free tuition phd in europe

Study in Europe for free (or low tuition fees)

Overview: Where can you attend university for free?

With very few exceptions, these are the countries in Europe that offer free tuition at their public universities:

• Tuition-free for students from the EU/EEA
• Tuition fees around 1,500 per year for students from other countries

Tuition at public universities is free for Europeans that want to study in Austria . Non-Europeans are charged a still very affordable 1,500 euros per year.

• Tuition fees around 45,000 - 120,000 DKK per year (6,000 - 16,000 EUR) for students from other countries

Denmark is a popular country for European students because it offers free tuition at high standards. Non-European international students pay up to 16,000 euros per year. Read more about tuition fees in Denmark.

• Tuition fees around 5,000 - 20,000 EUR per year for students from other countries

Since summer 2017, universities in Finland have been charging tuition fees to non-European students. The costs are set by the universities and range between 5,000 and 20,000 euros per year. Citizens from the European Union and EEA continue to study for free in Finland. Read more about tuition fees in Finland.

• Tuition fees around 2,800 - 3,800 EUR per year for students from other countries

With world-class education, and more and more Bachelor and Master programmes offered in English, France attracts a large number of international students every year. Aside from a negligible registration fee, most public universities in France do not charge any tuition fee from Europeans. Internationals pay relatively modest annual fees of ca. 2,800 EUR for Bachelors and 3,800 EUR for Masters. Vive la France! (Read more: Details about tuition fees in France .)

• Tuition-free for students from other countries

Germany is one of the most popular countries for international students and was ranked 1st in our Country Ranking 2017 and 2018. With the exception of a few private universities, you can study in Germany for free - regardless if you are from Europe or elsewhere. There is usually a small administrative semester fee, but this covers a a public transport ticket at the fraction of its usual price.

One of the sunnier places, Greece offers free education to all Europeans. And the cost for international students also low, at around 1,500 euros per year. Combined with relatively low cost of living, Greece is among the more affordable study abroad destinations.

When it comes to money, Hungary ranked among the top in our Country Ranking 2018: No tuition fees for Europeans, very low tuition fees for non-Europeans and very low cost of living.

• Tuition fees between 15,000 and 30,000 EUR per year for students from other countries

Universities in Norway offer free education to students who are citizens of the EU/EEA. Since 2023, students from other countries have to pay comparably high tuition fees of roughly between €15,000 and €30,000 per year depending on university and programme. On top of that, Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world. So make sure to compare not just the fees, but also the living expenses to other countries you are considering. Even if you have to pay fees elsewhere, it might still be cheaper overall than Norway.

Poland is a very affordable country for students: It ranked most affordable in our Study.EU Country Ranking for 2018. Europeans study for free and non-Europeans pay only a small amount. Plus, it is very cheap to live there.

Scotland (United Kingdom)

• No tuition fee for for undergraduate degrees for Scottish or non-British EU citizens
• Otherwise, tuition fees for EU/EEA students
• Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students

You are looking for a Bachelor’s degree in Europe, and are a citizen from the European Union or EEA? Then studying in Scotland may be more affordable than you thought: The Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) covers tuition fees for undergraduate degree programmes if you are from Scotland or from elsewhere in the EU. That means that this generous discount does not apply to students from elsewhere in the UK , i.e. England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Whatever the effect of Brexit on tuition fees may be is, however, still unclear.

Read more: Tuition fees in Scotland

• Tuition fees around 5,000 EUR per year for students from other countries

Slovenia is among the less-explored study abroad destinations. Most universities offer free tuition for Europeans, but cost around 5,000 euros per year for other international students.

• Tuition fees around 80,000 - 200,000 SEK per year (8,300 - 20,800 EUR)

Europeans can study in Sweden for free . Other international students should expect hefty fees when studying in Sweden , combined with relatively high cost of living.

Author: Study.eu Team

Our multi-national team has done extensive research to provide you with detailed and correct information. The content is regularly checked and kept up-to-date.

You might be interested in this:

Free PhD Program in Europe for international students -cheapest programs

Europe is the first destinations to study abroad for international students. It is also well-known for its quality education and low tuition cost. Thus, The “ free PhD program in Europe ” provides a great opportunity for aspiring students to pursue advanced education without the burden of tuition fees and other expenses. In Today’s article,  we will discuss “how to get a free PhD program in Europe” and mention complete guidelines about it.

Which Countries Gives Free Phd for International Students?

Many Countries that offer free PhD programs for international students. Some of the most popular ones include Finland, Germany, Norway, and Sweden.  Finland is one of the top-notch of our list of top 10 countries that also offer affordable or free PhD programs. These programs are usually fully funded, meaning that you will not have to pay any tuition or other fees. In addition, they often come with a number of benefits such as a stipend to help cover living expenses. However, Are you interested in pursuing a PhD in one of these countries? So be sure to research each program carefully to ensure that it is a perfect fit for you.

How Can I Get a Free Phd in Europe?

Usually You will not get a free PhD program in Europe .  You will have to pay for your own tuition, living expenses, and other associated costs.  Below we will mention some ways to reduce the cost of a PhD Program in Europe. One way is to apply for scholarships and grants. There are many organizations that offer financial assistance for students studying in Europe. 

Another way to reduce the cost of a PhD program is to choose a less expensive country to study in. For example, you may be able to find cheaper programs in Eastern European countries than you would in Western European countries. Finally, you can also look into part-time or online programs which may be cheaper than traditional full-time programs.

Is Phd Free in Switzerland for International Students?

No, a PhD is not free in Switzerland for international students. While Swiss universities do not charge tuition fees for doctoral studies, international students are still responsible for other costs associated with their education, such as living expenses and health insurance. 

However, many Swiss universities offer competitive fellowships. The fellowships program can help offset the cost of a PhD program for international students. Additionally, there are a number of scholarships and grants available to help finance doctoral studies in Switzerland. A number of scholarships and grants are also available to help finance doctoral studies in Switzerland.

Is Phd Free in Uk for International Students?

No, a PhD is usually not free in the UK for international students. The average cost of a PhD program in the UK is between £14,000 USD – £20,000 USD in a year . There are some scholarships available to international students, but they are typically very competitive and do not cover the full cost of tuition.

FULLY FUNDED PHD IN ITALY! ELIGIBILITY! SCHOLARSHIPS! UNIVERSITIES! JOBS

Fully Funded Phd Programs in Europe for International Students

Europe has a number of fully funded PhD programs for international students. These programs offer an opportunity to study at some of the most prestigious universities in the world. On the other hand, it also receives a full funding package that covers tuition and living expenses.  Here are just a few of the many fully funded PhD programs available for international students in Europe: The University of Oxford offers a number of fully funded scholarships for international students, including the Clarendon Scholarships and Rhodes Scholarships. Both of these scholarship programs cover tuition and living expenses for up to four years of study at Oxford. 

The University of Cambridge also offers various  fully funded scholarships for international students.   Such as the Gates Cambridge Scholarship program. This program provides full funding for up to three years of study at Cambridge. Other top universities in Europe that offer fully funded PhD programs include the ETH Zurich, Imperial College London, and King’s College London. These institutions all have highly competitive scholarship programs that provide full funding for international students.

Free Phd Programs for International Students

There are a few reasons why Students might want to pursue a PhD.  the desire to contribute to knowledge in their field, the opportunity to teach, and the challenge of conducting original research, at the university level. Whatever the motivation, a few of the free PhD programs available for home and international students.  One option for financing your PhD is through fully-funded scholarships. These scholarships cover tuition and living expenses, so they can be a great way to finance your studies.  Many financial aid Organizations offer fully-funded scholarships for international students, including governments, universities, and private foundations. 

Another way to finance your PhD is through teaching assistantships or research assistantships. These positions usually involve working 20 hours per week in exchange for a tuition waiver and a stipend. You are interested in pursuing a PhD but don’t have the financial resources to do so, there are still options available. 

You can get many ways to finance your studies, whether through scholarships, assistantships, or other means. And with so many free PhD programs available for international students, there’s no reason not to pursue your dreams of earning a doctorate degree!

Free Online Phd Programs for International Students

Online platform is a great way to study for remote students all over the world. So many reasons why international students might want to pursue a PhD online. Perhaps they have family obligations that make it difficult to travel, or maybe they simply prefer the flexibility and convenience of online learning. Whatever the reason, there are now more options than ever for earning a PhD entirely online.

In today’s Blog post, we will take a look at some of the best free online PhD programs for international students. Most traditional universities offer at least some degree programs that can be completed online. However, not all of these schools offer full doctoral programs in an online format. The schools on this list are all accredited and recognized institutions that offer high-quality PhD programs that can be completed entirely online. 

1. Walden University: Walden offers over 50 different specialisations within its online PhD program, making it one of the most comprehensive options out there. All courses are taught by expert faculty members, and students have the option to complete their degree. There is also ample support available for students, with 24/7 technical assistance and career services available. International students should note that Walden is authorised to enrol non-immigrant students in distance learning programs by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). 

2 . Liberty University: Liberty University’s Online Doctoral Programs are designed for working professionals who need flexible scheduling options. Courses are delivered through an asynchronous format, meaning that students can log in and complete coursework on their own schedule. The average completion time for Liberty’s online PhD programs is just four years, making it one of the quickest options out there. Additionally, Liberty offers numerous scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically for international students enrolled in its distance learning programs. 

3 .Capella University: Capella University is another great option for international students looking to earn an accredited PhD online. Its FlexPath format allows students to move through courses at their own pace, which means that you could potentially finish your degree faster than you would at a traditional university (although there is no set time limit).

Easiest Country to Get PhD Admission

It is not easy to definitively answer this question as each country has different requirements for PhD admission. However, some countries may be easier to get into than others. For example, the United States generally requires a higher GPA for admission into a PhD program than other countries. Additionally, the United States may also require standardized test scores (such as the GRE) and letters of recommendation. Other countries may have different or less stringent requirements. Therefore, it is important to research the specific requirements for PhD programs in the country of interest.

Europe has a number of free PhD programs for international students. These programs are typically funded by the European Union. They also offer a ton of benefits to those who participate. In most cases, these programs will cover the cost of tuition, living expenses, and travel costs associated with attending the program. Additionally, many of these programs offer a stipend to help you

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Free PhD programs versus fully funded PhD programs

What is a free PhD program? What does fully funded mean in the context of a PhD? Is a PhD program an education or a job? Do you get paid, or are you paying for it? The designs of PhD programs differ substantially between countries. What is important to know for your career?

What are free PhD programs?

Free PhD programs are doctoral programs that do not require tuition or fees from the student. However, there might be other costs to consider, such as housing, food, transportation, learning materials, and health insurance.

What are fully funded PhD programs?

Fully funded PhD programs are doctoral programs that provide financial assistance to students, for example, in the form of tuition remission, a stipend, and health insurance.

However, there are dramatic differences in the design of PhD programs worldwide, for example, between the US and Europe (see below)!

Is a PhD program an education or a job?

The structure and financing of PhD programs vary greatly between countries and even between different universities within the same country.

In Europe, PhD programs are considered positions of employment

In many European countries, like Germany, Sweden, Norway, and Finland, PhD programs are indeed considered positions of employment. The education policy is different in Europe compared to the US.

The selection criteria are strict. It is not a phd for free. However, a phd requires dedication, time, and resources.

Thus,  students do pursue a state-funded phd and   do not pay tuition but receive a salary or stipend  for their research work.

This model is based on the idea that PhD candidates are not just students but also contribute to the university’s research output and should therefore be compensated for their work.

In the US, PhD programs are considered a more advanced form of education

In many countries, including the United States, a PhD is typically considered a more advanced form of education rather than a job. As a result,  students often have to pay tuition, although many funding opportunities are still availabl e.

How much does a PhD program cost?

The costs of Ph.D. programs in the US and Europe vary substantially depending on the country, the university, and the specific program .

In general, PhD programs in Europe are free or more affordable than PhD programs in the US. The costs also vary dramatically depending on  how long it takes to finish the PhD .

Do tuition fees of PhD programs differ substantially between fields?

The prices for PhD programs in various areas can vary significantly. Here are some examples of tuition fee ranges from the US market:

• Biological sciences: $30,000 to $70,000 per year
• Life sciences: $20,000 to $60,000 per year.
• Social sciences: $25,000 to $60,000 per year
• Business administration: $15,000 to $50,000 per year
• Public health: $10,000 to $40,000 per year
• Educational leadership: $5,000 to $30,000 per year

Do tuition fees differ substantially between online and on-campus PhD programs?

Yes, online PhD programs are typically less expensive than on-campus PhD programs because online doctorate programs do not need to pay for physical space or the salaries of faculty members who teach on-campus courses.

The lower costs might be a reason to consider an online doctoral degree instead of a traditional phd.

Here are two examples of the cost of online and on-campus PhD programs from the US market:

• Life Sciences: Online $15,000 – $30,000 versus On-campus $30,000 – $60,000 per year
• Business Administration: Online $15,000 versus On-campus $40,000 per year.

However, there is a surprisingly high number of free phd programs online or fully funded online phd programs. A completely free phd may seem too good to be true.

However, universities offer free online phd programs to attract top students who might not otherwise be able to afford a traditional PhD program. The programs focus on high performers. Thus, they are very competitive.

Online and on-campus programs vary substantially in their structures and requirements. Some students enjoy the flexibility of programs online, others prefer to pursue a phd in the immersive environment of on-campus programs.

Consider all costs of a PhD program – and the funding options!

If you are considering a PhD program, it is essential to carefully consider not only the phd fees but also the living costs, including housing, food, transportation, learning materials, and student health insurance.

It is important to note that several scholarships and fellowships are available  to doctoral students in both Europe and the US.

Many countries or universities offer financial support to their doctoral candidates during their doctoral studies. These scholarships and fellowships allow students to offset the cost of tuition and living expenses.

A growing number of graduate programs are shifting to fully-funded ph.d. programs, where graduate students, especially those pursuing ph.d. degrees, receive a monthly stipend or annual stipend. This financial assistance can come in various forms, such as a research assistantship or graduate assistantship.

How much does a PhD program cost in Europe?

In Europe, Ph.D. programs are typically tuition-free for all students, regardless of nationality.

However, there may be additional costs, such as student union or registration fees. Living costs in Europe can vary, but they are generally lower than living costs in the US.

Here are some examples of the cost of PhD programs in Europe:

• France: Tuition fees for PhD programs in France are €380 per year for all students. Living costs in France are around €1,000 per month.
• Germany: Tuition fees for PhD programs in Germany are €250 per semester for all students. Living costs in Germany are around €800 per month.
• Norway: Tuition fees for PhD programs in Norway are free for all students. Living costs in Norway are around €1,200 per month.

But be careful: These are rough estimates that may vary substantially between universities and programs!

How much does a PhD program cost in the United States?

In the US, PhD programs are typically not tuition-free. The cost of tuition for PhD programs in the US can vary depending on the university, but it generally is  between $20,000 and $60,000 per year .

In addition to tuition, students in the US may also have to pay for  living expenses, such as housing, food, and transportation .

Living costs in the US can vary depending on the location, but they are generally higher than those in Europe.

Here are some examples of the cost of PhD programs in the US:

• Harvard University: Tuition fees for PhD programs at Harvard University are $52,630 per year. Living costs in Cambridge, Massachusetts, are around $2,000 per month.
• Stanford University: Tuition fees for PhD programs at Stanford University are $51,350 per year. Living costs in Palo Alto, California, are around $2,500 per month.
• University of California, Berkeley: Tuition fees for PhD programs at UC Berkeley are $47,440 per year. Living costs in Berkeley, California, are around $2,300 per month.

How are PhD programs funded in Europe?

PhD programs in Europe are typically funded by a combination of government grants, university scholarships, and research grants.

• Government grants are awarded by national governments to universities and research institutions to support PhD research. These grants can provide full funding for PhD students, including tuition waivers, stipends, and health insurance coverage.
• University scholarships are awarded to PhD students based on their academic achievement and research potential. These scholarships can provide partial funding for PhD students, typically through a stipend.
• Research institutions, such as the European Research Council (ERC), award research grants to PhD students to support specific research projects. These grants can provide full PhD funding, including full tuition waivers, stipends, and travel expenses.

How are PhD programs funded in the US?

PhD programs in the US are typically funded by a combination of tuition waivers, stipends, and fellowships.

• Tuition waivers are offered by universities to PhD students who are accepted into their programs. These waivers cover the cost of tuition, which can be a significant financial burden for students.
• Stipends are paid to PhD students to help cover their living expenses, such as housing, food, and transportation. Stipends vary depending on the university and the specific program, but they are typically between $20,000 and $40,000 per year.
• Fellowships are awarded to PhD students based on their academic achievement and research potential. Fellowships can provide full funding for PhD students, including tuition waivers, stipends, and medical insurance.

International students often have concerns about pursuing higher education abroad due to financial constraints. The good news is that many top universities provide fully-funded ph.d. programs that cater specifically to international student needs. Universities often provide ample financial assistance options for their admitted students. Many universities waive phd fees to any students, while some may specifically charge fees to international students.

Other financial resources to pay for a doctoral program in the US and Europe

In addition to the above-mentioned funding sources, PhD students may also be able to earn money by teaching or conducting research. However, it is important to note that these activities are typically not enough to cover all of the costs of a PhD program.

Here are some of the most common ways that PhD programs are funded in the US and Europe:

• Assistantships are the most common way PhD students get funded in the US. Assistantships typically involve teaching or research duties in exchange for a tuition waiver and a stipend.
• Fellowships are awarded to PhD students based on their academic achievement and research potential. Fellowships can provide full funding for PhD students, including tuition waivers, stipends, and health insurance.
• Industry funding is becoming increasingly common for PhD students. Some companies offer funding to PhD students conducting research relevant to their interests.
• Nonprofit organizations and certain public institutions often collaborate with universities, offering a fully funded phd
• Self-funding is a possibility for PhD students who are unable to secure funding from other sources. However, it is essential to note that  self-funding can be very expensive , and it may take longer to complete your PhD. Thus, if possible, you should avoid financial aid and student loans and do everything to get fellowships, stipends, or similar types of financial support.

How long does a PhD take?

The duration of a PhD differs substantially between countries, universities, and institutions.  In Europe,  full-time PhD programs typically take  three to four years  to complete.

You might find the shortest doctoral programs in Europe. In Europe, it takes less time to get doctoral degrees than in the US because most PhD programs require applicants to possess a Master’s degree.

In contrast, many doctoral degree programs in the US and Canada accept applicants already with a Bachelor’s degree.

Read more about the multiple factors influencing  how long it takes to finish a PhD .

How do I find a fully funded or free PhD program?

There are several ways to find free or fully funded doctoral programs. Here are a few tips:

Start your search early

The best free PhD programs are highly competitive, so starting your search early is important. This will give you time to research programs, contact potential supervisors, and apply for funding.

Use online databases

Several online databases list PhD programs, including funding information. Some good resources include:

• The European Commission’s EURAXESS website
• FindaPhD.com
• The Council of Graduate Schools (CGS)

Contact individual universities

If you’re interested in a specific university, contact the graduate school directly to inquire about funding opportunities. Many universities offer their own funding programs for PhD students.

Look for scholarships and fellowships

There are multiple scholarships and fellowships available to PhD students. These scholarships can provide full or partial funding for your studies. Some good resources for finding scholarships and fellowships include:

• The Fulbright Program
• The National Science Foundation (NSF)
• The American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS)

Is a free PhD program right for me?

Whether or not a free PhD program is right for you depends on your individual circumstances and goals. If you are passionate about research and want to make a significant contribution to your field, then a free PhD program may be a good option for you. If you are a high performer, securing a fully funded phd might be a better option.

What are the requirements for a free PhD program?

The requirements for a free PhD program vary substantially depending on your career goals, the university and the specific program. However, some standard requirements in the US include:

• A strong academic record, for example, a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
• A GRE or other standardized test score.
• Letters of recommendation from professors or other professionals.
• A research proposal.
• An interview.

Do I need a master’s degree to enter free or fully funded phd programs?

No, in many universities, e.g. in the US, you do not need a master’s degree to enter a fully funded ph.d. program and earn a phd. However, in many European universities, a master’s degree is required.

Should I go abroad for a phd program?

There are  many arguments for a phd abroad , including a broadened horizon, new skills and experiences, and many international contacts. However, there are always  unexpected challenges in going abroad , for which you should be prepared.

Acknowledgments

I have used AI systems, including Grammarly and ChatGPT, to enhance the English and comprehensiveness of this article. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a small commission if you decide to purchase through my link. Thus, you support smartsciencecareer at no cost to you!

Recommended reading

• PA vs MD salary – are the differences relevant?
• How long does it take to complete a doctorate?
• Does medical school ranking matter?
• Do I really have to go to a famous university for a successful career in science?
• Do I really have to work abroad as a scientist?
• 9 reasons not to go abroad – and how to handle them!
• Should I choose a big or a small university?

Sven Hendrix is a Professor of Neuroanatomy at Medical School Hamburg (MSH) in Germany. He leads a research group dedicated to the neuroimmunology of brain repair and the development of xenofree organoid models as alternatives to animal experiments. Additionally, he serves as the speaker for CENE, a center focused on academic career development across MSH, Medical School Berlin (MSB), and the Health and Medical University (HMU) in Potsdam and Erfurt, Germany.

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8 Countries Where US Students Can Study For Free In Europe

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Why pay heavy tuition fees at home when you can study in some of the best cities in Europe for free?

Statistics show that in 2015/16 the average tuition fees at an in-state public college were $9,410 and a whopping $32,405 at private colleges. These high fees are one of the reasons why US students are choosing to jump across the pond to Europe, a continent famous for its culture and history and increasingly known for its free degrees. Here’s a list of 8 of the countries where American students can study for free in Europe:

One of Europe’s economic strongholds, Germany is known for being friendly and welcoming to international visitors. Not only has the country got some of the best and cheapest student cities in the world, the high level of English spoken in the country makes it a great choice for US students.

Germany is the fourth most popular country in the world for international students, and that’s because its universities have completely done away with tuition fees for students of any nationality. Berlin ,  Munich  and  Frankfurt  are some of the top destinations in Germany for international students and Student.com offers accommodation in all of them. In all, we offer student accommodation in Germany in over 30 cities.

Believing education to be a right rather than a privilege, Germany is leading the way in making a university degree possible for all. In June 2015, more than 4,600 US students were fully enrolled at Germany universities, an increase of 20% over the previous three years. There are over 1,000 programmes taught in English by German universities, meaning language need not be an issue in getting your degree.

Data from the German Academic Exchange Service shows that monthly living expenses for students in Germany are currently around $960. This includes rent, transport, food and entertainment. It’s worth noting that even though tuition is completely free at German public universities, there will be a small semester fee to support the student union and related activities. This costs from $55-$280 each semester.

Humboldt University in Berlin and the Technical University of Munich are among the highly-ranked German universities that charge no tuition fees to American students.

Paris is well-known as one of the best student cities in the world and continues to top polls year after year. Outside of the capital, there are the historical cities of Lyon or Toulouse to consider if you want to mix university life with a touch of the ancient. Montpellier, an hour’s drive from the Mediterranean beach, is the other major student city in France – a quarter of its residents are enrolled at a university. You can also check all of our student accommodation options in France – we list apartments in over 50 cities!

If you are an American who would like to study in France then we have très bien news – it will cost you almost nothing. University tuition at public institutions in France incurs only a small fee of $208 per year for an undergraduate degree and $290 for a masters. Be aware, though, that these costs do not apply to the Grandes Ecoles universities in France who will charge much higher tuition fees. As well as boasting several of the world’s best universities, France is known for its internationally acclaimed specialist business schools such as ESCP Europe , ESSEC Business School , HEC Paris and INSEAD.

To enrol as a student in France you must submit an application to the school that you wish to attend including passport details, plus proof of your grades. American students will need a visa to study in France which is applied for through the CEF procedure run by CampusFrance. Under French law, you need to show evidence that you have enough funds to cover your expenses while studying within the country, and if your course is going to be taught in French you must also prove proficiency in the language.

The real-life land of ice and fire is a fantastic choice for US students who want to save money on their tuition fees. Where else can you balance your study with sitting in a natural hot spring and staring at the northern lights?

Amazingly, all public colleges in Iceland are free for American students. International students make up 5% of all students in the country. The University of Iceland, located in the capital Reykjavik, is one of the largest in Iceland and does not charge any tuition fees. There is, however, an annual registration fee of $600 for American students. Applicants must have an equivalent level of education to the Icelandic matriculation examination. In general, courses are taught in the Icelandic language but there are a few postgraduate programmes provided in English by the University of Iceland, Reykjavík University and the University of Akureyri.

Students are advised that they will need around $980 per month to cover their accommodation and living expenses in Iceland. Americans studying in the Iceland for longer than three months will need to apply for a residence permit once they have secured a place at a university.

American students can reap the benefits of paying no tuition fees at any of the country’s state universities. The University of Oslo , University of Bergen , University of Stavanger , Norwegian University of Life Sciences , University of Agder and the University of Nordland are some of the colleges that are free for US students.

However, living expenses in Norway can be high. Students are will need around $1700 per month to cover the cost of accommodation, food, transport and leisure activities. There is usually a small semester fee to pay of $35-$75, too.

The Norwegian Universities and College Admission Service (NUCAS) is the coordinator of undergraduate admission. US applications will need to submit evidence of their high school graduation diploma and one year of academic university or college studies or three Advanced Placement Tests with at least grade three, according to the admissions guide GSU-list . For courses where the instruction is in Norwegian proof of proficiency in the language is also essential.

Although Oslo is the obvious choice in Norway, the city of Tromsø is also great for students. As well as being home to the northernmost university in the world, Universitetet i Tromsø , the ‘Paris of the North’ has all the quintessential Norwegian charms – reindeer, huskies and an icy coastline visited by whales.

Finland currently offers free tuition fees for US students at all universities, both at undergraduate and postgraduate level. However, from 2017 this is set to change somewhat. Although fees will be added by some institutions for American citizens, some Doctorate level studies and all programmes taught in Finnish or Swedish will remain free.

US students can apply to Finnish universities online, either directly to the university or via the centralized admissions service University Admissions Finland (UAF). . It is necessary to obtain a residence permit before entering Finland to study, as well as having access to funds of at least $7,375 to cover expenses for a year (although the cost of living in Finland is likely to be higher than this).

Helsinki on Finland’s south coast is by far the largest urban area in the country. The city is home to the University of Helsinki and Aalto University , the top two colleges in Finland. It’s a great place to enjoy the renowned high quality of life, technological advancements and extreme seasons of this Nordic gem.

Many Swedish universities provide free PhD tuition to American citizens, and even better, most of the programmes are taught in English. PhD positions in Sweden are usually offered as paid positions by universities or external funding bodies, so you not only study for free but earn a salary, too. Alternatively, a range of scholarship options are available for American students.

As of February 2016, the fee for US students to apply to study in Sweden is $110. You’ll also need at least $1,000 per month to cover living expenses. Americans can apply via Sweden’s centralized university admissions application portal, Universityadmissions.se . A residence permit is required before you enter the country.

Sweden is home to several world-leading universities. Research university Uppsala is the oldest having been founded in 1477. It ranks among the best universities in Northern Europe and it is quite prominent in internationally, too. Lund University and the KTH Royal Institute of Technology are in the world’s top 100 colleges.

7. Slovenia

An underrated corner of Europe tucked between Italy and Croatia, compact Slovenia provides the best of the mountains and the beach with excellent travel opportunities to neighbouring countries. Slovenia in fact has a highly-rated education system considered one of the best in the EU. The University of Ljubljana , in the city of the same name, is considered Slovenia’s main university and is one of the largest colleges in the world. It was Slovenia’s only university until the University of Maribor opened in 1975. Undoubtedly, Ljubljana is one of the prettiest European cities to attend university.

Slovenian universities usually charge American students tuition fees for undergraduate study, but similar to Sweden there are plenty of opportunities to gain a free Doctorate qualification. Apply directly to the university you wish to attend with a secondary school qualification certificate or degree certificate from a recognized university. About 150 English programs are available, and often Americans will need to pay a small registration fee when they enroll.

Student accommodation is cheap in Slovenia. Private housing starts from $220 per month while a university dormitory is under $150. A coffee is $1.60 and a meal in a moderately-priced restaurant not more than $15.

8. Czech Republic

US Students who speak Czech or are willing to learn are able to study abroad for free in the Czech Republic at any public university. Students who wish to study in English can also study fairly cheaply, at around $1,080 per semester. Public universities often charge a small registration fees of just over $20. The application system is also straightforward and can usually be completed online, simply requiring proof of secondary school education.

With the architecturally stunning city of Prague, the historic castles of Brno or the unexplored former industrial stronghold of Ostrava to discover, the Czech Republic has a lot to offer American students. There are over 70 universities to choose from, including Czech Technical University and Charles University in Prague, two of the top-ranked centres in emerging Europe. Living costs are far more affordable in the Czech Republic than in most of Western Europe, at around $350-750 a month.

Where will you study?

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European Education Area

How to apply for doctoral studies in europe.

Find out how to apply for doctoral studies, including a PhD, in Europe.

Getting started

In Europe, every university sets its own application criteria for doctoral studies. 

To successfully enter the world of research, it´s very important to be proactive and start your preparation early. 

The enrollment procedures take time. Prepare early, check entry requirements and collect your documents. 

Choose your topic

Choose your research topic well before starting your studies. 

Find out which university or programme meets your research interests and your academic background.

Find a supervisor

Finding a supervisor before applying could be either compulsory or advisable and it is usually the applicant’s responsibility. 

Check the research teams in the university and look at the publications written by your potential supervisor, as well as their research projects and supervised dissertations to ensure that his or her research areas match your plans.

Check language requirements

Examine the language skills needed for enrollment. It might be necessary to take a test or present internationally validated test results. 

Recognition of qualifications

Find out what documents need to be translated before applying and which ones may need ENIC-NARIC evaluation. 

Some documents might need to be certified by a notary, with an apostille attached.

Prepare your documents

The required documents vary. Usually, you need to prepare the following:

• official copy of the previous diploma(s)
• curriculum vitae (CV)
• research proposal for your PhD
• motivation letter
• references and/or recommendation letters

Find a position and funding

EURAXESS is a European Commission portal providing information on research positions and funding to help researchers come to Europe to study, work in another European country and more.

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Where to Study in Europe Tuition-Free for Postgraduate Studies

posted on May 6, 2018

Let’s face it – with today’s skyrocketing university fees in almost every other country, it has become a hectic endeavor to find a university that offers tuition-free course studies.

It almost seems like earning a recognized postgraduate degree – either at home or abroad – is quite impossible without access to a four-figure budget, or without securing a scholarship .

This isn’t necessarily the case. If you are thinking of studying abroad, you’ll be delighted to know that there are many countries in Europe where you can study for free or for a very affordable tuition fee. You just have to know where to look.

Top 4 European Countries with Tuition-Free Postgraduate Programs

What comes to mind when you think of Sweden? A country steeped in Viking history? Or is it its grand cityscapes? Or better yet, a country whose coastline speckles of rocky landscapes?

Well, Sweden is not just home to Ikea. It’s one of our world’s most progressive countries when it comes to accessible and quality education. Although it’s among the European Union’s most expensive countries, you might have a different experience as a postgraduate student.

Wondering how you can take advantage of a tuition-free course study in Sweden? It’s easy. European Union (EU) citizens, those who reside in the European Economic Area (EEA) or in Switzerland are eligible. However, non-EU students will have to part with some fees.

Sweden has a diversity of about 53 colleges and universities you can choose from. Back in February 2016, the non-EU, EEA or the Swiss students had to part with about SEK900 ($110) as tuition fees.

What of now? The tuition fees are about SEK80,000 ($9,800) to about SEK140,000 ($17,200) per academic year. You might also have to part with about SEK8,000 ($1,000) for minimal living expenses.

All that said, the cost of tuition in Sweden is evidently cheaper in contrast to most countries. What’s more? Most postgraduate courses are taught in English. This surely takes away the necessity to learn Swedish for most students.

This is certainly a country with heaps of character. And it’s not just because of its avant-garde urban zones. In winter, Finland is dotted with vast frozen forests whereas its summer holidays feature midnight daytime saunas!

Back in 2012, a report by the Economist Intelligence Unit for Pearson holds that Finland has the best education system in our world . However, Finland introduced tuition fees to non-EU/EEA master’s students taking a course in English in the autumn of 2017. Postgraduate applicants from any country are eligible for tuition-free doctorate level studies that are taught in Finnish or Swedish. There are scholarship schemes for non-EU students in some universities.

How can Finland afford this? Well, with an annual budget of about €11.1 billion, it certainly can. Actually, the country attracts more and more international students every other year. At any one time, there are over 6,000 foreign students enrolled for a degree program in Finland. It might interest you to know that there are over 330 master’s courses of English language in this country.

Each Finnish university defines its own tuition fees. By legislation, the minimal annual tuition fee is set at about €1,500. Nonetheless, you can expect the eventual amount to be higher than this. Case in point – the University of Helsinki states that the tuition fees will range from about €10,000 – €25,000 annually . You also have to consider the cost of living in Finland. You might have to part with about €700 – €900 a month.

Full of multi-ethnic, student-friendly cities satiated with culture and history, Germany presents an impeccable university experience for students from across the globe.

Germany put an end to tuition fees for undergraduates studying at public universities back in 2014. This makes education accessible to anyone who chooses to study there. Even though there still are tuition fees for postgraduate studies, the typical cost still is far less than anywhere in the world. What’s the good news? The fee for domestic and international students is the same, regardless of where you’re from.

In case you’ve already studied a bachelor’s degree in Germany and you intend to go ahead to study the consecutive master’s program – tuition will be free. However, if you’re studying a non-consecutive postgraduate degree outside Germany, you might have to part with over €10,000 per semester.

You might want to brush up your German language skills before you submit your application. Why? Most courses are taught in the native tongue. There’s a wide range of scholarship schemes available for postgraduate students studying in Germany, some of which are based on individual needs. Every successful applicant must prepare to part with about with about €40-€70 per semester to cover administration costs.

There are over 900 English language degree courses on offer at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in Germany. In comparison to western European countries, the living costs in Germany are almost the same – but definitely lower than those of Scandinavia. Students will have to part with about €670 a month to cover food, accommodation, and other expenses.

Can you imagine a first-hand revel of the northern lights or an experience of the vast Scandinavian outdoors? Well, there truly is no better place in our world to get up close to nature than in Norway. Its cities are exciting with great music scenes and a growing coffee culture.

Even though there may be a language barrier to overcome for those who wish to study in Norway, there are no tuition fees for postgraduate students. Regardless of your country of origin, you are eligible for tuition-free studies.

The English language courses are fairly conventional at the postgraduate levels. Otherwise, you will have to attest your proficiency in Norwegian right before you’re accepted to a study course. It might interest you to know that there’s accessible financial support to help students cover their living costs in this expensive Scandinavian country.

Each and every student should prepare to part with a semester fee of about 500 NOK (€66). Nonetheless, this will only put you in a position to realize and take advantage of a couple of discounts.

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5 countries that offer free or very cheap PhD programmes

Are you a degree holder or master’s graduate who wants to take your studies to the next level by pursuing a PhD abroad? The good news is that in some countries, those with graduate degrees — such as a master’s and doctoral degree — had the highest earnings and lowest unemployment rates.

The bad news? The cost of pursuing a PhD abroad can be eye-watering. You would need to consider tuition, living and other miscellaneous expenses when studying abroad. There is, however, a workaround for this. Your next course of action would be to look for the cheapest countries to study a PhD programme.

The following countries have FREE or very cheap PhD programs for all International students: 1. Czech Republic 2. Estonia 3. Germany 4. Iceland 5. Norway 6. Finland 7. France 8. Sweden 9. Saudi Arabia 10. New Zealand. RT and Tag your friends. — Oludayo Sokunbi (Deewon) (@Oludeewon) June 7, 2022

Fortunately, there are more than a few countries where tuition for PhD programmes is free or very cheap. This makes it possible for you to enrol in a world-class university abroad and experience what it’s like to live in a new country and adapt to different cultures.

Studying a PhD abroad with minimal financial worries lets you focus on your education, as well as any personal or professional pursuits.

With that being said, here are five of the cheapest countries to study a PhD in:

International students can pursue a PhD programme in Sweden for free (or near enough). Source: Jonathan Nackstrand/AFP

5 cheapest countries to study a PhD for international students

If you’re planning to pursue a PhD in renewable energy or something closely related, then Sweden is your best bet. Data shows that almost 56% of the energy used in Sweden comes from renewable sources in 2019.

The best part about pursuing a PhD in Sweden? It is free for all — including international students. (Do note that free tuition is not applicable for non-EU/EEA students pursuing bachelor’s or master’s programmes.)

Sweden is home to some of the most highly acclaimed universities in the world, with seven of them listed in the top 350 universities in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2023. The best universities in Sweden — KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Lund University, are ranked 89th and 95th respectively accordingly.

Another Nordic country which tops the list of five cheapest countries to study a PhD in is Norway. Tuition at public universities in Norway is free for all students , regardless of nationality.

NORWAY IS OPEN!! Tuition free Universities in Norway that offer English taught Master’s and PhD programmes to international students – Nigerians inclusive. A Thread: — ＤＯＣＴＯＵＲ (@wakawaka_doctor) October 24, 2021

Like Sweden, the cost of living in Norway is relatively high, so you might want to explore options to help cover your living expenses. Other than that, you will only be required to pay a small semester student union fee to cover things like exam or sports facilities —  which would only set you back between 300 – 600 Norwegian krone (approximately 30 to 60 US dollars).

You can try your luck at applying for the highest-ranking university in Norway — the University of Oslo — ranked 101st spot in the latest QS World University Rankings.

International students who study in Finland get to bask in the spectacular views of an incredible natural phenomena witnessed in only a few parts of the world, such as the Northern Lights. Source: Oliver Morin/AFP

Finland is another Nordic country which tops our list of cheapest countries to study a PhD for international students. Like Norway and Sweden, pursuing a PhD is completely free in Finland, even for non-citizens.

Finland is home to two top 150 universities, according to QS. This includes the   University of Helsinki and Aalto University, which are ranked 106th and 116th respectively.

It’s educational aspects are not the only thing that sets it apart as a world-class study destination. Finland’s capital, Helsinki is ranked 66th in the latest “Best Student Cities” survey by QS.

If you are a lover of nature and the outdoors, Finland’s wide, open spaces are home to some of the world’s most incredible natural phenomena such as the midnight sun and the Northern lights (aurora borealis), which illuminates the sky with a spectacular view for anywhere between 10 to 20 nights a year.

Germany is renowned for its world-class education system and its reputation as an innovative country. Three of its universities are in the top 100, according to QS. This includes the Technical University of Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Heidelberg University, each ranked 49th, 59th and 65th respectively.

Two of its cities, Munich and Berlin, are in the top 10 best student cities in the latest Best Student Cities rankings by QS.

Dear Hopefuls: FUNDED SCHOLARSHIPS AND UNIVERSITIES WITHOUT IELTS IN FRANCE 🇫🇷 ♤ No IELTS ♤Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD ♤Free tuition ♤English Taught program ♤Stipends ♤Accommodation ♤Health Insurance ♡Part-time work ♤List of scholarships in France 👇 — Adeleke I. O. (Ph.D) (@Dr_Adeleke) February 18, 2022

Another country to make it to our pick of the cheapest countries to study a PhD in is France, with four of its universities ranked in the top 100, according to QS.

Tuition charged at French universities are relatively low . For instance, the nominal fee at public universities is approximately 380 euros (US$396 at the time of writing) a year.

Thanks to its international academic reputation and low tuition fees, three cities in France are ranked in the top 100 Best Student Cities: Lyon, Toulouse and of course, the capital Paris, which is ranked 9th according to QS.

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The Best Free PhD Programs. Fully funded PhD programs

Navigating the complexities of PhD programs, one term often dominates the discourse – “fully funded”.

It represents a golden opportunity wherein all tuition fees and living expenses are covered by the educational institution, allowing students to focus on their research and studies free from financial constraints.

In this blog post, we explore what fully funded really means, share the author’s personal journey of pursuing a PhD in Australia, delve into the policies of various countries offering free or nearly free PhD programs, and provide key tips for securing a fully funded PhD opportunity.

Whether you’re considering a domestic program or an international adventure, the insights and tips offered here could pave the way to an invaluable, financially stress-free academic journey.

What Does Fully Funded Mean?

In 2023, the concept of a “fully funded” PhD program signifies that the entirety of expenses related to the doctoral program is covered. This includes tuition fees, which are either waived or entirely paid for by the educational institution.

Beyond tuition, the program also encompasses a living stipend or allowance given to doctoral students. 

Fully funded PhD programs essentially function as a comprehensive scholarship, covering everything from tuition fees to books and other necessary supplies.

While the stipend amount can vary based on the institution, it is generally sufficient to cater to the basic living expenses of the students, covering rent, food, and transportation costs.

The main aim of providing this stipend to doctoral students is to facilitate a learning environment where they can focus entirely on their studies, research, and dissertation, without the distraction of financial pressures. 

Universities, including public ones, offer these fully funded doctoral programs with the intention to draw in the best students.

These students, in turn, are expected to contribute significantly to the advancement of research in their respective fields and derive a high-quality education from their doctorates.

It is important to note that eligibility for these scholarships or stipends requires proof of commitment to the doctoral degree. In my experience, this meant securing a top-class master’s degree. This reassured the university of my dedication to pursuing a PhD and furthering my education.

In recent years, there has been a rise in such fully funded programs online , offering a wider reach for prospective PhDs.

As we move further into 2023, students may increasingly opt for these online PhD programmes, making the pursuit of doctoral degrees more accessible than ever.

Countries with a free PhD / fully funded PhD

Sometimes doing a free PhD means going abroad and doing your PhD in another country.

Personally, I travelled to Australia to do my PhD for the adventure and lifestyle. I was able to get a fully funded placement and international student fee waiver for three years to finish my degree.

Here’s a summary of some of the best countries you could do you PhD in if you want to do it for free.

In the Czech Republic , public universities host a multitude of English-language PhD programs and these programs are free for all PhD students, irrespective of their nationality. However, additional costs may be incurred by international students which might include language courses, health insurance, or student services fees, depending on the university policies.

Sweden maintains a unique policy that not only eradicates PhD fees at public universities but also provides study grants to some PhD students, which serves as a financial aid for their living expenses during the tenure of their studies.

In Germany , public universities offer feeless PhD programs to all students. However, a nominal administration fee, approximately €300 per semester, is required. This fee usually covers student services and perks like public transportation and access to university facilities.

Austria ‘s policy benefits PhD students from within the EU and EEA who complete their doctorates within a stipulated time frame, offering free education at public research universities. International students, on the other hand, have to pay fees, which, nonetheless, are capped by the Austrian government to maintain affordability.

Norway , like its Nordic counterparts, offers free PhD education at public universities to all students, regardless of their origin. But a small semester fee, usually covering student services, is obligatory.

Denmark also practices a policy of free PhD education for EU, EEA, and Swiss students at public universities, but international students are required to pay fees, which are generally on the higher side compared to other European countries.

Finland doesn’t discriminate in terms of nationality and offers free PhD studies at public universities. However, international students are charged for their Masters programs.

Saudi Arabia stands out with its unique policy where all PhD students are awarded scholarships that automatically cover their education fees, as well as help them with living expenses.

In the Netherlands , PhD study isn’t universally free, but many institutions extend the offer of free PhD study to international postgraduates. Some universities consider the PhD students as university employees, offering them a waiver on fees and potentially a salary or benefits.

Switzerland , although not offering free PhD studies, keeps its fees low at around CHF 1500 per year at public universities. State-funded PhD positions are also available to EU, EEA, and Swiss students that come with no fees and a maintenance grant.

Top tips for finding a PhD for free.

Here are the top tips I would give you when Choosing a free PhD.

• Apply to STEM programs: Many PhD (and Master’s) programs, especially in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) fields, are fully funded in the US. Most state schools and Ivy League schools have fully funded programs for these fields.
• Prepare for stiff competition: Because these programs are fully funded, the competition is high. It’s not uncommon for hundreds or even thousands of students to apply to these programs each year, with only a small fraction being accepted.
• Consider assistantships: Fully-funded programs usually provide a stipend in the form of Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) or Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) positions. These roles involve either teaching or conducting research under a professor’s supervision.
• Be ready for some costs: Despite tuition being covered, you may still need to cover some school fees, student insurance, and other miscellaneous expenditures.
• Don’t consider unfunded programs: Many graduate programs do not fund students, but experts advise against attending these schools. The availability of funding indicates the health of the department in terms of research money and growth.
• Work on your application: The application process generally starts around September to December. Standardized tests such as GRE and TOEFL/IELTS are required, along with transcripts, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose.
• Avoid programs that require you to pay: It’s a common sentiment among experts that if you’re paying to be a PhD student, there might be something wrong with the program.
• Apply for fellowships: There are graduate fellowships available for international students that cover tuition and offer a monthly stipend.

Fully funded online PhD programs in the US

Here are some examples of PhD programs in the states that are free and fully funded:

• Applicants to the Ph.D. in English program at UCLA are automatically considered for various funding options. A six-year funding package includes “a minimum of two years of full fellowship, four years of summer stipend support, and up to four years of teaching assistantships.” Beyond tuition, fees and health insurance are also covered.

Connecticut

• At Yale University, the School of Nursing offers full funding to its Ph.D. students. They receive a monthly stipend for four years in addition to paid tuition and health care.

District of Columbia

• Georgetown University offers scholarships and assistantships that cover full tuition and include a stipend and health insurance for the first five years to students in its PhD program in computer science.
• Students enrolled in the economics Ph.D. program at Emory University typically receive full funding. The stipend provided to students is $36,376 per year for five years, starting in fall 2023, and the full tuition scholarship is worth $70,200 per year. Funding for admitted students also includes a $4,370 annual subsidy that covers 100% of a student’s cost of health insurance. First-year students have no stipend-related work requirements.
• The University of Chicago provides funding for up to eight years of study for its anthropology PhD students. This includes a full-tuition scholarship, health insurance, and a living stipend of $33,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year. Students are also eligible to apply for external fellowships.
• University of Notre Dame doctoral students are guaranteed five years of funding. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance.
• The Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa provides full funding to “virtually all admitted students.” This includes tuition and fees, a minimum nine-month stipend of about $20,000 with annual adjustments, and 90% coverage of comprehensive health insurance. Additional funding is also provided for research presentations at major conferences, summer fellowships, and paid time off for independent research.
• At the University of Maryland’s Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Ph.D. students without a master’s degree usually have five years of guaranteed funding. Those with a master’s degree usually are funded four years, with awards stemming from a mix of departmental fellowships and graduate teaching assistantships.

Massachusetts

• The T.H. Chan School of Public Health at Harvard University offers a PhD in biological sciences in public health, providing expertise in disease prevention and treatment. This program includes tuition, a stipend, and health insurance for five years, assuming students maintain satisfactory academic progress. Current research involves diseases such as AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, malaria, and tuberculosis.
• Students enrolled at the Sloan School of Management at MIT have the opportunity to study various fields, such as organization studies, accounting, and information technology. They receive a full-tuition scholarship, a monthly stipend of $4,267, medical insurance, new laptops at the start of their first and fourth years of study, and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.
• Doctoral students studying English at Boston University receive a stipend plus full tuition, fees, and basic health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years, with two of those years typically free from teaching requirements. Funding can sometimes be extended up to seven years, but it’s not guaranteed. Students may also apply for various prizes, fellowships, and short-term research and travel grants.
• Doctoral students in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor are guaranteed full funding, a monthly living stipend, and health insurance. The exact amount can vary and funding comes from a range of sources, including graduate student instructor positions and fellowships.
• Students admitted to the Ph.D. program to study psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities are guaranteed full funding for five years as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and degree progress. This funding includes full-time tuition, a nine-month stipend, and subsidized health insurance.
• PhD students in computer science or computer engineering at Washington University in St. Louis receive full tuition support, health insurance, a generous stipend for living expenses, and a new high-end Apple laptop computer. This support is guaranteed as long as students continue to make satisfactory progress towards their degree.
• Full-time NYU Steinhardt Ph.D. students are eligible for a funding package that includes an annual stipend – $32,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year – tuition coverage for required coursework and student health insurance for five years.
• All students admitted to the interdisciplinary management Ph.D. program at the Binghamton University—SUNY School of Management in New York receive a combination of a full-tuition scholarship and a teaching or research assistantship for each academic year, up to four years.
• Cornell University offers full funding to all students admitted to its PhD program in chemical engineering. This funding can come from a teaching assistantship, research assistantship, or fellowship, and full stipends are granted for nine months, with the likelihood of additional aid in the summer.
• Columbia University provides fully funded tuition and a $25,000 annual stipend for three years to students enrolled in its PhD program in clinical psychology. This stipend also carries into the student’s fourth year, during which they may be expected to serve as a graduate teaching or research assistant.

North Carolina

• Doctoral students at Duke University studying materials science and engineering generally receive full tuition, a stipend, and fee support for the first five years. Students also receive up to six years of health insurance if they are on the university’s student medical insurance plan.

Pennsylvania

• The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education provides full funding to Ph.D. students as part of a fellowship and research apprenticeship package. This funding includes a living stipend, health insurance and coverage of tuition and fees for up to four years if the student maintains full-time enrollment. Some students may also qualify for additional summer funding.
• Students admitted to Bryn Mawr College’s Ph.D. program in social work receive full tuition waivers and “substantial stipends” toward living expenses.

Rhode Island

• Brown University guarantees full financial support for five years to its PhD students in computer science. This includes tuition remission, a stipend, health services fees, and a subsidy for health insurance.
• Funding is guaranteed for all admitted doctoral students enrolled in the special education Ph.D. program at Vanderbilt University. This includes full tuition, a “competitive” monthly stipend, and health insurance for up to four years.
• Rice University offers full financial assistance to students admitted to the PhD program at the Jones Graduate School of Business. This includes a research or teaching assistantship, a tuition waiver, and a $40,000 annual stipend, contingent upon maintaining satisfactory academic progress and full-time student status.
• All students admitted to the University of Virginia’s Ph.D. in Nursing program are eligible for four years of scholarship funding to cover tuition, insurance, and fees, as well as annual stipends. To receive certain aid, students must work 10 hours per week as a graduate teaching assistant.

Washington D.C.

• American University offers doctoral students in its international relations program who do not have external funding a renewable four-year Dean’s Fellowship that is contingent on making satisfactory academic progress. The fellowship includes the cost of tuition, fees, and a stipend that must be earned via a part-time role as a teaching or research assistant.
• The University of Wisconsin—Madison guarantees full funding for the duration of the time doctoral students are expected to be on campus. This funding may come from financial aid, fellowships, assistantships, and/or traineeships. In addition, doctoral students receive a benefits package that includes health insurance.

Wrapping up

This comprehensive article delves into everything you need to know about free PhD programs, also known as fully funded PhD programs, including the essential details, benefits, and potential challenges that students may encounter.

The term “free PhD” generally refers to a fully funded program that covers tuition fees and provides a stipend for living expenses, allowing students to complete their PhD studies without financial burden.

It is crucial to understand why you should never enter a PhD program without proper funding. Hence, pursuing a free or fully funded PhD should be a priority for all PhD students, regardless of nationality or field of study.

These programs may be offered both online and on-campus by various top universities around the world.

Fully funded PhD programs cater to both international and local students, including those pursuing a traditional PhD, online doctorate, or an accelerated executive doctorate of education.

For instance, fully funded online PhD programs in fields like business administration, education policy, and social work in clinical practice are available for students who hold master’s or bachelor’s degrees.

The duration of these programs may range from 1 year for fast-track or shortest doctoral programs to several years for other disciplines. Moreover, many programs focus on specialization in subjects like higher education policy, laboratory research, and much more.

One of the perks of these programs is that many institutions provide a stipend to cover living expenses during the course of study, ensuring that students can focus entirely on their research without worrying about financial constraints.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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• Study in Europe /

Find the best PhD in Europe to study

• Updated on  
• Dec 7, 2023

The globally acclaimed educational institutions of Europe are founded on the principle of research and innovation and the continent is also home to the headquarters of several renowned multinational enterprises as well as state-of-the-art centres of scientific exploration. Geneva, Berlin and Paris are amongst the top preferred study destinations in Europe. Moreover, offering international-level exposure and knowledge into a varied range of fields and specialisations, the continent attracts an immense number of students from all nooks and corners of the world every year who enrol across an array of bachelor’s, master’s and PhD programmes . Particularly, a PhD in Europe is a highly specialized degree program provided in a multitude of specialised disciplines. If you are planning to pursue a doctoral degree in the continent, here is a detailed guide on the key essentials you should know before applying for a PhD in Europe .

Also Read: PhD after MTech

This Blog Includes:

Phd in europe: eligibility requirements, research proposal, phd in europe: how to apply, phd in europe: top study destinations.

A doctoral degree like a PhD is undertaken as research in a particular topic within a subject, such as a PhD in English on ‘Shakespearean Literature’ or a PhD in Economics on ‘Market Volatility’. European institutions offer flexibility as to the constituents of a PhD degree in terms of duration, thesis, the language of instruction, coursework, and teaching requirements, amongst others. Usually, a PhD in Europe lasts for a minimum of 3 years extending to 5-6 years and the application requirements mandate submission of a research proposal to the professor, department or at the application portal. Prospective students are advised to visit course websites for the latest information.

Applicants need to fulfil some minimum eligibility conditions in order to pursue a PhD in Europe. Many universities generally require candidates to have a master’s degree in their chosen field of study. However, in some cases, institutions may also admit students on the basis of a high-ranking bachelor’s degree. Further, a minimum score is required throughout all postsecondary qualifications, for instance, in the UK, a first or upper-second-class UK honours degree or its international equivalent. 

A considerable number of European institutions require prospective applicants to submit a research proposal which details the intended topic of research that the applicant wishes to pursue at the institution. Further, it also delineates the professors under which the applicant wishes to work and how it will help him in developing his interest. The university strives for a balance between the expectations of the applicant and the facilities it is providing so as to promote student development.

In comparison to institutions in USA , Canada and Australia , a PhD in Europe is affordable in terms of tuition fees, living costs and other expenses. Further, besides university-based funding in the form of scholarships, assistantships etc, the country of study also offers diverse funding opportunities like monthly stipends, research assistantships, tuition fee waivers and country-based scholarships.

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The process of application for a PhD in Europe can be undertaken in two ways. One, through direct professor approach and recommendation (only a few students get admission through this way) and the other through the traditional application process. The former method requires you to approach a professor at the university from your field and ask for an admission recommendation. If the professor is impressed by your academic qualifications and experience, you will be offered a PhD admission to the university. On the other hand, the conventional application process is similar to the regular application procedure and requires you to upload all the necessary documents such as LOR , SOP and resume amongst others along with submitting the application fee. After a month or two encompassing the evaluation process, the university will provide the list of selected students on their admission portal.

There are a plethora of study destinations in Europe that offer quality educational programs in an array of fields and specializations. The continent is home to some of the best academic institutions in the world and is home to an immense number of research centres and universities. Here is a list of major study destinations in Europe and their renowned institutions along with other specific details about PhD programs offered.

Home to one of the top universities in the world, the United Kingdom (UK) provide a huge number of PhD and research opportunities spanning a multitude of specialisations from Business Administration to disciplines of Liberal Arts. Most UK universities will essentially need a master’s degree as well as English language proficiency tests such as IELTS and TOEFL as key eligibility prerequisites for a PhD program.

Duration: Minimum 3 years; full-time

Institutions: University of Bristol , University of Manchester , University of Sussex etc.

Also Read: Cost of Studying in UK for Indian Students

German universities are internationally renowned for their offered range of Science and Engineering programs. Providing courses with low or almost no tuition fees, Germany also has an array of government grants for international students aspiring to pursue a PhD. These grants are availed by DAAD and Excellence Initiative with an aim to equip meritorious students with financial assistance for PhD programs.

Duration: 3-4 years

Institutions: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen ; TU Munchen, Humboldt University Berlin etc.

Also Read: Study in Germany Without IELTS

France is another prominent European study destination for those aspiring to pursue PhD programs in technical fields such as Engineering, Information Technology, amongst others. The tuition fees for PhD courses in French universities are typically low and students are allowed to pursue independent research programmes at the elitist institutions of the country. Further, you can also go for dual-degree courses that are an exceptional combination of a master’s degree and a PhD.

Institutions: Université PSL , Ecole Polytechnique, etc

With the perks of affordable education and living costs, Finland is home to two of the world’s renowned research universities, i.e. the University of Helsinki and the Aalto University. Further, major PhD courses are offered in English and you don’t necessarily need to learn Finnish to pursue a course in the country.

Institutions: University of Helsinki , Aalto University, University of Eastern Finland etc.

Also Read: Study in Finland

Located at the heart of Europe, Austria provides a multitude of PhD programs in interdisciplinary specialisations of several disciplines such as Engineering, Applied Sciences, Humanities, etc. The country is home to a wide range of academic institutions offering opportunities in professional, medical and technical research.

Institutions: MODUL University of Vienna , University of Innsbruck, University of Graz, etc.

Emerging rapidly as a cosmopolitan hub, Belgium is internationally popular for its PhD programs in Political Science and International Relations. There are several reputable educational institutions in the country providing highly stimulating research opportunities for budding scholars. Also, the living costs and course fees are relatively lower as compared to other European cities.

Institutions: Universite de Liege , University of Mons, Université libre de Bruxelles, etc.

International researchers are welcome at Germany’s research organisations, universities, and enterprises, which provide good prospects for PhD students. Every year, over 29,000 graduate students complete a PhD in Germany, significantly more than in any other European Union member state.

Each European country is free to determine its own costs for doctorates and other degrees. However, EU member countries must charge the same tuition to students from other EU countries that they do on their own.

In general, it takes at least four years to earn a PhD in Europe, and examinations are not frequently necessary, as they are in other countries such as the United States.

Hence, Europe is filled with immense possibilities for those striving for PhD programs in specialised disciplines. If you are planning to pursue PhD in Europe, using the AI tool at Leverage Edu you can browse through various European institutions and their offered courses solely based on your unique interests, thereby helping you find the right doctoral program in your chosen field.

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Study in Europe 2022 "How to do a funded PhD in Europe"

Join us on Saturday, 24 September at 4pm (Singapore) to learn how you can carry out your doctoral training in Europe and how EURAXESS can support you on this journey! 

Europe boasts a huge diversity of opportunities for doctoral training. European PhD programmes enjoy international recognition for excellence thus providing an exceptional career launch pad for young researchers.

Many European countries charge very little or no fees for PhD studies while also offering scholarships for international applicants. The European Commission’s Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) offer funding for thousands of PhD students each year to carry out their doctoral research across Europe.

Find out about the MSCA Doctoral Fellowships and get tips & advice for your PhD journey from ASEAN PhD students in Europe!

The webinar will be held in English.

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Europe has prestigious universities offering high-quality education to local and international students. Some countries provide tuition-free education, making it attractive for students seeking affordable higher education.

Though these universities offer free tuition, additional fees may apply, such as semester fees, administrative fees, and living expenses. The availability of programs and free tuition may vary depending on the specific program and the student’s nationality.

Some examples of countries with tuition-free universities for international students include Germany, Norway, and Finland. It is advisable to research and confirm the specific requirements and conditions for international students at universities in these countries.

Here are some of the Tuition-Free Universities for International Students in Europe :

In this article, we highlight 13 tuition-free universities in Europe for international students, giving them the chance to access world-class education without the burden of tuition fees.

1. Free University of Berlin:

The Free University of Berlin is considered one of the best universities in Germany. It is a public research university that was established in 1948. It is known for its humanities and political science programs. Out of a total of over 36,000 students, 22% are international students from outside Germany.

Most programs at the Free University of Berlin do not charge tuition fees, except for some graduate and postgraduate programs. However, students may have to pay for other expenses during the semester, in addition to their living costs. If students receive grants from other organizations, they are not allowed to work while studying at the University

2. University of Oslo:

The University of Oslo, in Norway, is well-known for its excellent academic programs and research. It’s tuition-free and attracts diverse students, including international ones who can study in a vibrant environment without paying fees. They offer many undergraduate programs in different fields, making it a great choice for international students seeking quality education in Europe.

3. University of Hamburg:

The University of Hamburg is one of the prestigious universities in Germany known for its Arts and Humanities and Physical Science programs. Over 12% of the current 30,000+ students in the school are international students.

As part of the ERASMUS program, students at the University of Hamburg have the opportunity to study at partner universities throughout the country for either one or two semesters. As a student at the university, you do not need to pay any tuition fees, except for a small contribution each semester.

4. Dalarna University :

Dalarna University is a public university in Sweden that offers free tuition. They have over 15,000 students annually, and their courses focus more on technology. The university also has a lush woodland area surrounding it with fresh air, quiet, and clear skies. For those wanting something more outside the classroom, this can be a great choice.

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5. University of Helsinki:

The University of Helsinki in Finland is a renowned institution known for its excellent education system. It stands out as a leading university in the country. International students have the chance to study a range of subjects at the undergraduate level in a supportive academic community.

The university places great importance on research and innovation, providing students with an enriching educational experience. By offering tuition-free education, the University of Helsinki allows internationalOpenAI API network timeout

6. University of Cologne:

The University of Cologne in Germany is a cosmopolitan university that was established in the year 1798. It is not only one of the oldest universities in the country but also one of the largest with over 35,000 students enrolled there with a fifth of them being international students.

The university has a diverse range of courses to pick from from its six faculties. No tuition fee is charged at the University of Cologne except for a yearly social contribution fee of around € 250.

7. University of Copenhagen:

The University of Copenhagen in Denmark offers a tuition-free education to international students seeking undergraduate degrees. With a strong commitment to academic excellence and interdisciplinary learning, the university provides a conducive environment for students to explore their academic interests.

International students can benefit from the tuition-free policy while experiencing the rich cultural and intellectual heritage of Copenhagen.

8. University of Iceland:

The University of Iceland in Iceland is a tuition-free university that provides international students with the opportunity to pursue undergraduate studies in a wide range of fields, including social sciences, natural sciences, humanities, and engineering.

The university is known for its strong research programs and commitment to academic excellence. International students can also benefit from the unique cultural and natural environment of Iceland, which offers a rich and diverse experience both inside and outside the classroom.

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Nord University is a state university in Norway that provides excellent educational programs with a focus on teacher training. Aspiring educators can benefit greatly from the university’s comprehensive training and credentials, despite its comparatively smaller size when compared to other institutions. 

10. Humboldt University of Berlin:

Humboldt University of Berlin is a free public research university in Germany and is another prestigious university in the country. Humboldt University of Berlin has become the 6th best university in the country, having been ranked #120 in the QS World Rankings of 2024.

The university has a free education policy for international students. Humboldt University offers courses in business administration, art, philosophy, and sociology that are entirely conducted in the English medium. This means, that regardless of whatever program you choose to follow here, you are sure to find that it is accepted across the world.

11. Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU):

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology NTNU is the largest university in Norway that offers its courses for free. They currently have nearly 40,000 students on their campus.

As the name implies, the university offers courses specializing in the Sciences. They also have connections with research organizations around the world, which can add an impressive amount of weight to your resume.

12. Heidelberg University, Germany:

Heidelberg University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Germany. As a tuition-free university, it offers international students the opportunity to pursue undergraduate studies in various disciplines, including humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and medicine.

13.  Technical University of Munich:

The British Magazine “Times Higher Education” ranked the Technical University of Munich as one of the best universities in Germany and the European Union. The university is also one of the top 30 universities in the world for the second consecutive time.

The university has a significant reputation for its teaching and research facilities, especially in medicine, applied sciences, and engineering. It is also affiliated with international academic agents like EuroTech and EUA ensuring that their education meets global industry standards.

Studying at a tuition-free university in Europe can open doors to a world-class standard education without the financial burden of tuition fees.

These institutions offer a diverse and enriching academic experience for international students, allowing them to immerse themselves in vibrant cultural settings while pursuing their degrees.

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Free Universities in Europe

An overview of no-tuition education options.

Access to higher education is becoming increasingly imperative, and the cost of tuition can often be a significant barrier. Europe stands as a beacon for progress in this aspect, as several countries have laid the foundation for tuition-free university education. These institutions provide high-quality education without the burden of tuition fees, extending opportunities for students to study abroad without the financial stresses that often accompany higher education. With an emphasis on equality and investment in the future, these tuition-free universities highlight a commitment to accessible education for all.

The concept of tuition-free universities is particularly prevalent in numerous public universities across Europe. Countries like Germany and Norway lead the charge, not only offering no tuition fees for domestic students but often extending this benefit to international students as well. This opens the doors for a diverse student body to gain experience and knowledge from reputable European educational systems. The financial considerations are thus dramatically different from the traditional narrative of accumulating substantial debt for a degree, making the prospect of studying abroad in Europe more attainable.

Key Takeaways

• Several European countries offer free university education, highlighting a commitment to accessible education.
• Public universities in Europe provide tuition-free programs , often available to both domestic and international students.
• Attending a tuition-free university in Europe allows students to receive a high-quality education without the associated tuition costs.

Understanding Free Education in Europe

European higher education has a rich tradition of accessibility, shaped by historical precedents and evolving policy measures. Diverse rules apply to public and private institutions, with specific eligibility criteria concerning students’ nationality.

History of Free Education

Free education in Europe traces its roots to the establishment of state-funded universities seeking to promote higher learning without the impediment of tuition fees. Many European countries have long upheld the principle that education should be accessible to all, irrespective of socio-economic background.

Current Policies and Practices

The current educational landscape in Europe is broadly characterized by a blend of tuition-free and fee-based programs. Countries like Germany and Norway extend free university education to all students, including those from outside the European Economic Area (EEA). Others may charge nominal fees or have different policies for non-EU/EEA students .

Eligibility and Nationality Considerations

Eligibility for free education often hinges on a student’s nationality or residency status. Students from EU/EEA countries commonly benefit from free or lower tuition rates across the European Union, while those from outside the EU/EEA may face higher fees or stricter admission criteria.

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Public vs. Private Universities

The distinction between public universities and private universities in Europe is particularly significant concerning tuition. While public institutions may offer tuition-free education, especially in Nordic countries, private institutions maintain the autonomy to set their own fee structures, which can vary significantly.

List of Countries with Free Universities

In Europe, a significant number of countries offer tuition-free university education, primarily to citizens and residents of the European Economic Area (EEA) and the European Union (EU). Some extend this benefit to international students, with varying administrative fees.

Northern European Nations

Norway stands out as a leading example where universities do not charge tuition fees, regardless of a student’s nationality. This policy reflects Norway’s commitment to accessible education. Sweden and Finland also extend tuition-free education to students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland, with students from outside these regions subject to tuition fees.

Western Europe Insights

In Germany , higher education is largely free for all students at public universities, with only nominal fees applied for administrative costs. Similarly, France offers relatively low-cost education compared to global standards, even though it is not entirely free for international students.

Eastern European Perspective

Countries like the Czech Republic and Poland offer free education to students studying in the countries’ official languages. In the Czech Republic, for example, those who wish to study in English may have to pay tuition depending on the program and level of study.

Central Europe Overview

Studying in Austria is free for EU/EEA students, with a modest fee for students from other countries. However, Hungary and Slovenia have policies that can enable international students to study without tuition fees, although certain conditions apply, mainly concerning language proficiency and regional agreements.

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Financial Considerations for Students

When planning to study in Europe, students must distinctly understand the various financial aspects involved, such as tuition fees and living expenses, along with potential scholarships and work opportunities that could ease their financial burden.

Understanding Tuition Fees

Tuition fees in Europe vary widely between countries and institutions. In some nations, such as Norway and Germany, students can access tuition-free education regardless of their nationality. However, there is often a nominal semester fee , which covers administrative costs and sometimes includes public transportation tickets and student union memberships. It’s essential to check each country’s specific policies, as some, like Finland, may levy varying rates for non-European students.

Living and Accommodation Costs

The cost of living in student cities across Europe can fluctuate notably. Scandinavia and Northern Europe are known for higher living expenses, while other regions may offer more affordable student accommodation options. Generally, living costs cover housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Students should budget carefully and consider if their chosen city aligns with their financial means.

Scholarship Opportunities

Scholarships are a valuable resource for managing the costs of higher education. Numerous European universities, organizations, and governments offer scholarships to help reduce or cover tuition fees and living expenses. Eligibility criteria for these financial aids vary, so students should research thoroughly to identify opportunities that match their academic profile and study area.

Work and Study Options

Many European countries permit students to work part-time while studying. This can help mitigate both tuition and living costs. It’s critical to check visa stipulations and local regulations, as there may be limits on the number of hours international students are allowed to work. Balancing work with study demands careful time management, but it can provide valuable income and work experience.

Universities and Programs of Note

In Europe, a range of universities stand out for offering tuition-free education and are recognized for their specialized programs, research excellence, and innovation. They provide opportunities in numerous fields including engineering, computer science, and social sciences.

Leading Free Universities in Europe

University of Oslo

• Noteworthy for its comprehensive range of disciplines.
• No tuition fees for international students.

Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)

• Renowned for cutting-edge engineering programs.
• Free tuition structure, attracting a global student body.

University of Vienna

• Free for EU/EEA students, with nominal charges for others.
• Strong emphasis on social sciences.

Technical University of Munich

• Known for excellence in computer science and engineering.
• Minimal fees for non-EU students, free for EU nationals.

University of Copenhagen

• One of the oldest universities with exceptional research output.
• No tuition for EU students; programs in English available.

University of Helsinki

• World-class research institution with a broad curriculum.
• Free for EU/EEA students.

University of Bergen

• Offers a wide spectrum of programs; notable for marine research.
• Tuition-free for all students, regardless of nationality.

University of Iceland

• Central in Nordic academic collaboration with high-quality courses.
• Does not charge tuition fees.

Specialized Programs and Fields

• Engineering : NTNU and Technical University of Munich are leaders in the engineering field, offering state-of-the-art resources and teaching.
• Computer Science : With groundbreaking research and innovative teaching methods, Technical University of Munich sets the bar for computer science.
• Social Sciences : University of Vienna and University of Copenhagen are celebrated for their extensive social sciences faculties, providing a rich academic environment.

Research and Innovation Centers

• Many European universities integrate advanced research facilities directly into their academic offerings.
• Institutions like the University of Helsinki and the University of Copenhagen are at the forefront, contributing significantly to international research and development.
• These centers often collaborate with global industries and other universities, further enhancing the quality and impact of research produced.

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Cultural and social integration.

For international students studying in Europe, integrating into a new culture goes beyond classroom walls. It involves understanding local customs, mastering the language, and building a social network that can enhance both their academic journey and personal growth.

Adapting to Local Cultures

Students quickly find that cultural immersion is an integral part of the study abroad experience. Adapting to local cultures means respecting traditional norms and often involves adjusting to different food preferences, daily routines, and social etiquettes. In the Nordic countries , for instance, there is an emphasis on egalitarianism and environmental consciousness that might differ markedly from a student’s home country.

Language and Communication

Effective communication is pivotal for international students, both within the academic setting and in daily life . While many Europeans speak English , learning the local language can significantly ease the integration process, from navigating living expenses to forming meaningful connections. For instance, although universities in Germany offer programs in English , knowing German can profoundly impact everyday interactions and the sense of community.

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Social Activities and Networks

Active participation in social activities and networks helps mitigate the challenges of being an international student in a new country. Joining clubs, attending local events, and networking can bridge cultural gaps and enhance language skills. Europe’s rich tapestry of cultures offers a unique backdrop for festivals, historical tours, and social gatherings, which serve as excellent opportunities for students to bond with peers and locals alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Navigating the landscape of tuition-free universities in Europe is complex, and many international students have pertinent questions about how to access such education opportunities.

What are the requirements for international students to attend tuition-free universities in Europe?

Each European country has specific requirements for international students. Typically, these include a valid passport, proof of secondary education, language proficiency, and sometimes entrance exams or interviews. Admission procedures can vary greatly, so it’s crucial to check with the specific institution.

How can American students access higher education for free in European countries?

American students may access tuition-free universities in Europe by meeting the eligibility criteria of the respective country and institution. This often involves demonstrating language proficiency and fulfilling visa requirements. Some countries might require proof of financial independence during their stay.

Which European countries offer English-taught programs at their tuition-free universities?

Countries such as Germany, Norway, and Finland offer various English-taught programs at their tuition-free universities. These programs are particularly attractive to international students who are not proficient in the native language of the country.

Are there any conditions or fees international students should be aware of at tuition-free European universities?

While tuition may be free, students should be aware of other potential fees such as semester contributions, registration fees, and costs related to living expenses. Some universities also charge application fees. Always review the university’s website for a detailed breakdown of any additional costs.

What challenges might students face while attending free colleges in Europe?

Students may face challenges such as cultural shock , language barriers, and adjusting to different education systems. Ensuring accommodation, securing health insurance, and managing living expenses are also important considerations for students studying abroad .

Which is considered the most affordable country in Europe for international students to study?

Norway is often regarded as one of the most affordable countries for international students to study, as public universities do not charge tuition fees irrespective of the student’s nationality. However, the cost of living can be higher compared to other countries.

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The European Qualifications Framework

The EU developed the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) as a translation tool to make national qualifications easier to understand and more comparable. The EQF seeks to support cross-border mobility of learners and workers, promote lifelong learning and professional development across Europe.

What is the EQF?

The EQF is an 8-level , learning outcomes-based framework for all types of qualifications that serves as a translation tool between different national qualifications frameworks. This framework helps improve transparency, comparability and portability of people’s qualifications and makes it possible to compare qualifications from different countries and institutions.

The EQF covers all types and all levels of qualifications and the use of learning outcomes makes it clear what a person knows, understands and is able to do. The level increases according to the level of proficiency, level 1 is the lowest and 8 the highest level. Most importantly the EQF is closely linked to national qualifications frameworks , this way it can provide a comprehensive map of all types and levels of qualifications in Europe, which are increasingly accessible through qualification databases.

The EQF was set up in 2008 and later revised in 2017 . Its revision has kept the core objectives of creating transparency and mutual trust in the landscape of qualifications in Europe. Member States committed themselves to further develop the EQF and make it more effective in facilitating the understanding of national, international and third-country qualifications by employers, workers and learners.

Which countries are involved?

In addition to the EU Member States another 11 countries work towards implementing the EQF, namely Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway (European Economic Area countries), Albania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia and Türkiye (candidate countries), Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo ** (potential candidates) and Switzerland.

Who else is involved?

EQF Advisory Group (AG),established in 2008, is the central forum for discussion between the Commission, countries and stakeholders from the world of education and training, employment and civil society. The role of the AG is to ensure overall coherence and promote transparency, and trust in the process of referencing. Minutes and documents of the EQF Advisory Group meetings are published on the Register of Commission Expert Groups

European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop) and the European Training Foundation (ETF) , as European Agencies, play an important role in supporting the implementation of the EQF.  

The ENIC/NARIC network  is a network of national centres set up to directly support institutions and citizens with the recognition of academic qualifications.

The EQF works together with other European and international instruments supporting the recognition of qualifications.

• The Council Recommendation of 26 November 2018 on promoting automatic mutual recognition of higher education and upper secondary education and training qualifications and the outcomes of learning periods abroad refers to the EQF as a way to foster transparency and build trust between national education and training systems
• Directive 2005/36/EC addresses the recognition of professional qualifications in the EU , enabling professionals to move across borders and practise their occupation or provide services abroad
• The Lisbon recognition convention is an international agreement administered by UNESCO and the Council of Europe that allows for the recognition of academic qualifications in Europe and beyond;
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The EQF Recommendation invites Member States to reference their national qualifications frameworks or systems to the EQF, in order to establish a clear and transparent relationship between their national qualification levels and the eight EQF levels. Member States are recommended to review and update, when relevant, the referencing of the levels of the national qualifications frameworks or systems to the levels of the EQF.

Each country wanting to relate its national qualifications levels to the EQF has to prepare a detailed referencing report that follows the 10 EQF referencing criteria agreed in Annex III to the revised EQF Recommendation.  National referencing reports are presented to the EQF Advisory Group which endorses them if they satisfy the referencing criteria.

Once national frameworks are referenced to the EQF all newly issued qualifications (e.g. certificates, diplomas, certificate supplements, diploma supplements), and/or qualifications databases should in principle contain a clear reference to the appropriate EQF and NQF level.

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PERSPECTIVE article

Postgraduate education and training in drug development sciences: 30 years of the european center of pharmaceutical medicine.

• European Center of Pharmaceutical Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland

The European Center of Pharmaceutical Medicine (ECPM), affiliated with the University of Basel Department of Public Health, stands as a leading institution dedicated to advancing education in medicine development since 1991. At the heart of its educational offers lies the Diploma or Certificate (DAS or CAS) in Pharmaceutical Medicine, encompassing a comprehensive curriculum that covers the entire drug development process. ECPM has expanded its reach beyond Switzerland, offering courses in the USA, China and India. Through rigorous teaching and strategic alliances, ECPM continues to shape education in pharmaceutical medicine on an international scale.

1 Introduction

In the rapidly evolving field of medicines development, postgraduate education plays a vital role in equipping pharmaceutical industry professionals with up-to-date knowledge. This article explores the importance, structure and historical context of the courses available at the European Center of Pharmaceutical Medicine (ECPM) in Switzerland and its international partner institutes. We underscore the value of providing comprehensive training across critical areas such as discovery, clinical trials, regulatory activities and marketing in medicines development. These domains serve as the backbone of pharmaceutical medicine, and proficiency in these areas is of utmost importance. By fostering cooperation between stakeholders of the healthcare system, we have standardized and elevated education in medicines development. Anchored by the PharmaTrain syllabus, ECPM’s courses not only equip professionals with essential skills but also ensure they remain at the forefront of emerging trends and technologies.

2 About ECPM

2.1 facts and figures–ecpm course offer.

The European Center of Pharmaceutical Medicine (ECPM) ( ECPM Office, 2024 ) or Institute of Pharmaceutical Medicine is dedicated to being the leading university institute for medicines and drug development in Europe. ECPM belongs to the Department of Public Health of the Medical Faculty at the University of Basel ( University of Basel, 2024b ; University of Basel, 2024a )) and operates with partners worldwide. The institute was founded in 1991 to cover the training needs of specialists working in drug development. It comprises an education and training department (est. 1991) and a research department (est. 2003). In 2009, the professorship in Pharmaceutical Medicine was inaugurated.

The education and training focus is on Advanced Studies, Postgraduate Training and Continuing Professional Development (CPD). The ECPM Diploma Course (ECPM Course) comprises six modules and represents the core of the postgraduate training platform ( Figure 1 ). The course offers students to obtain either a Diploma (DAS) of Advanced Studies in Pharmaceutical Medicine or a Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in Pharmaceutical Medicine and in addition a Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) in Medicines Development. The broad range of CPD short courses count towards the Master program, yet they are also a stand-alone offer and can be booked individually for continuing education. The curriculum provides a holistic understanding of the drug development process from molecule to market as well as key concepts in regulatory science, marketing and life cycle management. The program is based on the PharmaTrain Syllabus ( pharmatrain, 2018 ). A cornerstone of the curriculum is the Frontiers in Drug Development seminar series, which introduces emerging trends and technologies in medicines development. This series plays a key role in ensuring that the participants and alumni stay at the forefront of the trends and development in pharmaceutical medicine.

Figure 1 . Postgraduate degree structure. In conformity with the Bologna system three postgraduate degrees are offered. These degrees can be achieved by completing the courses in a modular scheme, next to working full- or part-time and by acquiring the knowledge according to your needs. In addition, course participants who achieved a DAS can apply for a Swiss Specialist in Pharmaceutical Medicine title.

The mission at ECPM is to establish the best international training platform that provides and enhances the knowledge, expertise and skills required to perform modern discovery, development, regulation and marketing of medicinal products. Since the foundation in 1991, over 2,100 students holding MDs, PhDs or an MSc were trained and 150 members of faculty were recruited ( Figure 2 ). Furthermore, since the introduction of the Bologna system in 2000, ECPM was proud to upgrade from awarding a certificate to the possibility of awarding a postgraduate diploma and later in 2015 a Master of Advanced Studies.

Figure 2 . Characteristics of ECPM participants and faculty for the CAS/DAS. ECPM attracts participants and faculty mostly from across industry, academia and clinical settings. Some participants also join us from the banking and consulting sectors. The CAS/DAS course at ECPM provides an attractive insight for those interested in pharmaceutical medicine.

2.2 30 years at the forefront of drug discovery and development

The history of drug discovery and development goes back several thousand years. It started with the use of herbals in China and India. Later there was evidence of medicinal practice in Egypt. In Greece, Hippocrates started to transform medicine from art to science during the era of ancient medicine. The foundations of scientific medicine took over two thousand years to develop. Activities in Basel started in the second part of the 19th century coming out of the dye and chemical industry ( Novartis, 2024 ; Roche Holding, 2024 ). Modern drug discovery started to emerge by the end of the 20th century with the arrival of organic chemistry, the discipline of pharmacology and germ theory. Later industrial technology made it possible to manufacture high quality medicines. By introducing genomics, the Human Genome Project ( The national Institute of Health NIH, 2022 ) enabled advances in molecular and genomic medicine in the year 2000.

Tremendous progress occurred in the last 30 years, but we still have a limited understanding of disease pathology and progression. Cutting-edge technologies emerged, e.g., as humanized models in toxicology or gene sequencing. These help to predict and personalize the clinical success of drug candidates. Algorithms, machine learning, artificial intelligence and other in silico tools assist to study molecules in a dynamic state, even within a single cell. High-throughput technologies and digital devices produce an exponential amount of data. Hence it is important that such data is transformed to high quality information and subsequently turned into actionable knowledge. In all parts of this process, skills and talents of the individuals along the value chain are key. Our aim is to support research and educate professionals in drug discovery and development, especially at the interface of disciplines.

2.3 Highlights and milestones in the history of ECPM

Robert O’Neill, Head of Biostatistics at FDA came to Basel in 1989 with the idea to develop a course in regulatory topics ( Figure 3 ). The focus was to inform European scientists about how the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ( FDA, 2022 ) provides advice to sponsors of clinical studies and how FDA evaluates the evidence of the safety and efficacy of new drugs. Fritz R. Bühler, Professor in Cardiology and Pathophysiology and Head of the Department of Research at the University Hospital in Basel hosted Professor O’Neill during his sabbatical. Fritz R. Bühler had the idea to enhance the university–industry relationships by offering high quality education and training on a neutral, academic ground. The pilot course triggered a great response within academia and research-based pharmaceutical companies in Basel.

Figure 3 . The historical DNA of ECPM. From 1989 to present ECPM has achieved many notable milestones in its development.

After the big success of the inaugural course, Fritz R. Bühler and Ruth Amstein, a pharmacist and PhD student of Fritz R. Bühler started the ECPM course in 1991 and developed a 2-year curriculum - the ECPM course was born. The course was part of the postgraduate training at the University of Basel within the medical faculty and partner of EUCOR ( EUCOR, 2024 ), the European campus consisting of the Universities Basel, Freiburg im Breisgau and Strasbourg. Until 1999 the successful course led to an EUCOR certificate which, after the introduction of the Europe wide Bologna system ( European Commission, 2024 ) in 2000, was upgraded to a postgraduate diploma. In 1997 Annette Mollet joined ECPM as the new course director. From 2009 to 2014, Fritz R. Bühler, Thomas D. Szucs, Susanne Daniel and Annette Mollet led the Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI) ( Innovative Medicines Initiative IMI, 2024 ; PharmaTrain, 2024 ) project–a public/private partnership called PharmaTrain. Through this European academic network, the ECPM training platform was taken to the next level to offer a postgraduate Master title. In 2012 ECPM was awarded PharmaTrain Center of Excellence and completed successfully two reassessments in 2018 and 2023 by PharmaTrain, reaffirming its prestigious status as a PharmaTrain Centre of Excellence for 12 consecutive years.

In 2003 the research group ( ECPM Research, 2022 ) was established under the leadership of Matthias Schwenkglenks, who holds a PhD in Epidemiology and a Master in Public Health. Their research focus is on health economics, cost-benefit implications and the efficient use of pharmaceuticals and other healthcare interventions in Switzerland and internationally. Long-standing cooperation on outcomes research with the Swiss Group for Clinical Cancer Research (SAKK) and collaborations within the University Basel and Zurich and the pharmaceutical industry were established. One of the most important milestones was the establishment of a Professorship in pharmaceutical medicine and the election of Thomas D. Szucs at the University of Basel in 2009. Thanks to this ECPM became a full university institute within the department of public health of the medical faculty. The research department evolved over time and today consists of nine research scientists and a number of PhD and master students.

Since then, we are striving to implement teaching in drug development, health economics and policy also for undergraduate students and to continue to offer cutting edge courses by implementing digital course tools and offers. Thanks to our local and international collaboration with partners from the pharmaceutical industry, academia and governmental/regulatory authorities, our research and training remain an important support for modern drug development and informed and transparent health policy decision making.

In 2023, Matthias Schwenkglenks played a crucial role in the foundation of the new Basel Center for Health Economics (BCHE) ( Basel, 2024 ), where he is co-leader. BCHE represents a collaborative effort between three departments in Universität Basel and Swiss TPH, led by Stefan Felder (Faculty of Economics), Günther Fink (Faculty of Economics, Swiss TPH) and Matthias Schwenkglenks (Faculty of Medicine). It will serve as a local and international networking hub, fostering connections between research, industry leaders, and policymakers.

2.4 A collaborative effort–the ECPM advisory board

Embodying the spirit of collaboration, the ECPM Advisory Board in Switzerland brings together members representing the pharmaceutical industry, academia, regulatory agencies and health insurance. Our unique combination of stakeholders creates a dynamic forum at the annual meetings, where inspiration and ideas for the development of ECPM flourish. We draw upon the experience of industry experts to understand unmet needs in pharmaceutical medicine, technological advancements, market trends and educational gaps in the workforce. The colleagues from academia contribute ideas for cutting-edge research and provide evidence-based perspectives. The involvement of regulatory agencies ensures that our collaborative efforts align with established standards, ethical considerations and comply with existing frameworks. Finally, the input of health insurance companies ensures an approach that equips our participants with the knowledge to work towards sustainable and cost-effective strategies in pharmaceutical medicine. Together, these pillars of expertise within the ECPM advisory board ensure strong foundations for ongoing innovation and excellence in education and training in pharmaceutical medicine.

2.5 The international footprint of ECPM–courses in the USA, China and India

Pharmaceutical companies, regulatory agencies, and governmental institutions act both locally and internationally as key stakeholders in the innovation and management of healthcare systems. To allow harmonization of education and training, ECPM has crossed borders and established roots in institutions outside of Switzerland. In 2006 and 2008, the University of Beijing and the subsidiary of the University of San Francisco in Washington adopted the course concept. In contrast to the format in Basel, where the course modules are offered over a period of 2 years, the American and Chinese courses cover 1 year.

In the US, the “American Course on Drug Development and Regulatory Science” ACRDS of the University of California San Francisco ( American Course on Drug Development and Regulatory Science, 2024 ) was inaugurated in 2006 on their campus in Washington. This programme is strategically located with close proximity to the Food and Drug Association (FDA), with half of the course participants coming from the FDA itself. The other half of course participants represent industry, academia and service industry experts. This collaboration was initiated by Prof Carl Peck, the former head of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) and allows a great opportunity to exchange and to build up a professional network.

A comparable model is followed in Beijing, where the “Chinese Course on Drug Development and Regulatory Science” (CCDRS) offered by Peking University Clinical Research Institute (PUCRI) ( Peking University Health Science Center, 2024 ) benefits from the establishment of a collaboration with the Chinese FDA (CFDA). It was with great pleasure that Thomas Szucs of ECPM and Carl Peck, co-founder of ECPM and ACDRS, received Honorary Professorships from Peking University on the 15-year anniversary of the Chinese Course of Drug Development and Regulatory Science (CCDRS) in 2023.

With excitement ECPM continues to expand its global footprint by establishing the “Executive Training Program in Drug Development and Regulatory Science” offered by ECPM, Centre for Regulatory Science, Department of Health Information, Prasanna School of Public Health (PSPH), Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) in India and the Roche India Healthcare Institute in 2022 ( Manipal Academy of Higher Education, 2024 ; Roche India, 2024 )). The course was initiated following a request from the former secretary general of EFPIA (European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations) ( European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations, 2024 ) Richard Bergstrøm, and facilitated by Professors Angela and Helmut Brand, who hold professorships in public health both in Maastricht, the Netherlands and at PSPH, MAHE, India. Dr Lada Leyens was very instrumental in bridging the initiative since she was working at F. Hoffmann–La Roche in Basel and is holding an endowed chair at PSPH.

Due to the travel restrictions caused by the COVID pandemics, the course started in February 2023 online. The preparation, which was initiated much earlier, involved challenges in establishing contacts with key stakeholders in India. It was only once the Roche India Healthcare Institute came onboard, through the professional network of Dr Lada Leyens, that key connections could be established between industry partners, academia and the regulatory agency (Central Drugs Standard Control Organization, CDSCO). The training concept has been adapted to six 3-day modules over 1 year. Two days are dedicated to international topics and 1 day covers India-specific topics. Additional course content is offered as videos and case studies on the digital course platform. The inaugural course was done very interactively including group work to connect the participants online. The last module was offered on-site including visits to the Indian Council of Medical Research and the Indian Pharmacopeia and their laboratories. After this successful first cohort with 16 candidates, it became clear that the consortium needed to establish an advisory board with other pharmaceutical companies and public universities to make the course more known.

After its inaugural year, the Indian course was nominated for the Education category of the TOPRA (The Organization for Professionals in Regulatory Affairs) ( TOPRA, 2024 ) Award 2023. The Education Award recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to the education and training of regulatory affairs, perhaps through the development of a formal educational qualification, the consistent delivery of a training product, or the production of an innovative in-house training programme.

2.6 Insights into the 30th anniversary of ECPM

ECPM was pleased to honor 30 years of excellence in continuous education, as described in detail in the annual report. Founded in 1991—as the first provider of postgraduate academic programs in pharmaceutical medicine both for medical doctors and a variety of academic experts working in drug development–over the past 30 years ECPM has established itself as one of the world’s leading university institutes for medicine and drug development, providing high-level education and training to more than 2,100 health professionals. On 20 June 2022—1 year later than foreseen due to COVID restrictions–the time had come for ECPM to celebrate its 30th anniversary with a formal ceremony and an exclusive anniversary seminar that spotlighted learnings and challenges in medicines development, followed by a look back on the highlights over the past 30 years of ECPM. To this end, we paid tribute to the legacy and landmark achievements of ECPM founder Prof. Fritz Bühler, who passed away in 2017. ECPM Co-founders Carl Peck and Robert O’Neill, formerly with the FDA, gave very personal memorial speeches. Several ECPM founding members and current board members honored ECPM’s accomplishments and milestones, with a number of distinguished representatives from the Pharmaceutical Industry, the Swiss Regulatory Authority, the Swiss Government, and the University of Basel.

2.7 Spotlight on anniversary celebration talks

At the core of the anniversary seminar was the presentation on the veritable DNA of ECPM by Thomas Szucs, current Director of ECPM. Further, Ruth Amstein, the former, and Annette Mollet, the current, Head of Education and Training, showed the development of ECPM marked by an impressive growth from a small associated institute to a full-fledged university institute of the Medical Faculty of the University of Basel. Another great highlight was the contribution of the directors of the partner universities San Francisco and Beijing who sent a highly inspiring video with a congratulatory message on the occasion of ECPM’s pearl anniversary. The attendees enjoyed a panel discussion of experts and alumni on the topic of “How to develop talents and competencies”—a highly informative and entertaining highlight that enriched the ECPM anniversary seminar. The discussion focused on the importance of the content taught in the ECPM training programs and the value of transferring it to the workplace and the daily challenges. The 30th anniversary was concluded with an evening ceremony, which started with of an exclusive classical concert with the Academic Orchestra Basel conducted by ECPM’s Director Professor Thomas Szucs. The historic event ended with an exquisite dinner and ample networking opportunities for course participants, guests, speakers, faculty, and members of the ECPM Advisory Board.

3 Conclusion

Over the course of 30 years, ECPM has learnt that in order to set up new training courses, it is crucial to establish relationships with the key players in a local healthcare system, getting to know their needs and challenges. Their support is not only important in defining the course content but also through sharing their expertise as speakers. Drug development and the successful functioning of a healthcare system are global aspects, which is why speakers also need to bring an international context and prepare our students for careers abroad. The creation of an international advisory board consisting of all key stakeholders is extremely important. On the one hand, this ensures the support of employers and, on the other hand, it gives us the opportunity to meet their needs precisely.

In order to succeed, you must stay updated on research and development, recognize trends and incorporate new technologies. Although we decided to return to on-site teaching after the COVID pandemic, digital technologies have allowed for great flexibility. Students can access not only all the course materials on our platform, but also videos of the individual lectures and additional background material. The cooperation and support from our sister courses abroad have been very important, especially during the pandemic, in order to maintain the courses on offer and to find new ways of communicating. This ensured that the quality of the training was not compromised.

From the inception of ECPM in 1991 to its current status as the largest provider of postgraduate education in medicines development, ECPM has continually evolved to provide participants with the most up-to-date knowledge at a high-quality level. The non-for-profit university status of ECPM allows us to bring together all stakeholders for discussion and exchange. Notable milestones, such as ECPM’s establishment as a full university institute within the Department of Public Health at the University of Basel and its recognition as a PharmaTrain Center of Excellence for 12 consecutive years, underscore its commitment to providing top-quality education. Its international footprint reflects its dedication to global collaboration and knowledge exchange. ECPM remains positioned to educate professionals worldwide to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s pharmaceutical medicine landscape.

Data availability statement

The original contributions presented in the study are included in the article/Supplementary material, further inquiries can be directed to the corresponding author.

Author contributions

AM: Writing–original draft, Writing–review and editing. NL: Writing–original draft, Writing–review and editing. TS: Writing–original draft, Writing–review and editing.

The author(s) declare that no financial support was received for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Acknowledgments

We would like to acknowledge our international partners in the US, China and India for their contributions in expanding our global reach. We would also like to acknowledge Daniela Fazzotta for her valuable inputs regarding ECPM’s history, milestones and 30th anniversary.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Publisher’s note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

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Keywords: education, training, pharmaceutical industry, graduate programs, professional development courses, pharmaceutical medicine, medicine development, professional development

Citation: Mollet A, Laskowski N and Szucs T (2024) Postgraduate education and training in drug development sciences: 30 years of the european center of pharmaceutical medicine. Front. Pharmacol. 15:1389349. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1389349

Received: 21 February 2024; Accepted: 20 March 2024; Published: 12 April 2024.

Reviewed by:

Copyright © 2024 Mollet, Laskowski and Szucs. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Annette Mollet, [email protected]

Disclaimer: All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.