Top 10 Countries to Study in Europe

This isn’t just any time of the year—it’s that crucial phase when you’re expected to make life-changing decisions about your future. Feeling overwhelmed is natural, especially when you’re unsure about which path to take. That’s where career counselling steps in—to help you identify the career options that best match your strengths and interests. And when it comes to pursuing higher education abroad, study abroad consultants can make the entire process smoother and less stressful.

If you’ve been exploring your options and are now searching for the most Affordable Countries to Study in Europe, you’re in the right place. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the top 10 budget-friendly European countries where international students can receive a quality education without stretching their finances.

Top Countries to Study in Europe

It is a common belief in people that studying abroad is an expensive experience. While some western and European nations are out of budget for a middle-class family. There are still many affordable countries in Europe that you can go to study abroad. Here is the list of top 10 Cheapest Countries to study in Europe.

Germany

There is no denying and second thoughts when it comes to Study in Germany. This is one of the best nations for international students when the discussion is about studying abroad. Whether you are looking for cheap or affordable tuition fees or English-taught programmes. Or if you are looking for a country that can give you an escape to European nations, then Germany is the best option for you.

With zero to low tuition fees at public universities and an average cost of living between €850 and €1,200 per month (depending on the city), Germany offers tremendous value to international students. The country is known for its practical, industry-led education—particularly in fields like engineering, business, and computer science—where students learn through real-life case studies and hands-on experience. Moreover, international students are allowed to work part-time during their studies and can stay in Germany for up to 18 months after graduation to seek employment.

Malta

Not many people have heard of it, but Malta (another nation of European Union) is also newly emerging destination for students who wants to study abroad. Malta offers similar benefits as Germany. From affordable education to English-taught programs, there are many similarities. However, one thing that makes Malta the new attraction is its affordable living options.

Malta offers several benefits to international students, including the opportunity to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week. In addition, students are eligible for a 12-month post-study work permit. Those who perform well professionally may even have the chance to apply for permanent residency in Malta. Popular courses among international students include engineering, business, medicine, and information technology.

Poland

Poland is another European nation offering excellent benefits to international students, including access to affordable education. While tuition fees typically range from €2,000 to €6,000 per year for most programmes, the cost of living is relatively low—around €500 to €800 per month. To further ease the financial burden, a variety of scholarships are also available to international students.

Poland places strong emphasis on practical education, with many courses led by industry professionals who teach through real-life case studies and hands-on experience. Students are also permitted to work part-time during their studies, and gaining relevant work experience can significantly enhance their chances of securing a job in Poland after graduation. Popular courses among international students include engineering, medicine, business, and information technology.

Hungary

With the stunning city of Budapest and its peaceful landscapes, Hungary has emerged as a popular study destination for international students looking to study in Europe. In addition to mainstream programmes, Hungary also offers a range of unconventional courses—so whether you’re interested in engineering or medicine, or wish to pursue arts and design, the country has something for everyone.

Tuition fees for bachelor’s and master’s degrees typically range from €1,200 to €6,000 per year, depending on the course. One of the key advantages of Studying in Hungary is the affordable cost of living, which averages between €350 and €500 per month. To help manage your expenses, international students are allowed to take up part-time jobs. Furthermore, students can enjoy various discounts on public transport, making life in Hungary even more budget-friendly.

France

Imagine sitting at a roadside café in Paris, sipping coffee, enjoying a croissant, and sketching in your notebook—all while pursuing your dream education. When it comes to the Best Countries to Study in Europe, France easily makes the list. From creative courses to affordable education, France has it all. Whether you’re studying fashion or culinary arts, the country not only offers world-renowned institutions but also excellent work opportunities for international students.

France is known for supporting unconventional career paths at highly affordable tuition rates. Undergraduate programmes at public universities start at just €2,770 per year, while master’s degrees cost around €3,770 per year. Living expenses typically range from €800 to €1,200 per month, depending on the city. If you’re ready to begin your academic journey in France, simply get in touch with our Study in Europe consultants to help you plan your path with ease.

Netherlands

This beautiful Dutch nation is more than just canals, tulips, and windmills. From offering extensive access to student support to providing various scholarships, it has made Study in Netherlands affordable for international students. While the EU students can study in Netherlands at €2,314/year, the cost for non-EU students ranges from €6,000–€20,000/year. Just like every other European nation in the list of cheapest countries to study in Europe, the cost of living in Netherlands is also the same €800–€1,200 per month, depending on the location.

Furthermore, Netherlands also provide students the opportunity to work in part-time and volunteer work for up to 16-hours per week. The relevant experience in the field of their study also helps in getting a job after graduation.

Italy

Italy is more than just pizzas, pastas, and a beautiful escape from normal life. If you want to work in the fashion industry, then what’s better than working in the fashion capital itself. Cities like Milan and Rome not only offer a vibrant student life but a great opportunity for networking as well. The tuition fees for public universities range €1,000–€4,000/year, which makes it a cheaper option with wonderful escape.

Talking about the cost of living, it is somewhere between €700–€1,200 per month, varying by city. To make the study in Italy experience even more affordable for international students there are various university and government offered scholarships as well. All you need is study in Europe consultants to help you plan your education journey in Italy.

Ireland

Coming in the UK, not many people believe that Ireland can be an affordable academic escape. But it is! From accessing government support scheme for scholarships and other financial aid to gaining the best practical knowledge at affordable cost, Ireland is a great study abroad destination for international students. The cost of bachelor’s and master’s degree ranges from €9,000–€35,000/year, depending on the degree and courses. The cost of study might be a little higher than other European nations but with scholarships, you can easily make it happen.

A couple more reasons to opt to Study in Ireland include part-time work option for 20-hours per week and post-study work visa for up to 2 years. So, if you are looking for a degree in engineering, computer science, and business from an affordable and well-recognised country, then Ireland is your option.

Scotland

Ireland’s neighbouring nation is not too way away in the list of best countries to study in Europe. No, we aren’t talking about the UK (because it is a little out of budget for many), but Scotland. Scotland provides free tuition fee to Scottish and EU students. However, the non-EU students have to pay £10,000–£30,000/year depending on course and university for their higher studies abroad.

Some of the popular degrees that international students prefer to opt to Study in Scotland include History, Literature, Philosophy, Computer Science, Medicine, and Law. Students who find Scottish education a little out-of-hand expensive can access SAAS bursaries, loans, and grants to fund their education. Along with world-class research institutes, by deciding to study in Scotland students can even grab the chance of 2 years post-study visa.

Spain

Hola, amigos! If you are planning to study in Europe and have a knack for Spanish language and literature, then what’s better than the original land itself? The cost of Study in Spain ranges between €1,000–€3,500/year for public universities; while the price for private institutions is around €6,000–€20,000/year. Talking about the cost of living, it is the same as every other EU nation, €800–€1,200 per month, varying on location.

However, to make the study in Spain an affordable adventure for international students, there are various scholarships available. Besides working part-time for 20 hours a week, international students can also get advantage of post-study work opportunities under the EU Blue Card scheme. With an EU Blue Card, you can go to any EU nation and opt to work there in any organisation of your liking.

The Process to go Study Abroad

As these were some of the most affordable countries to study in Europe. Now, in a quick glance, let’s understand how you can go to study in Europe.

Top Universities to Study in Europe

Note: All prices mentioned are approximate values. Students should check official government websites or the respective university websites for exact figures.

MetaApply IE- Your Personal Counsellor for Study Abroad Adventure

In this blog, we have shared the cheapest countries to study in Europe for international students. Breaking the myth that international education is an expensive adventure, we have ensured you know about your affordable options to study in Europe. The journey to abroad education consists of various steps. From selecting courses and universities to applying for student visa, arranging finances, accommodation, and flight tickets.

Messing up with one of the steps may shatter your dream to study abroad. Hence, to help you get the best personalised assistance, we are here to help. At MetaApply IE, we understand the ambition on studying abroad and how crucial it is to do everything correctly. Our counsellors personally guide you with what’s best for you and how you should accomplish your dream to study in Europe.

So, if you are ready to get started, then connect with us today!