New Delhi, Nov 30 (IANS): The number of Indian students going to European universities for tertiary level education has increased from 3,348 in 2000 to 51,556 in 2009, a statement said Sunday.

The number of Indian students is the second highest after the Chinese students going to the European universities for education.

According to the European Union (EU), earlier Britain, Germany and France were the most favourite destinations for the Indian students. However, they are now also exploring other European countries such as Sweden, Italy and Ireland due to affordable fees.

"There is no doubt in my mind that Indian Students should consider Europe as their first choice as a higher education destination. After all, Europe offers wide range of English taught post-graduate option of world class standards," said Joao Cravinho, Ambassador of the EU.

He was speaking at the inauguration of the European Higher Education Fair in Delhi.

It was inaugurated by Human Resource Development Minister Smriti Irani.

During the two-day fair (Nov 30-Dec 1), hundred of institutions from 23 European countries will participate.