Cheapest European Countries to Study

Cheapest European Countries to Study: Europe is the home of some of the best and oldest universities in the world. These top universities offer different programs at very reasonable prices. In this blog, we will cover a list of the cheapest European countries for Indian and international students to study in.    

Studying in Europe is more than simply a study endeavor; it’s a life-changing experience that provides access to a wealth of chances to succeed. International students can study in some of the most affordable European countries, such as Germany, Norway, Finland, Austria, Poland, Greece, and Hungary, which are leaders in the field of affordable education. These cheapest European countries to study are the home of some of the top universities that have low costs of higher education.  

Furthermore, some of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the world, including Oxford and the Sorbonne, are located in Europe. These cheapest places to study in Europe offer cutting-edge facilities and knowledgeable teachers to their students. Furthermore, many European countries offer low-cost or free education to both in-country and international students, making it a desirable choice for anyone trying to reduce their financial burdens.

In this blog, we will look at the cheapest countries to study in Europe and how you can achieve your study abroad goals!  

List of Top 7 Cheapest European Countries to Study  

1. Germany  
2. Poland  
3. Greece  
4. France  
5. Hungary  
6. Estonia  
7. Slovenia  

Germany  

Germany is one of the best places to study in Europe, with a low or affordable fee structure. German institutions are renowned for providing top-notch instruction and possibilities for cutting-edge research as part of master’s programs.   

With more than 900 foreign master’s degrees available, Germany is home to about 300 universities, 10 of which are among the top universities in the world. Students from different countries come to Germany to study Ausbildung courses. Ausbildung in Germany provides a dual system of professional training that combines classroom-based theoretical education with work-based practical training. 

Moreover, the average cost of living for international students is approximately INR 3.77 lakh, though this can vary based on your location and your standard of living.   

In addition, Germany offers a wealth of job possibilities, grants, and scholarships. There are many grants and interest-free loans available through the Federal Student Financial Aid Program to German nationals, EU citizens, and, in some situations, foreign nationals.  

Both EU/EEA/Swiss and non-EU/EEA/Swiss international students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week in addition to their studies. Workers who are neither EU, EEA, or Swiss are permitted to work up to 140 full days or 280 half days.  

To study in one of the cheapest places to study in Europe, you need to learn the German language. This will make your learning experience more engaging. If you learn the B1 level of German, it will help you to get admission to German universities more easily.

Poland  

Poland is renowned for its excellent educational system and is one of the cheapest European countries to study. Several Polish universities have been named among the top in Europe.  Furthermore, English is taught in the majority of institutions, which facilitates adjustment for non-native speakers. Furthermore, Poland provides a diverse range of degree programs with flexible study options, research possibilities, and student exchange programs.     

Poland is a great option for students searching for an affordable or cheapest country to study option in Europe. For bachelor’s degrees, tuition at public institutions is from €2,000 to €5,000 per year, while for master’s and PhD degrees, the cost is around €4,000 annually.  

For abroad students, Poland offers a plethora of scholarship possibilities. These include grants from Polish government agencies and particular institutions, such as the Ministry of Science and Higher Education (MSHE) Scholarship Program, which provides financial aid to qualified students wishing to continue their education in Poland.  

Greece  

Greece is also among the least expensive European countries for students to study abroad.  Both public and private institutions are part of its strong higher education system. Most of these colleges get public funding and provide both domestic and foreign students with reasonably priced educational opportunities.   

Greece’s public universities charge much lower tuition fees when compared to other cheapest European countries to study. The cost varies according to the program and study level. Undergraduate programs often cost between €1,500 and €2,000 per year, while graduate programs typically cost between €2,000 and €3,000 annually.   

A student’s typical monthly living expenses, including housing, food, transportation, and other costs, range from €500 to €700. It’s also important to remember that living expenses in smaller towns and cities might be much less expensive than in larger cities like Thessaloniki or Athens.  

France  

France is one of the most affordable places for international students to study in Europe. This country is renowned for its gastronomic delights and artistic legacy, provides an alluring combination of affordability and academic brilliance. It is perfect for anyone looking for the cheapest countries to study in Europe.

Regarding tuition costs, France continues to take a more economical approach. The average yearly tuition costs are affordable, ranging from €2500-€4000 for public institutions and €3000-€10,000 for private ones.   

France is the most affordable country in Europe to study in, with monthly rental prices for student housing ranging from €350 to €850.

While students from outside of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week or four hours per day throughout the semester, students from these regions are not restricted in how many hours they may work while they are enrolled in classes.  

However, if you know the French language, then you can easily find different work opportunities in France. Plus, learning the B1 level of French or DELF B2 syllabus will help the students get admission to the top universities in France.

Hungary  

In addition to being a popular tourism destination, Eastern Europe has gradually gained a reputation for having some of the cheapest places to study abroad.   

With comparatively cheap living expenses, a vibrant cultural scene, and a broad choice of academic possibilities, Hungarian universities provide excellent education at reasonable tuition charges.

For international students, there are hundreds of English-language study programs accessible in every field. The degrees earned are valued in Europe and other parts of the world.    

This is the ideal location for you if you’re searching for a top-notch education. Numerous brilliant brains have come from Hungarian colleges, notably Albert Szent-Györgyi, a Nobel winner and the man who discovered vitamin C.   

The average cost of living is Eur. 3500-4500, or roughly Rs. 300,000-400,000 annually, while the average tuition expense is Eur. 3500-4500, or roughly Rs. 300,000-400,000 annually.  

Estonia  

For international students looking for a top-notch education in a community that values innovation and entrepreneurship, Estonia is a great place to study in Europe. The cost of living is inexpensive when compared to other cheapest countries to study in Europe, and the country’s colleges provide a broad variety of courses.   

In Estonia, fees for international students are often inexpensive. Undergraduate courses cost between €1,500 and €7,500 per year, while graduate courses cost between €2,000 and €15,000. For overseas students, living expenses range from €500 to €1,000 per month.  

Estonia is a small country in Northern Europe’s Baltic area that is renowned for both its stunning natural landscapes and its cutting-edge technological industry.   

The nation places a high priority on entrepreneurship and innovation, with a concentration on engineering and technology in particular. In Estonia, computer science, engineering, and business are the most sought-after subjects for international students.  

In addition to having reasonably priced housing and dining alternatives, Estonia has a low cost of living. Additionally, financial aid and scholarships are available to international students to help reduce living expenses and tuition costs.  

Slovenia  

Slovenia is renowned for its exquisite food, kind people, and stunning scenery. The oldest Slovene-language documents date back to 972 AD, demonstrating its longstanding educational excellence. Slovenia offers top-notch education to international students at a far cheaper cost than most of Europe.   

Slovenian citizens, citizens of the EU/EEA/Switzerland, country residents, and citizens of a few non-EU nations, such as Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and a few others, are exempt from paying tuition.

Tuition-paying students can still find programs for a few thousand euros per year, which is at the lower end of tuition expenses in Europe. Because of this, it is among the cheapest European countries to study.  

The affordable cost of living in Slovenia is yet another fantastic feature. The cost of living is 20–50% less than in Germany and 30–50% less than in France. Depending on your lifestyle, the figures may change; however, in Slovenia, your euros will buy you more than in Western European nations.  

Factors That Make European Countries the Cheapest European Countries to Study Abroad  

Here are some major factors that affect one’s studies expenses:

Tuition Fees  

The tuition fees for the academic year account for a significant portion of the study abroad expense. If you choose a study that lasts longer than 3-4 years, tuition will rise significantly; however, many universities in Europe offer shorter-duration courses that may take longer to complete in other countries.  

Cost of Living  

The cost of living differs from person to person within a country. It is dependent on factors such as the number of people sharing assets and the style of living. For instance, the cost of a car is higher for one person than for three people together, as each individual’s part decreases significantly. However, the prices of utilities, groceries, transportation, and taxes have a significant impact on the cost of living and determine whether the country is a viable alternative for students from abroad to study there.   

Student Accommodation Options  

The cost of accommodation is a significant expense that affects the cost of living. Rent is typically less expensive at university-provided housing than at other options if you decide to stay there.   

Scholarships  

Scholarships are like great friends to students! Especially when studying abroad. If you have a student loan, they can significantly lower your interest rates, regardless of the amount. Some countries and universities encourage students to enroll in their programs by offering them substantial scholarships.  

Job Opportunities  

This is the main goal of studying abroad. Students will be able to handle their money considerably more effectively if a nation offers adequate employment opportunities for them to work while they are in college. Likewise, if the job market is strong after graduation, they can obtain substantial returns on their overseas education investment.   

Study Visa Requirements for Europe  

In order to apply to any European university for a student visa, you must have the following documents: 

• Valid passport.  

• valid papers and evidence of identity.  

• Passport photographs.  

• letter of acceptance from your academic institution.  

• Document proving admission status.  

• Recipients of fees.

Conclusion

Europe offers some of the cheapest countries for international students to study in, such as Germany, Poland, France, and Hungary. With affordable tuition fees, low living costs, and excellent universities, studying in Europe is a smart choice for those seeking quality education without financial strain.
Beyond academics, the chance to explore diverse cultures and build a global network makes the experience even more rewarding. If you’re looking to pursue higher education in these affordable countries, Kochiva can help you prepare by offering language courses like German and French, ensuring you meet admission requirements and enhance your study experience.