Europe is a top destination for students worldwide, offering a blend of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and vibrant campus life. However, the cost of studying abroad can be a major concern. Fortunately, there are many affordable universities in Europe for international students that provide quality education at a fraction of the price found in other regions.
This article provides an insightful overview of some of the most affordable universities in Europe for international students, showcasing their academic strengths and unique offerings. It also offers practical guidance for students seeking quality education on a budget, helping them make informed decisions about studying in Europe without compromising on value or experience.
Why Consider Studying at the Cheapest Universities in Europe?
Studying at affordable universities in Europe offers international students a unique opportunity to receive an excellent education without the heavy financial burden often associated with higher studies abroad. Many European countries prioritise accessible education, combining low tuition fees with manageable living costs, making it an attractive destination for students worldwide.
- Affordable Access to Quality Education:
Many European countries offer world-class education at public universities with either free or minimal tuition fees, even for international students. Nations like Germany and Norway waive tuition entirely, while countries such as Austria, Greece, and Poland keep fees nominal, enabling students to earn reputable degrees without the burden of massive student debt.
- Manageable Cost of Living in Many European Cities:
Besides tuition, living costs such as accommodation, food, and transport in several European cities remain reasonable, helping students maintain a balanced budget during their studies.
- Diverse Range of Programmes and English-Taught Courses:
Many affordable universities offer a wide variety of programmes, including numerous English-taught degrees, enabling international students to study without language barriers.
- Opportunity to Experience Rich Cultural and Academic Environments:
Studying in Europe allows students to immerse themselves in diverse cultures, historic cities, and vibrant academic communities, enriching their overall educational experience.
- Availability of Scholarships and Financial Aid:
Several European universities and governments provide scholarships and financial support specifically aimed at international students to further reduce education costs.
- Post-Graduation Work Opportunities:
Many European countries offer favorable post-study work permits, enabling graduates to gain valuable work experience and improve their career prospects locally.
- Competitive Admission Encourages Academic Excellence:
While tuition is affordable or free, admission to these universities can be competitive, ensuring a high standard of education and motivated peer groups.
Affordable Countries in Europe for International Students
Many affordable universities for international students are tucked away in some of Europe’s top countries. These offer a combination of low tuition fees and reasonable living expenses. Here are some countries and universities that host, which consistently rank as top choices for budget-conscious students:
- Germany
Germany is renowned for its tuition-free education at most public universities for undergraduate programmes, even for international students. Institutions like the Free University of Berlin and the University of Göttingen charge only minimal administrative fees (around €300 per semester), allowing students to focus on their studies without financial strain.
Cities like Berlin and Göttingen offer a balanced cost of living, roughly €700 per month, making Germany one of the most accessible study destinations in Europe. Many programmes are offered in English, especially at the graduate level, attracting a diverse student body.
- Austria
The University of Vienna, Austria’s oldest and largest university, offers a broad range of programmes with low tuition fees for non-EU students, typically between €726 and €1,453 per semester. While tuition is free for EU/EEA students, international students benefit from high-quality education in a city consistently ranked among the world’s most livable. The university provides nearly 200 programmes, many taught in English, across the humanities, sciences, and social sciences.
- France
France is home to some of Europe’s cheapest universities, such as the University of Paris-Sud, which charges only a small processing fee of around €170 per semester. This university offers English-taught programmes in sciences, languages, physics, and economics. Although living costs in Paris are higher than in many other European cities, the extremely low tuition fees make studying in the French capital an attainable dream for many international students.
- Italy
Italy combines a rich cultural heritage with affordable education. Though admission is highly competitive, elite institutions like the Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa offer tuition-free education to admitted students. Other universities have relatively low tuition fees, making Italy an attractive destination for students interested in humanities, sciences, and arts. Cities like Pisa and Florence provide a vibrant student life amidst historic surroundings.
- Poland
Poland is emerging as a popular choice for affordable education. Universities like the Jagiellonian University and the University of Warsaw offer competitive tuition fees (around €2,000 to €4,000 per year) and a wide variety of English-taught programmes. The country boasts a lower cost of living compared to Western Europe, vibrant student communities, and growing international recognition for academic quality.
Top 10 Cheapest Universities in Europe
Below is a table featuring some of the cheapest universities in Europe, their locations, and approximate annual tuition fees for international students. These institutions are recognised for their affordability and academic standards.
| University | Country | Tuition Fees (per year) |
| Free University of Berlin | Germany | €0 |
| University of Vienna | Austria | €730 |
| University of Paris-Sud | France | €170 |
| Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa | Italy | €0 |
| University of Göttingen | Germany | €300 |
| University of Athens | Greece | €400 |
| Vilnius University | Lithuania | €1,000 |
| University of Porto | Portugal | €1,500 |
| Jagiellonian University | Poland | €2,000 |
| Eötvös Loránd University | Hungary | €1,800 |
Also read: List Of Affordable Universities In New Zealand For International Students
Scuola Normale Superiore
Location: Pisa & Florence, Italy
Tuition Cost: Free
Popular Subjects: Humanities, Sciences, Political Science
Scuola Normale Superiore (SNS) is one of Italy’s most elite and historic institutions. It’s renowned for its rigorous selection process and academic excellence, especially in the humanities, sciences, and political science. SNS is committed to making education accessible: all students receive a full scholarship that covers tuition, accommodation, and even meals.
| Why Choose SNS? | Details |
| Completely Tuition-Free | SNS offers full tuition waivers for all admitted students, including international students, ensuring education is accessible without financial burden. |
| Living Costs Covered | Students receive free housing and meals, with accommodations provided in Pisa and Florence, two of Italy’s most beautiful cities. |
| Small Class Sizes & Close Mentorship | The school fosters a personalised learning environment with small classes and close mentorship from leading academics, supporting individual growth and research. |
| Research-Intensive Environment | SNS encourages early involvement in research, providing access to labs, projects, and collaborations with national and international research centers. |
| Prime Locations: Pisa and Florence | Students enjoy vibrant cultural experiences and rich historical settings in these iconic Italian cities, enhancing both academic and personal life. |
Free University of Berlin
Location: Berlin, Germany
Tuition Cost: Free (semester fee ~€300)
Popular Subjects: Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences
The Free University of Berlin is a top-ranked research university and a beacon for affordable education in Europe. Most undergraduate and many graduate programmes have no tuition fees, only a small semester fee that covers public transportation and student services. The university is internationally recognised for its programmes in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
| Why Choose FU Berlin? | Details |
| No Tuition Fees for Most Programmes | Like most German public universities, FU Berlin does not charge tuition fees for most courses, making it highly affordable for international students, though semester fees and living expenses apply. |
| Located in Berlin: Germany’s Vibrant Capital | Situated in Germany’s multicultural and dynamic capital city, FU Berlin offers students rich cultural experiences and numerous professional opportunities. |
| Strong International Network and Exchange Programmes | FU Berlin boasts a wide global network, facilitating student exchanges and collaborations with top universities worldwide. |
| Excellent Research Facilities and Libraries | The university is renowned for its research-driven courses and provides access to state-of-the-art labs and extensive library resources. |
| Active Student Life | Students can engage in a variety of clubs, societies, and events, fostering a vibrant campus community despite being in a large urban setting. |
University of Vienna
Location: Vienna, Austria
Tuition Cost: ~€1,460/year (non-EU/EEA)
Popular Subjects: Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences
Founded in 1365, the University of Vienna is one of Europe’s oldest and most respected universities. It offers a huge range of programmes, many of which are available in English. Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students are very low compared to Western European standards.
| Why Choose the University of Vienna? | Details |
| Low Tuition Fees for Non-EU/EEA Students | Tuition is approximately €1,460 per year (around INR 1.4 lakh), making it affordable compared to many other European universities. Additional costs include accommodation and living expenses. |
| Rich Academic Tradition and Modern Research | The university combines a long-standing academic heritage with cutting-edge research opportunities across diverse fields. |
| Located in Vienna: One of the World’s Most Livable Cities | Vienna consistently ranks among the top cities globally for quality of life, offering a safe, vibrant, and culturally rich environment for students. |
| Diverse Student Body | Hosting students from over 140 countries, the university fosters an international and inclusive campus community. |
| Strong Humanities and Social Sciences Faculties | The University of Vienna is renowned for its excellence in humanities and social sciences, providing robust programmes and research opportunities in these areas. |
University of Paris-Sud (now part of University of Paris-Saclay)
Location: Paris, France
Tuition Cost: ~€170/year
Popular Subjects: Science, Engineering, Mathematics
Known for its excellence in science and engineering, Paris-Sud is now part of the University of Paris-Saclay, a leading research cluster in Europe. Tuition fees are among the lowest in the region, especially for undergraduate and master’s programmes.
| Why Choose Paris-Saclay University? | Details |
| Extremely Low Tuition Fees | Tuition starts as low as €170 per year for many undergraduate programmes, making it highly affordable for international students compared to other top universities. |
| Cutting-Edge Research | The university excels in physics, mathematics, life sciences, and engineering, offering students early access to advanced labs and research projects. |
| Strong Industry Connections and Internship Opportunities | Paris-Saclay maintains close ties with leading companies and research institutions, providing valuable internships and career pathways for students. |
| Access to Paris: A Global Hub | Located near Paris, students benefit from the city’s rich cultural scene, business environment, and academic collaborations, enhancing both study and lifestyle experiences. |
University of Göttingen
Location: Göttingen, Germany
Tuition Cost: Free (semester fee ~€350)
Popular Subjects: Life Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences
A member of the prestigious German U15 group, the University of Göttingen is known for its research output and academic excellence. Tuition is free for most programmes, with only a nominal semester fee.
| Why Choose University of Göttingen? | Details |
| No Tuition Fees for Most Courses | The university charges no tuition fees for most programmes, requiring only a semester fee of around €400, making it highly affordable for international students. |
| Historic University Town | Göttingen is a lively, student-friendly town with affordable living costs and a rich academic atmosphere rooted in centuries of tradition. |
| Strong in Life Sciences, Humanities & Social Sciences | The university is renowned for excellence in these fields, offering diverse programmes and research opportunities. |
| Excellent Research Facilities and Libraries | Students benefit from state-of-the-art labs, extensive library resources, and a vibrant research community. |
| International Student Support and Integration | Göttingen provides dedicated support services and integration programmes to help international students adapt academically and socially. |
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Location: Athens, Greece
Tuition Cost: ~€400/year
Popular Subjects: Humanities, Sciences, Law, Health Sciences
As Greece’s oldest university, NKUA offers a wide range of affordable programmes and a unique opportunity to study in the cradle of Western civilisation. Tuition fees for non-EU students are among the lowest in Europe.
| Why Choose Athens? | Details |
| Low Tuition Fees | Tuition for non-EU students is relatively low, around €400 per year at some public universities, making Athens an affordable study destination compared to many Western European cities. |
| Rich Cultural and Historical Environment | Athens offers a vibrant cultural scene with deep historical roots, providing students unique opportunities to explore art, history, and Mediterranean lifestyles. |
| Diverse Academic Programmes | Universities in Athens offer strong programmes in humanities, sciences, law, and health sciences, catering to a wide range of academic interests. |
| Affordable Living Costs | Compared to many European capitals, Athens has a lower cost of living, including housing, food, and transport, which helps students manage expenses effectively. |
| Active Student Societies and Cultural Events | Students can engage in numerous clubs, societies, and cultural events, fostering a lively campus life and social integration. |
Vilnius University
Location: Vilnius, Lithuania
Tuition Cost: From €1,000/year
Popular Subjects: Social Sciences, Business, IT, Life Sciences
Vilnius University is the oldest and most prestigious university in Lithuania. It offers a variety of affordable English-taught programmes and a supportive international community.
| Why Choose Vilnius University? | Details |
| Low Tuition Fees | Tuition starts at approximately €1,000 per year, making it an affordable option compared to many European universities. The cost varies depending on the programme and level of study. |
| Modern Campus in a Beautiful, Historic City | Vilnius combines modern facilities with rich historical surroundings, providing a vibrant and inspiring environment for students. |
| Active International Student Life | The university hosts numerous clubs, societies, and events that foster a welcoming and engaging community for students from around the world. |
| Strong Programmes in Social Sciences, IT, and Business | Vilnius University is recognised for its quality education and research in these fields, offering diverse specialisations and career opportunities. |
| Affordable Cost of Living | Vilnius is known for its relatively low living costs, including accommodation, food, and transport, helping students manage their budgets effectively. |
University of Porto
Location: Porto, Portugal
Tuition Cost: From €1,500/year
Popular Subjects: Engineering, Architecture, Health Sciences
The University of Porto is Portugal’s top-ranked university, known for its research, innovation, and affordable tuition. It’s a popular choice among international students seeking a high-quality education in a lively coastal city.
| Why Choose the University of Porto? | Details |
| Affordable Tuition Fees | Tuition starts from approximately €1,500 per year for many programmes, making it a cost-effective option for international students compared to other Western European universities. |
| Strong Research Output | The university is well-regarded for its research in engineering, architecture, and health sciences, offering students access to innovative projects and facilities. |
| Vibrant Student Community and Campus Life | Porto boasts an active student body with numerous clubs, societies, and events that enrich campus life and foster social engagement. |
| Beautiful City with Rich Culture and Mild Climate | Located in a historic and picturesque city, students enjoy a rich cultural scene, pleasant weather, and a welcoming atmosphere. |
| Opportunities for Internships and Industry Connections | The university maintains strong ties with local and international industries, providing valuable internship opportunities and career pathways for students. |
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Jagiellonian University
Location: Kraków, Poland
Tuition Cost: From €2,000/year
Popular Subjects: Medicine, Law, Humanities, Social Sciences
Located in Kraków, Jagiellonian University is Poland’s oldest and most prestigious institution. It’s known for its academic excellence, tradition, and affordable tuition.
| Why Choose Jagiellonian University? | Details |
| Low Tuition Fees | Tuition starts from around €2,000 per year for many programmes, offering an affordable European education option for international students, with some variation depending on the course and level of study. |
| Historic Campus in a UNESCO World Heritage City | Located in Kraków, a city recognised for its rich history and cultural heritage, providing an inspiring environment for academic and personal growth. |
| Wide Range of English-Taught Programmes | The university offers numerous programmes in English across various disciplines, making it accessible to international students worldwide. |
| Strong in Medicine, Law, and Humanities | Jagiellonian University is renowned for its excellence in medicine, law, humanities, and social sciences, with well-established faculties and research opportunities. |
| Supportive International Student Office | Dedicated services assist international students with admissions, integration, and academic support, helping them adapt smoothly to university life. |
Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE)
Location: Budapest, Hungary
Tuition Cost: From €1,800/year
Popular Subjects: Natural Sciences, Humanities, Education, Psychology
ELTE is Hungary’s most respected university, offering a wide range of affordable programmes in English. It’s primarily known for its strengths in natural sciences and humanities.
| Why Choose Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE)? | Details |
| Low Tuition Fees | Tuition fees generally range from approximately €1,800 to €4,900 per year depending on the programme, making ELTE an affordable option compared to many Western European universities. |
| Located in Budapest: A Beautiful and Affordable Capital | Budapest offers stunning architecture, rich history, and a vibrant cultural scene, all at a relatively low cost of living compared to other European capitals. |
| Strong Research and Academic Reputation | ELTE is one of Hungary’s top universities, known for its rigorous academic programmes and active research across various disciplines including natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences. |
| Wide Selection of English-Taught Courses | The university offers numerous programmes in English, attracting a diverse international student body and facilitating global academic exchange. |
| Active Student Life and Cultural Activities | Students enjoy a lively campus atmosphere with many clubs, societies, and cultural events that enrich their university experience. |
Europe offers a wealth of options for students seeking the cheapest universities in Europe. By carefully researching affordable universities in Europe for international students, considering both tuition and living costs, and applying for scholarships, you can enjoy a world-class education without overwhelming expenses. Whether you choose a historic institution in Germany, a vibrant campus in Poland, or a tuition-free university in Italy, you will find that cheap colleges in Europe provide excellent value and unforgettable experiences.
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FAQs
Q. What are the cheapest universities in Europe for international students?
Ans: The cheapest universities in Europe for international students include tuition-free or low-fee institutions such as Scuola Normale Superiore and Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies in Pisa, Italy; Free University of Berlin and University of Göttingen in Germany; University of Paris-Sud in France; University of Vienna in Austria; and University of Athens in Greece.
Q. Is it possible for non-EU students to study in Europe without paying tuition fees?
Ans: Yes, non-EU students can study for free in countries like Germany and Norway, where public universities do not charge tuition fees for international students.
Q. Which European country offers the most affordable living expenses for students?
Ans: Slovenia stands out as the European country with the lowest cost of living for students, averaging €400–€700 per month, 30–50% cheaper than France or Germany. Other budget-friendly options include Poland, Hungary, and Lithuania, where living costs are also notably low for international students.
Q. What are some of the most budget-friendly universities in Europe that offer online courses?
Ans: Some of the budget-friendly online universities in Europe include the Free University of Berlin, which offers several free or low-cost online programmes, and Stockholm University, where online tuition ranges from €0 to €13,000 per year.
Q. Which are the best universities in Europe for international students?
Ans: The best universities in Europe for international students include the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and ETH Zurich, all renowned for academic excellence and global reputation.
Also read: 1 Year Courses In The UK For International Students
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