships (France) | For postgraduate students in science, engineering, law, and political science | |
| DAAD Scholarships (Germany) | For postgraduate students, open to Indian students in research, science, and engineering fields | |
| Swedish Institute Scholarships (Sweden) | Fully funded scholarships for Master’s students from developing countries, including India | |
| Chevening Scholarships (UK) | Fully funded scholarships for Indian students pursuing one-year Master’s degrees |
Also read: Types of scholarships to study abroad for international students
While scholarships help cover part of your education expenses, many students still require an education loan to fund the rest of their tuition and living costs. Finding the right loan with the lowest interest rate is crucial, as it can save you several lakhs over the loan repayment period. This is where FundRight (by GradRight) can make a difference.
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Student visa requirements in the USA vs. Europe
From documentation to the visa interview, here’s everything you require for a student visa for the USA vs. a student visa for Europe:
Student visa requirements in the USA
- An Indian passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the visa period
- A confirmation slip proving that you have successfully submitted Form DS-160
- The visa application fee receipt of $185
- English language test scores
- Your photographs
- Acceptance to a SEVP-approved university in the USA
- Form I-20 issued by the intended university
- SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt
- Proof of funds
- Academic records
- Proof of intent to return to the home country
Student visa requirements in Europe
Schengen Student Visa:
You need this visa to study in Schengen countries like the Netherlands, France, Germany, etc. Here are the requirements for this student visa:
- Proof of admission to an accredited university
- Proof of funds (this varies for different countries. For example, you must be able to prove that you can afford at least INR 9.92 lakhs/ year to study in Germany).
- A valid passport
- Visa application forms
- Your photographs
- Valid health insurance for the duration of your program/ stay
- Proof of accommodation
- English language test scores
UK Student Visa (Tier 4):
- A CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from any licensed UK university
- English language test scores (most universities require an IELTS score of 6.5 or more)
- Proof of funds to cover the tuition and living expenses
- Biometrics information like your photograph, fingerprints, etc.
- Payment of IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge)
Employment opportunities for students in the USA vs. Europe
Graduating from top universities in the USA and Europe opens many employment opportunities for students.
Employment opportunities for international students in the USA
- With your F1 Visa, you can work part-time for 20 hours per week on campus while your classes continue. During holidays and breaks, you can work full-time.
- Some universities also allow international students to work for 36 months in the USA after graduation. For this, you must be a STEM graduate, and your work must be relevant to your degree. Initially, through an OPT (Optional Practical Training) Program, you can work for 12 months after graduation. You can then get an extension for another 24 months.
- International students often apply for the H-1B work visa after completing their OPT period. However, getting this visa can be very competitive, as only 85,000 H-1B Visas are available each year.
- STEM professionals are in high demand in the USA. Engineering and computer science graduates earn an average starting salary of INR 58.4 lakhs – INR 66.8 lakhs per year.
Employment opportunities for international students in Europe
- Countries like France and Germany offer work permit schemes for international students. In Germany, you can work for 18 months post-graduation, and in France, for up to 2 years.
- According to the European Commission, Europe is facing a growing demand for competent healthcare, engineering, and IT workers, which creates ample opportunities for international graduates.
- The European Commission says that as of 2023, the employment rate for recent graduates in European countries was 81%. Countries like the Netherlands and Germany offered the highest rates, more than 90%.
Popular jobs in the USA vs. Europe
From software engineering to marketing manager, here are some top job roles and salaries you can explore after graduating from universities in the USA vs. Europe:
Popular jobs in the USA
| Top job roles | Average initial salary (per annum)* |
| Software Engineer | INR 68 lakhs – INR 1.02 crores |
| Data Scientist | INR 76.6 lakhs – INR 1.11 crores |
| Nurse Practitioner | INR 85.3 lakhs – INR 1.02 crores |
| Marketing Manager | INR 51 lakhs – INR 85.3 lakhs |
| Financial Analyst | INR 51 lakhs – INR 76.6 lakhs |
| Physician | INR 1.7 crores – INR 2.1 crores |
| Management Consultant | INR 72.4 lakhs – INR 1.19 crores |
| Civil Engineer | INR 59.6 lakhs – INR 80.9 lakhs |
| Project Manager (IT) | INR 72.4 lakhs – INR 93.5 lakhs |
| Chief Executive Officer (CEO) | INR 1.28 crores – INR 1.7 crores |
*These numbers are estimates and may vary based on factors like location, skill set, employer, educational background, etc.
Popular jobs in Europe
| Top job roles | Average initial salary (per annum)* |
| Software Engineer | INR 44.7 lakhs – INR 72.3 lakhs |
| Data Scientist | INR 40.3 lakhs – INR 71.4 lakhs |
| Civil Engineer | INR 35.7 lakhs – INR 62.5 lakhs |
| Nurse Practitioner | INR 44.7 lakhs – INR 72.3 lakhs |
| Marketing Manager | INR 40.3 lakhs – INR 62.5 lakhs |
| Financial Analyst | INR 35.7 lakhs – INR 58.2 lakhs |
| Physician | INR 62.5 lakhs – INR 1.07 crores |
| Management Consultant | INR 44.7 lakhs – INR 76.3 lakhs |
| Electrical Engineer | INR 35.7 lakhs – INR 67 lakhs |
| Project Manager (Construction) | INR 44.7 lakhs – INR 71.4 lakhs |
*These numbers are estimates and may vary based on factors like location, skill set, employer, educational background, etc.
Also Read: Master’s in Engineering Management in USA: Universities, Fees & Jobs
Climate in the USA vs. Europe
The climate of a place can highly affect your life as an international student. If you’re not prepared well, you may suffer inconvenience or health problems.
The climate in the USA varies significantly across various regions. For example, the East Coast experiences humid summers and cold winters, whereas the Southwest is desert-like and arid. The temperature can vary from 10°C to 40°C depending on the season and location.
European countries mostly have temperate climates. Southern Europe experiences hot and dry summers and wet winters. Northern Europe, on the other hand, experiences harsh winters where temperatures can drop below the freezing point.
FAQs
1. Is it better to study in Europe or the USA?
Whether studying in Europe is better for you than in the USA depends on your educational priorities. Where U.S. universities offer great research opportunities, European universities offer affordable education and diverse cultures.
2. Which country in Europe is best for studying as an international student?
If you’re looking for a study abroad destination that offers English-taught programs, high-quality education, affordable tuition fees, and a rich culture, you can consider Germany. You must carefully consider factors like lifestyle preferences, desired programs, cost of education, etc. when deciding on a country.
3. Europe vs. the USA – which country do Indian students prefer for studying abroad?
You can study in the USA if you are interested in STEM or research-based programs. However, if you are looking for affordable options with high-quality education, you can go to European countries like France, Germany, and the Netherlands.
4. What is the ranking of U.S. universities?
The USA has many high-ranking universities. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, four of the 10 globally ranked universities are from the USA. These universities include Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Harvard University, Stanford University, and California Institute of Technology (Caltech).
Whether studying in Europe is better for you than in the USA depends on your educational priorities. Where U.S. universities offer great research opportunities, European universities offer affordable education and diverse cultures.
5. Which country in Europe is best for studying as an international student?
If you’re looking for a study abroad destination that offers English-taught programs, high-quality education, affordable tuition fees, and a rich culture, you can consider Germany. You must carefully consider factors like lifestyle preferences, desired programs, cost of education, etc. when deciding on a country.
6. Europe vs. the USA – which country do Indian students prefer for studying abroad?
You can study in the USA if you are interested in STEM or research-based programs. However, if you are looking for affordable options with high-quality education, you can go to European countries like France, Germany, and the Netherlands.
7. What is the ranking of U.S. universities?
The USA has many high-ranking universities. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, four of the 10 globally ranked universities are from the USA. These universities include Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Harvard University, Stanford University, and California Institute of Technology (Caltech).
