Top American Universities and American Colleges in Europe
Everything You Need to Know Before You Apply
Dreaming of earning a U.S.-style degree while staying closer to home—or experiencing everything Europe has to offer? You’re definitely not alone. Every year, thousands of students—international students from all corners of the globe and even Americans themselves—choose to study at American universities in Europe. And it’s easy to see why.
These institutions give you the best of both worlds: a U.S.-accredited education with all the culture, history, travel, and affordability that European life offers. Whether you want to sip coffee in Paris between lectures, explore Roman ruins after class, or spend your weekends hopping between neighboring countries, studying in Europe comes with experiences you just can’t get anywhere else.
But let’s pause for a second. Because while the phrase “American university in Europe” sounds pretty straightforward, not all of these institutions are created equal—and it’s important to know what you’re signing up for.
Some of these schools are fully U.S.-accredited universities that just happen to have their campuses in European cities. They follow the American liberal arts model, offer degrees recognized in the United States, and often maintain close relationships with U.S.-based institutions. Others offer American-style programs—same teaching methods, flexible electives, GPA systems—but without formal U.S. accreditation, meaning their degrees may only be recognized locally or in the EU. And then there are universities that sit somewhere in between—offering dual accreditation, exchange programs, or partnership degrees that blend U.S. and European standards.
What Are American Universities in Europe?
First off, what exactly is an “American university” in Europe?
These are institutions located in European countries that:
- Follow the U.S. higher education system (liberal arts curriculum, credit hours, GPA)
- Offer U.S.-accredited degrees or dual accreditation (U.S. + local European)
- Use English as the main language of instruction
- Accept international students from all over the world
- Often allow you to transfer credits to or from U.S. universities
These schools attract globally minded students who want an international experience without giving up the structure and familiarity of the American academic system.
Top American Universities and Colleges in Europe
Here’s a list of the most established and reputable American-style universities across Europe:
1. The American University of Paris (AUP) – France
- Location: Paris, France
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (USA)
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate & Graduate (BA, BS, MA, MSc)
- Why It Stands Out: AUP offers a true American college experience in the heart of Paris. Courses are taught in English, and students can earn U.S. degrees while living steps away from the Eiffel Tower.
2. John Cabot University – Italy
- Location: Rome, Italy
- Accreditation: Middle States (USA), recognized by the Italian Ministry of Education
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate majors in Business, International Affairs, Communications, etc.
- Why It Stands Out: Small class sizes, American professors, and a campus nestled in the historic Trastevere district of Rome. Great for students seeking U.S. education with Mediterranean charm.
3. American University in Bulgaria (AUBG)
- Location: Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria
- Accreditation: Accredited in both the U.S. and Bulgaria
- Degrees Offered: Liberal arts undergraduate degrees (BA/BS)
- Why It Stands Out: AUBG is known for academic rigor, strong business and economics programs, and an affordable cost of living compared to Western Europe.
4. Anglo-American University (AAU) – Czech Republic
- Location: Prague, Czech Republic
- Accreditation: Czech Ministry of Education, U.S. partnerships with Chapman University
- Degrees Offered: BA, MA, and dual-degree options
- Why It Stands Out: It’s located in a beautiful 17th-century palace and offers dual U.S.-Czech accredited programs with a multicultural student body.
5. Franklin University Switzerland
Estimated tuition ranges:
- €7,000 to €25,000/year, depending on the school and program
- Living expenses: Around €600 to €1,200/month depending on city and lifestyle
Pro Tip: Many of these colleges offer merit-based scholarships, need-based aid, and work-study programs, even for international students.
How to Apply
Each institution has its own process, but generally, here’s what you’ll need:
Typical Application Requirements:
- Online application (via school website or Common App)
- High school diploma or previous transcripts
- Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT — optional at some schools)
- English proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo, if not a native speaker)
- Personal essay or statement of purpose
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Passport copy and ID photo
Deadlines:
Many schools offer rolling admissions, but applying by January–March for Fall intake gives you better chances at housing and scholarships.
Visa and Residency Info
- Most American colleges in Europe help with student visa applications
- Student visa types and durations vary by country (Schengen countries = easier short-term travel)
- Many offer post-study work opportunities or paths to local residency
Advanced Tips Before You Apply
- Research dual-degree options—some schools offer U.S. and EU-recognized diplomas
- Look for schools with strong alumni support—great for job placement after graduation
- Explore transfer paths to U.S. universities if you want to finish your degree stateside
- Compare cities: Living in Berlin is very different from studying in Lugano or Athens
- Ask about internship programs—many of these schools are near international business hubs
📊 Top American Universities and Colleges in Europe — Comparison Table
| University | Country | Accreditation | Degrees Offered | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The American University of Paris (AUP) | France | U.S. (Middle States Commission on Higher Education) | BA, BS, MA, MSc | Located in central Paris; U.S.-style education in a cosmopolitan setting |
| John Cabot University | Italy | U.S. (Middle States) & Italian Ministry of Education | BA, BS | Liberal arts college in Rome; small classes and American faculty |
| American University in Bulgaria (AUBG) | Bulgaria | U.S. & Bulgarian accreditation | BA, BS | Affordable tuition; strong business and liberal arts programs |
| Anglo-American University (AAU) | Czech Republic | Czech Ministry + U.S. dual-degree options (with Chapman University) | BA, MA | Housed in a historic palace in Prague; highly international |
| Franklin University Switzerland | Switzerland | U.S. (Middle States) & Swiss Government | BA, MA, MS | Combines U.S. academics with Swiss quality of life; academic travel is built into programs |
| University of New York in Tirana (UNYT) | Albania | Partnership with State University of New York (SUNY) | BA, MA | Low-cost American degrees in Southeast Europe; English-taught |
| American College of Greece (DEREE) | Greece | U.S. (NEASC) & Greek Ministry of Education | BA, BSc, MA, MBA | Largest American college in Europe; known for business and liberal arts |
| Jacobs University Bremen | Germany | German accreditation; U.S.-style liberal arts model | BSc, MSc, PhD | Top private English-language university in Germany; strong in STEM |
| Saint Louis University – Madrid Campus (SLU-Madrid) | Spain | U.S. (Higher Learning Commission) | 4-year BA, BS; 2-year transfer to U.S. campus | U.S.-based SLU branch in Madrid; same degree as in the U.S. |
FAQs: American Universities in Europe
Q1: Are these degrees recognized in the U.S. and Europe?
Yes. Most are accredited by U.S. education boards and/or the country’s Ministry of Education, making them valid internationally.
Q2: Do I need to speak the local language?
Nope. Courses are taught in English, though learning the local language can help you get around and find jobs.
Q3: Can I transfer to a U.S. campus later?
Many schools like SLU-Madrid, AUP, and John Cabot offer transfer options to U.S. partner campuses.
Q4: Are these colleges only for Americans?
Not at all! They’re open to all nationalities, and many students come from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Q5: Are there scholarships for international students?
Yes! Most offer merit-based, need-based, and country-specific scholarships. Always check the financial aid page of each school.
