Students study abroad with the intention to access quality education and global opportunities, this, however, comes at a hefty price. Studying in popular international countries would seem almost impossible if you do not have a larger financial appetite. Living and accommodation costs are other expenses to be accounted for over and above tuition fees. Many students drop the idea of studying abroad anticipating a financial weigh down. But what if we told you that you can study abroad without burning a hole in your pocket, Yes! It is possible, stick with us to know more.
Study in Germany for free
- There is a reason why many international students gravitate towards Germany.
- German public universities run undergraduate courses with no tuition fees for its nationals as well as international students.
- German education is associated with quality and superiority, low tuition costs and excellent career opportunities make Germany an attractive option to international students; the QS world ranking features 40 Germany universities, all running in shoulder-to-shoulder completion with universities in the UK and USA.
- To study in Germany as an international student, the university will charge you a nominal administrative fee of €150-250.
- The only exception to this is Baden-Württemberg, a state in south-west Germany which levies a tuition fee of €1,500 per semester for international students, from the autumn of 2017.
- Fees for students pursuing their second degree are reduced to €650 a semester. Fees for PhD and refugee students remain unchanged.
- However, to obtain a German student visa, you will need to declare €10,236 towards living expenses for a year.
Study in France
- Study in France can be more affordable than you know. Well, like Germany, education in France may not be free but can certainly be affordable.
- Public universities in France offer students a wide range of courses at postgraduate levels at cost for tuition €2,770 per year for a Bachelor’s programme, €3,770 per year for Master’s programme, and €380 per year for Doctoral programme. Costs for specialize courses like medicine, engineering, etc. is higher.
- Cost of living in France for an international student could be anywhere €9,600 per year. Living in more modern parts of the country can cost higher.
- The Government of France extends financial support to international students by offering a wide range of scholarships, and aid.
Study in Italy
- The beautiful country of Italy is not as popular as Germany for its offering of affordable education to international students.
- Public universities in Italy offer international students inexpensive education, with fees being as low as €900 and €4,800 per year for an undergraduate program.
- Tuition fees at private institutions around Italy are higher.
- Two of Italy’s cities – Milan and Rome, are ranked in the top 100 of the best cities for students according to the QS rankings.
A few other countries worth mentioning for their inexpensive education offerings are –
- Dubai
- Ireland
- Singapore
If finances hold back your dreams of studying internationally, there are different ways by which you can support your study abroad venture, speak to our education counsellors to know more and get the right advice and guidance to help you make your dream a reality.
Mentioned are ways by which you can support your study abroad
- Scholarships
One of the ways of pursuing higher education is by applying for scholarships. As a student desiring an overseas education experience, you have access to fully-funded scholarships. Getting a fully scholarship is extremely difficult as the number of students applying to avail scholarships is high while the number of scholarships awarded are limited.
- Student exchange programs
The Indian government with 54 other countries signed the Education Exchange Programs (EEPs) or Joint Declaration of Intent (JDIs) to promoted exchange of bright and able students. Some of the countries on this list include USA, UK, Germany, New Zealand, Australia, etc.
- Bursaries
Scholarships are merit-based while a bursary is assistance given taking into account the financial need of the student. Bursaries are awarded by various universities or private institutions to help students fulfil their desire to study abroad without worrying about the expenses. Bursaries come with no conditions of repayment but ask students to donate and contribute to help support other deserving students. Some institutions need students to render their services in lieu of the bursary.
- Internships
Some courses offered are integrated with internships. Internships are a great way to make some extra money while gaining experience and building contacts. Internships are often related to your field of study, preparing your for a work setting while offering training and exposure to skills that are crucial in enhancing your profile. An experience in a field will put you ahead in the job market giving you an edge over the others.
- Part-time Work
Most popular student destinations allow international students to work for 20 hours a week while pursuing their academics. The permission to work will be mentioned on your passport depending on the nature of your visa. You could earn anywhere $10 to $12 per hour form a part-time job. Part-time opportunities are available off-campus and on-campus. While working you must abide by the rules laid out for you, failure to which could have serious consequences.