More than 70 European universities, embassies, and education partners will connect Filipino students with international education opportunities, scholarships, and career pathways.
For Filipino students dreaming of pursuing higher education abroad, Europe is bringing exciting academic opportunities closer to home as the European Higher Education Fair (EHEF) 2026 prepares to showcase world-class education, scholarship programs, and international learning experiences.
Representatives from 13 European Union (EU) Member States gathered at the EHEF 2026 press conference held on October 28 at the Yuchengco Museum in Makati City, highlighting the growing educational partnership between the Philippines and Europe.
This year’s fair promises to be a major platform for aspiring international students, bringing together more than 70 universities, embassies, and education partners from across Europe.
Participating EU countries include Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden.
Beyond the Classroom: Building Global Connections
Beyond earning an international degree, studying in Europe gives Filipino students the chance to experience diverse cultures, broaden their perspectives, and build meaningful global connections.
During the press conference, Agata Nowicka, Deputy Head of Mission of the Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines, emphasized the lasting impact of international education on individuals and diplomatic relationships.
“When students learn in another country, they gain more than academic knowledge. They encounter new ideas, experience different cultures, and develop an understanding that can strengthen cooperation long after their studies have ended,” Nowicka said.
Her message reflects the EU’s continued commitment to strengthening educational cooperation with the Philippines.
The recently launched EU–Philippines Enhanced Partnership, introduced on July 24, 2026, further reinforces this commitment by supporting student and academic staff exchanges while encouraging closer collaboration between European and Philippine universities.
More Filipino Students Discover Opportunities in Europe
The growing interest in European education is reflected in the increasing number of Filipino students benefiting from EU-supported scholarship programs.
From 2021 to 2025, a total of 364 Filipinos received Erasmus Mundus scholarships, allowing them to pursue joint master’s degree programs at European universities.
In 2026 alone, another 85 Filipino students were accepted into the Erasmus+ program, opening more opportunities for academic advancement and international exposure.
Among those who shared their inspiring journeys during the press conference were Filipino alumni and EHEF Goodwill Ambassadors Jan Carlo Castro and Jessica Isabelle Badua.
Castro recalled his educational experiences across Portugal, Ireland, Poland, and Austria, as well as his internship experience in the Netherlands.
“The thing about Erasmus is that at the end of it, you’re never the same afterwards,” Castro shared, highlighting how international education can transform both personal and professional perspectives.
Their experiences offer aspiring Filipino scholars a glimpse of the possibilities that await beyond the country’s borders.
Exploring Scholarships, Universities, and Career Pathways
EHEF 2026 aims to make information about studying in Europe more accessible to Filipino students, young professionals, and individuals seeking advanced academic qualifications.
Fair participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with university representatives and education experts to learn about postgraduate programmes, admission requirements, tuition fees, scholarship opportunities, and student life in Europe.
The event will also feature EU-supported education and research initiatives, including 28DIGITAL Master School, Erasmus+, and EURAXESS, providing additional information about academic mobility, research collaboration, and professional development.
Through these initiatives, the fair seeks to help Filipino students make informed decisions about their educational futures while discovering the advantages of international learning.
EHEF 2026: Your Pathway to European Education
Carrying the theme “EU: Pathways to Excellence. Building the Future,” EHEF 2026 will offer both in-person and virtual opportunities for participants to explore European higher education.
The on-site fair will take place on November 20–21, 2026, at the Midtown Atrium of Robinsons Manila, followed by online sessions on November 23–25, 2026.
With a diverse selection of European institutions and educational programs, the event provides an opportunity for Filipinos to explore international academic possibilities without immediately having to travel abroad.
As educational partnerships between the Philippines and the European Union continue to strengthen, EHEF 2026 serves as a bridge connecting Filipino talent with European institutions, global experiences, and future career opportunities.
For aspiring scholars and professionals, the journey toward an international education could begin with a single visit to this year’s European Higher Education Fair.