For students looking to study abroad, one of the most common questions is: “What are the cheapest countries to study and work in Europe?” The good news is that Europe offers numerous affordable options for international students without compromising the quality of education. From tuition fees to cost of living, work opportunities, and scholarships, several European countries provide great value for those on a budget.
In this 2026 guide, we’ll break down the top destinations and explore what makes each country a cost-effective choice for Nigerian students. There is no doubt that studying abroad is a life-changing experience, but affordability is a key factor for many students. Knowing which countries offer the best balance between low tuition, manageable living costs, and scholarship opportunities can save you time, stress, and money.
1. Germany
Germany consistently ranks among the cheapest countries to study and work in Europe, largely because most public universities are tuition-free even for international students and charge only nominal semester fees that cover administration, student services, and a public transportation ticket, which ranges from €100 to €350. This is possible because Germany views education as a public good rather than a commodity. While Bachelor’s programs often require German proficiency, many Master’s programs are taught in English, making them accessible to English-speaking international students.
Living costs are reasonable, with a student visa requiring proof of €11,904 per year (€992 per month) for accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses. Also, as an international student, you can work part-time up to 20 hours per week and full-time during holidays, which helps offset living costs.
Additionally, scholarships such as DAAD and Deutschlandstipendium provide financial assistance. Top universities like the University of Munich and Heidelberg University are globally recognised, offering programs in engineering, sciences, and business, making Germany an ideal destination for affordable yet world-class education.
2. Finland
Finland is another top choice for international students seeking the cheapest countries in Europe to study and work while enjoying high-quality education. Tuition fees at public universities for non-EU international students range from €4,000 to €13,000 per year, and living expenses average €800–€1,500 per month.
Finland’s universities, such as the University of Helsinki and Aalto University, are known for innovative teaching methods, strong research programs, and excellent student support services, including career guidance and integration programs.
Also, students can work part-time, and a variety of merit-based scholarships are available to reduce costs further. Finland may be slightly pricier than Germany in tuition, but the long-term value and supportive learning environment make it a worthwhile investment for international students.
3. Poland
Poland is increasingly popular among Nigerian students seeking the cheapest countries in Europe to study and work. Tuition fees range from €2,000 to €6,000 per year, and living costs are between €500 and €800 per month. Major student cities like Krakow and Warsaw offer affordable housing, whether in dormitories or shared apartments.
Additionally, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays, providing additional income. Polish universities such as the University of Warsaw and Jagiellonian University in Krakow offer programs in IT, engineering, and medicine, many of which are taught in English. With its central location, students also enjoy easy travel across Europe, adding cultural experiences without significantly increasing costs.
4. Hungary
Hungary provides international students with affordable education and a vibrant student life. Tuition fees for international students range from €1,500 to €6,000, and living expenses average €600–€1,000 per month. Cities like Budapest combine historical charm with modern amenities, making student life both enjoyable and economical. Many Master’s programs are taught in English, and students are allowed part-time work opportunities to support themselves.
Hungary also offers scholarships such as the Stipendium Hungaricum and Erasmus+ programs, which further enhance affordability. Institutions like Eötvös Loránd University and the University of Debrecen are recognised for their strong programs in medicine, business, and engineering, ensuring international students get an excellent education at a low cost.
READ MORE: DAAD MIPLC Scholarships 2026: Fully Funded Study Opportunity in Germany
5. Greece
Greece is a culturally rich destination and one of the cheapest countries in Europe for international students to study and work. Public universities charge tuition fees of €1,500-€3,000 per year, with living costs of €600–€900 per month. Beyond academics, students enjoy unique programs such as archaeology, classical studies, and maritime science in their authentic context.
Universities like the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki offer programs in English and host welcoming international student communities. Also, students can work part-time, adding an extra layer of affordability, while fully immersing themselves in Greece’s vibrant history and Mediterranean lifestyle.
6. Portugal
Portugal offers affordable tuition of €3,000 to €7,000 per year and moderate living expenses of €700 to €1,200 per month, making it one of the cheapest countries in Europe to study for students on a budget. Cities like Lisbon and Porto provide opportunities in tech and entrepreneurship, giving students practical experience alongside their studies.
International students can work part-time, and scholarships from Erasmus+ and SASUP programs further reduce costs. Universities such as the University of Lisbon and the University of Porto are highly regarded, and they offer programs in engineering, business, and health sciences. Portugal combines affordability, academic quality, and career-oriented opportunities.
7. Slovenia
Slovenia is an emerging destination for international students seeking affordable education. Tuition fees range from €2,000 to €5,000 per year, while living expenses are around €600–€900 per month. Cities like Ljubljana and Maribor offer small class sizes, a welcoming environment, and part-time work opportunities.
The country also participates in Erasmus+ and university-specific scholarship programs, making it even more accessible to international students. Its central European location adds a layer of comfort as it allows easy travel to Italy, Austria, and Croatia, giving students a chance to experience multiple cultures while keeping costs low.
8. Estonia
Estonia’s modern, digital-focused education system is ideal for international students looking for affordable study abroad options. Tuition fees range from €1,600 to €7,500 per year, and living costs are €600 to €1,000 per month.
You can also work part-time, and scholarships are available for international students. Universities such as the University of Tartu and Tallinn University offer programs in IT, business, and international relations. Estonia’s strong digital infrastructure and innovative academic environment make it a unique and cost-effective study destination in Europe.
9. Czech Republic
The Czech Republic combines affordable living with rich history and vibrant student life. Tuition fees range between €2,000 to €6,000 per year, and living expenses range from €600 to €900 per month. You can work part-time, and universities such as Charles University and Masaryk University offer programs in medicine, engineering, and social sciences. It is also located in central Europe, which makes travel to neighbouring countries convenient, giving students a full European experience while keeping costs manageable.
READ MORE: 2026 GLOCAL Erasmus Mundus Scholarships for International Students (Fully Funded)
10. Austria
Austria is a slightly higher-cost option but still ranks among the cheapest countries to study in Europe, given its value for money. Tuition fees range from €1,500 to €7,000 per year, and living expenses average €900 to €1,500 per month. Universities such as the University of Vienna and Graz University of Technology offer top-tier programs in music, engineering, and natural sciences.
You can work part-time, and scholarships through OeAD and other programs provide additional financial support. Austria balances quality education with a high standard of living and vibrant student life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which country is the cheapest to study in for Nigerian students?
Germany, Hungary, and Poland are among the cheapest countries to study in Europe, offering tuition-free or low-tuition programs alongside affordable living costs.
Which country is best for Nigerians to study in?
Germany, Finland, and Poland are excellent choices. They balance affordability, quality education, English-taught programs, scholarships, and part-time work opportunities.
Which country has the lowest tuition fee for international students?
Germany is widely recognised for having the lowest tuition fees, with many public universities charging only €100–€350 per semester, which covers administration, student services, and often a public transportation ticket.
Which European countries have 1-year master’s programs?
Countries like the UK, Finland, Austria, and Germany offer 1-year Master’s programs, ideal for students seeking faster completion and lower living costs.
Which country is free for a Master’s?
Germany is essentially free for most Master’s programs at public universities, with only minimal semester contributions required. Norway and some programs in Austria also offer tuition-free Master’s education.
Which Master’s degree is most in demand in Europe?
Engineering, Data Science, IT, Business Administration, and Medical programs are among the most in-demand Master’s degrees in Europe due to strong career prospects and high employability.
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Choosing the cheapest countries in Europe to study and work depends on your budget, program of interest, and lifestyle preferences. Germany, Finland, Poland, Hungary, Greece, Portugal, Slovenia, Estonia, the Czech Republic, and Austria all offer affordable tuition, reasonable living costs, work opportunities, and scholarships. By planning carefully, researching scholarships, and taking advantage of part-time work opportunities, you can afford a high-quality European education without financial strain.
