Play store
When it comes to pursuing higher education abroad, the high cost of tuition and living expenses often becomes a major concern. However, there are several countries where international students can study at comparatively lower costs.
In a report, education website Opportunities Circle published a list of the 10 most affordable countries for international students in 2026. The ranking takes into account not only tuition fees but also overall annual expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation and insurance.
1. Germany
Most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees to international students. However, students generally have to pay administrative and other fees of a few hundred euros per semester. The monthly cost of living in Germany ranges from around €850 to €1,100.
2. Poland
English-taught programs in Poland may cost between €1,000 and €4,000 per year in tuition fees. Some public universities offering programs in Polish also provide opportunities to study without tuition fees. Excluding accommodation, monthly living expenses can range from $400 to $600.
3. Norway
Public universities in Norway also offer tuition-free education to international students. However, the cost of living is relatively high. In Oslo, renting a room in a shared apartment can cost between €700 and €900 per month. Students may also work up to 20 hours a week under certain conditions.
4. Hungary
Depending on the subject and scholarship, annual tuition fees in Hungary can range from zero to around $5,000. Monthly living expenses are estimated at €700 to €900. The country’s Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship provides benefits including tuition waivers, accommodation and a monthly stipend.
5. Czech Republic
Students who study in the Czech language can attend public universities without paying tuition fees. However, English-taught programs may cost between €3,000 and €5,000 per year. Monthly living expenses in Prague range from approximately €500 to €700. Students can also find accommodation in university dormitories for around €100 to €200 per month.
6. Malaysia
Malaysia is one of the most affordable destinations in Asia for international students. The country is home to branch campuses of several universities from the United Kingdom and Australia. Annual tuition fees range from 7,000 to 12,000 Malaysian ringgit, equivalent to approximately $1,500 to $2,700. Monthly living expenses range from $330 to $660.
7. India
India is also an important destination for students seeking quality higher education at a lower cost. Expenses vary significantly depending on the city and educational institution. Monthly living costs can range from 10,000 to 20,000 Indian rupees. Living and food expenses are generally lower in smaller cities than in major urban centers.
8. Austria
Most public universities in Austria charge students from outside the European Union around €726 per year in tuition fees. Fees may be higher for certain programs. Although the cost of living is relatively high in Vienna, cities such as Graz and Innsbruck can be somewhat more affordable.
9. Taiwan
Taiwan is another attractive destination for international students because of its relatively low tuition fees, government support and scholarship opportunities. Tuition fees at public universities can range from $1,500 to $3,500 per year. Living costs in the capital, Taipei, are higher than in other cities across the country.
10. Mexico
Compared with the United States and Canada, the cost of studying in Mexico is considerably lower. Many programs at public universities charge relatively modest tuition fees, while some institutions also offer opportunities to study without tuition fees. Living expenses are also comparatively low among the countries included in the list.
