Did you know that the cheapest universities in Europe for international students are becoming increasingly popular among students from all over the world? If you’re looking for cheapest universities in Europe for international students, you’ve come to the right place.
My Option About Education In Europe
Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity to explore new cultures, meet people from different backgrounds, and receive a quality education all at the same time. Many students dream of studying in Europe, and it’s easy to see why. The experience is not only enriching but also opens doors to incredible career prospects.
Earning a degree in Europe is a smart investment, as graduates from top universities often enjoy excellent job opportunities across various fields. Whether it’s Law, Medicine, Engineering, or other high-demand programs, European universities continue to attract students from around the globe due to their strong academic reputation.
However, studying abroad can be expensive, with costs like tuition, flights, and living expenses adding up quickly. But don’t worry, that’s where we come in. We’ve compiled a list of the cheapest universities in Europe for international students to help you pursue your education with confidence.
Benefits Of Studying In Europe As An International Student
Before i go into the list of the cheapest universities in Europe for international students, let’s first look at some key benefits of studying in Europe:
1. Affordable Education
Many European universities offer high-quality education at a much lower cost than those in the U.S., Canada, or Australia. In some countries, tuition fees are very low or even free for international students, making Europe a budget friendly option for higher education.
2. Globally Recognized Degrees
European universities are known for their strong academic reputation, and degrees from these institutions are highly valued worldwide. Graduating from a European university can open doors to job opportunities in various countries and industries.
3. Diverse Study Options
Europe offers a wide range of programs across different fields, including Law, Medicine, Engineering, Business, and more. Whether you’re looking for an English-taught program or want to study in another language, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.
4. Cultural Exposure and Travel Opportunities
Studying in Europe gives you the chance to immerse yourself in different cultures, traditions, and languages. Plus, with Europe’s well-connected transportation system, you can easily travel and explore different countries during your studies.
5. Work Opportunities for Students
Many European countries allow international students to work part-time while studying. This not only helps with living expenses but also gives students valuable work experience that can boost their career prospects after graduation.
6. High Quality of Life
European cities are known for their excellent quality of life, including great healthcare, public transportation, and student-friendly environments. Whether you prefer a bustling city or a quiet town, there’s a perfect place for every student.
7. Scholarships and Financial Aid
Many European governments and universities offer scholarships and grants to international students. These financial aids help reduce tuition and living costs, making it even easier to study in Europe.
Also Read: Top 10 Best Biomedical Engineering Schools In Europe For International Students 2025
Top 10 Cheapest Countries To Study In Europe
- Poland
- Germany
- Hungary
- France
- Italy
- Norway
- Sweden
- Austria
- Portugal
- Greece
The Top Cheapest Universities In Europe For International Students
These universities offer excellent programs at little to no cost.
1. Sant’Anna
The 1st on our list of cheapest universities in Europe for international students is Sant’Anna. Located in the beautiful city of Pisa, Italy, Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies is an excellent choice for international students looking for an affordable education. The university specializes in experimental & applied sciences and social sciences, offering a mix of English and Italian-taught courses.
Here’s the best part: Sant’Anna is completely tuition-free! On top of that, they cover your living expenses, meaning you can study and live in Italy at no cost. While you’ll need some knowledge of Italian, the effort is well worth it for such an incredible opportunity.
2. University of Freiburg
Situated in Freiburg, Germany, this prestigious university has been around for over 550 years and is ranked among Germany’s top institutions. It has a diverse student body, with students from 120 different countries.
The university offers a wide range of programs across 11 faculties, covering humanities, sciences, and professional degrees. It’s particularly known for interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to broaden their education.
Now, let’s talk about costs. Tuition is free for EU students, with only a small administrative fee of around €200 per year. However, non-EU students pay an additional €2,656 in tuition fees. Living in Freiburg is also relatively affordable, with estimated annual living costs of €7,500–€9,000, especially if you secure student accommodation, which is much cheaper than private rentals.
3. University of Göttingen
Located in Göttingen, Germany, this historic university is known for its strong programs in social sciences, law, natural sciences, and humanities. It’s also home to one of the largest libraries in the country, making it a great choice for research-focused students.
The best part? There’s no tuition fee! Students only need to pay a small semester fee of around €300. However, you’ll need to budget for living expenses, which are similar to costs in Berlin around €700 per month. If you’re looking for an affordable yet high-quality education in Germany, Göttingen is definitely worth considering.
4. Nord University
Situated in Bodø, Norway, Nord University is a tuition-free, publicly funded institution, making it an attractive option for international students. They offer several English-taught programs, including Circumpolar Studies, 3D Art, Animation, Games & Entertainment Technology, Biology, and English.
However, there’s one catch: non-EU students need to prove they can support themselves financially to obtain a student visa. The estimated living cost for a year in Norway is around $13,000. While that’s a bit higher than some other European countries, the chance to study in Norway at a highly regarded university makes it a great investment.
5. Free University of Berlin
As the name suggests, tuition at the Free University of Berlin is completely free! You’ll only need to cover living expenses, which in Berlin average about €700 per month (less than $800) for rent, food, and daily expenses.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly university that teaches in English, this is a fantastic choice. They offer a Bachelor of Arts program with several courses taught entirely in English. Plus, studying in Berlin means endless opportunities for cultural experiences and student life adventures.
6. Scuola Normale Superiore
Located in Pisa, Italy, Scuola Normale Superiore is one of the most prestigious universities in Europe. It offers three main undergraduate programs: humanities, sciences, and political science. Students can specialize in history of art, archaeology, literature, linguistics, philosophy, and more in the humanities department, while the science program covers biology, chemistry, and physics.
The best part about this school is that it is completely tuition-free. Not only that, but the university also covers your living expenses, including housing and food. This means you can study in Italy with almost no financial burden. So as an international student, if you’re looking for a world class education without tuition fees, this school is an absolute gem.
7. Nantes University
If you’re looking for an affordable university in France with a rich cultural experience, Nantes University is a great choice. It offers programs in literature, biology, foreign languages, civilizations, and more.
The university charges only a small processing fee of around €184 per semester, making it one of the most budget-friendly universities in Europe. Living costs in Nantes are also quite affordable around €600 per month which is much lower than in Paris. This means you get a quality education at a fraction of the cost while enjoying the charm of a French student city.
8. University of Mannheim
The University of Mannheim, located in Mannheim, Germany, is a top research university specializing in social and economic sciences. It has a rich history dating back to 1907, and its campus is known as one of the most beautiful in Germany, as it is housed in the Mannheim Baroque Palace.
The university focuses on business management, economics, and research, making it a great choice for students interested in these fields. Tuition fees are very low for EU students, just £277 per year, while non-EU students pay an additional £2,655. Living costs are estimated at £6,418 per year, making it an affordable option compared to other top-ranked universities.
Mannheim is also recognized globally, ranking 125th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
9. University of Vienna
As an international student looking for an affordable university in Austria, the University of Vienna is a fantastic choice. Established in 1365, it is one of the oldest universities in Europe and offers over 200 programs in various fields.
Tuition fees are almost free, with students only required to pay a small processing fee of €713 to €815 per semester. Plus, living in Vienna means you’ll be surrounded by rich cultural heritage, incredible food, and a vibrant student life.
10. RWTH Aachen University
Founded in 1870, RWTH Aachen University in Germany is a top-tier institution specializing in engineering and natural sciences. It has a strong focus on interdisciplinary research, diversity, and globalization, and even partners with the city to present an annual Engineering Award to outstanding individuals in the field.
The university aims to be the best technological university in Germany and one of the top five in Europe. Tuition fees are affordable for both EU and non-EU students at just £455 per year, while the cost of living is around £5,976 annually, making the total cost approximately £6,431 per year. Additionally, RWTH Aachen ranks 90th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, proving its global academic reputation.
11. University of Athens
This might come as a surprise, but the University of Athens is one of the best places to get a cheap master’s degree in Europe. The university offers a variety of programs, including nursing, social theology, and theatre studies.
The tuition costs around €400 per semester, and living expenses in Athens are approximately €600 per month. On top of that, you’ll get to explore Greece’s breathtaking historical sites, including ancient ruins scattered across the city.
12. University of Paris-Sud
If you’re passionate about science and mathematics, the University of Paris-Sud is one of France’s most prestigious universities in these fields. Despite its strong reputation, it remains one of the cheapest universities in Europe for international students.
Tuition fees are incredibly low, ranging from €170 to €380 per semester, depending on your program. They also offer several English-taught master’s programs in fields like Artificial Intelligence, Economics, Physics, and Life Sciences.
Living in Paris comes with a higher price tag, so you’ll need to budget around €1,200 to €1,500 per month for rent, food, and other expenses. But if you’re looking for a top-tier education in one of the world’s most iconic cities, this university is a fantastic option.
13. University of Basel
Located in Basel, Switzerland, the University of Basel is the oldest university in the country, founded in 1460. It’s home to Switzerland’s largest research library, making it a great choice for students who love academia and research.
Switzerland is known for its high cost of living, but the University of Basel remains one of the most affordable institutions in the country. It offers a wide range of programs, including psychology, theology, medicine, law, sciences, humanities, and business & economics. Many of these programs are taught in a mix of English and German.
While living costs in Switzerland can be high, studying at Basel gives you access to quality education in. This school is the last on our list of cheapest universities in Europe for international students.
Also Read: Top 10 Best Psychology Colleges in Canada For International Students 2025
FAQs – Cheapest Universities in Europe for International Students
Which European country Has the Lowest Tuition Fees For International Students?
Germany, Norway, and Austria are your best bets. Germany and Norway offer tuition-free education at public universities, even for international students. Austria charges only a small semester fee, making it another budget-friendly option.
Which Country In Europe is Easiest To Get A Student Visa?
Poland and Germany are among the easiest. Poland has a simple visa process and allows students to work while studying. Germany also has a well-structured visa system, and as long as you meet the requirements, you have a high chance of approval.
Which European Country Has the Lowest Cost of Living?
Countries like Poland, Hungary, and Portugal offer some of the cheapest living costs in Europe. In Poland, students can live comfortably on €400–€700 per month, including rent, food, and transport. Hungary and Portugal are also very affordable compared to countries like France or the UK.
Which European Country is Best for Poor students?
If you need low tuition and affordable living costs, Germany, Norway, and Poland are top choices. Germany and Norway provide tuition-free education, while Poland has low tuition fees and cheap living costs.
Also Read: Top 10 Cheap Medical Schools In China For International Students 2025 List
Conclusion
All these schools listed above are great options for international students who wants to study in Europe on a budget.
So if you have a friend, sister, brother or anyone looking for cheapest universities in Europe for international students, don’t forget to share this article with them.
