Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students

Although it can be an incredible experience, studying abroad can be expensive. Tuition fees, living costs, and travel expenditures can add up rapidly. For Indian students who are thinking of studying overseas, this is especially true. Indian students can study abroad in some nations without breaking their wallets. We'll examine some of the cheapest countries for Indian students to study abroad in this article.

1. Germany

Indian students frequently choose Germany as their study-abroad destination. Germany provides free education to its residents and international students who wish to study there. 

Government - funded universities are those that provide free education. These universities typically charge a semester-based contribution of between 150 and 250 euros. Due to its diversified population and safety, Germany offers better adjustment for Indian students.

Cost of living (Per Month) - EUR 800 To EUR 1,000 (Approx. ₹72,188 to ₹90,236) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023)

Tuition Fees - Germany offers free education with a semester-wise contribution of EUR 150 to EUR 250.

Scholarships and Financial aid - 

• DAAD Scholarship

• Erasmus Scholarship Program

• DAAD WISE Scholarship Program

• Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship

• Kofi Annan MBA Scholarships

• ESMT Women’s Academic Scholarship

• Goethe Goes Global Scholarships

• EMS Undergraduate Scholarship

• WHU-Otto Beisheim School of Management, International Scholarships

• Master Scholarships at University of Stuttgart

• DLD Executive MBA Scholarship

Safety and Security - There is no need to be excessively concerned because Germany is generally a safe place. You can be confident that you won't need to take additional safety precautions in everyday life given the significant number of international students that enrol in German universities each year.

2. France

In addition to having world-class colleges, France offers a wide variety of courses for individuals interested in pursuing higher education at any level. Over 1,360 courses offered by Campus France, the national organisation for promoting French higher education abroad, are taught in English.

Cost of Living (Per Month) - EUR 400 To EUR 1,200 (Approx. ₹36,094 to ₹1,08,283) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023)

Tuition Fees – For tuition fees in France, the state covers two-thirds of education expenses. The student will be needed to pay the following as their entire registration fee:

• At the licence (bachelor's) level, EUR 2,770 per year.

• At the master's level, EUR 3,770 is paid annually.

Suppose the student begins a doctoral degree programme at the start of the 2022 academic year. In that case, the French government will continue covering most of their educational expenses until they have finished their degree programme. The cost of education in 2022–2023 is EUR 380. There are no new, varied tuition prices for PhD candidates who are not EU citizens.

Scholarships With Financial Aid - 

• Raman Charpak fellowship (PhD)

• Bourses pour études religieuses (requires a min. b2 level of French)

• French+Sciences scholarships (short-term) (4-6 weeks)

• Eiffel scholarship program of excellence

• Make our planet great again (mopga) (master's degree)

• La Femis (short-term) (2 months)

• Scholarships for French language teachers

• The Erasmus+ mobility scholarships for foreign students

Safety and Security - For students, France is a secure country. The government offers numerous resources to keep kids secure, and the crime rate is low. In France, there are a lot of institutions and colleges with services and programmes to keep students safe.

3. Mexico

The structure of higher education in Mexico is comparable to that of universities in Europe and the US, with bachelor's degrees requiring four years to finish, master's degrees taking two years, and doctorates taking three years. In terms of the region, Mexico is home to many of the best universities in Latin America. 

Cost of Living (Per Month) - MXN 18,200 (Approx. ₹83,767) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023)

Tuition Fees - Tuition fees in Mexico are inexpensive for undergraduates. One year's tuition can be as little as 380 MXN (17 USD), while a private university student will typically spend between 1600 MXN (74 USD) and 16300 MXN (747 USD) every semester. Public institution students must pay between 1,000 MXN (45 USD) and 2,500 MXN (115 USD) for their postgraduate degrees each academic year. A master's degree at a private university may cost about 34,000 MXN (1,560 USD) every semester.

Scholarships With Financial Aid - A bilateral Academic Exchange Programme (AEP) exists between India and Mexico. According to this agreement, Mexico will provide six scholarship spots for Indian students to pursue postgraduate studies there.

Safety and Security - While some news reports and statistics may be unsettling, the threat to students is minimal, so there is no need to let it interfere with your enjoyment. Crime is one of Mexico's most pressing problems. As you may have recently heard in the news, Mexico is also vulnerable to calamities like hurricanes and earthquakes. It's crucial to keep informed about the regions and places where these natural catastrophes occur to avoid being affected.

4. Norway

Regardless of socioeconomic level, everyone should have access to education, according to the Norwegian government. With its stunning fjords, Aurora Borealis, and an excellent reputation for research, Norway is the perfect destination for any international student. The educational experience in Norway is unique, and Norwegian universities accept applications from qualified students from all around the world.

Cost of Living (Per Month) - NOK 7,000 To NOK 9,000 (Approx. ₹54,302 to ₹69,817) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023)

Tuition Fees - Applicants from countries outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland/EFTA applying for a degree starting autumn 2023 must be prepared to pay tuition fees in Norway, A student will not have to pay tuition fees as an exchange student. If the student started their degree studies in Norway before 2023 - meaning if they are in their second year in autumn 2023.

Scholarships With Financial Aid - 

• SCAR Fellowships in Antarctic Research

• Microsoft Research PhD Fellowship

• Mobility Grant for Norwegian Language and Literature

• The ERASMUS+ Grant

• A. Wilhelmsen Foundation Scholarship Programme

• BI Presidential Scholarship

• NTNU Scholarship

• Scholarship Grant for Undergraduate Students

• CLIFF-GRAD Scholarship

• Become JACK and JONES Scholar 

Safety and Security - Norway is one of the world's wealthiest, healthiest, and most secure nations. It also ranks highly in education and health care. This attractive nation offers a high standard of living.

5. Poland

Poland is one of the best places in Europe to study, and many options are available based on your academic objectives. You must pay the tuition for studying in Poland as an Indian student because India is not an EU member.

Cost of Living (Per Month) - 1,800 PLN (Approx. ₹35,543) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023)

Tuition Fees - A bachelor’s degree in Poland costs EUR 2000 annually. A postgraduate degree costs EUR 3000 annually. Specialist, postdoctoral, and scientific internships costs EUR 2000 annually. Finally, it costs EUR 2000 annually for a preparatory Polish language course to begin studies in Polish.

Depending on the institution and study programme, tuition fees in Poland range from EUR 2000 to EUR 6000 per year (for MBA programmes, this varies from EUR 8000 to EUR 12,000 annually).

Scholarships With Financial Aid:

• Poland Government funded Scholarships for International Students.

• Poland Government Scholarships at Jan Dlugosz University in Czestochowa.

• Silesian University of Technology Poland Scholarships for International Students.

• Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange Ulam Program for International Students.

• International awards at Kozminski University, Poland.

• University of Warsaw, NSC PhD Student Grant at Faculty of Physics in Poland.

• Erasmus Mundus SERP-Chem Master Scholarships.

Safety and Security - Most travellers to Poland have no issues. While incidents of serious crime against foreigners are relatively infrequent, they do happen. Additionally, you should be aware that street crime and small-scale theft may occur and that foreigners may seem easy targets.

6. Denmark

Danish people are renowned for creating a cosy atmosphere for others. The Danish educational system is famous for its cutting-edge methodology, and its degrees are respected worldwide. Due to its low crime rates, Denmark is regarded as one of the safest nations to study in.

Cost of Living (Per Month) - EUR 800 To EUR 1200 (Approx. ₹72,278 to ₹1,08,283) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023)

Tuition Fees - Depending on the programme, tuition fees in Denmark can be anywhere from EUR 6,000 and EUR 16,000 each year.

Scholarships With Financial Aid:

• Danish State Scholarships at the University of Copenhagen

• IT University of Copenhagen State Scholarships in Denmark

• Danish State Tuition Fee Waivers and Scholarships at Roskilde University

• Study a Masters in Europe Scholarships

• Danish State Scholarships at Aarhus University

• Denmark Government Scholarships for Non-EU Students

• Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's degree Scholarships in Media Arts Cultures

Safety and Security - Because Danish citizens tend to be more reserved, Denmark is a safe country for Indians. They don't socialise much, yet they are always kind and helpful. If you need help and require instructions, many of them will offer to assist you. Women are treated equally to men in Denmark, one of the safest and happiest countries in the world. Indian immigrants benefit from a high standard of life and a safe and secure environment in Denmark.

7. Argentina

With 39 institutions listed in the QS Latin America University Rankings 2018, Argentina is not only one of the most sought-after destinations for students in Latin America but also one of the regions with the fastest-growing university populations. The following universities have grown significantly, primarily due to the nation's economic boom in the early 21st century. They are now regarded as some of the best on the continent.

Cost of Living (Per Month) - USD 1,000 per month. (Approx. ₹81,765) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023)

Tuition Fees - The governmental higher education institutions in Argentina do not charge a tuition fee for their programmes or courses, but private higher education institutions do. The cost varies according to the programme, level, and higher education institution, the tuition fees in Argentina ranges from 8,000 to 24,000 pesos annually.

Scholarships With Financial Aid - 

• Michaela Farnum Memorial Scholarships

• Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships

• Don Quijote Scholarships

• Holt Scholarships

• Mente Argentina (MA) Scholarship Program

Safety and Security - Argentina is one of the safest places in South America to study. Buenos Aires is generally a safe city. However, as in any large city, there are occasional crime cases.

8. Malaysia

With reduced tuition costs, a lower cost of living, and secure surroundings, Malaysia has it all. The language barrier is removed by the English-taught programmes offered by Malaysian universities. Malaysia is among the safest nations for overseas students to study because of its rich, diversified culture and friendly inhabitants.

Cost of Living (Per Month) - MYR 4,500 (Approx. ₹83,173) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023)

Tuition Fees – Tuition Fees in Malaysia can range from 5,500 to 23,000 RM per year.

Scholarships With Financial Aid - 

• Malaysia Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan

• Malaysian International Scholarship

• University Of Nottingham Scholarship 

• Malaysia International Bursaries at International Medical University

• Taylor’s College Scholarship

• Graduate Research Scholarship

• University Trust Graduate Scholarship

• Malaysia Foundation High Achievers Scholarship

• UKM Vice-Chancellor Scholarships

Safety and Security - Malaysia is a safe and peaceful nation despite having a diverse population of ethnicities and religions.

9. Taiwan

Taiwan, which has one of the world's top high-tech sectors, is a growing study-abroad destination. You can study many other subject areas if the technology industry is not for you. Taiwanese institutions will welcome you because the island nation has prioritised drawing in more international students.

Cost of Living (Per Month) - EUR 680 to EUR 880 (Approx. ₹61,440 to ₹79,510) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023)

Tuition Fees – Tuition Fees in Taiwan can range from US$800 - $15,000 per year.

Scholarships With Financial Aid - 

• MOE Taiwan Scholarship

• MOFA Taiwan Scholarship

• Academia Sinica Taiwan International Graduate Program

• TaiwanICDF International Higher Education Scholarship

• Elite Study in Taiwan

Safety and Security - Taiwan is more of a safe place to live and study than other places globally since it is a peaceful nation with a stable government. It has a minimal risk of natural disasters and is ranked the 18th safest country in the world.

10. Belgium

Universities in Belgium and the Belgian government both provide financial aid and several scholarships to international students. Dutch, French, and German are the three languages spoken in Belgium. For international students, this opens many options to improve their language abilities.

Cost of Living (Per Month) - EUR 873 To EUR 1,370 (Approx. ₹78,878 to ₹1,23,783) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023)

Tuition Fees - Tuition fees in Belgium for EU students at public universities usually range between EUR 2,500 and EUR 7,500, whereas it is typically around EUR 1,000 for non-EU students. Private colleges and business schools assess higher fees.

Scholarship and Financial Aid - 

• Government of Flanders Master Mind Scholarships for International Students 

• VLIR-UOS Scholarship Program

Safety and Security - Excellent networking and educational possibilities are available in Belgium. For foreign students, Belgium is a secure country. It provides a high standard of living and a lively culture.

11. Switzerland

It is simpler for students to get along with other students and even locals because roughly 25% of the student population in Switzerland is foreign. Switzerland is a varied nation with around four national tongues. International students can apply for various scholarships even if education costs are slightly higher than in other countries. Making it a secure and appealing nation for international students.

Cost of Living (Per Month) - EUR 1400 to EUR 2500 (Approx. ₹1,26,494 to ₹2,25,882) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023).

Tuition Fees – Tuition fees in Switzerland can range from EUR 400 – EUR 3,700 Per Year.

Scholarship With Financial Aid - 

• Swiss Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Students

• ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarships

• University of Lausanne Masters Grants for Foreign Students

• EPFL Excellence Scholarships

• Graduate Institute Geneva Scholarships

• University of Zurich Scholarships for PhD Candidates 

• Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights Scholarships

• Nestle MBA Scholarships for Women from Developing Countries

• Prima Grants

• International Postdoctoral Fellowships

Safety and Security - Students worried about their safety while studying abroad can put those worries to rest because the country is one of the safest countries in the world. Violent crime is practically non-existent compared to other countries, and the likelihood of minor crimes like pickpocketing is relatively low.

12. Italy

With almost no professional or vocational schools available beyond secondary education, universities and excellent graduate schools primarily cover higher education in Italy.

Cost of Living (Per Month) - EUR 800 (Approx. ₹72,282) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023).

Tuition Fees – Tuition fees in Italy can range from EUR 500 – EUR 4000 per year.

Scholarships With Financial Aid - 

• Bologna University Study Grants for International Students

• Padua International Excellence Scholarship Programme

• Tuition Fee Waivers at the University of Pavia

• Bocconi Merit and International Awards

• Politecnico de Milano Merit-Based Scholarships

• Politecnico di Torino International Scholarships

• EDISU Piemonte Scholarships

• Italian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students

Safety and Security - It's typically safe to travel in Italy. The only crimes are minor thievery and hardly any violent ones. As in any large city, keeping an eye on your bags and locking up your luggage is crucial. The infrastructure for travel in Italy is well-advanced.

13. Spain

Indian students who study in Spain have access to first-rate resources for learning the Spanish language and culture. Study abroad opportunities in Spain provide international students with better opportunities and exposure.

Cost of Living (Per Month) - EUR 900 to EUR 1,000 (Approx. ₹81,317 to ₹90,353) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023).

Tuition Fees – Tuition fees in Spain can range from EUR 1,000 to EUR 3,500 per year.

Scholarships With Financial Aid - 

• Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 

• UIC Barcelona Scholarship

• EADA Scholarship

• Barcelona Institute of Economics (IEB) PhD Scholarship

• International Studies Abroad (ISA) Diversity Scholarship

• The Fulbright Program

• Spanish Studies Abroad Merit-Based Scholarship

Safety and Security - Spain has a low rate of violent crime but a similar rate of street crime and small-time theft as any other nation. In addition, Spain is renowned for being hospitable to visitors and international students. In general, violent crime is almost non-existent in Spain.

14. Austria

Thanks to its central location in Europe, Austrians have access to the best educational resources. Even for its international students, Austria charges lesser tuition than other nations. Although Austrians speak various German dialects, English is nevertheless widely spoken. Austria is a lovely nation; its residents are open and friendly to visitors.

Cost of Living (Per Month) - EUR 900 to EUR 1,300 (Approx. ₹81,317 to ₹1,17,458) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023).

Tuition Fees – Tuition fees in Austria can range from EUR 700 - EUR 750 per semester.

Scholarships With Financial Aid - 

• Helmut Veith Stipend for Females in Computer Science

• Marcus Oldham College Scholarship

• Webster Vienna Private University Scholarships

• Vienna International Postdoctoral Program

• Abertay University Scholarships

• Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship

Safety and Security - Austria is one of the lowest crime rates countries in the world, and it has a good reputation for having green and clean cities that are safe for international students. Along with safety, Austria's location in Europe makes travelling to other parts of the continent simple.

15. Sweden

The Swedish education system emphasizes group and independent study practices than lectures. They believe that the students thrive with freedom and responsibility. 

Cost of Living (Per Month) - EUR 750 to EUR 1250 (Approx. ₹67,764 to ₹1,12,941) (basis the exchange rate as on 8 May 2023).

Tuition Fees – Tuition fees in Sweden can range from SEK 80,000 per year.

Scholarships With Financial Aid - 

• Stockholm University Scholarship Scheme

• Karlstad University Global Scholarship Programme

• Blekinge Institute of Technology Scholarship Programme

• KTH Royal Institute of Technology Tuition Fee Waivers

• Halmstad University Scholarships

• Chalmers IPOET Scholarships

• Umea University Scholarships

Safety and Security - Sweden has much lower crime rates than most European nations. You won't encounter any issues while visiting Sweden if you use common sense and elementary safety precautions. If you ever need help, you may always seek assistance from locals since practically all Swedes can speak English.