Studying abroad is a transformative experience that provides cultural immersion, academic enrichment, and personal growth. However, the high cost of tuition and living expenses can deter many students from considering international education. Fortunately, there are several countries where students can study affordably — and even receive generous scholarships to offset costs. This guide explores some of the cheapest study abroad destinations with scholarships, making global education more accessible than ever.
1. Germany
Why It’s Affordable:
Germany has earned a reputation as one of the most affordable countries for international students, especially in public universities where tuition fees are either minimal or non-existent for undergraduate programs.
Cost of Living: Approximately $800–$1,200/month, depending on the city.
Top Scholarships:
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DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service): Offers scholarships to international students at all levels of study, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel.
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Deutschlandstipendium: Merit-based funding offered by many German universities and private sponsors.
Notable Universities: University of Heidelberg, Technical University of Munich, Humboldt University of Berlin.
2. Norway
Why It’s Affordable:
Public universities in Norway do not charge tuition fees for international students, including those from non-EU countries. This makes it one of the rare high-quality education destinations with free tuition.
Cost of Living: Higher than average at around $1,200–$1,500/month, but no tuition fees help offset this.
Top Scholarships:
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Quota Scheme (Phasing Out but Replaced by Other Grants): Provided full scholarships for students from developing countries.
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Norwegian Government Scholarships: Offered through partnerships with Norwegian universities.
Notable Universities: University of Oslo, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), University of Bergen.
3. Mexico
Why It’s Affordable:
Mexico offers a vibrant cultural experience and low tuition fees for international students, especially when compared to North America or Europe.
Cost of Living: Around $500–$800/month, depending on the city.
Top Scholarships:
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Mexican Government Scholarships (AMEXCID): For international students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees in Mexico.
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National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM): Offers scholarships and affordable education.
Notable Universities: UNAM, Monterrey Institute of Technology, Universidad de Guadalajara.
4. Taiwan
Why It’s Affordable:
Taiwan provides a mix of high-quality education, affordable living, and a rich cultural environment. Tuition fees are low, and many courses are now offered in English.
Cost of Living: $600–$900/month.
Top Scholarships:
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Taiwan Government Scholarships: Include the Taiwan Scholarship and MOE Huayu Enrichment Scholarship for language learners.
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University-Specific Scholarships: National Taiwan University and others offer generous funding to attract international students.
Notable Universities: National Taiwan University, National Tsing Hua University, National Cheng Kung University.
5. Poland
Why It’s Affordable:
Poland is gaining popularity for its low-cost education and vibrant student life. Tuition fees are significantly lower than in Western Europe, and the cost of living is budget-friendly.
Cost of Living: $500–$800/month.
Top Scholarships:
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Erasmus+ Program: Offers funding for EU and non-EU students studying in Poland.
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Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA): Provides scholarships for international students pursuing full-degree programs.
Notable Universities: University of Warsaw, Jagiellonian University, Warsaw University of Technology.
6. India
Why It’s Affordable:
India offers a rich educational heritage at a fraction of the cost of Western countries. Tuition and living costs are among the lowest globally.
Cost of Living: $300–$600/month.
Top Scholarships:
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ICCR Scholarships: Provided by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations to international students from developing nations.
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University-specific Scholarships: Many top Indian institutions like IITs and Jawaharlal Nehru University offer financial aid to foreign students.
Notable Universities: University of Delhi, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Jawaharlal Nehru University.
7. Malaysia
Why It’s Affordable:
Malaysia is known for its affordable tuition fees and cost of living, making it a popular destination for students from Asia and beyond.
Cost of Living: $400–$700/month.
Top Scholarships:
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Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS): Government-funded and awarded to international students pursuing postgraduate degrees.
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University Scholarships: Institutions such as Universiti Malaya and Taylor’s University offer their own scholarships.
Notable Universities: University of Malaya, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Taylor's University.
8. Czech Republic
Why It’s Affordable:
Students who choose to study in Czech-taught programs at public universities often pay no tuition. Even English-taught courses are highly affordable compared to global standards.
Cost of Living: $500–$800/month.
Top Scholarships:
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Czech Government Scholarships: For students from developing countries pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree.
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ERASMUS+ Program: For EU and partner country students.
Notable Universities: Charles University, Czech Technical University, Masaryk University.
9. Hungary
Why It’s Affordable:
Hungary provides high-quality education, low living costs, and attractive scholarship opportunities, especially for students from developing countries.
Cost of Living: $400–$700/month.
Top Scholarships:
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Stipendium Hungaricum: Fully funded scholarship for students from over 70 countries, covering tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.
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CEEPUS Program: Regional scholarship for students in Central and Eastern Europe.
Notable Universities: Eötvös Loránd University, University of Szeged, Budapest University of Technology and Economics.