Online education continues its steady rise across the European Union, with more people than ever turning to digital platforms to expand their skills and knowledge.
In 2025, nearly 35% of EU internet users reported participating in online courses or using digital learning materials. That marks a modest increase from 33.4% in 2024, but a much more striking leap compared to 2019, when just over one in five users engaged in online learning. The figures highlight how digital education has moved from a niche option to a central part of modern learning.
Northern and Western European countries are leading this shift. The Netherlands stands out at the top, with over 60% of internet users taking part in online learning activities. Close behind are Ireland and Finland, both approaching the 60% mark, while Sweden also records strong engagement.
In contrast, adoption remains significantly lower in parts of Eastern and Southern Europe. Romania reports the lowest participation rate, with just under 12% of users engaging in online education. Bulgaria and Cyprus also lag behind, indicating persistent regional disparities in access, infrastructure, or digital skills.
Looking deeper into how Europeans learn online, about 17% of users took structured online courses in 2025. Ireland, Finland, and the Netherlands again lead in this category, suggesting strong national ecosystems for digital education. Meanwhile, informal learning appears even more widespread: over 30% of users accessed online materials such as tutorials, videos, or articles. The Netherlands, Ireland, and Hungary show particularly high usage of these flexible resources.
The growing popularity of online learning reflects broader changes in how people acquire knowledge—favoring convenience, flexibility, and lifelong learning opportunities. It also aligns with ongoing efforts across the EU to strengthen digital skills and adapt education systems to a rapidly evolving economy.
The data comes as Europe marks the International Day for Digital Learning on March 19, underscoring the increasing importance of accessible, technology-driven education across the continent. Photo by Sage Ross, Wikimedia commons.