Cost of Studying Abroad for Indian Students: A Complete Guide

Do you know what is the one factor that influences a student to drop their dream of studying abroad? So, this major element is the higher living cost. But do not worry, if you want to chase your dream and have a low budget, as there are some cheap countries with affordable cost of studying abroad for Indian students. Yes, you read it right! There are several nations that are comparatively cheaper than the top countries that we will be discussing in this blog. But before exploring them, let's find the reasons that aspirants should consider before shifting overseas. 

Factors to Consider While Planning to Study Abroad

The cost of living in any country depends on several factors, and the fees of the course or university are one of the major reasons. Thus, in this section of the blog, we will be exploring the different factors to consider while planning to study abroad in brief:

Insurance

Medical insurance is an essential thing that one needs to have while studying abroad. Moreover, it is an additional thing that adds to the budget. The cost of this depends on the country or the type of insurance you are taking for yourself.

Tuition Fees

This covers a major portion of the budget of any student studying abroad. It is different for various countries or courses you are choosing to study. Hence, the fees for the same program in a local college will vary from a leading university. 

Living Cost

Each country has different prices for day-to-day expense. Thus, this needs to be considered while planning to shift to another nation. So, know the cost of these before you move to the country.

Visa

Each country has a different visa requirement, so the fees of the same also vary. Thus, you need to perceive the type of visa you require and its fees. 

Books

Books and study materials are also a major part of the budget a student spends on. The prices of the same can also vary from one nation to another and can demand alteration in the budget. 

Travel

Travelling costs are another factor affecting students' budgets. This can vary if you live far from the university. Thus, plan your stay in such a manner that you do not waste money on transportation. 

Accommodation

There are numerous types of accommodation available, from homestays to dorms, and they can vary extremely. So, if you are low on budget, then choose wisely.

These are the factors on which the cost of studying abroad for Indian students varies. Thus, you must consider them before planning your budget. Moving ahead to explore the average cost of study abroad in leading countries.

What Is the Average Cost of Studying Abroad in Top Countries

1. Cost of Studying in USA

Study in USA comes with various costs like tuition, housing, transportation, insurance, and more. Here's a breakdown of the approximate expenses for education in the USA.

2. Cost of Studying in UK

Study in UK incurs varying costs. The expenses depend on factors such as the course, tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, etc. Here is a breakdown of the approximate costs.

4. Cost of Studying in Australia

For Australia, the cost of studying abroad varies, considering different factors given below:

5. Cost of Studying in Hungary

Study in Hungary can cost differently, depending on factors given below:

So, this section must have answered your query, "What is the average cost of studying abroad?" Thus, let us now explore the top 10 cheapest countries to study for Indian students in the following section of the write-up.

Cheapest Country to Study for Indian Students

Choosing an affordable country to complete your education overseas is a smart move when you are low on budget. However, being in a cheap country does not mean that you will compromise on the quality of education. Thus, go through the section and explore what makes a country affordable without settling on quality. Here are the features of some cheap countries to study for Indian students that ensure a premium education system in the world at a reasonable cost.

Germany

Germany has recently gained a reputation as a top-notch education provider in the world. This is due to the low tuition fees for international students. It is a preferred choice for engineering students globally. Thus, the country is ideal for Indian students who are low on budget and looking for high-quality education. 

Tuition Fees

In Germany, the tuition fees in most public universities are waived for both domestic and international students. This makes it an affordable nation. However, the application fees are still there in both public and private institutes, but at nominal prices. 

Cost of Living

The cost of living in any country is determined by several factors, such as accommodation, visa and university application fees, transportation, and other daily expenses. But, compared to other countries, Germany has lower and affordable prices for these things to make itself a cheap nation for Indian students. 

Scholarships

These are the grants given by either the government or the universities of the country. Some of them are listed below:

• Konrad-Adenauer Foundation scholarship
• DAAD scholarships
• Heinrich Böll scholarship
• Erasmus scholarship programs
• Friedrich Ebert scholarship
• MAWISTA scholarship

Top Universities

• Berlin School of Business and Innovation 
• GISMA University of Applied Sciences
• International School of Management
• International University of Applied Sciences 
• SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences
• University of Europe for Applied Sciences

France

France is another preferred destination in Europe for education by Indian students. It is renowned for its excellent studies and affordable institutes. However it is known as an expensive country, but when it comes to education, it is one of the cheapest ones. It has a rich cultural heritage and an ideal academic environment. 

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees in France can vary from one university to another and course to course. But, whichever degree or institute you are opting for, it won't hit your budget due to reasonable costs. 

Cost of Living

The cost of living in France can highly differ depending on the city you choose. For example, the cost of living in Paris is high as compared to Lyon. Thus, you must consider this parameter while deciding on the destination.

Scholarships

There are several scholarships in France available to Indian students to reduce their financial load. Here is a list of a few of them:

• Emile Boutmy Scholarship
• Eiffel Scholarships
• Ens Paris-Saclay
• Ampère Excellence Scholarship
• Erasmus+ Plus Scholarship
• Ens International Selection Scholarships

Top Universities

• Rennes School of Business
• NEOMA Business School
• The American Business School
• Skema Business School
• Excelia University
• ICD International Business School

Canada

Canada is one of the most popular study-abroad destinations for Indian students. This country has numerous globally ranked universities with affordable fees. The universities are known for their courses and great infrastructure. In addition, it has post-work opportunities and more to serve its international students studying in Canada in any field.

Tuition Fees

Fees in Canada vary depending on several factors such as course, field of study, university, or the level you are at. Thus, you must check the cost included in the specialisation you are planning to opt for. 

Cost of Living

The cost of living majorly depends on the city and living conditions of an individual. Thus, if you live in a smaller city, the expenses will be lower compared to the larger cities. 

Scholarships

• Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute
• Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan 
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program 

Top Universities

• Cape Breton University
• Lambton College
• Conestoga College
• Niagara College Canada
• Queen's University

New Zealand

New Zealand is one of the most scenic destinations to study abroad. Here, you will get a quality education with a beautiful coastline. Moreover, it is one of the safest countries for international students. Furthermore, Auckland is a hub of popular education institutes in the nation. Thus, if you are planning to complete your education overseas and do not have much budget to study in USA, this country is a great alternative. 

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees of the country are higher than the others, but the educational level and living standards are unbeatable. Thus, if you want to get top-notch quality education, New Zealand is for you.

Cost of Living

Like the tuition fees, the cost of living in the country is also relatively higher. This is due to the beautiful environment and scenic beauty of the place. 

Scholarships

• New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS)
• New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships
• New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)
• Palmerston North City Mayor's Goodwill Ambassador Scholarship

Top Universities

• Auckland University of Technology
• University of Canterbury
• Victoria University of Wellington
• University of Otago
• University of Waikato
• The University of Auckland

Australia

Study in Australia comes with several benefits, such as cultural experiences, connection-building, etc. The country offers several graduation, post-graduation and vocational courses to international students. Australia offers excellent quality education to students with mesmerising beaches and views. 

Tuition Fees

Fess can vary in different cities of Australia as per the course, specialisation and more. To know about it, you must check the official website of the institute you are planning to enrol in. 

Cost of Living

Living costs in Australia can be relatively higher than other countries on the list. But, here, you will find several scholarships with amazing benefits to manage your finances. 

Scholarships

• Australia Awards Scholarship
• Destination Australia scholarship
• Global Citizens Scholarship
• Griffith Remarkable Scholarship
• Melbourne Research Scholarship

Top Universities

• QUT Garden Point Campus
• University of Queensland
• Charles Darwin University
• Monash University
• Western Sydney University

To read more about living cost in Australia, click here:  Know Average Cost of Living in Australia for a Student

Malaysia

Malaysia is one of the most preferred places to study due to its affordable cost of study abroad and amazing views. The country is a mix of technological advancement and cultural heritage. Thus, all these combine to make the nation an ideal place to pursue education overseas.  

Tuition Fees

It is one of the cheapest country to study abroad for Indian students due to its lower tuition fees. Moreover, it is significantly cheaper than the other nations on the list of affordable ones. 

Cost of Living

The expenses in the country are comparatively lower than others in terms of accommodation, food, transportation and more. 

Scholarships

• Malaysia Government Scholarship
• Malaysian International Scholarship
• Education Future
• Albukhary Foundation Scholarship
• Yayasan Tunku Abdul Rahman Scholarship

Top Universities

• Universiti Malaya
• Universiti Sains Malaysia
• Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
• Universiti Putra Malaysia
• Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS

Hungary

Hungary is one of the most popular countries to pursue higher studies at an affordable price. It offers a variety of courses in English that make them easily understandable for foreign students. The universities are among the best-ranked in the world for their quality of education.

Tuition Fees

Hungary charges lower tuition fees from its students which is comparatively lower than other European countries. Thus, study in Hungary has become one of the most preferred nations for international students. 

Cost of Living

Living in Hungary is affordable due to its reasonable prices and other expenses. The rates might differ from one city to another, but the average cost is pretty affordable. 

Scholarships

• Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship
• Bilateral State Scholarships
• CEEPUS
• Stipendium Hungaricum
• Erasmus

Top Universities

• Budapest Metropolitan University of Applied Science
• University of Debrecen
• University of Gyor
• University of Szeged
• Semmelweis University

Malta

It is a small country but has numerous universities where you can pursue your higher education at an affordable rate. The nation is a cultural mix of ancient and modern. Here, you will find one of the oldest universities perfectly blended with modern innovation. Thus, it is one of the most favourable cities globally. 

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees to study in Malta can differ as per type of university and program you are enrolling in. However, the overall cost here is affordable compared to other nations. 

Cost of Living

Living cost in Malta depends on your personal preference to spend. This includes the accommodation, transportation and other things you spend on. Thus, this cost will entirely depend on your spending habits.

Scholarships

• Malta Art Scholarship Scheme
• University of Malta Scholarships
• Endeavor Scholarship Scheme
• Boehringer Ingelheim
• ETS TOEFL scholarships

Top Universities

• L-Università ta' Malta
• Queen Mary University of London
• University of Malta
• European Graduate School
• GBSB Global Business School

To know more about cost of living in Malta, click here: Cost of Living in Malta for Students

Ireland

One of the major perks of studying in this country is its affordability for Indian students. Both the tuition fees and living costs are cheaper compared to other countries. Other than this, universities in the nation also offer financial assistance to students to manage their budgets effectively. 

Tuition Fees

Ireland is considered to be one of the cheap countries to study for Indian students due to its reasonable tuition fees for both graduate and post-graduate courses.

Cost of Living

Ireland has the most affordable cost of living for students coming from all over the world. Thus, this makes the nation one of the preferred ones. 

Scholarships

• Trinity College Dublin Scholarships
• Fulbright Scholarships
• Maynooth University Scholarships
• Excellence Scholarships

Top Universities

• University College Dublin
• University of Galway
• Trinity College Dublin
• Dublin City University
• University College Cork

Sweden

It is a country famous for its diverse courses and world-class universities providing a high quality of life. It is a nation with an enriched educational system that attracts aspirants from all over the world. Its sustainability and commitment to innovations make it an ideal study-abroad choice. 

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees here depend solely on the level of education, course, city or university you are opting for. However, whatever you choose, it ends up as an affordable option compared to other countries. 

Cost of Living

The living cost is comparatively higher than the neighbour's, but getting scholarships can help you afford it. 

Scholarships

• Chalmers IPOET Scholarships
• Karolinska Institutet Global Master's Scholarships
• KTH Scholarship
• Swedish Institute Study Scholarships
• Uppsala University Global Scholarships

Top Universities

• Lund University
• Stockholm University
• Uppsala universitet
• KTH Royal Institute of Technology
• Chalmers University of Technology

These are the cheapest country to study abroad for Indian student to efficiently manage their budget. However, if you want to minimise your expenses even more, you can avail yourself of a student loan. Thus, to explore them more, read the following section.

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Why Take a Student Loan to Study Abroad?

As you already know, living in a foreign country to fulfil your dream of studying at a leading university is an expensive thing. Although you can select the cheapest country to study abroad for Indian students or the scholarships for studying abroad, but if you cannot do this, there is another option as well. This alternative is getting an educational loan. So, read further to explore the perks of the same:

Lower Interest Rate

Education loans have a lower interest rate compared to personal loans. This is to reduce the financial load on the students to focus more on studying than managing the budget.

Numerous Expenses Covered

Education loans cover a variety of expenses for students studying abroad. These include tuition fees, accommodation costs, university fees, everyday expenses and more. 

Builds Your CIBIL Score

It is a score to measure the creditworthiness of a person. It generally ranges between 300 and 900, and 750 is considered to be the ideal one. Thus, taking an education loan proves that you are capable of managing your finances. 

Liberating Parents from Loans

Availing of an education loan ensures you do not burden your parents with another loan. This is so because this loan can be repaid after you have completed your education. 

There are several benefits to getting an education loan in any country in which you are planning to pursue your studies. However, the application process and other necessities can differ from one country to another. So, it is advised to go through the guidelines before applying. Now, if you want to perceive other ways to manage your finances, read the following section of the blog. 

Tips for Budgeting While Studying Abroad

If you have reached this section of the blog, then you must know the importance of effective budgeting to meet the cost of studying abroad in a foreign land. But do you know how this is done? If not, read ahead to know. 

Apply for Scholarships

Scholarships are a great way to save money while studying overseas. This is so because availing of these grants will reduce your tuition fees, which covers a major part of your budget. There are various scholarship options that cover every cost of your studies as well.

Avoid Large Cities

It is suggested to live in smaller cities as the cost and expenses will be lower compared to the bigger ones. But this does not mean that you should live completely outside; rather, it means to live slightly from where you can commute easily.

Consider Part-Time Jobs

Getting a part-time job is another major source of income that can help you manage your budget. This will increase your spending budget and will enable you to have a wider scope to spend.

Make a Spending Budget

Having a reasonable budget can help you a lot while studying abroad. This will help you to know and plan the expenses in advance to ensure you do not go out of money at the end of the month.

Use Public Transportation

Using public transport will help you save a lot while you study in UK, USA and more. Thus, it is one of the smartest moves for effective budgeting. Through this, you will benefit in two ways, as they are cheap and fast at the same time.

Avail Student Discounts

Your student ID is not only within your university; it has several benefits outside the university as well. There are many discounts you can avail to reduce the money you are spending on a particular item. So, do not forget to ask for your discount the next time you buy anything.

Managing and keeping track of finances abroad can be pretty stressful and challenging. But for affordable living, you have to choose the option of planning your finances. Tips and hacks can help you effectively manage them and help you save some extra cash. Thus, to ease the process, this blog has listed the top countries along with the cost of studying abroad for Indian students. This will help you to choose wisely. However, if you are still baffled, Gradding.com has got you covered. Here, the experts will guide you in the best possible way.

FAQ's: General Queries of Study Abroad Aspirants

Is Studying Abroad Expensive for Indian Students?

Studying abroad can be expensive for Indian students, depending on various factors. These can be the city or course you are enrolling on, the type of place you are living in and the way you spend your money.

What Is the Cost of Studying in the USA for Indian Students?

The USA is one of the most expensive countries in the world for students planning to study overseas. The cost of studying here is approx. $35,000, and the living expenses range up to $38,266.

Can I Study Abroad Free of Cost?

Yes, there are several countries in the world where studying for free or at a very minimal cost is possible. Moreover, if you want to reduce the cost, you can avail of scholarships and grants available at the country or the university.

Can I Work Part-Time While Studying in Affordable Countries?

Yes, of course, you can work while you are studying in countries abroad. However, you need to check the policies related to this before working. This is so because the working hours or other rules might differ from one nation to another.

Are There Any Hidden Costs That Might Pop Up While Studying in a Cheap Country?

The cost, such as visa, fees, transportation, and insurance, might vary as per the situation or updates in the policy of a country. Thus, you need to be very careful while considering the cost of studying abroad.