You can study in Europe for free or very affordable in some countries, especially at public universities. However, studying usually means paying little or no tuition fees rather than having no costs at all. Students may still need to pay administrative semester fees of EUR 150 to EUR 400 (approximately INR 16,790-44,770) per term, along with living expenses such as accommodation, food, and health insurance.
When comparing affordable study options, students can consider universities such as Technical University of Munich (TUM), KU Leuven, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), Sorbonne University, Heidelberg University, and University of Bologna. Availability of low-cost or tuition-free study depends on the university, program, and student’s eligibility.
This article covers everything you need to know about study abroad in Europe for free, including affordable universities, scholarships, tuition fee waivers, and practical tips to help international students reduce their overall education expenses.
Top Countries to Study in Europe for Free or at Low Cost
Despite having many international education options, Europe is not always as cheap as it seems. Even though several European countries offer public university studies for free, the overall expenses may differ depending on your status, field of study, and university.
If you are looking for the best budget for your studies, consider the following countries in Europe for free education:
Germany
Many of Germany’s public institutions offer a wide range of bachelors and masters programs for free, making it a popular destination for students, who, however, have to pay a small semester price. The most popular fields of study include:
Living costs: Around EUR 900-1,300 (approximately INR 1.01-1.46 lakh) per month, depending on the city and lifestyle.
France
It is another excellent option to study in Europe for free or at a low cost compared to countries such as US or the UK, since public universities charge low fees. Since it might be higher for non-EU students at some universities, you should consider scholarships and exemptions. The most popular fields of study include:
Living costs: Around EUR 800-1,500 (approximately INR 90,000-1.68 lakh) per month, depending largely on the city.
France can be a practical option for Free Study in Europe for Indian students when combined with scholarships, university fee exemptions, and affordable accommodation.
Italy
In Italy, public institutions charge low fees depending on your income and other factors, and international students can apply for regional scholarships. The most popular fields of study include:
Living costs: Around EUR 700-1,200 (approximately INR 78,350-1.34 lakh) per month.
Austria
It is a great option for international students willing to get a high quality education at an affordable price since it has many public universities offering good value for money. The tuition fees depend on your nationality and the institution you choose; thus, it is important to research the specific prices. The most popular fields of study include:
Living costs: Around EUR 900-1,400 (approximately INR 1.01-1.57 lakh) per month.
Norway
Universities in Norway offer free education; however, most international students are now subject to tuition fees depending on their educational background, field of study, and other factors. The most popular fields of study include:
Living costs: Around EUR 1,000-1,600 (approximately INR 1.12-1.72 lakh) per month.
France can be a practical option for Indian students seeking affordable or free study in Europe, especially with scholarships, fee exemptions, and low-cost accommodation.
Finland
This destination offers a good educational experience with many scholarships and opportunities for international students, although non-EU students have to pay the tuition fees for bachelors and masters degrees programs taught in English. The most popular fields of study include:
Living costs: Around EUR 700-1,200 (approximately INR 78,350-1.34 lakh) per month.
Czech Republic
This is a great place to study for those who are looking for an affordable yet high-quality educational experience. Public institutions offer free education to many students, although you have to be able to speak the local language. Most English-taught programs charge low tuition fees. The most popular fields of study include:
Popular Universities to Study in Europe for Free or at Low Cost
Europe offers numerous opportunities for international students who wish to pursue high-quality education at a relatively low cost. Many public universities provide excellent study programs for free; some have low tuition fees, and others offer various types of scholarships for both local and international students.
However, if you want to study in Europe for free, you should compare different international universities according to their tuition fees, scholarships, course content, and accommodation expenses since prices may differ depending on your nationality and course of study.
The following table includes some of the best universities in Europewith their QS Rankings and their estimate tuition fees for international students.
Note: Tuition fees, scholarships, and admission requirements can change each year and vary by program. So, always check the university's latest information before applying.
Popular Scholarships to Study in Europe for Free
Fundings can make study in Europe for free more achievable by reducing or completely covering tuition and other study expenses. However, not every scholarship is fully funded.
Some scholarships cover tuition fees, while others provide a monthly allowance or support expenses such as accommodation, travel, insurance, and living costs.
If you want to study abroad in Europe for free, compare the scholarship eligibility requirements, benefits, duration, and application deadline carefully.
The following are some popular scholarships that students can explore.
Scholarship
Eligibility
Benefits
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters
Bachelors degree and meet program requirements
100% tuition support, EUR 1,400 (approximately INR 1.57 lakh) per month stipend, health insurance, travel and visa support
DAAD EPOS Scholarships
Relevant degree, meet program requirements, and usually 2+ years of professional experience
EUR 992 (approximately INR 1.11 lakh) per month for Master's, EUR 1,400 (approximately INR 1.57 lakh) per month for PhD, health insurance, and travel allowance
Italian Regional Scholarships (DSU/Laziodisco)
Bachelors, Masters or PhD students who meet income-based eligibility
Tuition waiver, free/discounted accommodation and meals, plus financial support of around EUR 6,000 (approximately INR 6.72 lakh) per year
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
Eligible international students applying for selected Masters or PhD program; university nomination required
EUR 1,200 (approximately INR 1.34 lakh) per month for Master's, EUR 2,100 (approximately INR 2.35 lakh) per month for PhD, travel and insurance support
Swedish Institute Global Professionals
Eligible international students admitted to selected Masters program with required work experience and leadership background
Full tuition coverage, around SEK 12,000 (approximately INR 1.12 lakh) per month stipend, travel grant, and insurance
If you are looking for free study in Europe for Indian students, university specific scholarships can help, as some are offered specifically to international students.
How to Study in Europe for Free: Step-by-Step Process
If you are wondering how to study in Europe for free, you need to start your preparations about 9-12 months ahead of the desired intake month. This is because many scholarships have earlier deadlines than the application deadline for the universities.
Moreover, the timelines for different countries, universities, courses, and scholarships differ. The step-by-step guide below has been shared on how to study abroad in Europe for free.
Step 1: Shortlist Countries & Universities
The first step to studying in Europe on scholarship is to compare the countries that offer cheap education, waive tuition fees, or have scholarship programs that fund your studies.
Compare the tuition fees of different countries for international students.
Check whether your nationality is charged lower fees or not.
Compare the total cost of living in different countries and cities.
Look for courses taught in English or local languages.
Review the ranking, course content, and career prospects of the universities of your choice.
Step 2: Check Admission Requirements
Once you have a list of your preferred universities, the next step is to review the admission requirements of your chosen programs.
Check the eligibility criteria for each program.
Look at the minimum grades or CGPA required.
Check whether the program requires you to take any language proficiency tests.
Check if any certifications or recommendation letters are needed.
Check the closing dates for applications.
Step 3: Take up the Required Exams
You can choose between tests such as
IELTS
TOEFL
PTE (if accepted)
German proficiency exams, French proficiency exams, and other tests required in your chosen institution.
Before taking up an English proficiency exam, ask whether the university can accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate. If your previous education was conducted in English, you can present an MOI certificate as proof of your English proficiency and avoid spending around EUR 200 on the IELTS/TOEFL/PTE exam.
Note: The acceptance of the MOI certificate largely depends on the university and the chosen course.
Step 4: Apply to Your Chosen Universities
Apply to your preferred universities by submitting the online form and required documents which may include
Also, you may need to pay some application fees depending on the university.
For instance, applying to Universities in Germany through Uni-Assist costs EUR 75 for the first university and EUR 30 for each following application in the same semester. On the other hand, applying via the Italian Universitaly portal is free but some universities charge around EUR 20-EUR 50 for evaluation or application fees.
Step 5: Apply for Scholarships
Once your university application is submitted, start looking for and applying for scholarships.
Remember that scholarships often have earlier deadlines than university applications. For instance, Erasmus Mundus applications are usually due in May or June each year.
Look for scholarships on the following platforms:
Erasmus Mundus
Government-sponsored scholarships
University-specific funds
Country-specific awards
Scholarships for Indian Students
Moreover, remember to prepare scholarship essays and documents in advance.
Step 6: Apply for Tuition Fee Waivers
Some universities offer waivers for international students. Therefore, check whether the university you are applying to offers any waivers.
If the university offers waivers, check whether the waiver is automatic or you need to apply for it.
Also, check whether any documents need to be submitted for the tuition fee waiver and confirm the duration of the waiver.
Some waivers are done on a yearly basis so make sure you understand the renewal process.
Step 7: Search for Affordable Accommodation
Accommodation is often one of the most expensive costs you will incur in Europe. As such, look for cheap accommodation in Europe and ensure to apply as early as possible, preferably when you get your university admission or scholarship approval.
Consider the following options:
On-campus housing
Student hostels
Shared apartments
Private student dorm
Smaller cities have cheaper accommodation options.
In some cases, you may get assisted or subsidized housing.
Step 8: Fund Your Visa
Even if you get a scholarship to study in Europe for free, you may be required to show proof of funds to cover your maintenance costs while in Europe. As such, make sure to save up enough money for your visa interview.
In addition, make sure to have enough money to cover your other expenses including accommodation, local travel, and food.
Step 9: Apply for Student Visa
You can apply for your student visa for Europe once you get your official admission and scholarship approval.
Make sure to present your visa application, admission letter, financial statements, and other required documents to the embassy or apply electronically if available.
Also, make sure to have health insurance and accommodation details if required.
Step 10: Register on Arrival
Once you arrive in Europe, remember to complete the required university and national registrations.
Some of the tasks you need to carry out upon arrival include:
University registration
Student ID card collection
Residence registration (if applicable)
Local immigration formalities
Opening a bank account
Finding long-term accommodation
Step 11: Save Money While in Europe
While studying in Europe on full scholarship or waiver, make sure to create a monthly budget.
Try and minimize expenses by using student discounts where possible.
Additionally, you can also save money by:
Living in cheaper accommodations
Preparing meals at home
Using public transport
Keeping track of your expenses day-to-day.
Tips to Study in Europe for Free
If you want to study free in Europe for international students, there are some essential tips that can help you reduce the overall expenses significantly.
Below are the tips that would help you study in Europe for free:
Begin Early: Start your preparation for the application process 9-12 months before your intake.
Choose Public Universities: Apply to public universities as they tend to have lower tuition fees.
Apply for Scholarships: Apply for scholarships as it is the best way to fund your studies in Europe.
Check for Fee Waivers: Find out if the university you are applying to offers any waivers.
Choose a Smaller City: Apply to a smaller city as it can be less expensive compared to a metropolis.
English-Taught Programs: Look for programs that are taught in English language instead of learning something new.
Learn the Local Language: Learn the language of the country you are willing to study in.
Compare Costs: Do not forget to compare costs as expenses vary on the city, food, transportation, accommodation, and insurance.
Prepare a Strong Application: Prepare a strong application package that includes good grades, a powerful statement of purpose, relevant experience, and a strong recommendation letter.
Save for Initial Expenses: Save some money for your visa and other expenses that might arise before your scholarship starts.
Conclusion
For students looking for affordable international education, study in Europe for free can be possible through public universities, scholarships, tuition fee waivers, and careful financial planning. Countries such as Germany, Italy, France, Austria, and the Czech Republic offer different pathways to reduce tuition costs, while scholarships such as Erasmus Mundus and DAAD can provide additional financial support.
If you want to study abroad in Europe for free, remember that tuition is only one part of your total education cost. Accommodation, food, transport, health insurance, visa expenses, and other daily costs also need to be included in your budget. Whether you're planning or exploring Free Study in Europe for International students, start by comparing countries, universities, programs, scholarships, tuition rules, and living costs.
For those exploring free study in Europe for International students, Germany, Czechia, and Austria are among the most affordable countries, with several universities offering low-cost or tuition-free education.
Can I study and work in Europe for free?
You can reduce tuition costs through public universities, scholarships, or fee waivers and work part-time where your student permit allows. However, living expenses, accommodation, insurance, travel, and other costs usually still require personal funding.
Is education 100% free in Germany?
Not always. Many public universities in Germany charge no tuition for most programs, but students usually pay semester contributions. Non-EU students may face tuition fees in certain states or universities, so checking the specific program is important.
Is ₹20 lakh enough to study in Germany?
₹20 lakh may cover a significant portion of your initial study and living costs, depending on your university, city, and program. However, you must meet current visa financial requirements and budget separately for tuition, accommodation, insurance, travel, and other expenses.
Is Germany costly for Indians?
Germany can be moderately expensive for Indian students, particularly in cities such as Munich and Frankfurt. However, public university tuition can be low or zero for eligible programs. Affordable accommodation, student discounts, and careful budgeting can reduce overall costs.
Can a 12th pass get a job in Germany?
A Class 12 qualification alone generally does not guarantee employment in Germany. Your opportunities depend on your skills, vocational qualifications, German language ability, and the occupation. Ausbildung programs can be an option for eligible international applicants.
Which jobs can get easily in Germany?
Germany has demand in areas such as healthcare, engineering, IT, skilled trades, logistics, and certain technical occupations. However, job availability depends on qualifications, experience, German-language skills, location, and current labour-market demand.
Which part of Germany has more job opportunities?
Major employment centres include Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Stuttgart, Cologne, and Düsseldorf. Munich and Stuttgart are particularly strong for engineering and technology, while Frankfurt is a major finance hub. Opportunities vary by sector, qualifications, and German-language skills.
Is Germany good to settle for Indians?
Germany can be a good option for Indians seeking education, skilled employment, and long-term career opportunities. Before moving, consider language requirements, employment prospects, living costs, taxes, cultural adjustment, residence rules, and your long-term personal and professional goals.
Can I get German PR in 2 years?
Permanent residence in Germany is generally not automatic after two years. Some skilled workers and graduates may qualify through accelerated routes if they meet specific residence, employment, language, pension, and other requirements. The exact pathway depends on your residence status.
Is it better to live in Germany or India?
The better choice depends on your career goals, income expectations, lifestyle, family priorities, and long-term plans. Germany offers strong infrastructure, social benefits, and employment opportunities, while India can provide lower living costs and closer family connections.
upGrad Abroad Editorial Team |4930 articles published
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education ...
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