Looking to study abroad without burning a hole in your pocket? For Indian students, choosing the right destination is very important. The costs of tuition fees, living expenses, and travel can pile up fast but fear not. There are countries where you can get a quality education without spending a fortune. In this article, we are exploring the cheapest country to study for Indian students, so you can embark on an incredible educational journey without breaking the bank.
Cheapest Country to Study for Indian Students
For your convenience, we have also attempted to make brief comparisons of some countries for you to make a smarter decision. This list is compiled based on the general preference of Indians studying abroad, so you are assured quality experience irrespective of your choice of country. That said, below is the affordably cheapest country to study for Indian students.
1. Malaysia
Malaysia offers affordable education and living expenses, with English-taught programs that reduce the language barrier. It is known for its diverse culture and safety for international students.
| Cost Type | Cost (MYR) | Cost (INR) (as of 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Per Month) | MYR 4,500 | ₹83,173 |
| Tuition Fees (Per Year) | 5,500 to 23,000 RM |
Tuition Source – Education Malaysia
Living Source – International Living
Scholarships with Financial Aid
- Malaysia Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan
- Malaysia International Bursaries at International Medical University
- University Of Nottingham Scholarship
Safety and Security
Malaysia is a peaceful and safe country for Indian students.
2. Taiwan
Taiwan is growing as a popular destination for studies, especially in technology. The island nation offers a safe and stable environment and is easily the cheapest country to study for Indian students.
| Cost Type | Cost (EUR) | Cost (INR) (as of 8 January 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Per Month) | EUR 680 to EUR 880 | ₹61,440 to ₹79,510 |
| Tuition Fees (Per Year) | US$800 – $15,000 |
Living Source – National Statistics Republic of China (Taiwan)
Tuition Source – Taiwan International Graduate Program
Scholarships With Financial Aid
- MOE Taiwan Scholarship
- Elite Study in Taiwan
Safety and Security
Taiwan is ranked the 18th safest country in the world.
3. Belgium
Belgium offers various language opportunities and is known for providing several scholarships to international students, including Indians.
| Cost Type | Cost (EUR) | Cost (INR) (as of 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Per Month) | EUR 873 to EUR 1,370 | ₹78,878 to ₹1,23,783 |
| Tuition Fees (EU Students) | EUR 2,500 to EUR 7,500 (yearly) | |
| Tuition Fees (Non-EU) | EUR 1,000/year |
Tuition Source – Study.EU
Scholarships With Financial Aid
- Government of Flanders Master Mind Scholarships for International Students
Safety and Security
Belgium is a secure country that offers a high standard of living.
Short Comparison of Malaysia, Taiwan, and Belgium
- Malaysia. Known for affordable tuition and living costs, offers English-taught programs, and ensures safety.
- Taiwan. Focused on technology education, offers various scholarships, and is the 3rd safest country in the world.
- Belgium. Offers education in three languages, has a range of scholarships, and provides excellent living standards.
4. Austria
If your interest is quality in addition to the cheapest education or education at a lesser cost, with the additional appeal of being a beautiful, safe, and friendly country, then Austria is the go-to country.
| Cost Type | Cost (EUR) | Cost (INR) (as of 8 January 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Per Month) | EUR 900 to EUR 1,300 | ₹81,317 to ₹1,17,458 |
| Tuition Fees (Per Semester) | EUR 700 to EUR 750 |
Note that the cost of living here also depends on your living habit and lifestyle.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Helmut Veith Stipend for Females in Computer Science
- Marcus Oldham College Scholarship
- Vienna International Postdoctoral Program
Safety and Security
Austria is renowned for low crime rates and green, clean cities that are safe for international students.
5. Sweden
The emphasis in Sweden is group and independent study, giving Indian students freedom and responsibility in their education. This comes as a perk of being the cheapest country to study for Indian students.
| Cost Type | Cost (EUR/SEK) | Cost (INR) (as of 8 January 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Per Month) | EUR 750 to EUR 1,250 | ₹67,764 to ₹1,12,941 |
| Tuition Fees (Per Year) | SEK 80,000 |
Living Source – Living Cost
Tuition Source – Study.EU
Scholarships with Financial Aid
- Stockholm University Scholarship Scheme
- Karlstad University Global Scholarship Programme
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology Tuition Fee Waivers
Safety and Security
Sweden offers a low crime rate environment, and most locals speak English, so help is readily available if needed.
Comparison: Austria vs. Sweden
- Education Quality. Both countries offer excellent education systems. Austria gives access to European educational resources, while Sweden focuses on group and independent learning.
- Tuition Costs. Austria generally charges lower tuition fees per semester, whereas Sweden’s annual fee is around SEK 80,000.
- Cost of Living. The living costs are quite comparable, with Austria ranging from EUR 900 to EUR 1,300 and Sweden ranging from EUR 750 to EUR 1,250 per month.
- Safety. Both countries are renowned for low crime rates, making them secure choices for international students.
- Language. While Austria has various German dialects, English is still widely spoken, much like in Sweden where almost everyone speaks English.
6. Mexico
Mexico offers an affordable education structure with some of the best universities in Latin America. Studying here is a great option for Indian students.
| Cost Type | Cost (MXN) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Per Month) | MXN 18,200 | |
| Tuition Fees (Undergraduate) | 380 to 16,300 (per semester) | 17 to 747 |
| Tuition Fees (Postgraduate) | 1,000 to 2,500 (per year) | 45 to 115 |
| Tuition Fees (Private Master’s) | 34,000 (per semester) | 1,560 |
Cost (INR) (as of 2024): ₹83,767
Scholarships with Financial Aid
- Bilateral Academic Exchange Programme (AEP) with India.
Safety and Security
Safety can be a concern in Mexico, with crime being a pressing issue. Awareness of regions affected by natural calamities like hurricanes and earthquakes is crucial.
7. Norway
With a unique educational experience and excellent research reputation, Norway can be an attractive destination for students worldwide.
| Cost Type | Cost (NOK) | Cost (INR) (as of 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Per Month) | NOK 7,000 to NOK 9,000 | ₹54,302 to ₹69,817 |
| Tuition Fees | Varies (details below) |
Living Source – Numbeo
Tuition Source – Study.EU
Scholarships with Financial Aid
- SCAR Fellowships in Antarctic Research
- Mobility Grant for Norwegian Language and Literature
- NTNU Scholarship
- CLIFF-GRAD Scholarship
- Become JACK and JONES Scholar
Safety and Security
Norway is one of the world’s most secure countries, with high standards of living, healthcare, and education.
8. Poland
Poland offers a variety of academic options for Indian students and has become one of the best places to study in Europe.
| Cost Type | Cost (EUR) | Cost (PLN) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Per Month) | 1,800 | |
| Tuition Fees (Bachelor’s) | EUR 2,000/year | |
| Tuition Fees (Postgraduate) | EUR 3,000/year | |
| Tuition Fees (MBA Program) | EUR 8,000 to 12,000/year |
Cost (INR) (as of 8 January 2024): ₹35,543
Scholarships With Financial Aid
- Poland Government funded Scholarships for International Students.
- International awards at Kozminski University, Poland.
- Erasmus Mundus SERP-Chem Master Scholarships.
Safety and Security
Poland is generally safe for travelers. Awareness of street crime and potential theft is advised.
9. Germany
Indian students often pick Germany for their higher studies. Thanks to free education and a safe environment, it’s an appealing destination.
| Cost Type | Cost (EUR) | Cost (INR) (as of 8 January 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Per Month) | EUR 800 to EUR 1,000 | ₹72,188 to ₹90,236 |
| Tuition Fees | Free (semester contribution) | EUR 150 to EUR 250 |
Living Source – Numbeo
Tuition Source – Study.EU
Scholarships and Financial Aid
- DAAD Scholarship
- Erasmus Scholarship Program
- DAAD WISE Scholarship Program
- Kofi Annan MBA Scholarships
- EMS Undergraduate Scholarship
- Master Scholarships at University of Stuttgart
Safety and Security
Germany is generally safe for students, and there’s no need for extra precautions.
10. France
France is known for its world-class colleges and offers a broad range of courses in English.
| Cost Type | Cost (EUR) | Cost (INR) (as of 8 January 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Per Month) | EUR 400 to EUR 1,200 | ₹36,094 to ₹1,08,283 |
| Tuition Fees (Bachelor’s) | EUR 2,770/year | |
| Tuition Fees (Master’s) | EUR 3,770/year | |
| Tuition Fees (PhD) | EUR 380/year (non-EU citizens same) |
Scholarships with Financial Aid
- Raman Charpak fellowship (PhD)
- Bourses pour études religieuses
- Eiffel scholarship program of excellence
- Scholarships for French language teachers
- The Erasmus+ mobility scholarships for foreign students
Safety and Security
France offers a safe environment for students with many programs to ensure safety.
Comparing Germany and France
Both countries offer a variety of scholarships and a living environment conducive to international students, making them top choices for Indians looking to study abroad.
Next up is information for Denmark and Argentina, two countries that are often chosen by Indian students for their higher studies. Tables are provided for easy comparison, and a brief comparison between the two countries is also included.
11. Denmark
Denmark is famous for its quality education and safe environment. It’s a country where degrees are respected worldwide, and the local people are known for their kindness.
| Cost Type | Cost (EUR) | Cost (INR) (as of 8 January 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Monthly) | EUR 800 to EUR 1,200 | ₹72,278 to ₹1,08,283 |
| Tuition Fees (Yearly) | EUR 6,000 to EUR 16,000 |
Tuition Source – Study.EU
Living Source – Numbeo
Scholarships With Financial Aid
- Danish State Scholarships at the University of Copenhagen
- IT University of Copenhagen State Scholarships in Denmark
- Danish State Scholarships at Aarhus University
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree Scholarships in Media Arts Cultures
Safety and Security
Denmark is one of the safest and happiest countries in the world. Equality and a high standard of living make it secure for all students, including Indian immigrants.
12. Argentina
Argentina is a growing education hub in Latin America with universities regarded as some of the best on the continent.
| Cost Type | Cost (USD) | Cost (INR) (as of 8 May 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Monthly) | USD 1,000 | ₹81,765 |
| Tuition Fees (Yearly) | 8,000 to 24,000 pesos |
Living Source – Numbeo
Scholarships with Financial Aid
- Michaela Farnum Memorial Scholarships
- Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships
- Mente Argentina (MA) Scholarship Program
Safety and Security
Argentina, especially Buenos Aires, is generally safe for students. Precautions are similar to those in any large city.
Comparison
- Education Quality. Both countries offer quality education, but Denmark’s educational system is particularly renowned for its cutting-edge methodology.
- Cost of Living. The living cost in Denmark ranges from ₹72,278 to ₹1,08,283, while Argentina has a standard living cost of ₹81,765 per month.
- Tuition Fees. Denmark’s tuition ranges from EUR 6,000 to EUR 16,000 yearly, while governmental higher education in Argentina is free, and private institutions range from 8,000 to 24,000 pesos annually.
- Safety. Both countries are considered safe for Indian students, with Denmark being one of the safest countries in the world.
Choosing between Denmark and Argentina depends on your preferences and needs. Denmark may be suitable for those seeking innovative education, while Argentina can be an attractive option for students looking for free or lower-cost education in Latin America. Both countries offer a safe environment and various scholarships and financial aid for Indian students.
13. Switzerland
A diverse nation with around four national languages, Switzerland is home to a significant international student population, offering various scholarships despite higher education costs.
| Cost Type | Cost (EUR) | Cost (INR) (as of 8 January 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Per Month) | EUR 1,400 to EUR 2,500 | ₹1,26,494 to ₹2,25,882 |
| Tuition Fees (Per Year) | EUR 400 to EUR 3,700 |
Scholarships With Financial Aid
- Swiss Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Students
- EPFL Excellence Scholarships
- Nestle MBA Scholarships for Women from Developing Countries
Safety and Security
Switzerland is one of the safest countries globally, with minimal violent crime and a low likelihood of minor crimes.
14. Italy
Italy primarily focuses on higher education through universities and graduate schools, lacking professional or vocational schools beyond secondary education.
| Cost Type | Cost (EUR) | Cost (INR) (as of 8 January 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Per Month) | EUR 800 | ₹72,282 |
| Tuition Fees (Per Year) | EUR 500 to EUR 4,000 |
Scholarships With Financial Aid
- Bologna University Study Grants for International Students
- Politecnico di Torino International Scholarships
- Italian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students
Safety and Security
Italy is generally safe, with only minor theft being common. Travel infrastructure is well-advanced.
15. Spain
Spain offers excellent resources for learning the Spanish language and culture, with low crime rates and hospitality towards international students.
| Cost Type | Cost (EUR) | Cost (INR) (as of 8 January 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living (Per Month) | EUR 900 to EUR 1,000 | ₹81,317 to ₹90,353 |
| Tuition Fees (Per Year) | EUR 1,000 to EUR 3,500 |
Scholarships with Financial Aid
- Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
- Barcelona Institute of Economics (IEB) PhD Scholarship
- Spanish Studies Abroad Merit-Based Scholarship
Safety and Security
Spain is known for low violent crime rates and general hospitality, with street crime similar to other nations.
Comparison of Switzerland, Italy, and Spain
- Cost of Living. Switzerland has the highest cost of living, followed by Spain, and then Italy.
- Tuition Fees. Switzerland and Italy have a similar range of tuition fees, while Spain’s fees are generally lower.
- Scholarships. All three countries offer various scholarships, with Switzerland offering some exclusive ones for high achievers.
- Safety and Security. All three countries are considered safe for international students, with Switzerland being particularly noted for its security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the cheapest country to study abroad for Indian students?
Poland is the cheapest country for Indian students to study abroad. Living costs and tuition fees are quite low there.
In which country education is free for Indian students?
Countries like Austria, Germany, Norway, and Sweden offer free education to Indian and other international students.
Which country is cheapest to study for Indian students in Europe?
Some of the cheapest countries in Europe for Indian students to study are Poland, Austria, Germany, Norway, and Sweden. They provide affordable education options.
Which European country has the most Indian students?
Germany is the European country that has the most Indian students. It’s a popular choice because of free or low-cost education for both national and international students.
Read also: Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in USA for Masters
