Top 5 Cheapest Countries to Study in Europe

In 2021, there were 18.5 million tertiary education students in the EU. Germany, being the most populous EU Member State, had the highest number with 3.4 million students, making up 18.1% of the EU total. Europe is popular for its cheap yet amazing education facilities for the students. So, dive into these top 5 cheap European countries to study that can help you to fulfil your dreams. In this informative blog, we will help you spot the cheapest countries to study in Europe for international students, where you can pursue higher education without breaking the bank. 

Top 5 Cheapest Countries To Study In Europe?

The fascinating history, varied cultures and notch educational systems make it an attractive choice. However, the expenses associated with education can sometimes pose a challenge for aspiring scholars. In this guide, we will delve into the most affordable countries to study in Europe. Below are the cheap countries in Europe for international students:

1. Germany 

Why to Choose? Low tuition fees, quality education, affordable living costs

Top Universities: Ludwig Maximilian University, Freie Universitat Berlin, Eberhard Karls University, Heidelberg University

Scholarships: DAAD, Heinrich Böll Foundation, Universität Hamburg Merit

Germany stands out as the cheapest country to study in Europe for international students. Boasting a profound cultural heritage, prestigious universities, and a dynamic research milieu, Germany is considered as a low tuition fee country in Europe.

The majority of public universities offer tuition-free education, accompanied by a nominal student union semester fee that caters to essential services and transportation needs. Furthermore, cities in Germany for international students ensure accessibility to English-taught programs, even at the undergraduate level. 

Ample scholarships, grants, and employment prospects add to the appeal. For student accommodation in Germany, the cost typically ranges from €800 to €1,000 per month. This makes Germany one of the cheap European countries to study.

Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland can work up to 20 hours per week while studying, while students from outside of this region are allowed to work up to 120 working days per year.

2. France 

Why Choose? Free or affordable tuition fees, low cost of living, warm culture, gorgeous nature and tasty food 

Top Universities: Sorbonne University, Université Paris-Saclay, University of Paris, Sciences Po, Ecole Normale Superieure

Scholarships: Erasmus Mundus Joint, Université Paris-Saclay, International Fashion Academy

France ranks moderately as the cheapest countries to study in Europe for international students in many aspects. Celebrated for its artistic heritage and culinary delights, France offers an appealing fusion of affordability and academic excellence. It is ideal for those seeking the cheapest country for study in Europe.

France maintains its budget-friendly stance regarding tuition fees. Whether you opt for public or private universities, the average annual tuition fees are reasonably priced, ranging from €2500-€4000 and €3000-€10,000, respectively. 

Regarding student accommodation in France, rental rates vary from €350-€850 per month, making it the cheapest European country to study. Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland have no restrictions on the number of hours you can work while studying, while students from outside of this region are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week or four hours per day during the semester.

3. Poland 

Why Choose? Free for PhD and Polish-speaking programs, low cost of living, rich culture

Top Universities: University Of Warsaw, Jagiellonian University, University of WrocLaw, Warsaw University of Technology

Scholarships: University Of Warsaw Ph.D. Fellowship, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University Scholarship, ULAM International Scholarship

If you are wondering which European country is cheapest to study, Poland might be an excellent choice for you. Being the cheapest country to study in Europe, it provides students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in a vibrant culture without straining their finances. Some of the must-visit places in Poland include Krakow, Warsaw, and Gdansk.

A noteworthy aspect of studying in Poland is that if you have a command of the language, you can enjoy a tuition-free education regardless of your nationality.  This cheapest country in Europe to study makes it an attractive destination for students who seek an experience. In terms of cost of living, Poland provides a unique environment compared to European countries with an average of between € 4,000 - € 6,000 annually for international students. 

Student accommodations are particularly budget-friendly, with prices starting at  €400-700 per month. Students in Poland can work up to 20 hours per week while attending classes or full-time during the three months of summer vacation.

4. Slovenia 

Why Choose? Affordable tuition fees, lower cost of living than most of Western Europe, friendly locals 

Average Cost of Living: €1300-€1700 per month

Top Universities: The University of Ljubljana, University of Maribor, University of Nova Gorica, Nova Univerza, International School for Business and Social Sciences

Scholarship: Zois Scholarship, Ad futura Scholarship for Study Abroad, CEEPUS (Central European Exchange Program for University Studies)

Located in southern Europe, Slovenia is known for its stunning natural landscapes, tasty cuisine, and warm welcome. Many people come here to travel, and it is also one of the top five cheap European countries to study.

Slovenia is 30-50% cheaper than living in France, and 20-50% cheaper than Germany, making it one of the cheapest countries to study in Europe for international students. Slovenia's approach to tuition fees also sets it apart as the cheapest country to study in Europe for higher education. 

Tuition is entirely free for Slovenian nationals, citizens from the EU/EEA/Switzerland, residents of the country, and a select group of non-EU nations. This places Slovenia firmly among the most affordable countries to study in Europe in terms of tuition costs. 

It is also an additional advantage to those looking for the cheapest country to study in Europe. The cost of student housing in Slovenia varies between €400-€700 per month, making it a top choice for the cheapest countries in Europe.

Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland have no restrictions on the number of hours you can work while studying, while students from outside of this region are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week or four hours per day during the semester.

5. Greece 

Why Choose? Free or affordable tuition fees, good living cost outside of tourist areas, beautiful nature, sunny beaches

Average Cost of Living: €1300-€1700 per month

Top Universities: The National and Kapodistrian University of AthensNational Technical University of Athens, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

Scholarship: Greek State Scholarship Foundation, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Fulbright Scholarship Program 

Greece is becoming increasingly popular among students who are looking for the cheapest country in Europe to study. The country has an established education system that includes both private and public universities. Many of these institutions receive government funding, ensuring that education is accessible to students.

When it comes to tuition fees, public universities in Greece are widely recognised for their affordability compared to other countries. The costs may vary depending on the program and level. Typically, undergraduate programs range from €1,500-€2,000 per year, while graduate programs generally fall within the €2,000-€3,000 per year range. 

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester, or up to 40 hours (full-time) during summer holiday season. The average pay is between €500 and €700 per month depending on the city and job. Living costs in cities and towns can be more budget-friendly than those in urban centres like Athens or Thessaloniki.

Before you plan to go to these cheap European countries to study, make sure you check what type of exams the university or college requires; it will then help you to prepare and plan better.

When deciding where to pursue your aspirations, consider the features that each country offers. With planning and thorough research, you can embark on an educational journey without the burden of huge expenses. These cheap European countries to study provide high-quality education, reasonable tuition fees, and various financial aid options, for students.