College Degrees in Europe

In this episode, Jacob explores Germany’s dual study model at DHBW (Duale Hochschule Baden-Württemberg) — the country’s largest university that focuses on dual study programs. Joined by Chuck Caster, International Relations Officer at DHBW, Jacob explores Germany’s dual study program, an “earn while you learn” system that blends academic study with paid professional training. Students alternate be...

I sit down with three international students — Aloka, Malhar, and Yijuan — who are currently studying at Aalto University in Helsinki, Finland. We dive into their personal journeys: why they chose Aalto, what the application process and tuition were like, and the challenges they’ve faced along the way. If you’re curious about study abroad experiences, international student life, or what it’s like...

In this episode, Jacob chats with Görkem, a student currently studying in Paris, about the real-life experience of navigating the French education system as an international student. From France’s remarkably low tuition fees to the essential guidance provided by Campus France, Görkem unpacks the perks and challenges of studying abroad. They explore the key differences between public universities a...

For non-EU/EEA students, tuition at Amsterdam University College (AUC) is €15,420 per year for the 2025–2026 academic year, totaling €46,260 over the three-year program. In this episode, we dive into the real experiences of students at Amsterdam University College — from the price tag to personal growth. Our speakers come from diverse backgrounds and share what drew them to this unique liberal art...

In this episode, I interviewed José, a senior external relations officer at Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences. We discussed the beauty and compactness of Amsterdam, the experiences of living and studying in the city, and the differences between research universities and universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands. The conversation also covered the cost of living for international st...

In this episode, Lizzie—our incredible, go-to campus guide—gave me an unforgettable tour of Saarland University. She enthusiastically showcased the vibrant student culture, highlighting the stark contrasts in food choices, social dynamics, and facilities compared to the United States. Our lively discussion delved into the colorful tapestry of student life, the surprisingly affordable yet delicious...

In this episode, I speak with Ivana, an international mission advisor at CEU San Pablo University in Madrid, Spain. During our conversation, she shared valuable insights about the university and student life. Tuition fees range from €8,000 to €16,000 annually, with flexible payment options that allow students to pay in full or in monthly installments. Living costs in Madrid are relatively affordab...

As one of Europe’s prestigious medical institutions, the Second Faculty of Medicine at Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic, offers a world-class 6-year General Medicine program taught entirely in English. The annual tuition fee is approximately $17,000 USD. In this episode, recent graduate Cristina shares her insider experiences and offers valuable advice for prospective international stu...

If you’re a U.S. student considering a medical degree, you’re likely familiar with the high costs and intense demands of studying medicine in the U.S. With tuition rates rising every year, exploring alternative options abroad might be worth your consideration—and the Netherlands offers some interesting possibilities. In the Netherlands, the 6-year medical program (combining bachelor’s and master’s...

Wondering if it's possible to pursue a medical degree in Europe? The answer is yes! In this episode, we'll explore the exciting opportunities for studying medicine in Ireland. If you're considering a medical program abroad and want to learn more about what Ireland has to offer, feel free to reach out to me at www.abroader.eu

Annie Li, a Chinese international student, is currently on her path to becoming a neurosurgeon in the U.S. She graduated at the top of our high school class and has always been the type of student parents compare their children to, saying, "Why can't you be like Annie?" Today, I have invited Annie to kick off my special series on pursuing an English-taught medical degree in North America and Europ...

After researching various English programs on the DAAD website, one program stands out: B.S. Computer Science-Saarland University. This renowned public university in Germany offers a bachelor's degree in computer science entirely in English. Similar to other German universities, the tuition is zero. This also applies to international students. To highlight this amazing program, I talked to Lizzie...

For today's episode, we interviewed Stefanie from the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, renowned for offering 37 English-taught university degrees in Germany. Our conversation delved into the primary challenges and career prospects for international students studying in German universities. (01:20) Introduction (02:35) The Lighting Round Questions (07:00) International Student Bodies at the Univer...

Are you considering to become a teacher and to work internationally? If you are, you should check out the international teacher education program from the NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands. My guest for today is Matt, who is currently attending this program. (2:10) Introduction (3:18) The Lightning Round (12:10) Learning about the international teacher education program...

Having attended one of the elite liberal arts colleges, I cherish my education and the opportunities my college afforded me. However, after my conversation with Sophia, I realized that a high-quality liberal arts college degree did not have to cost $80,000 per year. In this episode, I had a conversation with Sophia, who is currently studying international business at NHL Stenden University of Appl...

Do you know the feeling when you go to a house party, and everyone has the same story? Well, Evan is not one of them. Raised in Berlin with an American family, Evan speaks both English and German perfectly. Currently, he is pursuing a college degree in the Netherlands. Curious about why he made such a decision? Just click the play button and listen. (01:15) Introduction to Evan (01:48) The Lightni...

Growing up in Wayne, Maine, USA, Naeema made an unconventional decision to pursue a bachelor's degree at Leiden University in the Netherlands when she was just 18 years old. What motivated her to make this atypical choice? And what is her life like now, living abroad? (00:50) Introduction (02:15) The Lightning Round (07:00) Why Europe? (10:40) Requirements for Leiden University (14:30) Living Abro...

In this final episode with Lisa, we briefly reveal what it's like to study abroad full-time in Germany, aside from the academics. As the conversation continues, it becomes clear that college life in Germany is quite different from the comforting academic bubble in the US; on the contrary, it opens the door to the real world. (00:40) Living situation (11:40) Insurance (15:22) Cost of Living (19:14)...

Although applying to German Universities could be frustrating, it could be a great option for students willing to learn the German language. Having talked to many American families and college counselors, the language barrier propels many people to look away. However, as college tuition rises day by day, it might be the right time to reconsider this mysterious alternative once again... (00:00) Int...

In this episode, we dive deeper into the German education system and briefly cover the college admission process in Germany. Joining us today is Lisa from Germany. Having studied abroad in the US and Finland, Lisa works as an international student advisor at the University of Bonn. I am honored to have her on board to share her stories and expertise. (00:30) Introduction (03:39) German Abitur (10:...

Despite its affordability, only a handful of students from the United States and Canada pursue a college degree in Germany. Today, I had a conversation with Emerson, one of the few students I know who chose this exciting path. (00:17) Introduction (02:05) Tuition Fees (02:49) Application Process for Graduate Schools in Germany (06:16) Language Requirement (09:14) Bureaucratic Hurdles for Internati...

Studying abroad in Europe is widely popular among US students. But being a semester abroad in Germany is wildly different from a semester abroad in the UK. I think the difference is obvious here... Depending on the program, you may have an entirely different experience from your peers. In this episode, Martin, the director of the American Junior Year Program in Heidelberg, Germany, also a former p...

It is the time to reconsider "the most important" choice in life-College! I saw the clarity once after college: I would not again pay over 60K per year (back in 2014) for my college degree! This is obvious to me after studying abroad in Germany. I would much rather pay € 700 than $ 60,000 for a college degree annually. In this episode, Tracey (the Director of college counseling at Kents Hill Schoo...

This Podcast is about pursuing a college degree in Europe. Hosted by Jacob Tong