National Education System of the Member States of EU
Austria
There are a wide variety of higher education institutions in Austria. Fifteen Austrian universities offer a broad rangeof study options for students. If you would like to study music, theatre, film, fine arts or applied arts, the six Austrianuniversities of the arts offer their students a creative education. There are also private universities. Since 1993, Austriahas 20 Fachhochschul-Studiengange (FH — Universities of Applied Sciences) in addition to the universities. The post--secondary sector also includes University Colleges of Teacher Education (PH).The Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education Research (OsterreichischeAustauschdienst GmbH— OeAD-GmbH) — was established to manage most of the grants for Austrian and foreign students.Anyone interested in studying or researching in Austria and looking for financial support, should visit the organisation’swebsite. Here, all the information is available on scholarships (‘Study and research in Austria’ section, Grants Database,advice on how to apply, and application forms. Where do I get more information?
http://www.oead.at
http://www.oead.at/_english/austria/index.html
Belgium
In Belgium, the two communities are responsible for making decisions on services for individuals, such as education.The Flemish Community is therefore responsible for education in the Dutch-speaking part of the country, whilst the FrenchCommunity is the governing authority for the French-speaking part of Belgium.The colleges of higher education and universities have recently introduced the bachelor/master structure, beginning in the2004–05 academic year. The former higher education structure, i.e. basic one-cycle courses, basic two-cycle courses and academic courses, has been abandoned. Higher education organised according to the bachelor/master structure is stilldivided into two types of education: higher professional education and academic education.Higher professional education is restricted to bachelor courses and is only provided at colleges of higher education.Academic education consists of bachelors’ courses and masters’ courses. Academic education is providedat universities and at colleges of higher education.
Where do I get more information on education & scholarships in the Flemish Community?
http://www.ond.vlaanderen.be/overzichten/notendop.htm
http://www.highereducation.be/home
http://www.researchportal.be/en/index.faces
Where do I get more information on education & scholarships in the French Community?
http://www.enseignement.be/
http://www.studyinbelgium.be/
Bulgaria
The country’s higher education system was restructured at the end of 1995 when the National Assembly passed a highereducation law. Under the higher education law, universities, specialised institutes and colleges are classified as highereducation institutions in Bulgaria. They offer educational programmes of various types, as well as degrees. This allowsstudents to gain higher education in a variety of ways.Universities offer programmes for students wishing to pursue educational and professional degrees: bachelors’, mastersand doctors’ degrees. Universities offer opportunities for studying various disciplines in humanities, natural and social sciences, and engineering. They are also involved in wide-ranging scientific and research projects.Specialised higher education institutes primarily offer training in a single, core field of knowledge, as shown bythe names of these institutions. These schools’ curricula meet the educational and professional requirements for a bachelor’s degree.
Colleges in Bulgaria offer vocational training and skills in various occupations after completion of secondary education,enabling their graduates to easily find a job. Today, the Bulgarian higher education system comprises 51 higher educationinstitutions, including 42 universities and specialised institutes, 41 colleges within the higher education system and nineindependent colleges.
Where do I get more information?
http://ec.europa.eu/education/study-in-europe/files/dmfile/UNinBG.pdf
Cyprus
The University of Cyprus opened in September 1992. It is an autonomous educational institution and, at present, is theonly university in operation. It currently offers programmes through the following faculties: the Faculty of Humanities,the Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, the Faculty of Social Sciences and Education, the Faculty of Economics and Management, the Faculty of Engineering and the Faculty of Letters. The university participates in a number of internationaluniversity organisations and networks. Besides the University of Cyprus, there are other education institutions such as the Open University of Cyprus and theCyprus University of Technology.
Within the framework of the government scheme for technical assistance to foreign countries, the government of Cyprusoffers several scholarships for foreign students.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.highereducation.ac.cy
Czech Republic
The Czech higher education has a long tradition of over 600 years. In 1348, the Charles University in Prague was established,which is the oldest academic institution in central Europe. At the present time, there are 74 higher education institutionsin the Czech higher education system. There are 26 public, 2 state and 46 private higher education institutions. The higher education system is organised into three levels: bachelors’, masters’ and doctoral degree programmes. Theprincipal requirement for entering bachelors’ or full masters’ programmes is the completion of a full secondary generalor vocational education with a school leaving examination. The deadline for submitting applications is normally the end of February or March. The academic year starts in September and comprises a winter and a summer semester. Most highereducation institutions have introduced credit systems compatible with the European credit transfer system (ECTS).Studies in the Czech language at public and state higher education institutions are free of charge for both Czech andforeign students. Private higher education institutions charge all students regular tuition fees. Where do I get more information?
http://www.studyin.cz
Denmark
The higher education system in Denmark consists of three types of higher education institutions: academiesof professional higher education, university colleges and universities.
The academies of professional higher education offer two-year ‘academy profession’ degrees, which combine theory withpractice. They are available in a range of disciplines including business, technology, IT, multimedia, food industry, tourismand more. The academies are located in both large and small cities and have strong links with local businesses and industry.The university colleges offer a number of professional bachelors’ programmes, which combine theoretical study withpractical application. Work placements are always included in the programmes, which prepare students to enter specificprofessions. Courses are offered in areas such as business, education, engineering, IT, nursing, social work, etc. Someuniversity colleges are located in large cities and others in small towns. Most of the institutions have a regional engagementand strong links with local businesses and industry. Completing a professional bachelor’s degree at a university collegeusually takes between three and four-and-a-half years.
Danish universities are based on the continental European tradition of integrating education and research and offerhigher education programmes from undergraduate to PhD level. Study options range from the more traditional academicsubject areas to innovative interdisciplinary programmes. Most universities are multi-faculty institutions covering a wide range of disciplines with a few specialising in science and technology, IT, business, architecture, fine arts and music. Theuniversities are located in the larger cities and many of them have close partnerships with business, industry and otherresearch institutions. At the universities, a bachelor’s degree usually takes three years to complete, and a master’s degree two years, although some one-year masters’ programmes are available. The period of research required to obtain a PhDis generally three years. Where do I get more information?
http://www.studyindenmark.dk
Estonia
Estonia has a dual higher education system consisting of two branches: academic and applied. Academic studies areprovided by universities, while applied higher education (rakenduskorgharidus) may be provided in an educationalinstitution that is part of a university, in an institution of applied higher education, or in a vocational school offering secondary vocational education curricula conducted on the basis of secondary education.
The language of instruction and course work is usually Estonian. However, an increasing number of courses and studyprogrammes are offered in English, and sometimes in other languages. Some higher education institutions provide coursesin Russian for Russian speaking students.
There are six public universities, five private universities, eight state institutions of applied higher education, 13 privateapplied higher education institutions, seven state institutions and one private vocational education institutions offeringvocational higher education.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.studyinestonia.ee/
Finland
The Finnish higher education system consists of two complementary sectors: polytechnics and universities. The function
of the universities is to conduct scientific research and provide undergraduate and postgraduate education on this basis.Polytechnics are multi-field regional institutions focusing on working life and regional development.There are 20 universities in Finland: 10 multidisciplinary universities, three universities of technology, three schoolsof economics and business administration, and four art academies. All universities are state owned. In addition, a university- -level education is provided at the National Defence College run by the Ministry of Defence. Approximately 170 000 studentsare currently enrolled at universities.
The Centre for International Mobility (CIMO) operates under the Finnish Ministry of Education to promote cross-culturalcommunication. CIMO administers scholarship and exchange programmes, and offers information, advisory services andpublications. In addition, CIMO promotes teaching of the Finnish language and culture and arranges summer courses in the Finnish language and culture for international students. There are various opportunities for foreign students to studyin Finland.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.studyinfinland.fi
http://www.cimo.fi
France
Higher education in France is provided by universities (including Instituts nationauxpolytechniques and Institutsuniversitaires de technologie (IUT), which are open to a large number of students, and by GrandesEcoles and otherinstitutions of professional higher education with selective admission policies.The first cycle of university lasts three years and students are awarded a Licence (bachelor’s degree) or Licenceprofessionnelle (professionally-oriented bachelor) corresponding to 180 ECTS.The second cycle leads to the Master Recherche — or research-oriented master — or to the Master Professionnel — orprofessionally-oriented master’s degree — corresponding to 120 ECTS after the Licence.
The third cycle corresponds to doctoral studies; a doctorate is usually obtained after at least three years of extensiveresearch, under the supervision of a thesis director, and the writing and successful thesis defence.French government grants are merit-based. The results obtained at examinations and the opinions of professors areof prime importance for the renewal of grants. The conditions students need to fulfil in order to be selected dependon the level of the degree they are studying for.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.campusfrance.org
http://www.europe-education-formation.fr/
http://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/espaces_dedies.php3?id_rubrique=2192
Germany
Germany has a long tradition in education, science and research. There are 383 higher education institutions locatedthroughout Germany. Those interested in studying in Germany can choose between universities and university-statusinstitutions, such as the universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen), or the colleges of art, music and film. Allstate higher education institutions are open to students of all nations.Scholarships are primarily managed by the German Academic Exchange Service/Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD) and other public foundations. It is advisable to contact the nearest DAAD office for more details and any additionalinformation about application procedure, requirements and deadlines.
Where do I get more information?
www.daad.de
http://www.daad.de/deutschland/foerderung/stipendiendatenbank/00462.en.html
Greece
Greece has 18 university institutions (AEI) and 14 institutions of technological education (TEI). Like universities, technologicaleducational institutions form part of the higher education system, but they do not belong to the university sector. Thereare also military academies.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.iky.gr
http://www.ypepth.gr/en_ec_category1126.htm
Hungary
Hungarian higher education has a long history. The first Hungarian university was founded in Pecs in south Hungary over600 years ago, in 1367. Hungarian higher education institutions are autonomous, state or non-state (private and religious)institutions recognised by the state.
Hungarian higher education has a dual system consisting of universities and colleges. Some colleges are associatedwith universities and are known as ‘college faculties’ of those universities. A university may offer college-level coursestoo. Courses at college level (corresponding to BSc level) last a minimum of three and a maximum of four years;at university level (corresponding to MSc level) courses are a minimum of four and a maximum of five years (with theexception of medical universities, where courses last for six years).At present, Hungary’s higher education system comprises 18 state-financed universities, one public university,12 state-financed colleges, 26 religious education institutions and nine colleges operated by public foundations.
The Hungarian Scholarship Board is in charge of awarding scholarships.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.scholarship.hu
http://www.studytransfer.eu
Ireland
The third-level education system in Ireland is broad in scope and encompasses the university sector, the technologysector, education colleges and private, independent colleges. The institutions falling within the first three groupingsare autonomous and self-governing, but substantially state funded.The scholarships for international students are available from the universities and colleges themselves. Students andinterested persons are advised to contact the international office of the institution of their choice directly to obtain furtherinformation.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.educationireland.ie
Italy
Italian higher education is structured as a binary system consisting of two main sectors, the university sector and thenon-university sector.
At present, the university sector is made up of 89 university institutions, divided into: 58 state universities; 17 non-stateuniversities (legally recognised by the state); 3 universities for foreigners; 6 higher schools specialised in postgraduateuniversity studies; and 11 telematic universities.The non-university sector includes four different types of educational institutions: Higher schools of design: polytechnicsfor the arts, academies of fine arts, higher institutes of applied arts, music conservatories and recognised music institutes;higher institutes of music and choreographic studies, national academies; higher schools of language studies; higher integrated education (FIS): programmes of higher technical education and training (IFTS). Where do I get more information?
http://www.study-in-italy.it
Latvia
There are six state universities and a number of other higher education institutions in Latvia. All the universities and 32other institutions (including 17 colleges) are state run. In addition, there are 24 private institutions (including 8 colleges),all of which are state-recognised. All the recognised institutions enjoy autonomy. Higher education institutions conferacademic degrees and professional higher educational qualifications. The Latvian higher education system is open to international students. The Higher Education Quality Evaluation Centre(HEQEC) website (s. below) provides a list of higher education institutions and colleges (information is available in English).More information on the education system of Latvia, on education-related regulatory acts, higher education institutions,and recognition of foreign diplomas in Latvia can be found on the website of the Latvian Academic Information Centre (s. below). Where do I get more information?
http://www.aiknc.lv/lv/list.php
http://www.aic.lv
Lithuania
In Lithuania, higher education institutions provide study programmes of varying duration and levels. The institutions are oftwo types: universities and colleges; non-university higher education institutions. Universities offer bachelors’, masters’and doctoral programmes, high-level professional creative artistic activities, postgraduate art studies and research opportunities. A college is a higher education institution where non-university studies prevail, applied research is carriedout and (or) professional arts developed. Non-university consecutive studies are professional studies intended for trainingfor a professional career. Since 2007, a professional bachelor’s degree has been introduced.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.aikos.smm.lt
Luxembourg
The University of Luxembourg was founded in 2003. It is the first and only university in Luxembourg. Courses are organized on three levels: bachelor, master and doctorate. There are currently 10 bachelor’s and 18 master’s programmes at theuniversity in line with the European Bologna standard.The University of Luxembourg has an international focus. Courses are taught in French, German and English. Strongconnections to foreign universities, for example to jointly develop the syllabus or to cooperate in student exchangeprogrammes, are a further characteristic of the institution. In addition, undergraduate students are required to study at least one semester abroad (the so-called mobility principle). The University of Luxembourg awards a scholarship for students from outside the European Union.
Where do I get more information?
www.uni.lu
http://wwwfr.uni.lu/etudiants/informations_utiles_de_a_a_z/bourses_d_etudes
Malta
Higher education in Malta is mainly provided by the University of Malta. The higher education system of Malta is open tointernational students. Currently there are over 600 full-time foreign students from some 75 countries in attendance. Inaddition, around 300 foreign students participate in semester exchanges. The International Office of the University of Malta provides information and services regarding course requirements, accommodation, immigration, financial matters,health issues, university procedures, regulations and qualifications.At present, no scholarships are available, but it is possible to enrol in higher education institutions in Malta. For moreinformation, please visit the website of the International office below.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.um.edu.mt/intoff
The Netherlands
Higher education in the Netherlands is offered at two types of institution: research universities and universities of appliedsciences. Research universities include general universities, universities specialising in engineering and agriculture, and the Open University.Universities of applied sciences include general institutions as well as institutions specialising in a specific field such as agriculture, fine and performing arts, or teacher training. Whereas research universities are primarily responsible foroffering research-oriented programmes, universities of applied sciences are primarily responsible for offering programmesof higher professional education, which prepare students for particular professions. These tend to be more practicallyoriented than programmes offered by research universities.More than 1 450 international study programmes are offered in English by Dutch higher education institutions. Theseinclude degree programmes (bachelors and masters) as well as short courses of various duration for mid-career specialistsin different fields.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.studyinholland.nl
http://www.studyin.nl/scholarships/world-wide/hsp-huygens-programme
Poland
In Poland, higher education institutions are divided, irrespective of their status (public or non-public), into academic andvocational ones. An academic higher education institution is a school in which at least one of its organisational unitsis entitled to award the academic degree of doktor. A vocational higher education institution is a school offering firstorsecond-cycle study programmes or long cycle study programmes which is not entitled to award the academic degreeof doktor.
Study programmes are offered as first-cycle, second-cycle and long cycle programmes and doctoral (third-cycle)programmes. First-cycle programmes leading to a licencjat degree last from six to eight semesters, and those leading toan inżynier degree last seven or eight semesters. Second-cycle degree programmes last three or four semesters and longcycle programmes leading to a magister degree last from 9 to 12 semesters. Doctoral study programmes last no longer than four years and upon completion graduates are awarded a certificate. Undera separate procedure graduates are conferred the academic degree of a doktor or doktor w zakresie sztuki. Where do I get more information?
http://www.studyinpoland.pl/
http://www.nauka.gov.pl/home/
http://www.buwiwm.edu.pl/
Portugal
In Portugal, the tertiary education system is divided into universities and polytechnic institutions.
The first level of tertiary education in Portugal consists of the licenciatura. Both university and polytechnic institutionsconfer a first-cycle licenciado degree. A licenciado degree is awarded after a period of study with 180 credits correspondingto a normal length of six curricular semesters.The second stage is the mestrado. Both university and polytechnic institutions confer the degree of mestre. The mestredegree is awarded after three to four curricular semesters of students’ work corresponding to 90 to 120 credits. Inpolytechnic education, the course of study that leads to the mestre degree must ensure predominantly that the student acquires a professional specialisation. In university education, the cycle of studies that leads to the mestre degree mustensure that the student acquires an academic specialisation on the basis of their research, innovation and professionalcompetences.
The third level is the Doutoramento. A doutor degree is only conferred by university institutions. The doutor degreeis awarded to those completing all the curricular units that integrate the study programme of the doutoramento course and successfully defend their thesis in public.
The Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (Fundacao para a Ciencia e Tecnologia — FCT) (http://www.fct.mctes.pt) under the aegis of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education (Ministerio da Ciencia, Tecnologiae Ensino Superior) promotes national scientific research and technological development by providing different typesof grants. Where do I get more information? http://alfa.fct.mctes.pt/apoios/bolsas/index.phtml.en http://www.studyineurope.eu/study-in-portugal
Romania
In Romania, higher education is provided at educational and research institutions, universities, institutes, academies, conservatories and university colleges. The state higher education system in Romania comprises 49 state higher education institutions with 324 departments and another 20 private higher education institutions. Romania signed the Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education in the European Region (Lisbon 1997), and is also part of the Bologna process concerning the implementation of a common European higher education area. Study fees stipulated by the Ministry of Education and Research are the same for all universities. Citizens from abroadmay also be accepted to study on the basis of scholarships granted by Romania under bilateral agreements through thecompetent authorities in their countries or on the basis of scholarships and grants offered by other states or internationalorganisations.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.study-in-romania.ro
Slovakia
Slovakia has public, state-financed and private higher education institutions. In total, there are 20 public institutionsof higher learning, including 10 traditional universities, three technological universities, three institutes of art and music, oneinstitute of economics, one university of veterinary medicine, and one agricultural university, are in operation at present.
The state-financed institutions include two military academies, one police academy, and one university of medicine.
In addition there are 10 private accredited higher education institutions in operation. Under Slovakia’s current higher education law, its institutions of higher learning offer three levels of higher education: thefirst level ends with the award of a bachelor’s degree (Bakalar) to graduates; the second level gives a full higher educationin three types of degrees: master’s (Magister), engineer (Inzinier), and Doctor of Medicine (Doktor Mediciny). The third level is completed with a doctorate (Doctorate or PhD). Requirements for foreign applicants are no different from those for Slovakian citizens.Foreign citizens are eligible for scholarships: grants made by the government of Slovakia to foreign students to cover thefull course of study at a university or a doctorate course, and grants for part-course studies, Slovak language learning,or internships for postgraduates or doctorate students.
A person interested to apply for a scholarship in Slovakia, he/she should approach the Slovak embassy in his/her country.The application form for scholarship in Slovakia is also available at the website of Slovakia’s Ministry of Education. Where do I get more information?
http://show.studyin.sk/
http://www.minedu.sk
Slovenia
Slovenia has three universities, the University of Ljubljana (http://www.uni-lj.si), the University of Maribor (http://www.uni--mb.si) and the University of Primorska (http://www.upr.si/sl), consisting of 44 faculties, art academies and professionalcolleges, as well as 10 single higher education institutions (samostojni visokošolski zavodi) established as privateinstitutions.
In Slovenia, CMEPIUS (Centre of the Republic of Slovenia for Mobility and European Programmes) is the organization managing scholarships awarded by the government of Slovenia. Another source is Ad futura (Scientific and EducationalFoundation of the Republic of Slovenia), a public foundation providing various types of financial support. Where do I get more information?
http://www.cmepius.si
http://www.ad-futura.si
Spain
Higher education is mainly provided by both public and private universities. Universities are divided into facultadesuniversitarias, escuelastecnicassuperiores, escuelas universitarias, institutos universitarios, and other centres, notablythe colegiosuniversitarios.
Spain offers a great variety of scholarship programmes to foreign students and specialists. Among the most importantare the scholarship programmes of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation (Ministerio de AsuntosExteriores y deCooperacion) through the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (Agencia Espanola de Cooperacion Internacional para el Desarrollo) — Programas de Becas MAEC-AECID. Other ministries and administrative and territorial entities (Autonomous Communities, local organisms, etc.) or private companies also offer programmes. Where do I get more information?
http://www.spainedu.org/
http://www.tostudyinspain.com/
http://www.becasmae.es (List of scholarships – Spanish only)
Sweden
The Swedish higher education system includes traditional university studies and professional training. All higher education institutions fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Education, except for the University of Agricultural Sciences (Ministry of Agriculture). A three-cycle structure was introduced in 2007, although long-cycle programmes of between four and six years have been maintained for professional degrees in medicine, pharmaceutical studies, psychology, dentistry, architecture, civilengineering and law. These degrees are placed within one of the three cycles, depending on the length and expectedoutcome of the studies. All foreign students should apply directly to the universities and university colleges for each course and programme. Foreign student counsellors and the admission offices can provide the necessary information and forms. The applicationprocedure may vary depending on the applicant’s status, nationality and knowledge of Swedish. Forms and deadlines forcourse and programme applications may also vary. Scholarships are primarily managed by the Swedish Institute (SvenskaInstitutet — SI).
Where do I get more information?
http://www.studyinsweden.se
http://www.si.se
United Kingdom
Higher education in the United Kingdom is provided by three main types of institutions: universities; colleges and highereducation institutions; and art and music colleges. The binary line separating universities and polytechnics was abolishedand polytechnics have been given university status and acquired university titles. Most universities are divided into faculties, which may be subdivided into departments. Students have to pay tuition fees, which can differ depending onwhether the student is a resident of the European Union or from a non-European country.
The United Kingdom government departments and the devolved administrations of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland,plus a number of other United Kingdom organisations, offer a variety of scholarships and other awards to help foreignstudents study in the United Kingdom.
On http://www.educationuk.org you can find any scholarship appropriate for your country of origin, level of education,subject, and the institution you are interested in. Where do I get more information?
http://www.britishcouncil.org
http://www.educationuk.org
For a general information visit:
http://eacea.ec.europa.eu/education/eurydice/eurybase_en.php
There are a wide variety of higher education institutions in Austria. Fifteen Austrian universities offer a broad rangeof study options for students. If you would like to study music, theatre, film, fine arts or applied arts, the six Austrianuniversities of the arts offer their students a creative education. There are also private universities. Since 1993, Austriahas 20 Fachhochschul-Studiengange (FH — Universities of Applied Sciences) in addition to the universities. The post--secondary sector also includes University Colleges of Teacher Education (PH).The Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education Research (OsterreichischeAustauschdienst GmbH— OeAD-GmbH) — was established to manage most of the grants for Austrian and foreign students.Anyone interested in studying or researching in Austria and looking for financial support, should visit the organisation’swebsite. Here, all the information is available on scholarships (‘Study and research in Austria’ section, Grants Database,advice on how to apply, and application forms. Where do I get more information?
http://www.oead.at
http://www.oead.at/_english/austria/index.html
Belgium
In Belgium, the two communities are responsible for making decisions on services for individuals, such as education.The Flemish Community is therefore responsible for education in the Dutch-speaking part of the country, whilst the FrenchCommunity is the governing authority for the French-speaking part of Belgium.The colleges of higher education and universities have recently introduced the bachelor/master structure, beginning in the2004–05 academic year. The former higher education structure, i.e. basic one-cycle courses, basic two-cycle courses and academic courses, has been abandoned. Higher education organised according to the bachelor/master structure is stilldivided into two types of education: higher professional education and academic education.Higher professional education is restricted to bachelor courses and is only provided at colleges of higher education.Academic education consists of bachelors’ courses and masters’ courses. Academic education is providedat universities and at colleges of higher education.
Where do I get more information on education & scholarships in the Flemish Community?
http://www.ond.vlaanderen.be/overzichten/notendop.htm
http://www.highereducation.be/home
http://www.researchportal.be/en/index.faces
Where do I get more information on education & scholarships in the French Community?
http://www.enseignement.be/
http://www.studyinbelgium.be/
Bulgaria
The country’s higher education system was restructured at the end of 1995 when the National Assembly passed a highereducation law. Under the higher education law, universities, specialised institutes and colleges are classified as highereducation institutions in Bulgaria. They offer educational programmes of various types, as well as degrees. This allowsstudents to gain higher education in a variety of ways.Universities offer programmes for students wishing to pursue educational and professional degrees: bachelors’, mastersand doctors’ degrees. Universities offer opportunities for studying various disciplines in humanities, natural and social sciences, and engineering. They are also involved in wide-ranging scientific and research projects.Specialised higher education institutes primarily offer training in a single, core field of knowledge, as shown bythe names of these institutions. These schools’ curricula meet the educational and professional requirements for a bachelor’s degree.
Colleges in Bulgaria offer vocational training and skills in various occupations after completion of secondary education,enabling their graduates to easily find a job. Today, the Bulgarian higher education system comprises 51 higher educationinstitutions, including 42 universities and specialised institutes, 41 colleges within the higher education system and nineindependent colleges.
Where do I get more information?
http://ec.europa.eu/education/study-in-europe/files/dmfile/UNinBG.pdf
Cyprus
The University of Cyprus opened in September 1992. It is an autonomous educational institution and, at present, is theonly university in operation. It currently offers programmes through the following faculties: the Faculty of Humanities,the Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, the Faculty of Social Sciences and Education, the Faculty of Economics and Management, the Faculty of Engineering and the Faculty of Letters. The university participates in a number of internationaluniversity organisations and networks. Besides the University of Cyprus, there are other education institutions such as the Open University of Cyprus and theCyprus University of Technology.
Within the framework of the government scheme for technical assistance to foreign countries, the government of Cyprusoffers several scholarships for foreign students.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.highereducation.ac.cy
Czech Republic
The Czech higher education has a long tradition of over 600 years. In 1348, the Charles University in Prague was established,which is the oldest academic institution in central Europe. At the present time, there are 74 higher education institutionsin the Czech higher education system. There are 26 public, 2 state and 46 private higher education institutions. The higher education system is organised into three levels: bachelors’, masters’ and doctoral degree programmes. Theprincipal requirement for entering bachelors’ or full masters’ programmes is the completion of a full secondary generalor vocational education with a school leaving examination. The deadline for submitting applications is normally the end of February or March. The academic year starts in September and comprises a winter and a summer semester. Most highereducation institutions have introduced credit systems compatible with the European credit transfer system (ECTS).Studies in the Czech language at public and state higher education institutions are free of charge for both Czech andforeign students. Private higher education institutions charge all students regular tuition fees. Where do I get more information?
http://www.studyin.cz
Denmark
The higher education system in Denmark consists of three types of higher education institutions: academiesof professional higher education, university colleges and universities.
The academies of professional higher education offer two-year ‘academy profession’ degrees, which combine theory withpractice. They are available in a range of disciplines including business, technology, IT, multimedia, food industry, tourismand more. The academies are located in both large and small cities and have strong links with local businesses and industry.The university colleges offer a number of professional bachelors’ programmes, which combine theoretical study withpractical application. Work placements are always included in the programmes, which prepare students to enter specificprofessions. Courses are offered in areas such as business, education, engineering, IT, nursing, social work, etc. Someuniversity colleges are located in large cities and others in small towns. Most of the institutions have a regional engagementand strong links with local businesses and industry. Completing a professional bachelor’s degree at a university collegeusually takes between three and four-and-a-half years.
Danish universities are based on the continental European tradition of integrating education and research and offerhigher education programmes from undergraduate to PhD level. Study options range from the more traditional academicsubject areas to innovative interdisciplinary programmes. Most universities are multi-faculty institutions covering a wide range of disciplines with a few specialising in science and technology, IT, business, architecture, fine arts and music. Theuniversities are located in the larger cities and many of them have close partnerships with business, industry and otherresearch institutions. At the universities, a bachelor’s degree usually takes three years to complete, and a master’s degree two years, although some one-year masters’ programmes are available. The period of research required to obtain a PhDis generally three years. Where do I get more information?
http://www.studyindenmark.dk
Estonia
Estonia has a dual higher education system consisting of two branches: academic and applied. Academic studies areprovided by universities, while applied higher education (rakenduskorgharidus) may be provided in an educationalinstitution that is part of a university, in an institution of applied higher education, or in a vocational school offering secondary vocational education curricula conducted on the basis of secondary education.
The language of instruction and course work is usually Estonian. However, an increasing number of courses and studyprogrammes are offered in English, and sometimes in other languages. Some higher education institutions provide coursesin Russian for Russian speaking students.
There are six public universities, five private universities, eight state institutions of applied higher education, 13 privateapplied higher education institutions, seven state institutions and one private vocational education institutions offeringvocational higher education.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.studyinestonia.ee/
Finland
The Finnish higher education system consists of two complementary sectors: polytechnics and universities. The function
of the universities is to conduct scientific research and provide undergraduate and postgraduate education on this basis.Polytechnics are multi-field regional institutions focusing on working life and regional development.There are 20 universities in Finland: 10 multidisciplinary universities, three universities of technology, three schoolsof economics and business administration, and four art academies. All universities are state owned. In addition, a university- -level education is provided at the National Defence College run by the Ministry of Defence. Approximately 170 000 studentsare currently enrolled at universities.
The Centre for International Mobility (CIMO) operates under the Finnish Ministry of Education to promote cross-culturalcommunication. CIMO administers scholarship and exchange programmes, and offers information, advisory services andpublications. In addition, CIMO promotes teaching of the Finnish language and culture and arranges summer courses in the Finnish language and culture for international students. There are various opportunities for foreign students to studyin Finland.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.studyinfinland.fi
http://www.cimo.fi
France
Higher education in France is provided by universities (including Instituts nationauxpolytechniques and Institutsuniversitaires de technologie (IUT), which are open to a large number of students, and by GrandesEcoles and otherinstitutions of professional higher education with selective admission policies.The first cycle of university lasts three years and students are awarded a Licence (bachelor’s degree) or Licenceprofessionnelle (professionally-oriented bachelor) corresponding to 180 ECTS.The second cycle leads to the Master Recherche — or research-oriented master — or to the Master Professionnel — orprofessionally-oriented master’s degree — corresponding to 120 ECTS after the Licence.
The third cycle corresponds to doctoral studies; a doctorate is usually obtained after at least three years of extensiveresearch, under the supervision of a thesis director, and the writing and successful thesis defence.French government grants are merit-based. The results obtained at examinations and the opinions of professors areof prime importance for the renewal of grants. The conditions students need to fulfil in order to be selected dependon the level of the degree they are studying for.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.campusfrance.org
http://www.europe-education-formation.fr/
http://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/espaces_dedies.php3?id_rubrique=2192
Germany
Germany has a long tradition in education, science and research. There are 383 higher education institutions locatedthroughout Germany. Those interested in studying in Germany can choose between universities and university-statusinstitutions, such as the universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen), or the colleges of art, music and film. Allstate higher education institutions are open to students of all nations.Scholarships are primarily managed by the German Academic Exchange Service/Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD) and other public foundations. It is advisable to contact the nearest DAAD office for more details and any additionalinformation about application procedure, requirements and deadlines.
Where do I get more information?
www.daad.de
http://www.daad.de/deutschland/foerderung/stipendiendatenbank/00462.en.html
Greece
Greece has 18 university institutions (AEI) and 14 institutions of technological education (TEI). Like universities, technologicaleducational institutions form part of the higher education system, but they do not belong to the university sector. Thereare also military academies.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.iky.gr
http://www.ypepth.gr/en_ec_category1126.htm
Hungary
Hungarian higher education has a long history. The first Hungarian university was founded in Pecs in south Hungary over600 years ago, in 1367. Hungarian higher education institutions are autonomous, state or non-state (private and religious)institutions recognised by the state.
Hungarian higher education has a dual system consisting of universities and colleges. Some colleges are associatedwith universities and are known as ‘college faculties’ of those universities. A university may offer college-level coursestoo. Courses at college level (corresponding to BSc level) last a minimum of three and a maximum of four years;at university level (corresponding to MSc level) courses are a minimum of four and a maximum of five years (with theexception of medical universities, where courses last for six years).At present, Hungary’s higher education system comprises 18 state-financed universities, one public university,12 state-financed colleges, 26 religious education institutions and nine colleges operated by public foundations.
The Hungarian Scholarship Board is in charge of awarding scholarships.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.scholarship.hu
http://www.studytransfer.eu
Ireland
The third-level education system in Ireland is broad in scope and encompasses the university sector, the technologysector, education colleges and private, independent colleges. The institutions falling within the first three groupingsare autonomous and self-governing, but substantially state funded.The scholarships for international students are available from the universities and colleges themselves. Students andinterested persons are advised to contact the international office of the institution of their choice directly to obtain furtherinformation.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.educationireland.ie
Italy
Italian higher education is structured as a binary system consisting of two main sectors, the university sector and thenon-university sector.
At present, the university sector is made up of 89 university institutions, divided into: 58 state universities; 17 non-stateuniversities (legally recognised by the state); 3 universities for foreigners; 6 higher schools specialised in postgraduateuniversity studies; and 11 telematic universities.The non-university sector includes four different types of educational institutions: Higher schools of design: polytechnicsfor the arts, academies of fine arts, higher institutes of applied arts, music conservatories and recognised music institutes;higher institutes of music and choreographic studies, national academies; higher schools of language studies; higher integrated education (FIS): programmes of higher technical education and training (IFTS). Where do I get more information?
http://www.study-in-italy.it
Latvia
There are six state universities and a number of other higher education institutions in Latvia. All the universities and 32other institutions (including 17 colleges) are state run. In addition, there are 24 private institutions (including 8 colleges),all of which are state-recognised. All the recognised institutions enjoy autonomy. Higher education institutions conferacademic degrees and professional higher educational qualifications. The Latvian higher education system is open to international students. The Higher Education Quality Evaluation Centre(HEQEC) website (s. below) provides a list of higher education institutions and colleges (information is available in English).More information on the education system of Latvia, on education-related regulatory acts, higher education institutions,and recognition of foreign diplomas in Latvia can be found on the website of the Latvian Academic Information Centre (s. below). Where do I get more information?
http://www.aiknc.lv/lv/list.php
http://www.aic.lv
Lithuania
In Lithuania, higher education institutions provide study programmes of varying duration and levels. The institutions are oftwo types: universities and colleges; non-university higher education institutions. Universities offer bachelors’, masters’and doctoral programmes, high-level professional creative artistic activities, postgraduate art studies and research opportunities. A college is a higher education institution where non-university studies prevail, applied research is carriedout and (or) professional arts developed. Non-university consecutive studies are professional studies intended for trainingfor a professional career. Since 2007, a professional bachelor’s degree has been introduced.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.aikos.smm.lt
Luxembourg
The University of Luxembourg was founded in 2003. It is the first and only university in Luxembourg. Courses are organized on three levels: bachelor, master and doctorate. There are currently 10 bachelor’s and 18 master’s programmes at theuniversity in line with the European Bologna standard.The University of Luxembourg has an international focus. Courses are taught in French, German and English. Strongconnections to foreign universities, for example to jointly develop the syllabus or to cooperate in student exchangeprogrammes, are a further characteristic of the institution. In addition, undergraduate students are required to study at least one semester abroad (the so-called mobility principle). The University of Luxembourg awards a scholarship for students from outside the European Union.
Where do I get more information?
www.uni.lu
http://wwwfr.uni.lu/etudiants/informations_utiles_de_a_a_z/bourses_d_etudes
Malta
Higher education in Malta is mainly provided by the University of Malta. The higher education system of Malta is open tointernational students. Currently there are over 600 full-time foreign students from some 75 countries in attendance. Inaddition, around 300 foreign students participate in semester exchanges. The International Office of the University of Malta provides information and services regarding course requirements, accommodation, immigration, financial matters,health issues, university procedures, regulations and qualifications.At present, no scholarships are available, but it is possible to enrol in higher education institutions in Malta. For moreinformation, please visit the website of the International office below.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.um.edu.mt/intoff
The Netherlands
Higher education in the Netherlands is offered at two types of institution: research universities and universities of appliedsciences. Research universities include general universities, universities specialising in engineering and agriculture, and the Open University.Universities of applied sciences include general institutions as well as institutions specialising in a specific field such as agriculture, fine and performing arts, or teacher training. Whereas research universities are primarily responsible foroffering research-oriented programmes, universities of applied sciences are primarily responsible for offering programmesof higher professional education, which prepare students for particular professions. These tend to be more practicallyoriented than programmes offered by research universities.More than 1 450 international study programmes are offered in English by Dutch higher education institutions. Theseinclude degree programmes (bachelors and masters) as well as short courses of various duration for mid-career specialistsin different fields.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.studyinholland.nl
http://www.studyin.nl/scholarships/world-wide/hsp-huygens-programme
Poland
In Poland, higher education institutions are divided, irrespective of their status (public or non-public), into academic andvocational ones. An academic higher education institution is a school in which at least one of its organisational unitsis entitled to award the academic degree of doktor. A vocational higher education institution is a school offering firstorsecond-cycle study programmes or long cycle study programmes which is not entitled to award the academic degreeof doktor.
Study programmes are offered as first-cycle, second-cycle and long cycle programmes and doctoral (third-cycle)programmes. First-cycle programmes leading to a licencjat degree last from six to eight semesters, and those leading toan inżynier degree last seven or eight semesters. Second-cycle degree programmes last three or four semesters and longcycle programmes leading to a magister degree last from 9 to 12 semesters. Doctoral study programmes last no longer than four years and upon completion graduates are awarded a certificate. Undera separate procedure graduates are conferred the academic degree of a doktor or doktor w zakresie sztuki. Where do I get more information?
http://www.studyinpoland.pl/
http://www.nauka.gov.pl/home/
http://www.buwiwm.edu.pl/
Portugal
In Portugal, the tertiary education system is divided into universities and polytechnic institutions.
The first level of tertiary education in Portugal consists of the licenciatura. Both university and polytechnic institutionsconfer a first-cycle licenciado degree. A licenciado degree is awarded after a period of study with 180 credits correspondingto a normal length of six curricular semesters.The second stage is the mestrado. Both university and polytechnic institutions confer the degree of mestre. The mestredegree is awarded after three to four curricular semesters of students’ work corresponding to 90 to 120 credits. Inpolytechnic education, the course of study that leads to the mestre degree must ensure predominantly that the student acquires a professional specialisation. In university education, the cycle of studies that leads to the mestre degree mustensure that the student acquires an academic specialisation on the basis of their research, innovation and professionalcompetences.
The third level is the Doutoramento. A doutor degree is only conferred by university institutions. The doutor degreeis awarded to those completing all the curricular units that integrate the study programme of the doutoramento course and successfully defend their thesis in public.
The Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (Fundacao para a Ciencia e Tecnologia — FCT) (http://www.fct.mctes.pt) under the aegis of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education (Ministerio da Ciencia, Tecnologiae Ensino Superior) promotes national scientific research and technological development by providing different typesof grants. Where do I get more information? http://alfa.fct.mctes.pt/apoios/bolsas/index.phtml.en http://www.studyineurope.eu/study-in-portugal
Romania
In Romania, higher education is provided at educational and research institutions, universities, institutes, academies, conservatories and university colleges. The state higher education system in Romania comprises 49 state higher education institutions with 324 departments and another 20 private higher education institutions. Romania signed the Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education in the European Region (Lisbon 1997), and is also part of the Bologna process concerning the implementation of a common European higher education area. Study fees stipulated by the Ministry of Education and Research are the same for all universities. Citizens from abroadmay also be accepted to study on the basis of scholarships granted by Romania under bilateral agreements through thecompetent authorities in their countries or on the basis of scholarships and grants offered by other states or internationalorganisations.
Where do I get more information?
http://www.study-in-romania.ro
Slovakia
Slovakia has public, state-financed and private higher education institutions. In total, there are 20 public institutionsof higher learning, including 10 traditional universities, three technological universities, three institutes of art and music, oneinstitute of economics, one university of veterinary medicine, and one agricultural university, are in operation at present.
The state-financed institutions include two military academies, one police academy, and one university of medicine.
In addition there are 10 private accredited higher education institutions in operation. Under Slovakia’s current higher education law, its institutions of higher learning offer three levels of higher education: thefirst level ends with the award of a bachelor’s degree (Bakalar) to graduates; the second level gives a full higher educationin three types of degrees: master’s (Magister), engineer (Inzinier), and Doctor of Medicine (Doktor Mediciny). The third level is completed with a doctorate (Doctorate or PhD). Requirements for foreign applicants are no different from those for Slovakian citizens.Foreign citizens are eligible for scholarships: grants made by the government of Slovakia to foreign students to cover thefull course of study at a university or a doctorate course, and grants for part-course studies, Slovak language learning,or internships for postgraduates or doctorate students.
A person interested to apply for a scholarship in Slovakia, he/she should approach the Slovak embassy in his/her country.The application form for scholarship in Slovakia is also available at the website of Slovakia’s Ministry of Education. Where do I get more information?
http://show.studyin.sk/
http://www.minedu.sk
Slovenia
Slovenia has three universities, the University of Ljubljana (http://www.uni-lj.si), the University of Maribor (http://www.uni--mb.si) and the University of Primorska (http://www.upr.si/sl), consisting of 44 faculties, art academies and professionalcolleges, as well as 10 single higher education institutions (samostojni visokošolski zavodi) established as privateinstitutions.
In Slovenia, CMEPIUS (Centre of the Republic of Slovenia for Mobility and European Programmes) is the organization managing scholarships awarded by the government of Slovenia. Another source is Ad futura (Scientific and EducationalFoundation of the Republic of Slovenia), a public foundation providing various types of financial support. Where do I get more information?
http://www.cmepius.si
http://www.ad-futura.si
Spain
Higher education is mainly provided by both public and private universities. Universities are divided into facultadesuniversitarias, escuelastecnicassuperiores, escuelas universitarias, institutos universitarios, and other centres, notablythe colegiosuniversitarios.
Spain offers a great variety of scholarship programmes to foreign students and specialists. Among the most importantare the scholarship programmes of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation (Ministerio de AsuntosExteriores y deCooperacion) through the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (Agencia Espanola de Cooperacion Internacional para el Desarrollo) — Programas de Becas MAEC-AECID. Other ministries and administrative and territorial entities (Autonomous Communities, local organisms, etc.) or private companies also offer programmes. Where do I get more information?
http://www.spainedu.org/
http://www.tostudyinspain.com/
http://www.becasmae.es (List of scholarships – Spanish only)
Sweden
The Swedish higher education system includes traditional university studies and professional training. All higher education institutions fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Education, except for the University of Agricultural Sciences (Ministry of Agriculture). A three-cycle structure was introduced in 2007, although long-cycle programmes of between four and six years have been maintained for professional degrees in medicine, pharmaceutical studies, psychology, dentistry, architecture, civilengineering and law. These degrees are placed within one of the three cycles, depending on the length and expectedoutcome of the studies. All foreign students should apply directly to the universities and university colleges for each course and programme. Foreign student counsellors and the admission offices can provide the necessary information and forms. The applicationprocedure may vary depending on the applicant’s status, nationality and knowledge of Swedish. Forms and deadlines forcourse and programme applications may also vary. Scholarships are primarily managed by the Swedish Institute (SvenskaInstitutet — SI).
Where do I get more information?
http://www.studyinsweden.se
http://www.si.se
United Kingdom
Higher education in the United Kingdom is provided by three main types of institutions: universities; colleges and highereducation institutions; and art and music colleges. The binary line separating universities and polytechnics was abolishedand polytechnics have been given university status and acquired university titles. Most universities are divided into faculties, which may be subdivided into departments. Students have to pay tuition fees, which can differ depending onwhether the student is a resident of the European Union or from a non-European country.
The United Kingdom government departments and the devolved administrations of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland,plus a number of other United Kingdom organisations, offer a variety of scholarships and other awards to help foreignstudents study in the United Kingdom.
On http://www.educationuk.org you can find any scholarship appropriate for your country of origin, level of education,subject, and the institution you are interested in. Where do I get more information?
http://www.britishcouncil.org
http://www.educationuk.org
For a general information visit:
http://eacea.ec.europa.eu/education/eurydice/eurybase_en.php