• Study Abroad /
  • blog /
  • Top 12 Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students in 2025: Tuition Fees, Cost of Living, Scholarships

Top 12 Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students in 2025: Tuition Fees, Cost of Living, Scholarships

Vikram.webp
Vikram

Author

13-03-2025

Top 12 Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students in 2025: Tuition Fees, Cost of Living, Scholarships

International students looking for the cheapest countries to study abroad will find that places like norway, germany, france, taiwan, and mexico are the most affordable learning destinations. Let’s explore the top budget-friendly countries for Indian students, with the lowest tuition fees and reasonable living costs. These countries are renowned to provide the best education at moderate prices, and they also support international students with scholarships and financial aid. Several universities and cities from these countries have earned rankings in the QS World Universities Ranking 2025 and QS Best Student Cities 2025 respectively. 

Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad: An Overview of Tuition Fees & Cost of Living 

Tuition fees and cost of living are the two major expenses for international students that determine their budget. We have picked the most affordable study destinations where the tuition fees and cost of living are cheaper compared to other countries. Some of these countries are known for providing free tuition through their public universities, making them an ideal choice for Indian students to pursue their higher studies.

Here are the average tuition fees in the top 12 cheapest countries for Indian students:

Country Average Tuition Fees (per year) Average Cost of Living (Per month)
Norway INR 9.8 lakh INR 90,000
Germany INR 18.2 lakh INR 80,000
France  INR 15 lakh INR 80,000
Taiwan  INR 12.4 lakh INR 60,000
Mexico INR 5.2 lakh INR 65,000
Poland INR 2.7 lakh INR 45,000
Malaysia INR 3.3 lakh INR 30,000
Canada INR 16 lakh INR 50,000
Argentina INR 4.2 lakh INR 30,000
Denmark INR 14.5 lakh INR 70,000
South Africa INR 3.3 lakh INR 60,000
Ireland INR 12.1 lakh INR 50,000

Note: These figures are approximate, and they vary depending on the institution, program, and location.

Top 12 Most Affordable Countries to Study Abroad

 Choosing an affordable country to study abroad is highly recommended for Indian students since it provides high quality education at a reasonable cost. Whether in Europe, Asia, Africa, or North America, students can find cheap study abroad destinations in all major regions. Let’s take a look at the cheapest countries to study abroad along with their top universities, tuition fees, cost of living, and much more.

1. Norway

Norway

Norway, often referred to as the 'land of fjords' and located in Northern Europe, stands out as one of the most affordable places to study abroad due to its low to non-existent tuition fees. This Nordic country is well known for providing free education through public universities to students from both within and outside the EU. Except for some specialised programs, most courses offered at public universities are free of cost for all students. Top universities in Norway such as the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and University of Oslo offer popular programs like Biotechnology, Digital Media & Computer Science. Norwegian universities provide English-taught courses at all levels, and a significant number of people in Norway speak English. The cost of living per year is about NOK 139,600 (INR 12,32,800 or USD 13,734). Students can apply for scholarships if they are eligible and reduce their tuition costs by doing so.

Top Universities in Norway
University QS World Rankings 2025
University of Oslo 119
Norwegian University of Science And Technology 264
University of Bergen  291
University of Tromsø The Arctic University of Norway 621-630
Norwegian University of Life Sciences 691-700
University of Stavanger 801-850

2. Germany

Germany

Germany, often hailed as the ‘land of ideas’ is one of the best places in Central Europe for students to study abroad due to the numerous scholarships it offers. Free of cost undergraduate courses are available for both domestic and international students. For masters level and PhD programmes, students have to pay an average fee of €20,000 (INR 18,20,080 or USD 22,080) per year. German universities like Technical University of Munich and University of Hamburg are world-renowned, research-intensive, and have a high employability rate. There are a variety of English-taught courses for international students. Students need to spend an average of €10,200 (INR 9,27,880 or USD 11,260) per annum on living costs. Berlin, the capital city and Munich are ranked in the QS Best Student cities 2025. The country provides several scholarships and financial aid for eligible international students.

Top Universities in Germany
University QS World Rankings 2025
Technical University of Munich 28
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München 59
Universität Heidelberg 84
Freie Universitaet Berlin 97
RWTH Aachen University 99
KIT, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology 102
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin 126
Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin) 147
Albert-Ludwigs-Universitaet Freiburg 191
Universität Hamburg 212

3. France

France

France, the global hub for fashion and luxury, is also one of the most affordable countries for higher education in Western Europe. Students get to study in well reputed universities located in gorgeous cities for a reasonable price. Tuition fees are the same for both domestic and international students. For bachelor courses, it costs around INR 2,50,000 to INR 8,50,000, and for masters programs, it costs around INR 9,00,000 to 15,00,000 per annum. In-demand programs like Arts and Engineering are offered by top universities such as University of Paris  and University of Strasbourg. There are over 1,500 courses taught in English, mostly belonging to the postgraduate level. Cost of living ranges from INR 50,000 to INR 80,000 per month. Paris is consistently ranked among the top 10 Best student cities in the world. Students can avail scholarships awarded by universities and the government. Moreover, students with modest lifestyles and low spending habits save some money.

Top Universities in France
University QS World Rankings 2025
Université PSL 24
Institut Polytechnique de Paris 46
Sorbonne University 63
Université Paris-Saclay 73
École Normale Supérieure de Lyon 187
Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne 283
Université Paris Cité 302
Université Grenoble Alpes 334

4. Taiwan

Taiwan

Taiwan, often referred to as the ‘heart of Asia’, is one of the least expensive countries for Indian students to pursue their studies due to its low tuition fees. The tuition costs in the country range from $800 to $15,000 (INR 66,540 to INR 12,47,640) in a year. With over 40 recognised universities like National Taiwan University and National Tsinghua University, Taiwan offers popular UG, PG, and doctoral courses in Information Technology, Engineering and Computer Science. Students can learn Mandarin over the course of their study. Taiwan universities provide over 120 English-taught courses. Living costs including food and accommodation costs around TW$24,500 (INR 62,600) per month. Scholarships are available to international students who meet the eligibility criteria.

Top Universities in Taiwan
University QS World Rankings 2025
National Taiwan University (NTU) 68
National Tsing Hua University (NTHU) 210
National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) 215
National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) 219
National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (Taiwan Tech) 392
National Taipei University of Technology 431
National Taiwan Normal University 431
National Sun Yat-sen University 505
National Chengchi University 567
Taipei Medical University (TMU) 577

5. Mexico

Mexico

The culturally rich and diverse nation of Mexico, located in the Latin America region, is one of the cheapest places to study abroad with a low college fees. On an average, it costs around $6,300 (INR 5,23,840) per year to study in Mexico. Mexican universities like Instituto Politécnico Nacional and Universidad De Guadalajara offer notable degree courses in International business, law, and engineering. Even though the primary language of instruction is Spanish, the country has increased the number of English-taught programs. Students need between $6,450 and $9000 (INR 5,36,000 to INR 7,48,000) per year to cover their living expenses. As per the bilateral Academic Exchange Programme (AEP), Mexico will provide six scholarship slots for Indian students pursuing their postgraduate studies.

Top Universities in Mexico
University QS World Rankings 2025
Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) 94
Tecnológico de Monterrey 185
Universidad Panamericana (UP) 691-700
Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México (ITAM) 751-760
El Colegio de México, A.C. 771-780
Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN) 801-850
Universidad Iberoamericana Ciudad de México (IBERO) 801-850
Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM) 901-950
Universidad Anáhuac México 771-780
Universidad de Guadalajara (UDG) 951-1000

6. Poland

Poland

Poland, the ‘land of castles’, is a dream learning destination in Central Europe for students looking to study abroad at an affordable budget. The annual tuition fees for undergraduate programmes cost around EUR 2000 (INR 1,82,300 or USD 2209), while for postgraduate programmes, it costs around EUR 3000 (INR 2,73,500 or USD 3314). Polish is the predominantly used language in schools. But, notable English-taught courses are offered in areas such as Engineering, IT & Biotechnology at top universities like Warsaw University of Technology and AGH University of Science and Technology. The cost of living in Poland for international students averages around EUR 6,000 per year. Scholarships are awarded to eligible students by both the government and universities.

Top Universities in Poland
University QS World Rankings 2025
University of Warsaw 258
Jagiellonian University 312
Warsaw University of Technology 527
Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań 761-770
Gdańsk University of Technology 801-850
AGH University of Krakow 851-900
Poznan University of Life Sciences 801-850
University of Gdańsk 851-900
University of Wroclaw 851-900

7. Malaysia

Malaysia

Malaysia is a top learning destination in Asia, known for its academic excellence and affordability besides its rich culture and stunning architecture. The country has a moderate tuition fee of $4000 (INR 3,32,000) per academic year. Top Malaysian universities such as University of Malaya, University Putra Malaysia, and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia provide popular courses in Business Management, Mass communication, etc. Universities in Malaysia provide numerous english-taught courses for international students. Students may need to spend an average of MYR 14,400 (INR 2,57,000 or USD 3108) per year on their living expenses. Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia is ranked among the top 30 Best Student cities for its affordable education and cheaper cost of living. Scholarships are awarded to students by universities as well as private and government agencies.

Top Universities in Malaysia
University QS World Rankings 2025
Universiti Malaya (UM) 60
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) 138
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) 146
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) 148
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia 181
Taylor's University 251
UCSI University 265
Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) 269
INTI International University 516
Sunway University 539
Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) 554
Management and Science University 580

8. Canada

Canada

Canada, the ‘land of maple’, is one of the leading study abroad destinations for students all over the world because of its comprehensive scholarship programs. Canada has top ranked universities that provide globally recognised degrees at affordable prices. Tuition fees in Canada can range from INR 6,50,000 to 16,00,000 for UG courses and INR 10,00,000 to 30,00,000 for PG courses. Several well-renowned universities like University of Toronto and McGill University provide popular courses such as Business Administration, Natural Science and Nursing. English is the predominant language in Canada, making it convenient for international students to live and learn in the country. Cost of living in Canada is around INR 50,000 per month. Students can avail scholarships awarded by universities and the government to reduce their tuition expenses.

Top Universities in Canada
University QS World Rankings 2025
University of Toronto 25
McGill University 29
University of British Columbia 38
University of Alberta 96
University of Waterloo 115
Western University 120
Université de Montréal 159
McMaster University 176
University of Ottawa 189
Queen's University at Kingston 193
University of Calgary 198

9. Argentina

Argentina

Argentina is an incredible place in South America with stunning natural attractions and excellent yet affordable educational opportunities. Public universities in Argentina provide free-of-cost courses to all students, while the private universities charge an average tuition fee of $5,100 (INR 4,24,000) per year. Notable universities like University of Buenos Aires and National University of Cordoba provide degree programs in fields such as Sociology, Healthcare, etc. English-taught courses are offered by several universities in Argentina. Students need around $5000 (INR 4,15,000) per year for their living expenses with rent costing around $350 (INR 29,100) per month. Universities in Argentina offer scholarships for eligible students to cover their full or partial tuition fees.

Top Universities in Argentina
University QS World Rankings 2025
Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA) 71
Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina 481
Universidad Austral 524
Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP) 534
Universidad de Palermo (UP) 621-630
Universidad de Belgrano 781-790
Universidad Nacional de Córdoba - UNC 901-950
Instituto Tecnológico de Buenos Aires (ITBA) 951-1000

10. Denmark

Denmark

Denmark is a preferred learning destination in Northern Europe with affordable education, safe environment, and excellent healthcare system. This Scandinavian country offers popular degree programs for an average tuition fee of EUR 6,000 to 16,000 (INR 5,47,000 to 14,58,000 or USD 6620 to 17,670)  per year. Top Danish universities like University of Copenhagen and Aarhus University provide courses in fields such as Architecture, Journalism, Law, and Medicine. More than 80 percent of the Danish citizens speak English and over 700 international courses are taught in English. The living cost for students ranges from EUR 800 to EUR 1200 (INR 72,000 to 1,00,000 or USD 79,520 to 110,440) per month. Several universities award scholarships for eligible students.

Top Universities in Denmark
University QS World Rankings 2025
University of Copenhagen 100
Technical University of Denmark 109
Aarhus University 144
Aalborg University 306
University of Southern Denmark (SDU) 324

11. South Africa

South Africa

Beyond its incredible natural landscapes, wildlife, and cultural diversity, South Africa is renowned for offering high-quality education for a cheaper cost. Tuition fees in South Africa costs around $4000 (INR 3,32,000) per year. The country's top universities like University of Cape Town and University of the Western Cape offer several programs including Engineering and Medicine. English is the most preferred language of education in the country. Students need an average of $9150 (INR 7,60,000) per year to manage their living costs. A handful of universities offer fully funded and partly funded scholarships to international students.

Top Universities in South Africa
University QS World Rankings 2025
University of Cape Town 171
University of Witwatersrand 267
Stellenbosch University 296
University of Johannesburg 312
University of Pretoria 354
University of Kwazulu-Natal 587
North-West University 851-900
University of South Africa 851-900
Rhodes University 951-1000

12. Ireland

Ireland

Ireland, well-known for its lush green landscapes, is one of the cheapest countries to study abroad in Western Europe with a low cost of education. Students need to spend an average of INR 6,30,000 to INR 10,08,000 (USD 7560 to 12,096) for bachelors degree programs and INR 12,10,000 to INR 25,00,000 (USD 14,520 to 30,000) for masters degree programs. Popular Irish universities such as Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin are known to offer courses in fields such as Medicine, Hospitality and Tourism, and Arts and Humanities. Ireland is an English speaking country and English is the most commonly used language of instruction. Students need around EUR 7,000 (INR 6.3 Lakh or USD 7730) per year for living expenses. The Ireland government and universities award scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. 

Top Universities in Ireland
University QS World Rankings 2025
Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin 87
University College Dublin 126
University College Cork 273
University of Galway 273
Dublin City University 421
University of Limerick 421
Maynooth University 801-850
Technological University Dublin 851-900

If you're on a budget, starting your study abroad journey by seeking out the best economical places to study abroad is the right approach. Having a smaller budget does not necessarily mean compromising on the quality of education. These countries offer world-class education and high standards of living at reasonable prices. Additionally, students can take advantage of the scholarship opportunities and financial aid provided in these countries to significantly reduce their expenses and plan out their finances accordingly.

FAQs

1. Which is the cheapest country to study abroad for Indian students?

Some of the cheapest countries to study for Indian students are Norway, Germany, Taiwan, Mexico, Poland, and Canada.

2. Which is the cheapest country to study in Europe?

Germany, Norway, France, Poland, and Ireland are some of the cheapest countries to study in Europe.

3. Where can you study abroad for free?

Students can study abroad for free in countries like Norway, Germany, France, Denmark, and Ireland.

4. What are the most affordable cities for students?

Mexico City, Warsaw, Kuala Lumpur, Johannesburg, Munich and Berlin are some of the most affordable cities for students. 

5. Are scholarships available for Indian students studying abroad?

Yes, scholarships are awarded to eligible students by the respective governments, universities, public and private institutions.

About Author Vikram

Vikram is a study abroad expert who specialises in preparing study materials for IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, PTE, SAT, etc. With over five years of experience as a content writer, he is passionate about guiding students in the process of international standardised exams. His informative articles help students gain insights into the study abroad examination process, college requirements, admission procedures, top universities and courses. He spends his leisure time reading books, watching series and anime.

Kanan International is a study abroad consultancy that offers reliable services, products, and solutions for students and education institutions. We support students throughout their study abroad journey, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Our expertise and commitment to excellence make us the go-to partner for expanding global horizons. The company provides coaching for IELTS, GRE, TOEFL, and SAT exams and services like visa consultation, accommodation, scholarship assistance, and education loans.

Planning to start your study abroad journey?

kanan-logo1
kanan-ftr-fbkanan-ftr-igkanan-ftr-linkedinkanan-ftr-twitterkanan-ftr-youtube
kanan-ftr-phone1

+91 73555 73555

DMCA.com Protection Status
Mobile app
Mobile app

Global Headquarters

Kanan Int EdTech Inc

320 Bay Street, Suite 321 (Spaces), Toronto ON, Canada M5B 1N9

Indian Headquarters

Kanan International Pvt. Ltd.

D-wing, 2nd Floor, Trident Complex, Ellora Park Vadiwadi Road, Vadodara, Gujarat 390007

IT/ Digital Campus

Kanan International Pvt. Ltd

Old, New No 3, 2nd Floor, 1A, Dr Sadasivam Rd, T. Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600017

Our branches

  • Ahmedabad
  • Ambala
  • Bardoli
  • Bangalore
  • Bharuch
  • Chennai
  • Delhi
  • Dehradun
  • Gurugram
  • Himatnagar
  • Karnal
  • Khanna
  • Mehsana
  • Nagpur
  • Nadiad
  • Nikol
  • Navsari
  • Palanpur
  • Patiala
  • Rajkot
  • Surat
  • Thrissur
  • Vadodara
  • Valsad
  • Vallabh Vidyanagar
  • Vapi
  • Yamunanagar

Copyright © 2025 KANAN.CO All rights reserved.