Cheapest Countries in Europe: Studying abroad in Europe is a dream for many students, but the cost of living and tuition fees can often be a barrier. However, Europe offers a variety of destinations where international students can experience world-class education without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re looking for low tuition fees, affordable housing, or cheap everyday expenses, there are plenty of options to consider. In this guide, we’ll explore the cheapest countries in Europe where students can study, live, and enjoy a great experience without worrying about high costs. Let’s get started.
Table of contents
Top 5 Cheapest Countries in Europe for Students
Studying in Europe can be affordable, with many countries offering low tuition fees and cost-effective living options. Here’s a list of top 5 cheapest countries in Europe, where students can get quality education without high costs.
Poland
Poland is one of the cheapest countries in Europe for international students, offering high-quality education and a rich cultural experience. If you enjoy history and culture, Poland is a fantastic destination. The average tuition fees for undergraduate courses in Poland range from EUR 2,000 to EUR 4,000 per year, while graduate courses cost between EUR 5,000 and EUR 10,000.
The cost of living in Poland is relatively low compared to other European countries. Monthly expenses for international students, including accommodation, food, and transport, range from EUR 400 to EUR 700, making it an affordable choice for students.
Hungary
Hungary is one of the cheapest countries in Europe for international students, offering affordable tuition fees and a low cost of living. Located in Central Europe, Hungary is known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and rich history. Budapest, the capital, is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, with landmarks like the Danube River, Buda Castle, and Lake Balaton.
Germany
Germany is one of the cheapest countries in Europe for international students seeking world-class education and innovative research opportunities. With approximately 300 universities, 10 of which rank among the top globally, Germany offers excellent academic programs, especially in fields like engineering.
One of the biggest draws is that there are no tuition fees for undergraduate and consecutive master’s programs, except in the Baden-Württemberg area, where international students have to pay tuition fees. Students only need to cover an administration fee of around EUR 100 to EUR 200 per year.
Italy
Italy is one of the cheapest countries in Europe for international students, offering a rich cultural experience. Tuition fees at public universities range from EUR 850 to EUR 1,000 per year, and living costs in big cities are around EUR 8,400 to EUR 13,500 annually. Living in student cities like Pisa, Padua, or Turin can lower expenses, making Italy an affordable destination for education.
Greece
Greece is also one of the cheapest countries to study in Europe for international students. Tuition fees at public universities range from EUR 1,500 to EUR 2,000 for undergraduate programs and EUR 2,000 to EUR 3,000 for graduate programs. The cost of living is around EUR 500 to EUR 700 per month, with lower expenses in smaller cities compared to Athens or Thessaloniki.
Also Read:
What factors make Europe the cheapest country to study abroad?
When considering studying abroad on a budget, the cheapest countries in Europe offer excellent opportunities for international students with affordable tuition fees and living costs. Here are some of the main reasons why Europe is considered one of the cheaper regions for studying abroad:
- Low or No Tuition Fees: Countries like Germany and Norway offer free or very low-cost education.
- Affordable Living Costs: Places like Poland and Hungary have cheaper living expenses compared to other countries.
- Scholarships and Financial Aid: There are many scholarships available, such as Erasmus+, and universities often offer financial help.
- Part-Time Work Opportunities: Students can work part-time (up to 20 hours a week) to help with expenses.
- High Quality of Education: European universities are known for their excellent education at affordable prices.
- Student Discounts: Students get discounts on things like transportation, food, and entertainment.
- Easy Visa and Immigration: Most countries have simple student visa processes, and you can often stay and work after graduating.
5 Best Countries To Study In Europe
Europe is a popular study destination for Indian students, with over 50,000 Indians among 1.5 million international students in 2023. Countries like Germany, France, the UK, and Spain offer affordable education, recognized degrees, vibrant student life, and good work opportunities, making it a preferred choice over the USA and Canada. Here is a table highlighting the top 5 Cheapest Countries in Europe to study abroad.
| Country | Cost of Living (Per Month) | Average Tuition Fees | Scholarships | Top Universities |
| Germany | EUR 1,500 to EUR 2,500 | EUR 10,000 to EUR 20,000 (Private) | DAAD Scholarship, Erasmus, Heinrich Boll Scholarships | Technical University of Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University, Heidelberg University |
| France | EUR 2,708.14 | EUR 2,770 to EUR 3,770 | Eiffel Scholarship, MOPGA, ERASMUS+ | Sorbonne University, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, PSL University |
| United Kingdom | EUR 2,571 | EUR 10,000 to EUR 40,000 | Chevening, Rhodes, Erasmus Mundus | University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, Imperial College London |
| Netherlands | EUR 1,200 to EUR 1,400 | EUR 15,000 to EUR 25,000 | NL Scholarship, University of Twente, Leiden University Excellence | University of Amsterdam, Utrecht University, University of Groningen |
| Spain | EUR 1,000 to EUR 1,500 | EUR 1,000 to EUR 3,000 | Erasmus+, University of Salamanca Scholarships | University of Barcelona, Complutense University of Madrid, University of Salamanca |
Benefits of Studying in the Cheapest Countries in Europe
Studying in the most affordable European countries is a great way to receive a high-quality education without breaking the bank. These countries offer excellent universities, lower tuition fees, and a budget-friendly lifestyle, making them an attractive option for international students. Here are the key benefits:
- Low tuition fees and affordable living costs
- High-quality education at reputable universities
- English-taught programs available
- Cultural exposure and easy travel across Europe
- Part-time work opportunities for students
- Globally recognized degrees for better career prospects
- Access to EU funding and scholarships
- Post-graduation job opportunities in Europe
Which European Country is Best for You?
Choosing the best European country for studying depends on budget, course, and lifestyle. Germany offers world-class education with no tuition fees for most programs, making it ideal for affordable, high-quality education. Poland and Hungary provide low tuition and living costs, with Poland offering rich culture and Hungary a vibrant atmosphere. Italy is perfect for those interested in arts and history, with affordable tuition and a cultural experience. Greece offers low fees and living costs, along with a beautiful Mediterranean environment. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities like cost, academics, and cultural experience.
Hope you liked reading our blog about Cheapest Countries in Europe. Fly Homes is your trusted platform to find the best student accommodation abroad. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal accommodation abroad with ease.
FAQs on Cheapest Countries in Europe
Countries like Germany, Poland, Hungary, Greece, and Italy are considered among the cheapest for international students.
Yes, most European countries allow students to work part-time during their studies. Students can typically work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks, which can help cover living expenses.
Yes, many European countries and universities offer scholarships for international students. Programs like Erasmus+, DAAD, and the Eiffel Scholarship provide financial support for tuition fees and living costs.
Europe is home to many world-renowned universities and institutions that offer high-quality education. Universities in countries like Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands are ranked among the best globally and offer excellent research and academic opportunities.
Finding accommodation can be competitive in major cities, but many universities provide dormitories or assistance in finding private housing. It’s recommended to start your search early, especially for cities with a high number of international students.
Applications are generally submitted through university websites or national portals. Each country has its own application procedure, and students will need to submit documents like transcripts, language proficiency tests, and a statement of purpose.
Yes, most European countries allow students to work part-time while studying, typically up to 20 hours per week. Part-time jobs such as tutoring, retail work, or internships are common options for students to support themselves financially.
Germany, Norway, Finland, and some universities in Austria offer free or low-cost education for international students, especially at the undergraduate and master’s levels. However, some programs or universities may charge a small administrative fee.
Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands are known for their strong engineering programs. Universities like Technical University of Munich, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, and Delft University of Technology offer excellent engineering degrees with good industry connections.
Some of the best cities for students include Berlin, Munich, Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Prague. These cities offer a combination of great universities, vibrant student life, and affordable living costs.
Follow Us on Social Media
