With access to resources, people are open to a wide range of options for universities to pursue their passions. There may be good universities in the city in which they are living, but the choice of considering universities abroad is beneficial. This is due to the exposure that they receive. Exposure at the right time prepares the students to delve deeper into subjects and better understand the world. We all need education to understand the perception of life and how to lead it, but education has become expensive these days. The fees of universities are constantly rising with the sky as the limit, and it has become challenging for students to enroll. Many factors influence the hunt for universities abroad.
If you are a student who wants to move abroad for higher education but is burdened by financial constraints, then you are in the right place. This blog will discuss countries that offer free education for international students.
Countries Offering Free Tuition
If you are in doubt about whether there are countries that offer free education, then don’t worry we’ve got you covered. Many countries are offering free education for international students. Below is the list of countries that provide high-quality education with no tuition fees to help with your decision process. Pin down the following countries for consideration.
1. Germany 🇩🇪
Germany is the go-to option for students with an interest in studying abroad. It has become one of the most popular countries offering free education for international students. Germany is renowned for providing high-quality education at free tuition and impeccable career opportunities. Back in 2014, students used to pay 250 euros per semester, but that system was abandoned later. Coming to the present, education at various public universities is free for international and local students. International students can work full-time for 120 days and part-time for 240 half days during their program. In addition to that, they have the option to stay in the country for 18 months to look for a job in their field.
- EU/Non-EU: Free
- Average Cost of Living: 934 Euros per month
- Best Universities: Heidelberg University, Free University of Berlin, and Humboldt University in Berlin
2. Greece 🇬🇷
Greece is known for its prestigious universities, making it one of the best countries that provide free education for international students. The cost of living in Greece is affordable, and due to its tourist popularity and cultural experience, students are open to a diverse student life. Students can work for 20 hours per week during the semester and 40 hours per week during the vacations. The cost of living in Greece is low compared to major European countries.
- EU/EEA: Free except for the Master’s program
- Non-Eu: Starts from 1,500 Euros per year.
- Average Cost of Living: 450-750 Euros per month
- Best Universities: University of Crete, National Technical University of Athens, and Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
3. Austria 🇦🇹
Auistria’s high quality of life and cultural richness are the factors that draw the attention of international students. Among them, it is also known for its provision of free education for EU students and affordable for other students. It is considered one of the top countries that provides free education for international students. Austria provides an opportunity for students to work for 20 hours per week without any permit.
- Fees for EU/EEA: Free
- Fees for Non-Eu: 762 Euros per semester
- Average Cost of Living: 900-1500 Euros per month
- Best Universities: University of Vienna, University of Salzberg, and Medical University of Vienna.
4. Norway 🇳🇴
Norway is considered one of the most immigrant-friendly countries in the world. Along with that, it offers free education for students from other parts of Europe and the world. International students in Norway can work up to 20 hours per week during their program. Post graduation, their visa will be valid for one year and they have to search for employment during this period.
- Fees for EU/EEA: Free
- Fees for Non-EU: 13,000 Euros per year
- Average Cost of Living: 1,200-1600 Euros per month
- Best Universities: University of Tromso, Bergen University College
5. Sweden 🇸🇪
The list of countries providing free education for international students is not complete without the addition of Sweden. To instill a productive learning experience, universities in Sweden primarily focus on practical and group work-based learning. There are no limitations to the student’s employment period, but working for a minimum of 40 hours per week is required for educational purposes. Sweden is the best choice for those who prefer practical education rather than theoretical.
- Fees for EU/EEA: Free
- Fees for Non-EU: 7,500 Euros per year
- Average Cost of Living: 900-1200 Euros per year
- Best Universities: University of Gothenburg Dalarna University
6. Czech Republic 🇨🇿
The Czech Republic is known for its castles, architecture, and spa towns. It is among the list of countries with free education for international students and is one of the best options to consider. You can work for 30 days a year while studying. If you are looking for a job after graduation, you can apply for a post-study residence permit. This will give you a period of 9 months to search for employment. The aesthetic castles and extraordinary architecture, as well as the great quality of education, make the Czech Republic the best place to pursue your passion.
- Fees for EU/Non-EU: Free for Czech-taught degrees and in some countries it is up to 18,500 Euros per year for English-taught degrees.
- Average Cost of Living: 300-800 Euros per month
- Best Universities: The Academy of Fine Arts, The Academy of Performing Arts in Prague, and the Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague.
7. Iceland 🇮🇸
Iceland is known for free education, a safe environment, and a multicultural ambiance. It offers several benefits for international students, including a period of 6 months after the post-graduation program and exposure to diversity. You can work up to 15 hours per week during the entire program.
- Fees for EU/EEA: Free
- Fees for Non-EU/EEA: Free
- Average Cost of Living: 1,3000-2,000 Euros per month
- Best Universities: Bifrost University, Iceland Academy of Arts, and University of Iceland
Academic Requirements
To enroll in universities in countries that offer free education for international students, you may have to appear for specific entrance exams. You must score minimum academic marks to qualify for a bachelor’s degree program. You need to score a specific amount in language proficiency tests like the TOEFL and IELTS. You must take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) to enroll in international universities. Similarly, the Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT) must be taken to apply for management programs.
Conclusion
Given the significant hikes in academic fees, it has become burdensome for students who want to go abroad for higher education. There are several countries that are providing free education for international students. With high-quality education and exposure to diverse student life, these universities will shape the learning process. To enroll in these universities, you have to score a minimum on tests like GMAT, GRE, and TOEFL. You can choose universities from the list above based on your academic preferences.
