Keystone logo

Where Can You Study For Free?

Calling all those seeking free tuition: your dreams have been answered. There are places in the world that offer free tuition to international students. Although our list isn't exhaustive, it's a good place to start. In addition to free opportunities for international students, there are also several low-cost options. Let's take a closer look at options in Norway, Brazil, Germany, Argentina, and Czech Republic.

Jul 5, 2018
  • Student Tips
Where Can You Study For Free?

Calling all those seeking free tuition: your dreams have been answered. There are places in the world that offer free tuition to international students. Although our list isn't exhaustive, it's a good place to start.

A few pointers: look for public universities in these countries. While most offer free tuition for international students, those who don't offer low-cost tuition. Some private universities may have tuition discounts for international students too, but those require a bit more research on your end.

In addition to free opportunities for international students, there are also several low-cost options.

Ready? Let's take a look five:

1. Norway

Head north off the beaten track to the beauty of the fjords, the Aurora Borealis, and the culture of the cities. Despite its small size, Norway offers high-quality education and tuition that can't be beat.

Tuition is free for all students regardless of social and economic background. While you'll have to cover your living costs, you can go to school for free. Beware: living in Norway is expensive. Food costs and rent are high. You'll need to do some research to find the right fit that you can afford. Keep in mind: you'll have no tuition costs whatsoever.

2. Brazil

Study in the country famous for carnival, dancing, and soccer. Brazil is one of the world's largest emerging economies and you can study in any number of cities in a country with a reputation for a relaxed lifestyle.

With over 2,600 public and private universities, Brazil offers all students from the EU free tuition. There are fees for non-EU students.

What's more? At the undergraduate level, you'll have the opportunity to learn Portuguese, the nation's language. While English is often used in universities, it is not commonly spoken. Your competence in Portugues is definitely helpful.

3. Germany

With the exception of a small fee at most universities, tuition in Germany is free for undergraduate international students at public universities.

In 2014, Germany's 16 states ended tuition fees for undergraduates students at all public German universities. The fee that students pay covers administration costs over the semester.

While there are a few exceptions to this rule, international students are regularly drawn to Germany's robust higher education system, its low study costs, the strong economy, and relatively affordable cost of living.

4. Argentina

Brazil's not the only place in South America that beckons international students. With its vibrant cosmopolitan scene, diverse population, and interesting geography, international students can study abroad and learn some Spanish relatively inexpensively.

The country has several low-cost study abroad programs and low-cost language programs.

Although gaining admission at Argentina's top universities is competitive, it's worth it. Public schools are free or close to it for international students. At private universities, international students may pay substantially more money.

With a bit of research, international students wishing to immerse themselves in Spanish language, South American culture, and a fascinating country, can find a great deal in Argentina.

5. Czech Republic

Fluent in Czech? Want to be? If you want to study on a budget in the heart of eastern Europe, the Czech Republic may be the place you're looking for.

Over 40,000 international students currently in the country, with more predicted in the coming years.

Rich in history, culture, food, and wine the Czech Republic also offers phenomenal public and state universities, most of which are free for international students. Combine that with a low cost of living, ease of transportation throughout the rest of Europe, and a fun, youthful urban scene, and you've got it made.

Its also home to Central Europe's oldest university, founded in 1348 - Charles University in Prague.