Studying Economics in English in Europe and beyond

Will my degree be recognised?

This is not usually a problem for economics degrees. If you study economics in the European Union then your degree will be recognised. If you study at a good university elsewhere, your degree will be recognised.

As there are so many good universities around the world offering economics degrees in the English language, there is absolutely no reason why you should end up studying at a substandard one, as long as you research thoroughly before you apply.

Does it make sense to study economics abroad?

Yes, absolutely. Most aspects of economics operate on a global level. With even the smallest businesses often involved in international trade it is possible to say that every aspect of both micro- and macroeconomics has an international dimension. An understanding of this will inevitably improve your career options if you wish to become an economist for a multinational corporation or an international organisation.

Many economics students intend to work in global finance after graduation. If this is the case for you, then we would advise you study at a university with well established links with banks and other financial corporations.

What grades do I need to get in?

This really depends on the university you choose. There are some world class universities where you will need world class grades just as there are in the United Kingdom. Some universities abroad will accept you with lower grades but it is extremely likely that you will need to have an A' level in maths and/or economics in order to be considered for entry. Dutch universities, for example, will certainly require you to have maths at A' level or SL on the International Baccalaureate.

What else should I bear in mind?

With economics, the most important thing to bear in mind is where you want your study to take you. However, it is worth also adding that this is one of the most attractive subjects in universities abroad and can attract much more stringent admissions requirements than in the United Kingdom. It is quite common for universities abroad to have their own entrance exam for economics. It is also worth pointing out that economics degrees in other European countries may have a much higher mathematics content than their equivalents in the United Kingdom.

Where should I look for the best economics degrees abroad?

With the exception of business, economics is the most widely-taught subject available in English throughout the European Union. Some of the best universities for economics include Universita Bocconi, Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Tilburg University and University of Groningen.

Private universities may offer scholarships and bursaries to British students.

Some universities such as Universita Bocconi offer summer schools and other ways for you to visit before you apply. We are finding that many more British students are going there now than even two or three years ago.

Some thoughts from economics students at overseas universities

Vincent Hendrick


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About A Star Future

A Star Future provides information and guidance to British students looking to pursue their undergraduate studies abroad.

Through our presentations in schools and our websites we aim to ensure that British-educated students are well informed about their choices.