Is it Possible to Study Abroad for Free?

Many students who dream of studying abroad step back due to the hefty amounts that they need to pay in the form of tuition fees at the universities abroad. While studying abroad can be expensive, it is note the complete picture. Some countries and universities are known for offering education to international students at minimal costs. There are also a number of scholarships specifically designed to cater to the financial needs of qualifying international students.

Study Abroad for Free

There are a few universities abroad that provide higher education to international students at nominal prices. Such universities are based in some countries famous for offering higher education to international students for free to attract talents from all around the world. Let us learn about these countries and their educational offerings now: 

Study in Germany for Free

Germany is a perfect destination for those who wish to study abroad without tuition fees. In 2014, Germany implemented a zero-cost tuition fee system for undergraduate international students in its public universities. However, students need to pay an administration fee of nearly EUR 150-250 per semester. It is only applicable to students who are enrolled in public universities. For private universities, students need to pay complete tuition fees which is around EUR 20,000 per year.

No tuition for a master’s programme in Germany is applicable only if you apply directly at universities after completing the bachelor’s course in Germany. However, if you have completed a bachelor’s programme from any other country you need to pay the tuition fee which costs around USD 30,000.

Similarly, the PhD level courses are also free at German Universities.

Also Read: Most Affordable Places to Study Abroad for Indian Students

Popular Universities to Study in Germany

Check the list of universities in Germany where you can study at a nominal semester fee charge: 

•  Technical University of Munich

• Berlin Institute of Technology

• Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich

• Ruprecht Karl University of Heidelberg

• Humboldt University of Berlin

• Free University of Berlin

• RWTH Aachen University

• Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen

• Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg

Cost of Living in Germany

You must note that only the cost of the study is free at the public universities in Germany. You need to bear the expenses of living costs in the country. The cost of living may vary depending on the city and type of accommodation. On average, the annual cost of living for an international student in Germany could be around EUR 10,500. It can cost upto EUR 13,000 in the most expensive cities of Germany.

If you are looking for more information and are looking forward to studying in Germany or any other study abroad destination, then register now and find out everything you need to know about studying abroad from us. Register and connect with us and let our study abroad experts help you find and apply to your perfect university, learn about scholarship opportunities and apply for a German Student Visa as well.

Study in France for Free

Higher education in France for international students is not free but nominal. As an undergraduate student coming from a non- EEU country, you need to pay around EUR 2,770 for a bachelors programme. For EU/EEA/Swiss students the cost of undergraduate studies is quite less. It ranges between EUR 170 and EUR 180 per year. 

Cost of Living in France

The cost of living in France is quite affordable for international students. It may cost around EUR 9,600 per year. However, the cost of living may vary according to the accommodation facilities in different locations. 

Also Read: Top 6 Countries for Indian Students to Study MBBS Abroad at Low Cost

Popular Universities to Study in France

Here is the list of popular universities to study in France for international students:

• HEC Paris

• ESSEC Business School - France

• INSEAD - France

• Paris School of Business

• NEOMA Business School

• European International University

• Kedge Business School

• EMLYON Business School

• Sorbonne University

• Audencia Business School

Have you ever dreamed of studying in France? Then let our dedicated study abroad counsellors help you achieve your dream of studying in France. Find and apply to your perfect university in France and even apply and prepare you for the French Student Visa and interviews. So why wait! Connect with us now and find your perfect university here!

Other Countries Where International Students Can Pursue Higher Education for Free

Check the list of other countries where higher education is free for international students:

Norway

Norway is another country that charges only semester fees from international students. However, English taught programmes are only available at a Master’s or PhD level. The semester fee may range between NOK 300 and NOK 600.

Iceland

The country Iceland has four public universities. These universities do not charge tuition fees for international students. They need to pay only a registration fee that costs ISK 75,000 per year.

Popular Scholarships to Study Abroad for Free 

A scholarship is one of the best ways to manage the tuition fee of a foreign university. Though it is competitive, students who have a good academic background and meet the eligibility criteria must definitely apply for the scholarship. There are several full or partially funded scholarships available for international students to study in different parts of the world. Here is the list of the popular scholarships that cover the full tuition fee and other expenses of international students.

Fulbright Foreign Student Programme (USA)

Fulbright Foreign Student Programme is a prestigious scholarship to pursue a Master’s or PhD degree in the US. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, living stipends, health insurance etc. It is offered till the completion of studies at the university.

British Chevening Scholarships (UK)

Chevening Scholarships is a scholarship granted by the government of the UK. It is a prestigious scholarship granted to outstanding students who are enrolled in a one year’s Master’s degree programme. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel expenses to the UK and other essential expenditures.

Gates Cambridge Scholarships 

Gates Cambridge Scholarships is a university-specific scholarship granted to students enrolled at the University of Cambridge. The scholarship is available for international students. The scholarship covers tuition fees, airline fare, maintenance allowances and some other allowances.

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (Switzerland)

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are offered to students who are enrolled in graduate degree programmes. It is only offered to students enrolled in public-funded or recognised institutions in Switzerland. The scholarship covers tuition fees, monthly allowance, health insurance, etc.

Apart from the above-mentioned tuition fee, there are several country-specific and university-specific tuition fee that covers the full tuition of international students. Candidates can confirm the same based on the university where the student is enrolled.

If you aspire to study abroad but are confused as to where to start, then look no further! Register and connect with us and let our study abroad counsellors help you apply to the university of your choice, depending on your interests and qualifications and other parameters that are important to you!

For queries related to studying abroad in your favourite country or college, write to us at abroad@collegedekho.com.