Studying abroad is a dream for many students, offering the chance to gain a world-class education, experience new cultures, and expand career opportunities. However, the cost of international education can be daunting, especially when factoring in tuition fees, living expenses, and travel. Fortunately, many countries offer affordable education options and generous scholarships, making it possible for students to pursue degrees without accumulating significant debt.
In this article, we explore the cheapest countries to study abroad with scholarships, highlighting nations that combine low tuition costs with excellent scholarship opportunities for international students.
1. Germany
Why Study in Germany?
Germany is one of the top choices for international students seeking high-quality education at a low cost. Most public universities charge no tuition fees for undergraduate and many postgraduate programs, even for international students. Students typically only pay a nominal semester fee.
Scholarships Available:
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DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service): Offers scholarships for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students across all disciplines.
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Deutschlandstipendium: A merit-based scholarship that provides monthly stipends of €300.
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Erasmus+: Offers funding for exchange students studying at European universities, including many in Germany.
Average Living Cost: €800–€1,100/month
Language: Many programs offered in English, especially at the postgraduate level.
2. Norway
Why Study in Norway?
Norway offers free tuition at public universities to both domestic and international students, regardless of nationality. This makes it one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for affordable education. While the cost of living in Norway is relatively high, the absence of tuition fees balances it out.
Scholarships Available:
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Norwegian Quota Scheme (now replaced by other funding options): Previously offered scholarships to students from developing countries.
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Erasmus+ and other EU/EEA funding programs.
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University-specific scholarships such as the BI Presidential Scholarship at BI Norwegian Business School.
Average Living Cost: €1,200–€1,500/month
Language: Many English-taught programs, especially at the master's level.
3. Mexico
Why Study in Mexico?
Mexico is an affordable study destination with a vibrant culture and a growing number of internationally recognized institutions. Tuition fees and living costs are generally low compared to North America and Europe.
Scholarships Available:
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Mexican Government Scholarships (AMEXCID): Offers full scholarships to international students from over 180 countries.
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University-specific aid: Many institutions offer merit and need-based aid to international students.
Average Living Cost: $400–$700/month
Language: While most programs are in Spanish, there are increasing options in English, especially in private universities.
4. India
Why Study in India?
India offers some of the lowest tuition fees and living costs in the world. It’s an excellent destination for students interested in science, technology, business, and humanities.
Scholarships Available:
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Study in India Program: Offers scholarships to international students enrolling in Indian universities.
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Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR): Provides financial support for students from developing countries.
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University-level scholarships such as those from IITs and private institutions.
Average Living Cost: $300–$600/month
Language: Many university programs are taught in English.
5. Poland
Why Study in Poland?
Poland is an emerging destination for international students due to its affordable tuition, vibrant student life, and historical cities. It offers a wide range of English-taught programs, especially at the graduate level.
Scholarships Available:
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Erasmus+ Program: For EU and partner country students.
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NAWA Scholarships (Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange): Supports international students for undergraduate, graduate, and PhD programs.
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University-specific awards such as Warsaw University of Technology scholarships.
Average Living Cost: €400–€700/month
Language: Many programs available in English.
6. Hungary
Why Study in Hungary?
Hungary boasts a long tradition of academic excellence and offers a variety of affordable programs for international students. The cost of living is also relatively low.
Scholarships Available:
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Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship: Covers full tuition, accommodation, medical insurance, and a monthly stipend.
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CEEPUS Scholarships: For students from Central and Eastern Europe.
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University-based scholarships such as those from the University of Debrecen.
Average Living Cost: €400–€600/month
Language: Numerous English-taught degree programs.
7. Taiwan
Why Study in Taiwan?
Taiwan offers a combination of high-quality education, modern infrastructure, and affordable living costs. It is particularly strong in science and technology disciplines.
Scholarships Available:
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Taiwan International Higher Education Scholarship Program (TaiwanICDF): Covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, and insurance.
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Taiwan Ministry of Education Scholarships: For students from select countries.
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University-based scholarships at institutions like NTU and NCKU.
Average Living Cost: $500–$800/month
Language: Many English-taught programs, especially in science and engineering.
8. Malaysia
Why Study in Malaysia?
Malaysia is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Asia. With modern campuses and partnerships with universities from the UK, Australia, and other countries, students receive quality education at low prices.
Scholarships Available:
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Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS): For high-achieving international postgraduate students.
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University-level scholarships at institutions like Universiti Malaya and Taylor’s University.
Average Living Cost: $400–$700/month
Language: English is widely used in higher education.
Tips for Applying to Scholarships in These Countries
1. Start Early
Scholarship deadlines often fall months before academic intake. Begin your search at least a year in advance.
2. Focus on Merit and Fit
Many international scholarships reward academic excellence, community involvement, or leadership. Tailor your applications accordingly.
3. Research University-Specific Aid
Even if national scholarships are limited, many universities offer generous aid packages for international students.
4. Prepare Required Documents
Have your transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and standardized test scores (if needed) ready well in advance.
Conclusion
Studying abroad doesn’t have to be financially overwhelming. By targeting countries that offer low-cost education and generous scholarship opportunities, you can earn a prestigious degree without incurring heavy debt. Countries like Germany, Norway, Hungary, and India prove that quality education is not always expensive—especially when scholarships are part of the equation.
With the right planning and research, students from all backgrounds can turn the dream of studying abroad into an affordable and rewarding reality.