Luxembourg Tops EU with 52% International Students in Higher Education

Luxembourg has earned the distinction of hosting the highest proportion of international students in higher education in the European Union, with over 52% of its university population coming from outside the country. This remarkable figure highlights Luxembourg’s growing global appeal in academia and underscores its position as an educational hub in the heart of Europe.

Several factors contribute to Luxembourg’s attracting such a large number of foreign students. The nation’s universities, led by the University of Luxembourg, offer a highly international experience marked by multilingual programs—commonly taught in English, French, German, and Luxembourgish. The country’s small size and cosmopolitan outlook make it a natural destination for students seeking a diverse environment and the chance to interact with classmates from around the world.

Furthermore, Luxembourg’s central European location and its vibrant business and research sectors foster strong international partnerships. This not only enhances student life but also translates to excellent career prospects for graduates in finance, technology, and international law, among other fields. The appeal is enhanced by straightforward visa procedures and high acceptance rates—making it easier for foreign students to pursue studies there.

According to Eurostat, 52.3% of Luxembourg’s tertiary level students are international, significantly ahead of Malta (30%) and Cyprus (22%), the next closest EU countries. For advanced degrees, the figures are even higher: over 76% of Master’s students and 91% of doctoral students in Luxembourg originate from abroad. The University of Luxembourg itself registers around 6,700 students, with international students dominating nearly every degree level, in a landscape that is strongly geared toward cross-border exchange and collaboration.

In sum, Luxembourg’s universities have created an environment where diversity, international mobility, and advanced research are truly at the forefront—making the country the top choice in the EU for students from all corners of the globe.

Eurostat’s official mobility data provides detailed statistics and comparisons across all EU member states.europa+1

Read More: Country has EU’s highest proportion of foreign students
8.4% of tertiary students in the EU came from abroad - News articles - Eurostat

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