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25 August 2025

6 minutes read

Affordable Universities to Study in Abroad for Indian Students

Dirghayu Kaushik
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Dirghayu Kaushik

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Founder & CEO

Dirghayu Kaushik is the co-founder and CEO of Ambitio. He started this platform because he’s been in your shoes—navigating confusing websites, second-guessing college choices, and trying to make sense of what actually matters in an application. A graduate of IIT BHU, Dirghayu combines personal experience with data-backed guidance to help students apply smarter. Whether it’s choosing the right course, building a standout profile, or writing essays that don’t feel forced, his mission is simple: to make getting into your dream university less overwhelming, and a little more honest.

25 August 2025

6 minutes read

Key Takeaways

  • Affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students make global education possible with lower tuition fees, scholarships, and part-time work options.
  • Countries like Germany, France, Australia, UK, and the U.S. offer budget-friendly universities that combine quality education with affordable living.
  • Smart planning, scholarships, budgeting, and cost-effective housing help students manage expenses and make studying abroad achievable.

Did you know more than 7.7 lakh Indian students went for overseas education in 2024, but most of them grappled with rising tuition and living expenses? For many young Indian students, studying overseas is like chasing a dream while simultaneously obliterating their family’s savings.

The reality is that world-class education can come without exorbitant fees. There are affordable Universities to study in abroad for Indian Students that provide an education that is affordable, along with scholarships and low-cost study abroad options offered by public universities, around the world.

Why Indian Students Consider Cheapest Universities Abroad?

Many Indian students consider the cheapest universities abroad because high tuition fees and rising living costs in India make global education seem more practical.

From public universities in Germany to the cheapest universities in the USA and Australia, many universities offer affordable tuition, scholarships and financial aid, and even allow students to work part-time.

For an Indian student looking to study in 2025, best and affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students provide quality education in affordable countries, making studying abroad a dream within reach.

Top Countries with Affordable Universities for Indian Students

For many Indian students looking to study abroad, the dream often comes with the fear of high tuition and living costs. The good news? Several countries for Indian students offer affordable education, scholarships, and even allow students to work part-time.

These study destinations are home to some of the top universities in the world that combine budget-friendly universities with quality education. Below, we explore countries like Germany, France, Australia, the UK, and the U.S., each known as a destination for international students offering affordable tuition fees, scholarships, and affordable living costs.

Germany 

Germany is one of the cheapest countries for international education. Most public universities in Germany are considered free universities, as they charge little to no tuition fees for international students, only requiring semester contributions.

Known for top 10 cheapest universities and affordable costs, Germany is a leading study destination for students who want to study abroad on a budget while accessing a world-class education system.

UniversityLocationAverage Fees Range (per year)Key Features
Free University of BerlinBerlin€0–€500One of the cheapest universities, strong research focus
University of BremenBremen€0–€1,000Offers affordable education in multiple fields of study
Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU)Munich€0–€600Top university with international students from 130+ countries
University of HamburgHamburg€0–€650Public university that offers scholarships
Heidelberg UniversityHeidelberg€0–€700One of the top universities in the world, EU students pay minimal

France 

Public universities in France are among the 10 most affordable for international students. While tuition fees for international students exist, they are relatively affordable compared to other countries.

Many universities offer scholarships for Indian students, making France a top study abroad in 2025 choice. The French education system ensures that undergraduate students and postgraduates alike get degrees at affordable costs in one of the most vibrant cultural destinations.

UniversityLocationAverage Fees Range (per year)Key Features
Sorbonne UniversityParis€2,770–€3,770One of the top universities, offers affordable tuition
University of StrasbourgStrasbourg€2,770–€3,770International universities with scholarships and financial aid
University of Paris-SaclayParis€2,770–€3,770Featured in top study rankings worldwide
Aix-Marseille UniversityMarseille€2,770–€3,770Large public university that offers scholarships
University of BordeauxBordeaux€2,770–€3,770Budget-friendly university in a vibrant city

Australia 

Many Indian students choose to study in Australia because it offers affordable universities with flexible study options. While tuition universities here are not free, many universities offer scholarships and part-time work opportunities to help students manage tuition and living costs.

Australia is considered one of the top study destinations that balances quality education and affordable tuition fees for international students.

UniversityLocationAverage Fees Range (per year)Key Features
University of TasmaniaHobartAUD 15,000–22,000Affordable education with scholarships for international students
Charles Darwin UniversityDarwinAUD 14,000–23,000Universities offer scholarships and affordable living costs
University of Southern QueenslandToowoombaAUD 16,000–22,000Budget-friendly universities for Indian students
Federation UniversityBallaratAUD 17,000–22,000One of the most affordable universities in Australia
Southern Cross UniversityLismoreAUD 16,000–21,000Allows students to work part-time while studying

United Kingdom 

While many think of the UK as expensive, there are low-cost universities outside of London that make it one of the top 10 affordable destinations. Indian students in the UK benefit from scholarships and affordable living costs, especially at public universities that offer degrees at affordable fees range.

The UK remains one of the most popular study destinations for universities for Indian students seeking world-class education.

UniversityLocationAverage Fees Range (per year)Key Features
University of SunderlandSunderland£10,000–£13,000Offers affordable education and scholarships
University of ChesterChester£11,000–£13,500Budget-friendly universities in the UK
University of BedfordshireBedfordshire£9,500–£13,000One of the cheapest universities in the UK
University of CumbriaCumbria£10,500–£12,500Affordable costs and study abroad on a budget
Teesside UniversityMiddlesbrough£10,500–£13,000Universities that offer scholarships for Indian students

United States 

Though often considered expensive, the U.S. is home to cheap universities and public universities that charge relatively affordable fees. Indian students looking for study abroad in 2025 can choose state universities or community colleges that make it one of the most affordable destinations for international students.

Many universities in the U.S. also allow students to work part-time and provide scholarships for international students.

UniversityLocationAverage Fees Range (per year)Key Features
California State University (CSU)Multiple campuses$8,000–$12,000Public universities charge affordable tuition
University of FloridaFlorida$9,000–$12,500Offers scholarships and affordable education
University of Texas at El PasoTexas$9,000–$12,000One of the most affordable universities in the U.S.
City University of New York (CUNY)New York$6,500–$9,000Cheap universities ideal for undergraduate students
South Dakota State UniversitySouth Dakota$8,500–$11,500Affordable costs with quality education

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Indian Students at Low-Cost Universities Abroad

Across German universities, UK, US, France, and Australia, a list of cheapest universities is available where students find not only low tuition but also grants. These universities also provide flexible work rules that allow international students to earn while learning.

affordable universities to study in abroad for indian students

For affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students, this mix of scholarships and financial aid ensures students due for global exposure can finally study abroad on a budget.

Scholarship / Aid ProgramOffered ByCoverageEligibilitySpecial Notes
DAAD ScholarshipsGerman UniversitiesTuition + Living CostsIndian students with meritOne of the most popular scholarships for students seeking affordable education
Eiffel Excellence ScholarshipPublic Universities in France€1,181 monthly + tuitionIndian students in Master’s/PhDEspecially for students in science, engineering, and law
Australia AwardsAustralian GovernmentFull tuition + living allowanceStudents from India and Asia-PacificUniversities also allow international students to work part-time
Chevening ScholarshipsUK GovernmentTuition + living costsUniversities for Indians with leadership potentialStudents only need to cover personal expenses not included
Fulbright-Nehru FellowshipU.S. UniversitiesTuition + stipend + travelIndian students pursuing Master’sUniversities are featured among the top universities in the world

Tips to Manage Finances While Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is a dream, but managing expenses can feel overwhelming for many Indian students.

affordable universities to study in abroad for indian students

The good news is that with the right strategies, students get to enjoy global exposure without draining family savings, especially when choosing affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students.

1. Choose Affordable Universities

Universities in these countries often offer low tuition fees and scholarships. By targeting affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students, you reduce the overall cost and still secure quality education.

2. Apply for Scholarships Early

Students need to apply for grants and scholarships as soon as admissions open. Many universities provide partial or full aid that can help you study abroad without financial stress.

3. Work Part-Time While Studying

Most destinations allow students can work part-time for 20 hours per week. This income helps cover living costs, ensuring students get financial stability while studying.

4. Budget Smartly Every Month

Track your spending and prioritize essentials like rent, food, and transport. Good budgeting habits prevent debt and allow students in these countries to enjoy their study journey.

5. Opt for Affordable Living Options

Shared housing, university dorms, and student discounts reduce daily expenses. This helps students needs align with limited budgets while still maintaining a balanced lifestyle abroad.

With these strategies, students get to balance education and lifestyle effectively, making global learning realistic at affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students.

Conclusion 

Choosing affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students is no longer just a dream, it’s a smart reality. With scholarships, part-time work options, and budget-friendly education systems, students get access to world-class opportunities without overwhelming financial pressure. But success abroad isn’t just about finding the cheapest option, it’s about building the right profile that gets you admitted to top, affordable universities.

That’s where Ambitio steps in. More than a consultancy, we’re your profile-building partner. From perfecting SOPs to curating scholarships, we help you study abroad with confidence. Ready to make it happen? Join Ambitio Elite today!

FAQs

Which countries offer affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students?

Germany, Canada, and Poland are popular for affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students with low or no tuition fees.

What is the average tuition fee at affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students?

The average tuition fee at affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students ranges from ₹1 lakh to ₹6 lakhs per year, depending on country and course.

Can Indian students get scholarships at affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students?

Yes, many affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students offer merit-based and need-based scholarships to international students.

Are affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students recognized globally?

Most affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students in Europe, North America, and Asia hold global recognition and good rankings.

What are the eligibility criteria for affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students?

Eligibility for affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students usually requires academic transcripts, English language proficiency, and entrance tests for some courses.

Can Indian students work part-time while studying at affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students?

Indian students can usually work 20 hours per week part-time at affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students

Is it easy to get a study visa for affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students?

Most countries issue study visas if requirements are met for affordable universities to study in abroad for Indian students, but early application is recommended.

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