10 Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students

If you want to study in another country to get smarter and learn new things, that’s a good choice. You’ll meet different kinds of people and learn practical things. But you should also think about how much money you have for school. Some countries are not too expensive to study in. There are many cheapest countries to study abroad, and these countries have good schools that don't cost a lot of money. Big countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia have good schools. People say they're some of the best. How cheap a country is depends on how much school costs and how much things cost there. Some of the best schools in popular countries are not too expensive. If you want to know how much school costs in different countries, read more of this article.

Top 10 Cheapest Study Abroad Countries

1. Norway

Norway stands out as an affordable study destination for Indian students pursuing education abroad, with its public universities providing free tuition.

Eligibility: When applying to study in Norway, you must directly apply to the schools you're interested in since there isn't a single application portal. Keep in mind that different schools have varying requirements, so it's important to verify before submitting your application. Generally, for most Norwegian schools, you'll need a completed application form from the school's website, a certified copy of your passport, your school grades, a resume detailing your activities (and a special one if you're applying for advanced studies), evidence of English language proficiency (check the school's website for details), two recommendation letters, and some international qualifications that might not be accepted, in which case you might have to take an entrance exam. Application deadlines vary among institutions but typically fall around February for the following year.

Cost of Studying: Tuition is free at Norwegian public universities for all students, regardless of their nationality, making it the cheapest country to study for Indian students. Despite free education, the cost of living in Norway is comparatively high, with an average annual expense ranging from around INR 9.5L to INR 13.5L.

2. Switzerland

Switzerland offers a secure setting for international students pursuing their education in the country. Renowned universities in Switzerland adhere to a high-quality education system, presenting enhanced prospects for students.

Eligibility: To study for an undergraduate diploma or bachelor's degree in Switzerland, you need to have finished a 10+2 education from a recognised board. If you're looking to pursue a PG diploma or master's degree, you'll need a relevant full-time bachelor's degree with good grades. While an English language test is not always needed, some universities may ask for an IELTS score. When applying, you must include a Statement of Purpose (SOP), a special statement that explains your goals and reasons for studying. Getting into Swiss universities also requires at least two letters of recommendation (LORs) from others who can vouch for you. You'll need to provide various documents like transcripts, passports, certificates, SOPs, and LORs. Additionally, Swiss universities often require GRE or GMAT scores for admission, especially at top-ranked institutions. If you have two to three years of work experience, it could be a plus, especially for courses like MS, MBA, and post-graduation programmes where work experience might even be mandatory. This is indeed the cheapest country to study for Indian students.

Cost of Studying: Switzerland’s cost of living for education is high, including tuition, accommodation, and other expenses. On average, international students can expect to spend around CHF 20,000 to CHF 30,000 per year for living costs, varying based on location and lifestyle choices.

3. France

France, a favoured European study spot, has budget-friendly universities and a good lifestyle.

Eligibility: To study at French universities, you need good French skills and might have to take language tests. Typically, a minimum of 70% in Standard XII is required for each course, but some programmes accept around 60%. You must be at least 18 years old for a degree programme. Keep in mind that these requirements can vary by university. Along with application forms, you’ll need to submit various documents, including academic records, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a resume, test scores, a portfolio (for certain programmes), certificates, proof of funds, health insurance, a passport copy, and photos.

Cost of Studying: French public universities offer economical tuition fees to international students, spanning ~INR 2L to 3.5L per year. Autonomous institutions set their own fees, with private universities charging approximately ~INR 2.5L to 9L annually. Living costs fluctuate by city, with Paris at ~INR 1L to 1.5L/month and Lyon at ~INR 70K to 90K/month.

4. Ireland

Ireland's best universities have a really good education system and offer great chances to foreign students. They also make sure that foreign students are safe. The cost of studying and living there is not too expensive. Ireland is the answer to your question. Which country is the cheapest for study for Indian students?

Eligibility: To enrol in a course, you need decent grades from previous studies. Some courses accept slightly lower scores. For a degree, you must be at least 18 years old. Irish universities have easier entry rules, but education is challenging. Prepare for high-quality learning. You’ll need to provide your school and college grades, English test scores (like TOEFL or IELTS), two work recommendation letters, a Statement of Purpose, your school activities, an art portfolio (if applicable), sports or activity certificates, proof of funds, health insurance, a passport copy, and translated papers. Apply through the CAO website by making an account, sharing details, sending scanned documents and English scores, and paying fees.

Cost of Studying: The average cost of living in Ireland for education includes tuition fees, accommodation, and other expenses. Tuition fees vary depending on the institution and programme, averaging around €10,000 to €25,000 per year. Accommodation costs can range from €400 to €1,200 per month. Additional expenses like food, transportation, and personal items should also be considered. All this makes Ireland the best country to study abroad.

5. Germany

Germany is famous for its good universities and not-too-expensive fees, which is great for Indian students, and it is one of the cheap countries to study.

Eligibility: you might need to do a special programme for a year. This helps make up for the extra year of school in Germany. You also need to know some German, and there are tests for that. Before Starting your main degree, you’ll need to meet certain requirements. If you’re from India, you’ll need around 70% or more in your 12^th-grade exams. They also have programmes for students with lower scores. You should be at least 18 years old to begin your degree. Remember, these numbers might change depending on the university. You’ll also need to give them some documents like your school records, letters from teachers, and other things like your resume. If you have money to support yourself and health insurance, that’s important too. Not all degrees from India are accepted in Germany, so you might need to take a special test. Check if your qualifications work there before you apply.

Cost of Studying: The cost of studying ranges from 34,000 to 13.14 lakh rupees for the first year. If you’re from another country, living expenses are about 3.77 lakh rupees on average, but they can change based on where and how you live.

6. Mexico

Mexico is special because of its old Mayan pyramids and pretty beaches, which people from other countries find interesting. Indian students can study there without spending too much money because it’s affordable. It is one of the cheap countries to study.

Eligibility: You need to provide a form indicating your intention to study in Mexico along with your personal information. Include your special travel document with copies of specific pages. Attach a recent small photo of yourself against a white background. Show evidence of your Mexico travel plans. Submit a letter from your school confirming your acceptance, detailing your personal and course information, as well as duration, costs, and school details. Include financial proof like bank statements or documents displaying a minimum monthly income of $400. Furnish proof of your current residence and authorisation to stay there. If you're a minor, provide proof of identity and parental details. If you're not from your current country, submit evidence of legal residence there. Finally, make sure to pay the required visa processing fee.

Cost of Studying: Mexican public universities charge reasonable tuition, beginning around ~INR 32K/year. Private institutions range from ~INR 2L to 4.5L/semester. Living costs are economical too, with monthly student expenses at ~INR 24K to 32K, encompassing rent, transportation, utilities, food, and other incidentals, making it cheaper than in northern countries.

7. Taiwan

Indian students like to study in Taiwan because it's one of the cheapest countries to study for Indian students in Asia. Taiwan has many cultures, and it’s not expensive, which is good for students on a budget. Even though it’s cheap, Taiwan’s universities are really good and have many different subjects to study and places for research.

Eligibility: Students who go to summer schools in Taiwan get a certificate from the university. Indian students need to pay around Rs. 3,400 for a visa to visit Taiwan. If they plan ahead, round-trip airfare costs about Rs 26,000. Doing an internship or summer school in Taiwan improves the chances of Indian students getting a scholarship for a Master’s degree there. Students from India don’t have to take the GRE and TOEFL exams to get into universities in Taiwan. Indian students who graduate from Taiwan are allowed to work there. About 95% of graduates from Taiwan get jobs. Universities in Taiwan have placement days where 150 to 200 companies come to hire students.

Cost of Studying: Private Taiwanese universities charge approximately INR 1.2L to 3.5L per semester, while public universities cost around INR 54K to 9.6L per year. Estimated monthly living expenses for students in Taiwan are about INR 48K, encompassing accommodation (INR 6,500 to 32,000), transportation (INR 160 to 1,600/day), food (INR 960/day), and miscellaneous items (INR 7,200/month).

8. Malaysia

Malaysia is now a top choice for Indian students wanting the cheapest country to study. Its beautiful scenery, advanced technology, and diverse cultures create a special mix of nature and learning opportunities.

Eligibility: To apply for a student visa, you must fill out and sign the application form. You’ll need an acceptance letter from your chosen school, approved by Malaysia’s Immigration Headquarters. Provide two passport-sized photos, passport photocopies, academic transcripts, and proof of a full-time approved course. Show you can afford the course and expenses; provide a health certificate, security bond proof, and personal bond evidence. Upon arrival, students need to display their approval letters.

Cost of Studying: Education in Malaysia is notably budget-friendly compared to other nations. Public university tuition fees range from ~INR 1.5L to 3.5L per year, and private institutions charge around ~INR 1L to 7.5L annually. Living expenses are affordable, too, spanning ~INR 36K to 64K monthly, including housing, food, transportation, insurance, and miscellaneous costs.

9. South Africa

South Africa is a very safe place for international students who come here to study. The best universities in South Africa have a really good education system and offer great chances to students.

Eligibility: To obtain a student visa for South Africa from India, you must meet specific requirements, including demonstrating genuine intent to visit, enrolling in studies or training, securing admission from a South African educational institution, passing health checks, maintaining good character with a police certificate, possessing sufficient funds for your stay (minimum INR 13650 per month), and considering additional eligibility criteria based on your circumstances and age.

Cost of Studying: Primary and secondary education is generally more affordable, with fees ranging from $800 to $1,500 per year. Tertiary education costs are higher, with universities charging around $3,000 to $7,000 annually for tuition.

10. Netherlands

The Netherlands is a very safe place for international students who come to study there. The best universities in the country have a great education system and offer good chances for students. If you are still wondering which country is best for study for Indian students? Then check out the Netherlands.

Eligibility: Universities in the Netherlands have many classes in English, so Indian students have lots of choices. You can study more than 2,100 courses in English there. If you want to study for a bachelor’s degree, you need to pass the 12^th grade. For a master's degree, you need a bachelor's degree in the same field. You need to give them some papers, like your school records, test scores, and health insurance. If you work, your boss needs to write a letter to you. You also need to write a letter about why you want to study there. They want to see your resume and other papers too. Some documents need to be in English and approved by your school or a notary. A "motivation letter" is about why you want to join, and an "essay" talks about your skills and goals. "LOR" is a letter from someone who knows you well and can say good things about you. The Netherlands is the best country to study abroad.

Cost of Studying: The average cost of living in the Netherlands for education includes tuition fees, housing, food, transportation, and other expenses. On average, transnational scholars should budget around€ 800 to€ 1,200 per month, varying grounded on position and life.

Gradding.com | Your Gateway to Study Abroad Affordably

Choosing to study abroad can offer valuable experiences, exposure to diverse cultures, and practical learning opportunities. While countries like Norway, Switzerland, France, Ireland, Germany, Mexico, Taiwan, Malaysia, South Africa, and the Netherlands provide affordable education options for Indian students, it’s essential to consider factors such as tuition fees, cost of living, eligibility requirements, and language proficiency. By carefully evaluating these aspects and planning ahead with the experts of Gradding.com, students can make informed decisions and pursue their educational aspirations in a cost-effective and enriching manner. There are many cheapest countries to study abroad which offer quality education.