Education is one of the most important and life-altering assets we can invest in. Today, students across the globe have global aspirations for their higher education. Studying at top universities in the world broadens our avenues and opens up career prospects. Students gain exposure to various opportunities to learn – both, academically, and culturally. However, higher education abroad is extremely costly and at times absolutely inaccessible due to hefty fees and living costs, additionally, banking on scholarships can be extremely precarious.
Nevertheless, there are meaningful and strategic ways in which you can hit two birds with one stone – study abroad on a budget! Here is a list of countries that provide excellent educational opportunities, at affordable costs:
1. Netherlands
The Netherlands is considered to be one of the cheapest countries in the world for international students. The higher education system is impeccable and their universities are acknowledged worldwide for their well-designed, modern courses and facilities. The relatively inexpensive tuition fee and cost of living gives it an edge over other countries!
The tuition fee for international students depends on the course and the university students opt for.
The average annual tuition fee for international students in the Netherlands is approximately EUR 2,000 -19,696 (approx. INR 1,72,620- 17,00,000).
The expected cost of living for students is roughly EUR 800-1,100 per month. (approx. INR 60,000- 75,000).
Some of the more affordable universities in the Netherlands for international students include –
Utrecht University
University of Amsterdam
University of Groningen
Delft University of Technology
2. Finland
Finland is considered to be the happiest country in the world! Additionally, it provides world-class and yet affordable education to students from across the globe! Education in public universities in Finland is free for students from Scandinavian and European (EU) countries. However, while students from other nations have to pay tuition, this fee is minimal.
The average annual tuition fee for international students in Finland is approximately EUR 4,000- 12,000 (approx. INR 3,45,240- 10,35,720).
The expected cost of living for students is roughly EUR 800- 1,100 per month (approx. INR 70,000- 94,000).
Some of the more affordable universities in Finland for international students include –
Diaconia University of Applied Sciences
Kajaani University of Applied Sciences
University of Eastern Finland
Tampere University
3. Denmark
Denmark is a country that deeply values education. Danish education is known for its interdisciplinary and innovative areas of focus. It provides a plethora of options for students to pursue, including areas such as health, engineering, and social sciences. In order to promote this culture of learning, Danish and European citizens have access to education across Denmark. International students, however, need to pay tuition fees and other expenses.
The average annual tuition fee for international students in Denmark is approximately EUR 2,100- 9,950 (approx. INR 1,82,150- 7,39,752).
The expected cost of living for students is roughly EUR 800- 1,200 per month (approx. INR 70,000- 1,03,572).
Some of the more affordable universities in Denmark for international students include –
Roskilde University (RUC)
IT University of Copenhagen (ITU)
Aalborg University (AAU)
University College of Northern Denmark (UCN)
4. Germany
Germany is increasingly becoming a global hub for higher education. It is gaining traction for its excellent and affordable education system and opportunities after completing programs. Public Universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, regardless of the nationality of the student! They do, however, charge a nominal fee for master’s courses pursued in order to change your stream of academia. Germany also has a lower cost of living compared to numerous other countries.
The average annual tuition fee for international students in Germany is approximately EUR 125- 1,500 per semester (approx. INR 11,000- 1,28,000).
The expected cost of living for students is roughly EUR 650- 800 per month (approx. INR 56,000- 70,000).
Some of the more affordable universities in Germany for international students include –
Ludwig Maximilians University
Heidelberg University
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
Humboldt University of Berlin
5. Japan
Japan is one of the world’s most technologically advanced countries. The country is has a rich blend of conventional and modern facilities and it provides a striking educational system with cutting-edge technology, an emphasis on innovation, and facilities for research and development.
The average annual tuition fee for international students in Japan is approximately EUR 6500-9605 per semester (approx. INR 5,00,000- 8,00,000).
The expected cost of living for students is roughly EUR 613- 766 per month (approx. INR 52,000- 66,000).
Some of the more affordable universities in Japan for international students include –
Kyoto University
Keio University
Tohoku University
Tokyo City University
6. The Czech Republic
In the heart of Europe, the Czech Republic offers free education in public universities to all students, regardless of their nationality (if the mode of teaching is in Czech)! Additionally, if you choose a program taught in English there is only a minimal fee to be paid.
The average annual tuition fee for international students in the Czech Republic is approximately EUR 0 – 18,500 per semester (approx. INR 0 – 16,21,599).
The expected cost of living for students is roughly EUR 300- 650 per month (approx. INR 26,296- 56,975).
Some of the more affordable universities in the Czech Republic for international students include –
Charles University
Tomas Bata University in Zlín (TBU)
Technical University of Liberec
Palacký University Olomouc
Your passion for studying abroad shouldn’t be restricted because of the expense of foreign education.
Proper research and guidance can assist you in determining the ideal countries for education based on your budget. For additional information on countries for higher education, get in touch with us!
Written by: Tanvee Khurana & Yukta Joshi
