Studying abroad remains a major goal for many students around the world. However, high tuition fees and the cost of living in popular destinations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia can prevent students from pursuing international education.
For 2026, several countries offer internationally recognised degrees at a lower cost. Affordable tuition, reasonable living expenses, scholarships, and student-friendly visa policies make these destinations attractive for students looking for quality education without significant financial pressure.
Read also: Top 10 college degrees that lead to high-paying AI careers
Here is a guide to ten countries where students can study abroad on a budget in 2026.
1. Germany – Europe’s standard for affordable education
Most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees, even for international students. Students are usually required to pay a semester contribution of €250 to €350, which often covers public transport.
Monthly living costs in cities such as Leipzig, Berlin, and Hamburg are between €800 and €1,000. Subsidised student housing and campus cafeterias make daily expenses manageable.
Top fields: Engineering, sciences, computing, business, social sciences
Best for: Students who want internationally recognised degrees without high tuition fees
Read also: Top 10 tech careers in Nigeria with the best salaries in 2025
2. Norway – Tuition-free education
Norway provides tuition-free education at public universities regardless of nationality. Students pay only a small registration or semester fee.
Living costs are higher, with monthly expenses ranging from NOK 12,000 to 15,000. Many students manage these costs through part-time work or stipends.
Top fields: Technology, education, maritime studies, social sciences
Best for: Students who can manage higher living expenses
3. Finland – Education with student support
Finland offers high-quality education and scholarships for non-EU students. EU students often pay no tuition fees, while international students face modest costs.
Living expenses range from €700 to €1,000 per month. Part-time work is allowed, providing additional support.
Top fields: Technology, business, design, health sciences
Best for: Students seeking a balance between cost and educational quality
Read also: Nigeria’s 10 most lucrative jobs in the IT industry
4. Poland – Affordable European education
Poland offers tuition fees between €2,000 and €6,000 per year, with many English-taught programmes. Monthly living costs average €400 to €600, which is low compared to other EU countries.
Top fields: Business, engineering, IT, international relations
Best for: Students seeking European degrees at a low cost
5. Hungary – Scholarships and low living costs
Tuition fees in Hungary typically range from €3,000 to €8,000 annually. The Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and living expenses for many international students.
Monthly living costs are around €500 to €700.
Top fields: Medicine, business, engineering, arts
Best for: Students seeking scholarship opportunities and affordable education
6. Czech Republic – Central Europe on a budget
Public universities charge little or no tuition for Czech-taught programmes. English-taught programmes cost between €3,000 and €8,000 per year. Living expenses average €500 to €700 per month.
Top fields: Arts, design, humanities, sciences
Best for: Students open to learning Czech alongside their degree
Read also: 5 highest-paying IT certifications to pursue in 2025
7. Spain – Education and lifestyle
Tuition fees in Spain range from €1,500 to €6,000 annually. Scholarships and regional grants are available. Monthly living costs are around €700 to €900, with smaller cities offering lower expenses.
Top fields: Business, tourism, arts, social sciences
Best for: Students seeking affordability alongside cultural experience
8. Malaysia – Asia’s affordable study destination
Tuition fees are between MYR 20,000 and 40,000 per year. The country hosts branch campuses of international universities. Monthly living costs are MYR 1,000 to 1,800.
Top fields: Business, engineering, IT, hospitality
Best for: Students from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East
Rest also: Top 5 data analytics certifications to advance your career in 2025
9. India – Low cost, high exposure
India provides low tuition and living costs. Monthly expenses range from INR 10,000 to 20,000. Many universities offer internationally recognised programmes.
Top fields: Engineering, IT, business, management, liberal arts
Best for: Students prioritising affordability and cultural experience
10. Portugal – Western Europe on a budget
Tuition fees range from €1,500 to €5,000 per year. Living costs are €700 to €900 per month. Smaller cities are more affordable than Lisbon or Porto.
Top fields: Business, technology, tourism, arts
Best for: Students seeking a Western European education at lower costs.
