Why study at the College of Europe?

The European construction has changed – and keeps changing – the history of a whole continent, the lives of hundreds of millions of European citizens and Europe’s role in the world.

Ever since its foundation at the very start of it the College of Europe has had the mission to make well selected postgraduate students understand the political, legal, economic and international core issues, challenges and potentials of this unique process. This not for art’s sake, but to prepare them for leadership functions requiring a strategic understanding of European issues.

The College fulfils this mission by constantly adapting its programmes and the composition of its teaching faculty to European developments, by challenging its students’ minds with the different perspectives of senior academics and practitioners from over twenty-five different countries and numerous professional backgrounds, and by providing them with a very special – and intense – experience of living and working together in an international social and cultural context.

If you wish to understand Europe, live it and prepare for a career transcending national borders then the College of Europe should be your choice.

Jörg MONAR, Rector
 

The College Formula

The "College Formula" ensures that, for 10 months, students live and follow together an intensive programme in a challenging and highly stimulating educational environment – which truly prepares them to live and work in an increasingly integrated Europe. The student body – around 340 students in Bruges and 130 students in Natolin (Warsaw) – reflects a real diversity of culture and personal experience. 

Across both campuses, students with an average age of around 25 and originating from over 50 different countries, usually speak three to four languages. All have completed a university degree in a field appropriate for participation in the College’s postgraduate programmes, and quite a few already hold a postgraduate degree. The College's demanding entry requirements and rigorous selection procedures ensure that students who are recruited are of the highest calibre.

The College is a private university/institution and can rely on an extensive network of contacts in European institutions, national administrations, international organisations, European universities and professional circles. Alumni of the College of Europe occupy positions of responsibility in Europe and across the world. Many come back to the College to share their experiences with the students.   

Although the College has no scholarships of its own, more than 70% of all College students benefit from whole or partial scholarships, these being granted by governments or private institutions. (Admissions)