For Bangladeshi students, the dream of pursuing higher education abroad often revolves around a handful of popular destinations like the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Australia. However, in recent years, Europe has emerged as one of the most balanced, affordable, and rewarding study destinations in the world. With more than 4,000 universities spread across 40+ countries, Europe offers a truly diverse academic environment, world-class research opportunities, and an affordable pathway for global exposure.
Unlike some other regions, Europe is not just about expensive universities or limited study options. It is a continent that offers a unique mix of tuition-free universities, low-cost public education, and top-ranked research institutions. Countries like Germany, Italy, France, Poland, and Sweden have become extremely popular for Bangladeshi students because they combine affordability with global recognition. Students who graduate from European universities often find themselves with better job opportunities both within Europe and in international markets like the Middle East, North America, and Asia.
Another factor that makes Europe highly attractive is its Schengen advantage. With a single student visa from one European country, Bangladeshi students can travel freely across 27 European Union (EU) and Schengen countries. This exposure is not only culturally enriching but also professionally rewarding, as students can attend conferences, workshops, and short-term programs across multiple countries during their academic journey.
Most importantly, studying in Europe is no longer just a dream for the wealthy. With tuition fees ranging from €0 to €5,000 per year in many countries, and with scholarships such as Erasmus+, DAAD, Eiffel, and Swedish Institute Scholarships, Bangladeshi students can realistically plan their education in Europe without spending a fortune.
tudying in Europe has numerous benefits, and these advantages go far beyond just affordability. Here are the major reasons why Europe is considered one of the best study abroad destinations for Bangladeshi students:
Affordable or Free Tuition Fees
One of the biggest advantages of studying in Europe is the affordability of tuition. Countries like Germany, Norway, and Finland offer almost free education in public universities, while others like Italy, Poland, Hungary, and France charge very minimal tuition compared to the UK, USA, or Canada. For Bangladeshi students, this means the chance to receive world-class education without the heavy financial burden.
Global Recognition of Degrees
European universities are consistently ranked among the top institutions in the world. Degrees from institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, ETH Zurich, Sorbonne, Heidelberg, and KU Leuven are not just valuable in Europe but respected worldwide. Employers in Bangladesh, the Middle East, and Asia consider European degrees as a strong mark of quality.
Opportunities for Part-Time Work
International students in most European countries are allowed to work part-time (16–20 hours per week). The average wage ranges from €8 to €15 per hour, depending on the country. This allows Bangladeshi students to support their living costs while studying.
Scholarships and Funding
Europe is extremely scholarship-friendly. Programs like Erasmus+, DAAD (Germany), Eiffel Excellence (France), and Swedish Institute Scholarships allow students to cover tuition, living, and travel expenses. Many universities also provide tuition fee waivers of 10–100%.
Multicultural Environment
Europe is one of the most culturally diverse regions in the world. A student from Bangladesh will not only study with Europeans but also with peers from Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, and other parts of Asia. This multicultural exposure improves communication skills, adaptability, and global networking.
Travel Across Europe
With a Schengen visa, students can easily travel to 27 EU countries without applying for multiple visas. This is a huge advantage for students who wish to explore Europe during their academic journey. Weekend trips to Paris, Rome, Amsterdam, or Berlin become possible, enriching the overall study abroad experience.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
Most European countries now offer generous post-study work permits, ranging from 1 to 2 years. This means Bangladeshi students can stay back, find jobs, and gain valuable international work experience. Countries like Germany, France, and the Netherlands even allow students to extend their stay further if they secure employment.
Europe is not a single country but a collection of multiple nations, each with its own strengths, advantages, and unique offerings for students. Below is a country-wise breakdown:
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Germany – The Land of Free Education
Germany has become one of the top destinations for Bangladeshi students. Most public universities in Germany charge no tuition fees, except for a small semester contribution of around €200–€400. Popular fields include Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, and Renewable Energy. The living cost is around €9,000–€11,000 per year, and students are allowed to work 20 hours per week. After graduation, Germany offers an 18-month job-seeking visa, making it one of the best places for career opportunities.
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France – The Hub of Business and Arts
France is another affordable destination. Public universities charge around €2,770–€3,770 per year, making it highly affordable compared to English-speaking countries. France is particularly famous for business schools (HEC Paris, INSEAD), fashion studies, and arts programs. Students can also apply for the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, which covers living and tuition costs.
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Netherlands – Modern and Research-Oriented
The Netherlands has become very popular among Bangladeshi students, particularly for programs in Business, Engineering, and IT. Tuition fees range from €8,000 to €15,000 per year, while living costs are around €10,000–€12,000. The Netherlands also offers the Holland Scholarship, and graduates are eligible for a 1-year orientation visa after completing their degree.
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Sweden – Innovation and Research
Sweden is well-known for its focus on research and innovation. Tuition fees range from €7,000 to €18,000 per year, and living costs are around €8,000–€10,000 per year. Students can apply for Swedish Institute Scholarships, which are highly competitive but generous. Post-study work permits allow graduates to stay for up to 2 years.
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Italy – Affordable and Culturally Rich
Italy is one of the cheapest destinations in Western Europe. Tuition fees are as low as €3,000–€5,000 per year, while living costs are around €7,000–€9,000. Italy is popular for courses in arts, design, architecture, and medicine. Students can also apply for Italian Government Scholarships.
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Eastern Europe – Budget-Friendly Options
Countries like Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Latvia, and Lithuania are becoming popular for students looking for affordable education. Tuition fees start from €2,000 per year, and living costs are around €6,000–€8,000 annually. These countries are especially popular for medicine and engineering programs.
| Country | Tuition Fees (per year) | Living Cost (per year) | Total Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Germany |
€0 – €3,000 |
€9,000 – €11,000 |
€9,000 – €14,000 |
|
France |
€2,770 – €3,770 |
€9,000 – €12,000 |
€12,000 – €16,000 |
|
Netherlands |
€8,000 – €15,000 |
€10,000 – €12,000 |
€18,000 – €27,000 |
|
Sweden |
€7,000 – €18,000 |
€8,000 – €10,000 |
€15,000 – €28,000 |
|
Denmark |
€6,000 – €16,000 |
€9,000 – €12,000 |
€18,000 – €24,000 |
|
Finland |
€6,000 – €18,000 |
€8,000 – €10,000 |
€14,000 – €28,000 |
|
Italy |
€3,000 – €5,000 |
€7,000 – €9,000 |
€10,000 – €14,000 |
|
Cyprus |
€4,000 – €7,000 |
€6,000 – €8,000 |
€10,000 – €15,000 |
Compared to UK/USA/Canada, Europe is much more affordable and flexible for Bangladeshi students.
**All tuition fee and cost information are approximate based on 2025 university data. Always check the official university website for the latest updates**
One of the strongest attractions of Europe for Bangladeshi students is the wide availability of scholarships and financial aid programs. Unlike some countries where scholarships are rare or limited to a few elite institutions, Europe actively promotes student mobility and diversity by offering both government-funded and university-specific scholarships. Let us look at the most significant ones:
The Erasmus+ program is one of the most famous scholarship schemes in the world. It is funded by the European Union and designed to promote student exchange and higher education collaboration across Europe. Under Erasmus+, Bangladeshi students can pursue a joint Master’s program across multiple countries. The scholarship covers tuition fees, monthly living allowances, travel costs, and even insurance. This means a student can study one semester in France, the next in Germany, and then finish in the Netherlands – all under one program.
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is one of the largest scholarship organizations in the world. Every year, it supports over 100,000 international students. Bangladeshi students can apply for DAAD scholarships for Master’s, PhD, and even short-term research programs. These scholarships typically cover tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and travel costs. For students in fields like engineering, computer science, and social sciences, DAAD is a gateway to studying in Germany almost free of cost.
Offered by the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, the Eiffel Scholarship targets talented students from developing countries, including Bangladesh. It provides generous financial support for Master’s and PhD programs. The scholarship covers monthly stipends, travel, and health insurance. France, being one of the cultural and academic centers of Europe, uses this scholarship to attract the best minds globally.
Sweden is known for innovation and sustainability. The Swedish Institute provides fully funded scholarships for Master’s programs to students from Bangladesh and other developing countries. These scholarships are very competitive but include tuition, living allowances, travel, and insurance. For Bangladeshi students who wish to study in a Scandinavian country, this is a golden opportunity.
The Dutch government offers the Holland Scholarship to non-European students, including Bangladeshis. It provides a grant of €5,000 for the first year of study, which can significantly reduce tuition costs. Many Dutch universities also offer additional merit-based scholarships.
Italy not only offers low tuition but also government scholarships that can reduce both tuition and living expenses. Many Italian universities partner with regional government bodies to provide grants and discounts to international students.
Though technically part of Europe but outside the EU, the UK still remains a top destination. The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK government, allows Bangladeshi students to pursue Master’s degrees in prestigious UK institutions fully funded.
Applying to European universities may seem overwhelming, but once you understand the system, it becomes straightforward. Each country has its own process, but there are common steps:
The first step is always research. Students should identify which country and program fits their career goals. For example, if a Bangladeshi student is interested in Computer Science, Germany and the Netherlands may be better. For arts and fashion, Italy and France are ideal.
Every university has different admission requirements. Commonly, you will need:
▪️Academic transcripts (SSC, HSC, Bachelor if applicable)
▪️English proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo)
▪️Statement of Purpose (SOP)
▪️Curriculum Vitae (CV)
▪️Recommendation letters
▪️Passport copy
Some programs (especially in medicine, law, or engineering) may require entrance exams or interviews.
Most European universities require English proficiency. The minimum IELTS score is usually 6.0 for Bachelor and 6.5 for Master’s. However, some universities in Poland, Hungary, and Italy accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate instead of IELTS.
Applications are submitted online. Some countries have centralized systems:
▪️Germany: Uni-Assist
▪️France: Campus France
▪️Netherlands: Studielink
▪️Italy, Poland, Hungary: Direct university portals
If accepted, you will get either a conditional or unconditional offer letter. Conditional letters may require you to fulfill additional requirements like IELTS score submission.
For visa applications, students need to show financial proof. For example:
▪️Germany: Blocked account (€11,208)
▪️France: ~€10,000 per year living cost proof
▪️Netherlands: €11,000 proof for living costs
Once all documents are ready, students can apply for a student visa at the respective embassy in Dhaka. Each country has slightly different requirements, but the process generally involves submitting documents, proof of funds, and attending an interview.
**If you are applying for Germany, make sure to open your blocked account (€11,208) at least 3 months before your visa appointment, otherwise it may cause unnecessary delays.**
The visa process is a critical step for Bangladeshi students. Let’s break it down country by country:
▪️Proof of admission
▪️Blocked account with €11,208
▪️Health insurance
▪️APS Certificate (mandatory from 2023 for Bangladeshi students)
▪️Visa interview at the German Embassy in Dhaka
▪️Admission confirmation through Campus France
▪️Proof of funds (€10,000)
▪️Health insurance
▪️Visa interview at French Embassy
▪️The university applies for the visa (MVV) on behalf of the student
▪️Proof of funds (~€11,000)
▪️Health insurance required
▪️Admission letter
▪️Proof of accommodation in Italy
▪️Proof of funds (~€6,000–€7,000)
▪️Visa interview at Italian Embassy in Dhaka
▪️Admission letter
▪️Proof of tuition payment
▪️Bank statement showing living cost
▪️Health insurance
Each embassy has strict rules, so students must carefully prepare all documents.
One of the most important concerns for Bangladeshi students is how to manage living expenses. Fortunately, Europe allows international students to work part-time.
● Germany: 20 hours per week during term, 40 hours in holidays. Popular jobs include restaurant staff, warehouse, and research assistant.
● France: 964 hours per year (approx. 20 hrs/week). Many students work in restaurants or language tutoring.
● Netherlands: 16 hours per week. Many students work in supermarkets or logistics companies.
● Italy & Poland: 20 hours per week. Jobs include retail, cafés, and part-time internships.
Wages vary from €8 to €15 per hour, which is enough to cover food and part of accommodation costs.
After finishing their degree, students often wish to gain work experience in Europe. Most countries now provide post-study work permits:
▪️Germany: 18-month job-seeking visa after graduation
▪️France: 2 years for Master’s graduates
▪️Netherlands: 1-year orientation visa
▪️Sweden/Denmark: 1–2 years work visa after graduation
▪️UK: 2 years Graduate Route
For Bangladeshi students, this means not only a degree but also practical work experience in Europe, which increases global career prospects.
Studying in Europe is not just about books and classrooms; it is about a lifestyle that combines academics, culture, travel, and personal growth. For Bangladeshi students, life in Europe can be both exciting and challenging at the same time.
Accommodation
Most students either live in university dormitories or private shared flats. Dormitories are cheaper (around €200–€400 per month) and provide the chance to meet other international students. Shared flats cost €300–€600 depending on the city. In countries like Germany and Poland, student dormitories are highly subsidized, which makes living expenses more affordable.
Food & Groceries
Groceries cost around €150–€250 per month, and most supermarkets have Asian or halal sections. In cities like London, Paris, Berlin, and Milan, there are Bangladeshi restaurants and grocery stores, so students can enjoy home-style food. Cooking at home saves money, while eating out at restaurants costs around €10–€15 per meal.
Transport
Public transport is well developed across Europe. Students usually buy monthly passes that cost €30–€80 depending on the country. In cities like Amsterdam or Copenhagen, cycling is the most popular mode of transport, and many students buy second-hand bikes for just €100–€150.
Culture & Social Life
Europe is culturally diverse. International students participate in Erasmus events, student clubs, and cultural festivals. This makes it easier to make friends, improve language skills, and adjust to new surroundings.
While Europe offers many opportunities, it also comes with challenges:
▪️Language Barrier: Although many programs are in English, daily life often requires knowledge of local languages (German, French, Italian).
▪️Financial Pressure: Students must manage tuition, rent, food, and transportation. Without scholarships, this can be challenging.
▪️Homesickness: Living far from family can be emotionally difficult.
▪️Climate & Weather: Northern Europe has cold winters, which can be tough for Bangladeshi students.
▪️Academic Pressure: European universities focus on independent research and self-study, which may be different from Bangladeshi teaching styles.
Solutions: Learn basic local language, plan finances early, join Bangladeshi student associations, and prepare for climate adaptation.
Europe offers thousands of programs, but some subjects are particularly popular among Bangladeshi students:
▪️Engineering & Technology: Germany, Sweden, Finland, and the Netherlands are famous for Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, and Computer Engineering.
▪️Computer Science & Data Science: Germany and Ireland lead in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Cybersecurity.
▪️Business & Management: The UK, France, and the Netherlands have top-ranked MBA and Business schools.
▪️Medicine & Healthcare: Italy, Hungary, and Poland are known for affordable medical programs in English.
▪️Arts, Fashion & Design: France and Italy are global leaders in fashion, architecture, and fine arts.
▪️International Relations & Law: UK, Belgium (Brussels – the EU headquarters), and France are best for politics, diplomacy, and law.
A European degree is highly respected worldwide. After graduation, Bangladeshi students have three main options:
Option 1: Work in Europe
Most countries allow students to stay back for 1–2 years on post-study work permits. For example:
▪️Germany: 18 months
▪️France: 2 years
▪️Netherlands: 1 year
▪️UK: 2 years
If students secure a full-time job during this period, they can apply for a work visa and eventually permanent residency.
Option 2: Return to Bangladesh
Students who return to Bangladesh with a European degree have a competitive edge in the job market. They often secure jobs in multinational companies (MNCs), banks, NGOs, and government sectors. Employers value the global exposure and critical thinking skills gained abroad.
Option 3: Move to Other Countries
Some students use Europe as a stepping stone to move to Canada, the USA, or the Middle East. Since European degrees are highly recognized, transitioning to another country for work or higher study becomes easier.
Studying abroad requires careful budgeting. On average, a Bangladeshi student in Europe spends:
▪️Tuition: €0–€15,000 (depending on country)
▪️Living: €7,000–€12,000 per year
▪️Miscellaneous (insurance, books, visa, travel): €1,500–€2,500
Tips to Save Money:
▪️Live in dormitories or shared flats
▪️Cook at home instead of eating out
▪️Apply for scholarships and tuition fee waivers
▪️Work part-time (cafés, delivery, IT internships)
▪️Use student discounts on travel and shopping
Studying in Europe requires proper planning, preparation, and timing. For Bangladeshi students, here is a detailed roadmap you can follow to make your journey smooth:
Step 1: Research Countries and Universities
Start by identifying which European country best fits your goals. For example:
▪️Germany → Free/low tuition, Engineering & IT focus.
▪️France → Business, Arts, Fashion, International Relations.
▪️Poland & Hungary → Affordable Medicine and Healthcare programs.
▪️Ireland → Tech-focused, English-speaking environment.
▪️Italy → Arts, Design, and English-taught Medicine.
▪️Finland, Denmark, Sweden → Sustainability, Research, Innovation.
Step 2: Choose the Right Program
Make sure your selected program aligns with your long-term career ambitions. Research course modules, job market demand, and whether it has internship opportunities.
Step 3: Prepare IELTS/English Test
Most European universities require IELTS/TOEFL. The general requirement is IELTS 6.0 for Bachelor’s and 6.5–7.0 for Master’s. However, some universities accept Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificates. Preparing early will save time.
Step 4: Collect All Academic Documents
▪️Academic transcripts (SSC, HSC, Bachelor if applicable).
▪️Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your goals.
▪️Curriculum Vitae (CV).
▪️2–3 Recommendation Letters (LORs).
▪️Passport copy and recent photographs.
Step 5: Apply via Portals
Different countries have centralized application systems:
▪️Germany: Uni-Assist.
▪️France: Campus France.
▪️Netherlands: Studielink.
▪️Italy, Poland, Hungary, Cyprus, Malta: University websites.
Step 6: Get an Offer Letter
If successful, you’ll receive a Conditional or Unconditional Offer. Conditional may require submitting final transcripts or IELTS scores.
Step 7: Arrange Financial Proof
Visa officers want assurance you can fund your studies. Examples:
▪️Germany: Blocked Account (€11,208).
▪️France: Proof of €10,000 per year.
▪️Italy/Poland: Bank statement covering tuition + living costs.
Step 8: Apply for Visa
Submit all required documents, proof of funds, health insurance, and attend embassy interview if needed. Each country has unique requirements.
Step 9: Book Accommodation and Flight
Reserve university dorms or private apartments. Shared accommodation helps reduce costs. After visa approval, book your flight early to save money.
Step 10: Join Pre-departure Briefing & Fly to Europe
Some agencies and universities arrange pre-departure sessions to guide you about life in Europe. Finally, fly to your destination and start your new journey!
Unlike some countries with only one intake, Europe offers flexibility:
Fall / September Intake
▪️Main intake with the widest range of programs.
▪️Best time to apply for scholarships.
▪️Recommended for Bangladeshi students aiming for maximum opportunities.
Spring / January–February Intake
▪️A smaller intake but still offers good choices.
▪️Helpful if you missed the September deadline.
Rolling Intakes (March/April)
▪️Available in some countries like Germany, Netherlands, and Italy.
▪️Usually for specific programs such as short Master’s or foundation courses.
Pro tip: Apply at least 6–9 months before your desired intake to secure scholarships and accommodation.
Q1: Can I study in Europe without IELTS?
Yes. Some universities in Germany, Italy, and Poland accept Medium of Instruction (MOI). Still, IELTS is recommended for admission and visa. BIIC provides IELTS and PTE coaching to help students meet requirements.
Q2: Which countries are cheapest for Bangladeshi students?
Germany, Poland, Hungary, Italy, and Lithuania are the cheapest. BIIC mainly focuses on Finland, Denmark, Sweden, and Cyprus where tuition and scholarships are reliable and visa processes are smoother.
Q3: Can I work while studying?
Yes. Students are generally allowed to work 16–20 hours per week. In Finland, up to 30 hours is permitted.
Q4: What is the visa success rate?
Visa approval depends on genuine documents and strong financial proof. With BIIC guidance, Bangladeshi students usually have a higher success rate.
Q5: Why study in Finland with BIIC?
Finland is known for world-class education, IT, design, and safety. Tuition fees range €6,000–€18,000 per year, and graduates get a 2-year post-study work permit. BIIC guides students for scholarships and admission.
Q6: What are the benefits of Denmark?
Denmark is strong in green energy, research, and business. Tuition is €6,000–€16,000 per year, with 20 hrs/week work rights and a 2-year post-study stay option. BIIC provides full admission and visa support.
Q7: Is Sweden a good choice for Bangladeshi students?
Yes. Sweden offers top programs in engineering, IT, and business. Tuition €7,000–€18,000 per year. Students can work unlimited hours and extend stay by 1–2 years. BIIC also helps students apply for Swedish Institute Scholarships.
Q8: Why choose Cyprus?
Cyprus is affordable with tuition €4,000–€7,000 per year and living costs €6,000–€8,000. Popular for Business, Hospitality, IT, and Medicine. BIIC guides Bangladeshi students to trusted universities with scholarships.
Q9: Does BIIC support after admission?
Yes. BIIC provides scholarship support, visa interview training, accommodation guidance, pre-departure sessions, and post-arrival support in Europe.
BIIC regularly organizes Europe Education Expo in Sylhet & Dhaka, where students directly meet university representatives
We're here to help you every step of the way on your study abroad journey. Reach out to your nearest BIIC branch or send us a message online.
