Bachelor vs. Master in Europe: What’s the Difference?

Program Duration

• Bachelor’s degrees in Europe usually take 3 years to complete, in some fields it is possible up to 4 years.
• Master’s degrees typically last 1 to 2 years, depending on the country and field of study.

Entry Requirements

• For a Bachelor’s, you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent, and sometimes a language certificate (like IELTS or TOEFL).
• For a Master’s, you must already hold a Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

Focus & Learning Style

• Bachelor’s programs give you a broad academic foundation and help you explore your field.
• Master’s programs are more specialized and research-focused, often including a thesis.

Career Impact

• A Bachelor’s degree is enough for many entry-level jobs in Europe.
• A Master’s increases your chances of getting higher-level positions, especially in fields like business, tech, or science.

Language of Study

Both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees are widely offered in English, especially in countries like the Spain, Poland, Lithuania, and Croatia — perfect for international students.

Which one should you choose?‍

If you’ve just finished school and want to start your academic journey, go for a Bachelor’s. If you already have a degree and want to grow professionally or change fields, a Master’s is the way to go.

Need help choosing the right program or applying to a university in Europe? We support non-EU students with application documents, communication with universities, and everything in between. Start your European education journey with expert guidance!