21 European Universities With Shockingly Low Tuition Fees – Don’t Miss Out!” – Are you tired of hearing about sky-high tuition fees and mounting student debt? Do you dream of studying abroad but fear the financial burden? Well, fear not, because we’ve got some exciting news for you! In this blog post, we’re revealing 21 European universities where you can pursue your academic dreams without breaking the bank. From historic institutions to cutting-edge research hubs, these universities offer top-quality education at surprisingly low tuition rates. So, if you’re ready to unlock your dream education and embark on an unforgettable academic journey, keep reading to discover the hidden gems of affordable higher education in Europe!
In this article, we will look at the cheapest options for higher education in Europe. We will cover the countries and universities charging low or no tuition fees for international students and provide tips for getting accepted and paying for these affordable European degree programs.
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Cheapest European Countries for International Students
Several European countries offer affordable higher education options for international students compared to places like the United States or United Kingdom. According to Educations.com, some of the most budget-friendly destinations include:
- Germany – Public universities charge no tuition fees for undergraduate programs.
- France – Annual fees range from €180-€3,770 at public universities.
- Norway – Tuition is free at public universities, with only a small semester fee.
- Poland – Tuition starts around €2,000-€4,000 per year at public universities.
- Greece – Public university fees are about €1,500-€2,000 annually.
These countries offer relatively low costs of living as well. Students can get by on as little as €6,000-€12,000 per year in Europe covering expenses beyond tuition. Work opportunities while studying are also available. Obtaining a student visa in places like Germany opens up part-time employment. Overall, international students can find some of the most affordable higher education options in Europe compared to other study abroad destinations.
University of Pécs – Hungary:
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Pécs are generally low for international students, typically ranging from €2,500 to €5,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €3,000 to €6,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in a diverse and vibrant academic community. Pécs is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Pécs by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
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University of Debrecen – Hungary
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Debrecen are affordable for international students, generally ranging from €3,000 to €5,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €3,500 to €6,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: High-quality education in a multicultural environment, with programs taught in English. The university offers various scholarships and support services for international students.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Debrecen by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
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University of Warsaw – Poland
- Tuition Fees: Tuition fees at the University of Warsaw are relatively low compared to other European countries, typically ranging from €2,000 to €4,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €2,000 to €6,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in one of Poland’s leading universities, situated in the vibrant capital city of Warsaw. The university offers a wide range of programs taught in English.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Warsaw by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
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University of Porto – Portugal
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Porto are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,000 to €5,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €1,500 to €7,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to one of Portugal’s most prestigious universities, located in the vibrant city of Porto. The university offers a wide range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Porto by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
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University of Sofia – Bulgaria
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Sofia are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,000 to €4,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €1,200 to €5,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in Bulgaria’s oldest and most prestigious university, situated in the capital city of Sofia. The university offers a diverse range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Sofia by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
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University of Ljubljana – Slovenia
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Ljubljana are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €2,000 to €5,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €2,500 to €6,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in Slovenia’s largest and oldest university, located in the capital city of Ljubljana. The university offers a wide range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Ljubljana by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
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University of Latvia – Latvia
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Latvia are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,500 to €4,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €2,000 to €5,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in Latvia’s leading university, situated in the capital city of Riga. The university offers a diverse range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Latvia by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
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University of Belgrade – Serbia
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Belgrade are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,000 to €3,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €1,500 to €4,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in Serbia’s oldest and largest university, located in the capital city of Belgrade. The university offers a wide range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Belgrade by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
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University of Bucharest – Romania
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Bucharest are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,000 to €4,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €1,500 to €5,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in Romania’s leading university, situated in the capital city of Bucharest. The university offers a diverse range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Bucharest by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
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University of Zagreb – Croatia
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Zagreb are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,000 to €4,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €1,500 to €5,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in Croatia’s largest and oldest university, located in the capital city of Zagreb. The university offers a wide range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Zagreb by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
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University of Tallinn – Estonia
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Tallinn are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,600 to €3,500 per year for undergraduate programs and €2,000 to €5,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in Estonia’s leading university, located in the capital city of Tallinn. The university offers a wide range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Tallinn by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
University of Cyprus – Cyprus
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Cyprus are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €3,500 to €7,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €4,000 to €8,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in Cyprus’s leading university, situated in the capital city of Nicosia. The university offers a diverse range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Cyprus by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
University of Granada – Spain
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Granada are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,000 to €3,500 per year for undergraduate programs and €1,500 to €4,500 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in one of Spain’s most renowned universities, located in the historic city of Granada. The university offers a wide range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Granada by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
University of Padua – Italy
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Padua are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,000 to €4,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €1,500 to €5,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in one of Italy’s oldest and most prestigious universities, located in the historic city of Padua. The university offers a diverse range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Padua by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
University of Malta – Malta
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Malta are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,000 to €4,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €1,500 to €5,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in Malta’s leading university, located in the historic city of Valletta. The university offers a diverse range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Malta by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
University of Porto – Portugal
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Porto are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,000 to €4,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €1,500 to €6,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to one of Portugal’s most prestigious universities, located in the vibrant city of Porto. The university offers a wide range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Porto by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
University of Groningen – Netherlands
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Groningen are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €6,000 to €15,000 per year for bachelor’s programs and €8,000 to €20,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in one of the top-ranked universities in the Netherlands, known for its research-oriented programs and international student community.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Groningen by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
University of Coimbra – Portugal
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Coimbra are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,000 to €3,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €1,500 to €4,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to one of the oldest universities in Europe, known for its historic campus and academic excellence.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Coimbra by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
University of Zagreb – Croatia
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Zagreb are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,000 to €4,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €1,500 to €5,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in Croatia’s largest and oldest university, located in the capital city of Zagreb. The university offers a wide range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Zagreb by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
University of Rijeka – Croatia
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Rijeka are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,000 to €4,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €1,500 to €5,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to quality education in one of Croatia’s leading universities, located in the coastal city of Rijeka. The university offers a diverse range of programs and research opportunities.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Rijeka by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
University of Bologna – Italy
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees at the University of Bologna are relatively low for international students, typically ranging from €1,000 to €4,000 per year for undergraduate programs and €1,500 to €5,000 per year for master’s programs.
- Benefits: Access to one of the oldest universities in the world, renowned for its academic excellence and cultural significance.
- How to Apply: International students can apply directly to the University of Bologna by submitting an online application through the university’s admissions portal or by following the instructions provided on the university’s official website.
Other Low-Cost Universities to Consider
There are several excellent universities across Europe that offer affordable tuition for international students. Here are some top options to consider:
The University of Heidelberg in Germany is one of the oldest universities in Europe and charges no tuition fees for undergraduate studies. Graduate programs cost around €1,500 per semester.
The University of Oslo in Norway offers completely free tuition for all international students. The cost of living is higher but still affordable for students.
The University of Warsaw in Poland charges international students between €2,000-€5,000 per year depending on the program. Warsaw is an affordable city for students.
At the University of Athens in Greece, annual tuition for undergraduate and graduate studies costs around €1,500-€2,500 for international students.
Admissions Requirements
To be considered for admission at affordable European universities, international students will need to meet certain requirements. This usually includes demonstrating English language proficiency, submitting academic transcripts, and providing standardized test scores.
Most universities require proof of English proficiency, through exams like IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo. The minimum scores required can vary by university, but is often around IELTS 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL 80-90 1. Some schools may also accept completion of an English-taught qualification or degrees earned at an English-language high school.
submitting official academic records and transcripts is crucial. These documents should cover the last 3-4 years of secondary school. Transcripts need to be translated if not originally in English. Many universities will also want to see predicted final grades or exam scores.
Standardized tests like SAT, ACT, or national exams may be required. This varies by country and program. For example, universities in France use the baccalaureate exam while Dutch schools require the central exam (CE). It’s important to verify exact test requirements with your target universities.
Increasing Your Chances of Acceptance
There are several steps international students can take to boost their chances of getting accepted to affordable European universities:
Apply as early as possible – many programs have rolling admissions, so applying early improves your chances before spots fill up. Try to submit your application at least 6-8 months before the semester starts.
Get help with your application – work with a counselor familiar with European universities to ensure your materials are strong. Having an expert review your essay and guide you can make a big difference.
Connect with professors – try to make contact with faculty in your desired program before applying. Introduce yourself and ask questions to create valuable personal connections.
Highlight unique experiences or skills – include special talents, research, activism, or international experience that makes you stand out.
Consider less competitive programs – apply to ones that welcome international students rather than popular fields that limit foreign applicants.
Following these tips can prove critical when vying for a coveted spot as an international student. Give yourself the best chance at your dream affordable European education.
Paying for Your Education
For international students, paying for an affordable European education requires piecing together funding from multiple sources. Some options to cover costs include:
Scholarships for International Students
Many European universities and external organizations offer scholarships and grants specifically for international students. These provide a tremendous way to lower your costs. For example, the European Union offers programs like Erasmus+ with scholarships covering tuition, living expenses, and more.
On-Campus Part-Time Work
Most countries allow international students to work part-time on campus. Jobs like tutoring, research assistantships, IT support, and campus tour guiding provide a source of income to offset expenses. Just be sure not to overload your schedule.
Student Loans From Home Country
Depending on your home country, you may have access to government-funded or private student loans at lower interest rates.
