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, 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, 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, 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, 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

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, 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 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, 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 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 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

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, 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.