Cheapest Country to Study Abroad for Indian Students in 2025

Studying abroad is a dream for many Indian students. What if it was possible to get quality education without spending a lot? Many countries offer affordable education, with low tuition fees, reasonable living costs, and scholarships that make studying abroad accessible.

How affordable can studying abroad really be?

Some countries offer tuition fees as low as ₹1–₹2 lakhs per year, while others provide free education at public universities. For example, Germany is well-known for its tuition-free programs, and Norway offers free education even for international students. Countries like Poland and the Czech Republic also stand out with affordable tuition and low living expenses.

For Indian students, factors that impact the decision to choose the right country also include saving on living costs, finding part-time work opportunities, and accessing scholarships tailored for Indian students.

Why consider these affordable countries?

• Tuition fees that fit your budget.
• Low living costs in smaller cities.
• Scholarships and work opportunities to ease expenses.

Let’s look at the cheapest countries to study abroad for Indian students​ and why they’re a great choice for Indian students.

Top 15 Cheapest Country to Study Abroad for Indian Students in 2025

Looking to study abroad but worried about the cost? There are several countries offering affordable tuition fees, low living costs, and plenty of work opportunities for Indian students. 

1. Germany

Region: Europe

Germany is a favorite among Indian students, particularly those pursuing engineering, technology, and sciences. The country’s tuition-free public universities provide high-quality education, even for Indian students. The only cost at public universities is a minimal semester fee, making Germany an affordable choice.

Why is Germany affordable?

• No tuition fees at most public universities (only semester fees apply).
• Living costs are more affordable in smaller cities like Leipzig or Dresden compared to Munich or Frankfurt.

Living in Germany costs around ₹80,000–₹1 lakh per month (€900–€1,200), covering rent, groceries, transportation, and health insurance. Larger cities like Munich are slightly more expensive.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Semester fees range from ₹15,000–₹30,000 (€200–€400). Certain states like Baden-Württemberg charge higher tuition for non-EU students, around ₹1.5–₹3 lakhs (€1,500–€3,000) per semester.
• Master’s Programs: Tuition fees at public universities are minimal or free, with semester fees ranging from ₹15,000–₹40,000 (€200–€500). Private universities may charge ₹4–₹12 lakhs (€4,500–€12,000) annually.

Also Read:- How Much does it Cost to Study in Germany

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year, earning around ₹800–₹1,200 (€10–€15) per hour. Popular part-time jobs include research assistant roles, café work, or retail positions.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• DAAD Scholarships: Cover tuition and living expenses for Indian students.
• Erasmus+ Program: Offers financial support for students studying in Europe.

Top Fields of Study

• Engineering and Technology.
• Business Administration.
• Medicine and Life Sciences.

2. Norway

Region: Europe

Norway is a top destination for affordable education, offering tuition-free public universities for all students, including those from non-EU countries. Although living costs in Norway are higher than in many other countries, the absence of tuition fees makes it an attractive choice for Indian students.

Why is Norway affordable?

• Free education at public universities for Indian students.
• Scholarships available to help cover living expenses.

Living in Norway costs around ₹1.5–₹2 lakhs per month (€1,500–€2,000). Major cities like Oslo and Bergen are more expensive compared to smaller towns.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Tuition-free (only semester fees of around ₹5,000–₹10,000 (€50–€100)).
• Master’s Programs: Tuition-free (same semester fees apply).

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Students can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during holidays, earning ₹1,200–₹1,800 (€15–€20) per hour.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Norwegian Quota Scholarship: Provides financial support for living expenses and travel.
• Erasmus+ Program: Offers grants for international students.

Also Read:- How to Study in Norway for Free

Top Fields of Study

• Environmental Science and Sustainability.
• Engineering and Technology.
• Business Administration.

3. Mexico

Region: North America

Mexico is an affordable destination for Indian students, offering low tuition fees, reasonable living costs, and vibrant cultural experiences. Public universities in Mexico provide quality education, especially in fields like medicine, business, and humanities.

Why is Mexico affordable?

• Low tuition fees at public universities.
• Affordable cost of living, especially in cities outside the capital.

Living in Mexico costs around ₹40,000–₹70,000 per month (MXN 9,000–MXN 15,000), which includes rent, food, and transportation.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Tuition fees range from ₹50,000–₹2 lakhs per year (MXN 10,000–MXN 50,000).
• Master’s Programs: Fees typically range from ₹70,000–₹2.5 lakhs per year (MXN 15,000–MXN 60,000).

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Indian students can work up to 20 hours per week, earning around ₹400–₹700 per hour (MXN 100–MXN 200). Popular jobs include language tutoring, hospitality, and retail.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• CONACYT Scholarships: Cover tuition and living expenses for master’s and PhD students.
• University-Specific Grants: Available at many Mexican institutions.

Top Fields of Study

• Business and Management.
• Medicine and Healthcare.
• Arts and Humanities.

4. Poland

Region: Europe

Poland is becoming a popular destination for Indian students due to its affordable tuition fees, low living costs, and excellent academic standards. With a mix of historic universities and modern facilities, Poland offers quality education in fields like engineering, medicine, and business.

Why is Poland affordable?

• Low tuition fees compared to Western Europe.
• Affordable cost of living, especially in cities like Krakow and Lublin.

Living in Poland costs around ₹40,000–₹60,000 per month (€450–€650), including rent, food, and transportation. Smaller cities are more budget-friendly than Warsaw.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Tuition fees range from ₹2–₹4 lakhs per year (€2,000–€4,500).
• Master’s Programs: Tuition fees range from ₹2.5–₹5 lakhs per year (€3,000–€6,000).

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Indian students can work part-time while studying, earning around ₹600–₹1,000 (€7–€12) per hour in jobs like hospitality, retail, or tutoring.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Erasmus+ Program: Supports exchange and degree students in Europe.
• Poland Government Scholarships: For Indian and non-EU students pursuing higher education.

Top Fields of Study

• Engineering and Technology.
• Medicine and Healthcare.
• Business and Management.

5. Hungary

Region: Europe

Hungary offers high-quality education at low costs, making it a favorite among Indian students. Universities like Eötvös Loránd University and University of Szeged are known for their programs in medicine, engineering, and arts.

Why is Hungary affordable?

• Low tuition fees for Indian students.
• Relatively low cost of living compared to other European countries.

Living in Hungary costs around ₹40,000–₹70,000 per month (€500–€800), including rent, utilities, food, and transportation. Budapest is slightly more expensive than smaller cities.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Tuition fees range from ₹2.5–₹5 lakhs per year (€3,000–€6,000).
• Master’s Programs: Fees range from ₹3–₹6 lakhs per year (€3,500–€7,000).

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week, earning around ₹600–₹1,000 (€7–€12) per hour. Jobs are often available in hospitality, retail, or as teaching assistants.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship: Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and health insurance.
• CEEPUS Scholarship: For students from Central European countries.

Top Fields of Study

• Medicine and Healthcare.
• Engineering and Technology.
• Arts and Humanities.

6. Czech Republic

Region: Europe

The Czech Republic is known for its excellent education system and affordable tuition fees. Universities like Charles University and Czech Technical University in Prague attract students for programs in science, engineering, and business.

Why is the Czech Republic affordable?

• Low tuition fees for English-taught programs.
• Affordable living costs, especially in smaller cities.

Living in the Czech Republic costs around ₹40,000–₹70,000 per month (CZK 12,000–CZK 20,000), including rent, food, and transport.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Tuition fees range from ₹2–₹5 lakhs per year (CZK 50,000–CZK 1,00,000).
• Master’s Programs: Fees range from ₹2.5–₹6 lakhs per year (CZK 60,000–CZK 1,20,000).

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Indian students can work part-time during their studies, earning around ₹500–₹800 per hour (CZK 150–CZK 250) in jobs like retail, hospitality, or tutoring.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Erasmus+ Program: Provides financial support for EU and non-EU students.
• Czech Government Scholarships: Focus on master’s and doctoral programs in development-related fields.

Top Fields of Study

• Engineering and Technology.
• Business and Management.
• Natural Sciences.

7. Malaysia

Region: Asia

Malaysia is an affordable study destination for Indian students, offering quality education with a mix of cultural diversity. It is home to top universities like the University of Malaya and Taylor’s University and has strong partnerships with international institutions.

Why is Malaysia affordable?

• Low tuition fees compared to Western countries.
• Affordable cost of living, especially in smaller cities.

Living expenses in Malaysia range from ₹25,000–₹50,000 per month (MYR 1,500–MYR 3,000), including accommodation, food, and transport.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Tuition fees range from ₹2–₹5 lakhs per year (MYR 12,000–MYR 30,000).
• Master’s Programs: Fees range from ₹2.5–₹6 lakhs per year (MYR 15,000–MYR 40,000).

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Students can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters, earning around ₹200–₹300 per hour (MYR 10–MYR 15) in roles such as retail, hospitality, or campus jobs.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS): Covers tuition fees and provides a living allowance.
• University-Specific Scholarships: Offered by institutions like the University of Malaya.

Top Fields of Study

• Business and Management.
• Engineering and Technology.
• Hospitality and Tourism.

8. Taiwan

Region: Asia

Taiwan is gaining popularity for its affordable education and high-quality academic programs. Universities like the National Taiwan University (NTU) are globally recognized for their research and innovation.

Why is Taiwan affordable?

• Low tuition fees for international students.
• Affordable living costs, especially outside Taipei.

Living in Taiwan costs around ₹30,000–₹60,000 per month (TWD 12,000–TWD 25,000), covering rent, food, and transportation.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Tuition fees range from ₹1.5–₹4 lakhs per year (TWD 60,000–TWD 1,50,000).
• Master’s Programs: Fees range from ₹2–₹5 lakhs per year (TWD 80,000–TWD 2,00,000).

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Indian students can work up to 20 hours per week, earning around ₹400–₹600 per hour (TWD 150–TWD 300) in jobs such as tutoring, research assistance, or part-time office work.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Taiwan Scholarship: Covers tuition fees and living expenses for Indian students.
• MOE Huayu Enrichment Scholarship: For students studying Mandarin in Taiwan.

Top Fields of Study

• Engineering and Technology.
• Medicine and Life Sciences.
• Mandarin Language Studies.

9. Argentina

Region: South America

Argentina is an affordable option for Indian students looking for quality education in fields like medicine, business, and the arts. Public universities, such as the University of Buenos Aires (UBA), offer free or low-cost tuition for Indian students.

Why is Argentina affordable?

• Free or low-cost tuition at public universities.
• Low living costs compared to other countries in South America.

Living in Argentina costs around ₹30,000–₹50,000 per month (ARS 100,000–ARS 170,000), covering rent, food, and local transportation.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Public universities offer free tuition, while private institutions charge ₹1–₹3 lakhs per year (ARS 3,50,000–ARS 1,000,000).
• Master’s Programs: Fees at private universities range from ₹2–₹4 lakhs per year (ARS 700,000–ARS 1,500,000).

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Students can work part-time during their studies, earning around ₹200–₹400 per hour (ARS 700–ARS 1,500) in roles like teaching, hospitality, or retail.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Argentine Government Scholarships: Available for Indian students.
• University-Specific Grants: Offered by institutions like the University of Buenos Aires.

Top Fields of Study

• Medicine and Healthcare.
• Business and Economics.
• Arts and Humanities.

10. Nepal

Region: Asia

Nepal is a close-to-home option for Indian students, offering affordable education with cultural similarities. Its universities, such as Tribhuvan University and Kathmandu University, are known for programs in arts, science, and medicine.

Why is Nepal affordable?

• Low tuition fees for Indian students.
• Minimal living costs compared to other Indian destinations.

Living expenses in Nepal range from ₹15,000–₹25,000 per month (NPR 30,000–NPR 50,000), covering housing, food, and transportation.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Tuition fees range from ₹30,000–₹1 lakh per year (NPR 60,000–NPR 2,00,000).
• Master’s Programs: Fees range from ₹50,000–₹1.5 lakhs per year (NPR 1,00,000–NPR 3,00,000).

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Part-time work opportunities are limited but available in teaching, retail, or administrative roles, with earnings around ₹100–₹200 per hour (NPR 200–NPR 400).

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Indian Embassy Scholarships: For Indian students studying in Nepal.
• Tribhuvan University Scholarships: Covers tuition fees for high-achieving students.

Top Fields of Study

• Medicine and Healthcare.
• Arts and Humanities.
• Business Studies.

11. Sri Lanka

Region: Asia

Sri Lanka is a budget-friendly option for Indian students, offering quality education with similarities in culture and lifestyle. Universities like University of Colombo and University of Peradeniya are popular for their programs in engineering, medicine, and arts.

Why is Sri Lanka affordable?

• Low tuition fees for international students.
• Affordable cost of living compared to most countries.

Living expenses in Sri Lanka range from ₹20,000–₹40,000 per month (LKR 90,000–LKR 1,80,000), including rent, food, and transport.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Tuition fees range from ₹40,000–₹1 lakh per year (LKR 1,80,000–LKR 4,50,000).
• Master’s Programs: Fees range from ₹60,000–₹1.5 lakhs per year (LKR 2,50,000–LKR 6,00,000).

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Students can work part-time in areas like hospitality, retail, or tutoring, earning around ₹150–₹300 per hour (LKR 700–LKR 1,500).

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Government of Sri Lanka Scholarships: Offers financial support to Indian students.
• University-Specific Scholarships: Available for high-performing students.

Top Fields of Study

• Engineering and Technology.
• Medicine and Life Sciences.
• Arts and Humanities.

12. Vietnam

Region: Asia

Vietnam is an emerging destination for Indian students looking for affordable education. With low tuition fees, a rich cultural experience, and growing global partnerships, universities like Vietnam National University and Hanoi University are gaining recognition.

Why is Vietnam affordable?

• Low tuition fees at public universities.
• Very affordable cost of living.

Living in Vietnam costs around ₹20,000–₹35,000 per month (VND 6 million–VND 10 million), including housing, food, and transportation.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Tuition fees range from ₹50,000–₹1.5 lakhs per year (VND 15 million–VND 45 million).
• Master’s Programs: Fees range from ₹70,000–₹2 lakhs per year (VND 20 million–VND 60 million).

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Students can work up to 20 hours per week, earning around ₹200–₹400 per hour (VND 50,000–VND 100,000) in roles like teaching English, retail, or hospitality.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Vietnam Government Scholarships: Covers tuition and provides stipends for Indian students.
• University-Specific Grants: Offered by institutions like Vietnam National University.

Top Fields of Study

• Business and Management.
• Engineering and Technology.
• Environmental Studies.

13. Turkey

Region: Asia/Europe

Turkey offers high-quality education at affordable costs, blending Eastern and Western cultures. With renowned institutions like Middle East Technical University (METU) and Bogaziçi University, Turkey is an appealing choice for Indian students.

Why is Turkey affordable?

• Low tuition fees for Indian students.
• Affordable living costs compared to Western Europe.

Living expenses in Turkey range from ₹25,000–₹40,000 per month (TRY 8,000–TRY 12,000), covering housing, food, and transport.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Tuition fees range from ₹80,000–₹1.5 lakhs per year (TRY 25,000–TRY 50,000).
• Master’s Programs: Fees range from ₹1–₹2.5 lakhs per year (TRY 30,000–TRY 75,000).

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Students can work part-time during their studies, earning around ₹250–₹500 per hour (TRY 80–TRY 150) in jobs like teaching English, hospitality, or retail.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Türkiye Scholarships: Fully funded scholarships covering tuition, living costs, and travel expenses.
• University-Specific Grants: Offered by public and private universities.

Top Fields of Study

• Engineering and Technology.
• Medicine and Healthcare.
• Business and Management.

14. South Africa

Region: Africa

South Africa is a budget-friendly destination for Indian students, offering quality education at institutions like University of Cape Town (UCT) and Stellenbosch University. The country is known for programs in sciences, business, and social studies.

Why is South Africa affordable?

• Lower tuition fees compared to Western countries.
• Affordable living costs in smaller cities and suburban areas.

Living in South Africa costs around ₹30,000–₹60,000 per month (ZAR 6,000–ZAR 12,000), including rent, food, and transport.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Tuition fees range from ₹1–₹2.5 lakhs per year (ZAR 20,000–ZAR 50,000).
• Master’s Programs: Fees range from ₹1.5–₹3.5 lakhs per year (ZAR 30,000–ZAR 70,000).

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Students can work up to 20 hours per week, earning around ₹200–₹400 per hour (ZAR 50–ZAR 100) in retail, hospitality, or campus jobs.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• National Research Foundation (NRF) Scholarships: For postgraduate students in research fields.
• University-Specific Grants: Available for Indian students.

Top Fields of Study

• Business and Economics.
• Environmental Studies.
• Engineering and Technology.

15. Indonesia

Region: Asia

Indonesia is an affordable study destination for Indian students, offering low tuition fees, affordable living costs, and rich cultural experiences. Universities like University of Indonesia (UI) and Gadjah Mada University are among the best in the region.

Why is Indonesia affordable?

• Low tuition fees at public universities.
• Cost-effective living expenses across the country.

Living in Indonesia costs around ₹20,000–₹40,000 per month (IDR 4 million–IDR 8 million), including rent, food, and transport.

Average Bachelor’s and Master’s Fees

• Bachelor’s Programs: Tuition fees range from ₹50,000–₹1.5 lakhs per year (IDR 10 million–IDR 30 million).
• Master’s Programs: Fees range from ₹80,000–₹2 lakhs per year (IDR 15 million–IDR 40 million).

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Part-time work opportunities are limited, but students can earn around ₹150–₹300 per hour (IDR 30,000–IDR 60,000) in roles such as tutoring or hospitality.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Darmasiswa Scholarship: Covers tuition and provides a monthly stipend for Indian students.
• University-Specific Scholarships: Available for outstanding students.

Top Fields of Study

• Business and Management.
• Engineering and Technology.
• Agriculture and Environmental Sciences.

How to Determine the Most Affordable Country for Education

If you're on a budget, there are a few important things to consider to make sure you're getting good value. Here's what to think about:

Factor	What to Consider
Tuition Fees	Look at the cost of your program. Countries like Germany offer low-cost or free education for international students, while others like Canada may range from CAD 7,000 to CAD 29,000 (₹4,00,000 to ₹17,00,000) per year.
Living Costs	City life can be expensive. Sydney may cost AUD 2,500/month (₹1,40,000), while smaller towns are cheaper, around AUD 1,500/month (₹85,000).
Work Opportunities	Some countries allow part-time work. In Canada, you can work 20 hours a week during the semester and full-time during breaks.
Scholarships	Look for scholarships that match your field of study. Erasmus+ in Europe offers funding for many programs.
Visa Requirements & Post-Study Work	Make sure to check if you can stay and work after graduation. Canada and Australia offer post-study work options.

Is Quality Compromised in Affordable Study Destinations? 

It’s understandable to wonder if the quality of education in low-cost countries is as good as in more expensive ones. The truth is, many countries that offer affordable education also have top-notch universities and programs. Here’s why:

• Government Support: Countries like Germany and Norway provide heavily subsidized education, which keeps tuition fees low without compromising on quality. In Germany, tuition fees for public universities are often as low as €1,500 per year (₹1,35,000), and in Norway, education is free for international students at public universities.
• Globally Ranked Universities: Affordable countries still offer globally recognized universities:
  • Germany is home to top universities like Technische Universität München, which ranks in the top 100 globally for engineering and technology.
  • Norway has universities like University of Oslo, known for its high-quality education in fields like social sciences and law.
  • Hungary has excellent programs in medicine, with universities like Semmelweis University ranked highly for medical studies.
• Specialized Fields: Some countries excel in certain areas. For example:
  • Germany is renowned for its engineering and technology programs.
  • Poland is recognized for its medicine programs, and many international students choose to study here for their medical degrees.

How upGrad Can Help You Study in These Countries

upGrad Abroad helps you find the best affordable universities, prepare for entrance exams, and explore cost-effective study options. Here’s how:

Find Affordable Universities in Budget-Friendly Countries

We assist students in selecting universities that offer quality education at lower tuition costs. We provide detailed insights into programs that fit your budget.

• Study in Germany
• Study in Australia
• Study in USA
• Study in UK

Exam Preparation Resources

A strong score in entrance exams improves admission and scholarship chances. upGrad Abroad offers guides and practice materials for:

• IELTS – Required for English-taught programs.
• GRE – Preferred for graduate programs in various countries.
• TOEFL – Accepted by universities worldwide.

SOP, LOR, and Scholarship Assistance

Strong application documents increase admission chances. upGrad Abroad provides resources for:

• Letter of Recommendation (LOR).
• Statement of Purpose (SOP).
• Scholarships.

Compare Study Destinations

Confused between two countries? upGrad Abroad offers detailed comparisons:

• Australia vs. Ireland – Understand tuition fees, job prospects, and lifestyle differences.
• Ireland vs. New Zealand – Compare education quality, visa policies, and living costs.

Hybrid Learning for Cost Savings

Start your degree online and complete it on-campus abroad to save on living expenses. Explore affordable hybrid programs in countries like France, the USA, and Germany.

Find the best study destination today!