Living Cost in Europe

Average cost of living: €466 – €567/month Albaniaʼs rich culture, natural beauty, and affordable, high-quality education place it among the loveliest study-abroad destinations. Albania is home to wonderful beaches, exceptional architecture, and flourishing countryside. In addition to all this, with a bit of budgeting, the average cost of living ranges from €466 – €567/month, placing Albania among Europe’s cheapest countries. Students in Albania can work up to 20 hours per week during their studies in Albania.

For EU/EAA and Switzerland Tuition  Starting from €750/year. Average cost of living from €1,011 to €1,270/month. Apart from being a great tourist attraction, Andorra also makes an exceptional study abroad destination. With spectacular natural beauty, exceptional higher education, and a student-focused environment, students would really find a unique student experience here. Living costs start at an average of €1,011, but this is highly dependent on lifestyle and spending habits. During their studies, international students can engage in part-time work in Andorra.

Average cost of living: €1,048 – €1,304/month Austriaʼs great quality of life and cultural richness are among the factors bringing international students to its universities. Being a tuition-free country for EU students and a rather affordable one for the rest of the student population, Austria places itself among the top cheap countries to study for international students. In terms of living costs, monthly expenses start at €1,048, including rent. Students can spend less with smart budgeting habits. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during their studies without having to apply for a work permit.

Tuition: €1,000 – €6,000/year Average cost of living: €507 – €595/month Higher education in Belarus is renowned around the world for the quality of its programs. Students in Belarus get to experience a welcoming environment as well as a rich culture and history. The living expenses range from €507 – €595/month, while the cost of education is also comparably affordable. International students in Belarus are allowed to work less than 30 hours per week.

For Wallonia-Brussels Federation or EU €835. Non-EU: €2,505/year Average cost of living: €963 – €1,297/month The rich history, vibrant culture, and world-class education are among the top things that define Belgium. Its relatively low tuition fees make it a wonderful destination for international students who love chocolate, waffles, and outstanding educational opportunities. International students in Belgium can apply for a one-year post-graduation residence permit to search for a job as well as work up to 20 hours per week while studying.

For EU/EAA and Switzerland Starting from €300/year. Non-EU: Starting from €1,750/year Average cost of living: €542 – €655/month Besides low tuition fees, Bulgaria also boasts an affordable cost of living. International students in Bulgaria find themselves surrounded by natural beauty and a great student scene. Bulgaria has nearly 14,000 international students across its universities, which means students get to be part of high-quality education and expand their cultural horizons. Bulgaria allows students to work 20 hours per week during their studies and holidays. Students can also apply for a nine-month post- graduation work visa if they plan to stay in the country after finishing their studies.

For EU/EAA and Switzerland Tuition Starting from €1,000/year Average cost of living: €663 – €824/month Being among the most affordable countries to study abroad, Croatia has world-class universities, a long academic tradition, and a beautiful coast. Studying in Croatia will be a wonderful experience in terms of cultural exchange, exploration opportunities, and affordability. With living costs ranging from €663 – €824/month, international students have the perfect balance of quality education and affordable living. In addition, international students in Croatia can work part-time during their studies.

For Cyprus & EU is Free. Non-EU/EEA Starting from €6,834/year Average cost of living: €1,029 – €1,259/month Known as the third largest island in the Mediterranean, the Republic of Cyprus is famous for its mythology and natural beauty. Of course, while its sub-tropical climate can be enough reason to study here, students are also fond of its tuition-free education for EU citizens. Students from other countries can also benefit from its relatively affordable tuition and enjoy Cyprus’s natural beauty and quality of education. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during their studies. They can also stay in the country for 60 days after graduation to search for employment.

Czech-Taught Degrees (both EU and Non-EU): Free English/another foreign language taught degrees: The tuition fees’ median is €6,250 Average cost of living: €823 – €1,071/month The Czech Republic is known for its castles, architecture, and spa towns. It is also a popular study-abroad destination, boasting tuition-free education for Czech-taught degrees. The monthly cost of living can go up to €1,071/month, but this largely depends on the studentʼs lifestyle and budgeting habits. To be eligible to work during their studies, students must be enrolled in a degree program accredited by the Ministry of Education. Students can work for up to 30 days within a calendar year and apply for a 9-month post-study residence permit to look for a job. Approximately 4 education agents are working across the Czech Republic to support and enhance educational initiatives and services.

For EU/EAA and Switzerland is  Free. For  others Starting from €6,000 Average cost of living: €1,215 – €1,484/month Denmarkʼs high standard of education and innovative teaching style make it a great place to study abroad. The average cost of living per month starts at around €1,215, but this does not mean that students canʼt spend less if they are careful with their budgeting habits. International students in Denmark can work 20 hours per week and full-time during summer break. If they wish to work in Denmark after studies, they can apply to stay in the country for six months to seek employment.

For EU/EAA and Switzerland Tuition is Starting from €1,660/year Average cost of living: €823 – €1,011/month Regarded as one of the worldʼs top digital societies, Estonia is among the best places for ambitious entrepreneurs and startups. Regardless of its reputation for being modern and innovative, Estonia has some of the most affordable tuition costs for international students. Thereʼs no limitation on the number of hours international students can work during their studies in Estonia. After graduation, non-EU students can apply for a post-study work visa and stay in the country to seek employment for up to 9 months.

Finnish or Swedish-taught degrees: Free Non-EU/EEA: Starting at €4,000 for English-taught degrees Average cost of living: €978 – €1,296/month Full of lush forests, mountains, and crystal-clear waters. Finland is renowned for its high education standards. Students can benefit from its tuition-free education and world-class teaching. The cost of living ranges from €978 – €1,296/month, meaning a student can easily live off of €900 per month with a little budgeting. International students can work up to 30 hours per week during their studies. In addition, they can also apply to stay in the country for up to two years after graduation to look for a job.

For EU/EAA, Andorra, and Switzerland Starting at €170/year. Non-EU: €2,770 (Bachelor); €3,770 (Master) Average cost of living: €1,039 – €1,249/month France has a thriving student life, some of the best global universities, and a rich culture! International students in France benefit from affordable tuition and a budget-friendly/average cost of living. With around 370,000 international students across its higher education institutions, France is also among the top study-abroad destinations in the world. Students in France can work up to 964 hours per year during their studies and can stay in the country for up to one year after graduation to seek employment.

EU/Non-EU: Free Average cost of living: €1,040 – €1,277/month Germany is one of the top study destinations for international students, mainly due to its excellent education system, free education, and career opportunities. Students in Germany only need to pay an administrative fee of around €250 per semester since tuition fees were abolished in 2014. Currently, 440,564 international students are pursuing their higher education in Germany. International students in Germany can work full-time for 120 days or part-time for 240 half days during their studies. After graduation, they can apply to stay in the country for 18 months to look for a job in their study area. The average cost of living ranges from €1,040 – €1,277/month, but students can easily spend around €934 per month with a bit of budgeting — which is also the amount required per month for a German blocked bank account.

For EU/EEA is Free, except for some master programs. Non-EU: Starting from €1,500/year Average cost of living: €761 – €895/month Greece has outstanding universities, free education, and affordable living. Being a popular tourist destination means students enjoy a vibrant and diverse student life. The average international student expenses range from €761 – €895/month, which is comparatively cheaper than many other study destinations. Students can work 20 hours per week during the semester and 40 hours per week during vacations. Approximately 2 education agents are working throughout Greece to support and improve educational programs and services.

EU: Starting from €1,200/year. Non-EU: Can expect higher tuition Average cost of living: €612 – €742/month The distinctive cuisine and its rich culture are among the things that characterize Hungary. It is also home to Erno Rubik, the person who invented Rubikʼs Cube. International students love Hungary because of its academic excellence and relatively low tuition fees. The affordable living expenses are also a great advantage, ranging from €612 – €742/month. International students can work up to 24 hours a week while studying. International graduates can apply to stay in Hungary for up to 9 months after graduation to search for a job.

EU/EEA and Non-EU/EEA is Free Average cost of living: €1,369 – €1,976/month Known for its free or minimal cost of education, Iceland provides many advantages to international students. Starting from its vivid student experience, many study options, and world-renowned universities, Iceland has placed itself among the top cheap countries to study in terms of study costs. Living costs, however, are on the expensive side, ranging from €1,369 – €1,976/month. International students in Iceland can work up to 15 hours per week during the academic year. After graduation, international students can apply to stay in the country for another six months to search for employment.

EU Students: EU students generally pay lower tuition fees than non-EU students. Depending on the course, tuition fees for undergraduate programs can range from €3,000 to €10,000 per year. In many cases, EU students may also qualify for government support or subsidies for certain courses.

Non-EU Students: Non-EU students typically pay higher tuition fees, often ranging between €9,000 and €25,000 per year for undergraduate programs, and €12,000 to €30,000 for postgraduate courses. Courses like medicine or engineering tend to be on the higher end.

EU: Starting from €900/year Non-EU: Can expect higher tuition Average cost of living: €894–€1,103/month Famous for its tourism, artists, science, and food – Italy also makes a wonderful study destination! Home to excellent global universities, international students in Italy benefit from affordable tuition fees and an affordable cost of living, starting from an average of €894 per month. International students can work for 20 hours per week during their studies. The opportunity to stay and search for work in Italy is available to students who have completed a Ph.D. or level 2 Masters Program in Italy for 12 months.

EU: Starting from €1,200 Non-EU: Starting from €2,500 Average cost of living: €693 – €808/month Latvia has a vibrant culture and outstanding higher education, which has close cooperation with the industry. Studying in Lavia will be a special experience due to the countryʼs diversity of traditional and contemporary cultural events and peaceful environment. Living costs range from €693 – €808/month, which means the country will be a great value for your money. Students in Latvia can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and 40 hours a week during the semester break.

EU/EEA, Swiss nationals: €960/semester Non-EU/EEA: Starting from €1,260/ semester Average cost of living: €1,509 – €1,900/month Liechtenstein is known for its scenic views and vineyards, and many tourists visit the country for their ski holidays. However, Liechtenstein is also known for the quality of its higher education. While living expenses in Liechtenstein are not the most affordable, students can live off of as little as €1,509 if they budget wisely. Students who live in Liechtenstein with a short-term residence permit are allowed to work up to 35% during the semester and 100% during semester breaks.

EU/Non-EU: Starting from €1,300 Average cost of living: €735 – €908/month Although a small country, Lithuania is a great destination for international students. Lithuanian language is one of the oldest languages in the world, and the countryʼs love for sports and basketball is especially impressive. But its affordable tuition fees and even more affordable cost of living make Lithuania a favorite destination for international students. Students can work for up to 40 hours per week during their studies. After graduation, students can apply to stay in Lithuania for one year to search for employment.

EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals: €1,200/year French, German, or Luxembourgish taught degrees: Free English-taught degrees: Starting from €1,200 Average cost of living: €1,414 – €2,036/month Being among the safest and wealthiest places in the world, Luxembourg makes a good destination to study abroad. With its high educational standards and innovative teaching methods, international students will get their moneyʼs worth in Luxembourg. Living costs can be comparatively expensive, ranging from €1,414 – €2,036/month. International students can work up to 346 hours during the academic year.

Maltese citizens, EU/EEA, and Switzerland: Free Non-EU: Starting from €1,080 Average cost of living: €948 – €1,270/month For students fond of warmer climates, Malta gets approximately 300 sunny days in a year. The free or minimal cost of education and its outstanding universities are among the top factors bringing students to Malta. But apart from these, Malta has much more to offer, including a rich cultural scene drenched in wonderful arts, film shows, and music festivals. International students in Malta can work a maximum of 20 hours per week. After graduation, they may apply to stay in the country for up to six months to look for a job.

International students except for citizens of Romania and Ukraine: Starting from €1,000/year Average cost of living: €499 – €587/month Moldova is an excellent tourist destination, with its rich history and marvellous natural landscapes. It also makes a good destination for studying abroad, with high-quality education matched with an affordable cost of studying and living. Monthly expenses can range from €499 – €587/month, a range that may change with each studentʼs standard of living and spending habits. International students can work 20 hours per week during their studies.

Tuition: €1,500 – €3,000/year. Average cost of living is €616 – €725 Montenegro is among the most beautiful countries in the world, full of picturesque landscapes including mountains, lakes, and beach resorts. While it attracts many tourists yearly for its natural charm, the country also has an impressive quality of education. Living costs are relatively affordable, ranging from €616 – €725 per month. International students can work part-time during their studies in Montenegro.

EU/EAA, Switzerland €2,314. Non-EU/EAA: Starting from €6,000 Average cost of living: €1,165 – €1,646/month With a practical teaching style known to be interactive and students-centered,  the Netherlands also has a unique lifestyle, with average expenses for students ranging from €1,165 – €1,646/month, including rent. According to recent statistics, 40% of first-year students in the Netherlands are international students.

For EU/EEA and Switzerland is Free. Non-EU/EEA: $13,000 Average cost of living: €1,211 – €1,578/month Norway is known for its high-quality education, research reputation, and tuition-free universities. The cost of living in Norway ranges from €1,211 – €1,578/month, which is a fair price to pay for a high standard of education, a tolerant society, and a safe environment. International students in Norway can work up to 20 hours per week during their studies. They can also stay in the country to search for employment for up to one year after graduation.

Polish, EU/EEA & Switzerland (Polish taught-degree) is Free. Non-EU: Starting from €2,000/year Average cost of living: €660 – €887/month Poland is one of the most affordable European countries to pursue a degree. It has a rich history, a student-friendly atmosphere, and a beautiful culture. Tuition-free education in Poland is available for Polish students, EU/EEA, and Switzerland citizens. International students can work 20 hours per week during their studies and 40 hours per week during holidays. They can also stay in the country for up to 9 months after graduation to look for employment.

EU/EEA: Starting from €550/year Average cost of living: €752 – €1,026/month A country that prefers sunshine, delicious cuisine, and a fun lifestyle. Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe, where students can live off of as little as €752 – €1,026/month. Portugal is a popular destination for international students, with more than 50,000 students pursuing their higher education in the country every year. International students in Portugal can work 20 hours per week during their studies and full-time during vacations. Students can stay in the country for up to one year after graduation to look for a job.

EU: €1,000/year Non-EU: €2,000/year Average cost of living: €528 – €641/month Romania has excellent universities, incredible food, customs, and a fun social atmosphere. Living costs in Romania range from €528 – €641, which makes it among the cheapest countries in terms of living expenses. International students in Romania can also work 20 hours per week during their studies.

Tuition: Starting from €1000/year Average cost of living: €527 – €641/month Serbia is among the most affordable countries to pursue a degree, with high-quality education and innovative universities. The cost of living in Serbia ranges from €527 – €641/month, while the cost of university starts at €1,000/year. International students in Serbia can work up to 20 hours per week during their studies.

EU citizens Free- Non-EU: Starting from €2000/year Average cost of living: €695 – €889/month Slovakia is known for its free or reasonable tuition fees, affordable cost of living, and excellent universities. With as little as €695 – €889/month, international students in Slovakia can study, socialize, travel around, and enjoy the exceptional student life. International students can also work up to 20 hours per week during university studies.

EU Citizen Free-Non-EU: Starting from €2,000/year Average cost of living: €807 – €985/month Slovenia is recognized for its excellent education system, among the best in the EU. With a budget-friendly cost of living, ranging from €807 – €985/month, Slovenia positions itself among the cheapest countries for international students. Students can also find temporary or part-time employment during their studies through an instrument known as ‘Student Work’ in Slovenia.

EU: Starting from €1,200/year Non-EU: Can expect higher tuition Average cost of living: €805 – €1,098/month Spain positions itself among the top study destinations, counting 208,366 international students across its higher education institutions, an increase of 36% in the past five years. Tuition fees and living expenses are relatively lower compared to many English-speaking countries, with an average of €805 – €1,098/month in monthly expenses. International students in Spain can work 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during the semester breaks. Students can also stay in the country for up to 12 months to look for a job after graduation.

EU/EEA, other Nordic countries, and Switzerland: Free. Non-EU/EEA: Starting from €7,500/year Average cost of living: €924 – €1,217/month The Swedish education system is known for its unconventional education, focusing on group and practical work designed to advance studentsʼ academic and career aspirations. The cost of living in Sweden ranges from €924 – €1,217/month, with tuition fees starting from €7,500/year for non-EU/EEA students. International students in Sweden can work as many hours as they want during their studies for as long as they spend 40 hours per week on academic responsibilities. They also can extend their residence permit for one year after graduation to look for a job.

For EU/Non-EU: Starting from €400/year Average cost of living: €1,872 – €2,416/month Last but not least, Switzerland is among the best countries to pursue an education, known for its wide range of study programs, high standards of teaching, and world-class universities. Costs of living range from €1,872 – €2,416/month, highly dependent on the studentʼs lifestyle and budgeting habits. International students in Switzerland can work up to 15 hours per week during term time and full-time during summer breaks. They can also apply to stay in the country for six months after graduation to search for employment.