10 Countries with Free Education Policies for International Students

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The cost of education can be quite stressful for students, especially those aiming for higher education in universities. Students looking to get educated overseas must also know how deep they should reach inside their pockets before applying to international colleges. But worry not, since some countries offer free tuition for higher education students, with some extending their policy to international students. 

Citing various sources, below is the list of countries that offer free education for university students.

1. Germany

Germany is often referred to as the leading standard of free education as all universities in Germany do not apply tuition fees for both domestic and international students. The cost of living in Germany is quite affordable for students. Students are also offered dormitories to save on accommodation.  

2. Denmark

Denmark offers free education for eligible EU or Swiss citizens. The country also offers a student exchange program for permanent residents and some temporary residents. International students outside of the EU and Switzerland are allowed to work part-time or full-time during the summer holidays since they are not eligible for free tuition.

3. Finland

Finland is notable for its high-quality education system. The country provides tuition-free education and world-class teaching. Meanwhile, the cost of living in Finland ranges from €978 to €1,294, where students can live on a budget starting from €900 per month.

4. France

France is one of the best countries for international students seeking quality learning. The country accepts around 370,000 international students across all higher education institutions.

5. Norway

Citing topuniversities.com, universities in Noway offer free tuition for all students regardless of nationality. International students are urged to learn the Norwegian language since most of the classes are only taught in the native language. The cost of living in this country ranges from €1,211 to €1,578 per month.

6. Slovenia

The next country with free education is Slovenia, which does not charge tuition fees for its citizens and students from EU countries. International students who do not qualify for free tuition fees only need to pay US$2,100 per academic year for the undergraduate program. The cost of living in this country is quite affordable for students and is one of the cheapest countries for international students.

7. Iceland

In Iceland, 7 universities provide free tuition for international students across all nations. Some private universities also offer free tuition. To meet other living expenses, international students are allowed to work part-time. 

8. Bulgaria

Citing amberstudent.com, Bulgaria has accommodated around 14,000 international students nationwide. Bulgaria also offers free tuition and allows students to work 20 hours a week per academic year. The average cost of living in Bulgaria is quite affordable compared to other countries. 

9. Belgium

Belgium is not only well-known for its chocolates but also a country that offers free education. Similar to Bulgaria, students are also allowed to work 20 hours a week during the academic year in Belgium. The average living cost in Belgium is €950 to €1,350 per month.

10. Austria

Austria offers free education for EU citizens, but is also affordable for other international students. International students are also allowed to apply for a one-year visa to seek jobs in Austria once they graduate. The cost of living in this country averages €900 to €1,500 per month.

AULIA ULVA

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