Overseas education is a transformative experience not merely confined to academic pursuits but extends to a realm that shapes global perspectives and fosters tolerance and understanding among learners. Students cross borders and fly to other nations to fulfill their aspirations, and studying abroad further adds value to their resumes, gives international exposure, and helps students develop their personalities. While the pursuit of overseas higher education is undoubtedly exciting, it also poses a formidable challenge, especially for Indian students belonging to middle-class families. For more than 60% of Indian students, the study abroad dream remains elusive primarily due to the substantial cost involved. Read this entire blog to learn more on cheapest countries to study abroad.
The financial landscape of studying abroad has multiple factors like tuition fees, accommodation, medical expenses, food and several other things that add to your expenses. Collectively, these factors may put a financial burden on the student. Although avenues like study abroad loans or scholarships exist, they are not universally accessible, leaving many students grappling with financial constraints.
As we are about to step into 2024 and considering the enormous increase in the number of students moving abroad for higher education, the MSM Unify team finds it imperative to address the financial constraints that hinder the study abroad dream of students. Therefore, we have compiled a list of the best 6 cheapest countries to study that provide international students with an excellent opportunity to pursue their dreams without breaking the bank. These countries stand out not only for their affordability but also for their high-quality education, best universities, cultural diversity, and much more.
But, before directly jumping onto the list of top six countries, here are four factors that every student must consider before choosing the study destination.Â
- Â Â Cost of education (Including tuition fees, travel and visa costs, and living expenses)
- Â Â Top universities
- Â Â Cost of living
- Â Â Popular courses of the country
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6 cheapest countries to study abroadÂ
For every aspirant who yearns to study abroad and take advantage of diverse courses, diverse cultures, and other factors without putting a strain on finances, the following list serves as a comprehensive guide.
 GERMANY
Germany is one of the most famous and cheapest countries in Europe to study for Indians. The public universities in Germany have waived off the tuition fee and charge minimum application fees and other processing fees. Many of these courses are offered in English only. The cost of living is reasonable, and many cities boast a high standard of living. Additionally, various scholarships and financial aid options are available for Indian students. Students get their hands on research and innovation in German universities and they can work part-time while studying in Germany.
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Tuition fee | EUR 300 which may vary depending on the course |
Top universities | Technical University of Munich
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München Universität Heidelberg |
Cost of living | EUR 800-1000 |
Popular courses | Computer Science
Management Engineering |
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NORWAY
Known for its natural landscape and progressive education system, Norway is a great destination for students who want to study abroad at a low cost. Public universities in Norway do not charge tuition fees to any student regardless of their nationality, making it an economical choice. The cost of living in Norway is slightly on the higher side, but the financial burden can be alleviated by availing scholarships or part-time work.
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Tuition fee | EUR 7,000 to EUR 19,000 depending on the course |
Top universities | –Â Â Â Â University of Oslo
–Â Â Â Â Norwegian University of Science and Technology –Â Â Â Â University of Bergen –Â Â Â Â Western Norway University of Applied Sciences |
Cost of living | EUR 1,056 |
Popular courses | –Â Â Â Â Philosophy
–Â Â Â Â Agriculture & Forestry –Â Â Â Â Biological Sciences –Â Â Â Â Law –Â Â Â Â Sports related subjects |
TAIWAN
Taiwan is Asia’s hidden gem. It is a great destination for students who want to experience the rich Asian culture and pursue overseas education at affordable prices. Taiwan is known for its comprehensive academic programs, research facilities, and diverse programs in English. It has moderate tuition fees, and various scholarships and grants are also available for all international students, including Indian students.
Tuition fee | Â Â Â Â Â NTD 50,000 to NTD 79,000, depending on the course |
Top universities | –Â Â Â Â National Taiwan University (NTU)
–Â Â Â Â National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University –Â Â Â Â National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) |
Cost of living | Â Â Â Â Â NTD 25,000 to NTD 45,000, excluding tuition fees |
Popular courses | –Â Â Â Â Social Science
–Â Â Â Â Tourism and Hospitality course –Â Â Â Â Law –Â Â Â Â Automation Engineering |
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SOUTH KOREA
We have observed a rising demand for South Korea as an affordable study-abroad country. It has recently become a hub for Indian students seeking technologically advanced and culturally rich education. Some universities charge tuition fees but are generally lower than in Western countries. The average tuition fee at public universities in South Korea is KRW 40,00,000, which may vary depending on the university or the course.
Tuition fee | Â Â Â Â Â KRW 40,00,000 |
Top universities | –Â Â Â Â Seoul National University
–Â Â Â Â KAIST – Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology –Â Â Â Â Yonsei University |
Cost of living | Â Â Â Â Â KRW 20,00,000 |
Popular courses | –Â Â Â Â Engineering
–Â Â Â Â Business –Â Â Â Â Architecture –Â Â Â Â Economics –Â Â Â Â Computational Sciences |
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DENMARK
Denmark is a popular, affordable destination among students who dream of pursuing high-quality higher education abroad but without burning a hole in their pocket. Denmark Is known for its globally renowned universities, exceptional standard of living, and the lowest crime rates in the world.
The country has various scholarships and funding opportunities to support international students.
Tuition fee | DKK 44,700 to DKK 1,19,200
 |
Top universities | University of Copenhagen
Technical University of Denmark Aarhus University |
Cost of living | DKK 9,518 to DKK 13,385 per month |
Popular courses | Social Sciences
Humanities Business Administration Civil Engineering Design |
FRANCE
Study in France is one of the most sought-after study-abroad destinations for students who want to enjoy lively culture, delectable cuisine, fascinating history all while studying in some other country. It is also one of the cheapest countries for overseas higher education due to its low tuition fees. It is one of the best countries to study in 2024. Postgraduate courses are mostly taught in English and graduate courses can be in French or English.
Tuition fee | EUR 380 to EUR 38,000 depending on the type of university and course |
Top universities | Université PSL
Institut Polytechnique de Paris Sorbonne University |
Cost of living | EUR 800 to EUR 1,800 per month |
Popular courses | –Â Â Â Â Fashion Studies
–Â Â Â Â Hospitality –Â Â Â Â MBA |
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There are countless advantages to studying abroad, so picking the best country for employment and study becomes essential. Making the correct choice can have a big influence on how you develop academically and personally. Speak with our proficient counselors to know your tailored path to success. We have collaborated with over 1500 universities worldwide and have assisted over 1,50,000+ students in realizing their study abroad aspirations, within their budget. You can also get help from our overseas education consultants at MSM Unify to get admission into one of the best universities on the planet. Get in touch with us to schedule a free consultation.