Is it possible to get a free university education in Europe as an international student? Read along!
Europe continues to be a top destination for international students, with over 1.3 million students choosing to study in European countries annually. What draws many to the continent is not just the rich cultural experiences or the opportunity to travel between countries, but also the promise of affordable, and in some cases, tuition-free education. For international students looking to obtain a world-class degree without going into debt, Europe presents a viable option.
In this article, we’ll explore how you can study in Europe for free by looking at the countries that offer tuition-free education, the scholarship opportunities available, and how to make the most of your application.
Steps to Secure Free University Education in Europe
As an international student who desires a free university education in Europe, below are the steps you should undertake to achieve your desires.
Choose Your Study Destination Wisely
Europe is home to more than 40 countries and over 2,500 universities. However, not all of them offer free education to international students. Some countries have policies that allow international students to study for free, while others offer low-cost programs.
When choosing your destination, research the following:
- Tuition Fees: Identify countries that offer tuition-free education for international students. In Germany, for example, most public universities do not charge tuition fees, though students must cover administrative costs.
- Language of Instruction: While many European universities offer programs in English, others may require proficiency in the national language. Countries like Norway and Sweden offer a range of English-taught courses.
- Living Costs: While tuition may be free, you still need to consider living expenses such as accommodation, food, and transport. Countries like Germany and Poland offer relatively affordable living costs compared to places like the UK or France.
- Work Opportunities: Some countries allow international students to work while studying, which can help cover living expenses. In Germany, for example, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
Prepare a Strong Application
Once you have chosen a destination, preparing a competitive application is essential. Universities in Europe often have more applicants than they can admit, and many free or low-cost programs are highly competitive. Here’s what to include in your application:
- Academic Records
High academic achievement increases your chances of admission and can even open up scholarship opportunities. For example, universities like the Technical University of Munich (ranked 50th globally) often give priority to students with outstanding grades in fields such as engineering, natural sciences, and business.
- Extracurricular Activities
It has been shown that extracurricular activities is an important factor in admissions decisions. Leadership roles, community service, and other engagements outside the classroom can strengthen your application.
- Language Proficiency
Depending on the country, you may need to prove proficiency in the language of instruction. For example, many programs in Germany require a B2 level of German, while English-taught programs in countries like the Netherlands may require an IELTS score of 6.5 or higher.
Explore Tuition-Free or Low-Cost Universities
Europe boasts a wide range of universities offering low-cost or tuition-free education. According to a report from StudyPortals, 7 out of 10 international students in Europe choose their institution based on affordability. Here’s a look at some countries that stand out:
Below are countries in Europe where you can study for almost free:
- Germany:
In 2014, Germany abolished tuition fees for international students at public universities. As of today, 96% of public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees, even for non-EU students. International students only need to cover small administrative costs of around €250 per semester.Â
- Norway
Norwegian universities offer free tuition to students pursuing PhD programs, including international students. However, living costs are high, with students needing about €1,200 per month to cover accommodation, food, and transport. Despite this, over 20,000 international students choose Norway each year due to its high academic standards.
- France
While France charges tuition fees for non-EU students, the fees are relatively low compared to other countries. On average, non-EU students pay €2,770 per year for undergraduate programs and €3,770 per year for master’s programs at public universities. In addition, the French government offers scholarships that can cover these costs.
- Czech Republic
Public universities in the Czech Republic offer free tuition for students who are willing to study in Czech. For those opting for English-taught programs, tuition fees are relatively low, averaging €4,000 per year.
- Iceland
Iceland also offers free tuition to international students, though students must cover registration fees (around €600 annually). The University of Iceland, ranked among the top 250 universities globally, is a popular choice for those seeking free education.
Apply for Scholarships
While tuition-free universities are a great option, living expenses in Europe can be high. However, many governments and institutions offer scholarships that can cover these costs. Some of the most notable scholarships include:
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degrees
This EU-funded program offers full scholarships for students to study in multiple European countries.
- DAAD Scholarships (Germany):
The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) offers scholarships to students from developing countries, covering both tuition and living expenses.
- Swedish Institute Scholarships
The Swedish government offers full scholarships for master’s students from outside the EU/EEA, covering both tuition fees and living expenses.
- Chevening Scholarships (UK):
This global scholarship program offers fully funded master’s degrees at UK universities.
These scholarships are highly competitive, so applying early and preparing a strong application is essential. Check through University websites to see some bespoke scholarships like the Equity Merit Scholarship at the University of Manchester. For more tips on securing scholarships, check out our detailed guide on How to Position for Scholarships.
Cold-Email Professors for Research Opportunities
For those interested in master’s or PhD programs, cold-emailing professors can be a smart strategy. Professors often have access to research grants or department funding that can cover tuition and living expenses.
Make sure your email is concise and professional, outlining your research interests and how they align with the professor’s work. This can open doors to hidden funding opportunities that are not always advertised.
Plan for Living Expenses
While tuition may be free, living costs in Europe can still be significant. The average student in Germany, for example, spends around €850 per month on living expenses. In countries like Norway and Switzerland, this number can be as high as €1,200 to €1,500 per month. Planning for these expenses is crucial. Be mindful of your budget and explore additional funding options:
- Work While Studying: Many European countries allow international students to work part-time. Germany, for instance, allows students to work up to 20 hours per week, which can help with living costs.
- Student Discounts and Support: Look for student housing options, discount cards for public transportation, and other financial support offered by your university or host country.
Concluding Thought
Free university education in Europe as an international student shouldn’t just be a dream but a reality for you. By carefully selecting your study destination, preparing a strong application, and applying for scholarships, you can access high-quality education without the financial burden.
