Around 14% of students pursuing bachelor’s or master’s degrees choose to study abroad, according to student housing platform Amber. In its January 2026 report, the platform identified the 15 most affordable countries for international students, taking into account both tuition fees and living expenses.
Which countries offer the best value for money?
The ranking evaluates affordability based on annual tuition fees and monthly living costs. While some countries may appear expensive at first glance, everyday expenses in many of them remain relatively manageable, making them attractive study destinations.
How expensive is studying in Australia?
In Australia, tuition fees reach up to $33,000 per year for a bachelor’s degree and up to $40,000 for a master’s. The average monthly cost of living ranges between $1,500 and $2,500. Despite high costs, the country remains a popular and competitive study destination, with top institutions such as the Australian National University, University of Melbourne, and University of Sydney.
What are the costs in the United States?
The US is among the most expensive options, with tuition fees up to $50,000 annually for undergraduate programs and up to $60,000 for postgraduate studies. Living costs average between $1,000 and $1,500 per month. Leading universities include MIT, Stanford University, and Harvard University.
Is the United Kingdom affordable for students?
Tuition in the UK can reach $40,000 per year for bachelor’s programs and $45,000 for master’s degrees. Monthly living costs range from $812 to $1,624. However, students benefit from flexible financial options and access to top universities such as the University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, and Imperial College London.
Which European countries are more budget-friendly?
France and Germany stand out as affordable European options. In France, tuition fees are up to $4,000 per year for undergraduate studies and $5,000 for master’s programs, with an average monthly cost of $1,194. In Germany, tuition can be as low as $4,000 for bachelor’s and $8,000 for master’s, with living costs around $1,003 per month.
How does Northern Europe compare?
Sweden offers tuition fees up to $18,000–20,000 annually and living costs between $700 and $1,200 per month. In Norway, public universities are free for some students, while others pay between $13,592 and $40,778 annually. Living expenses average around $1,000 per month.
What are the most affordable countries in Asia?
Asia offers some of the best-value destinations. In Taiwan, tuition fees reach up to $4,000–6,000 per year, with living costs between $726 and $940 per month. Malaysia is even cheaper, with tuition up to $8,000–10,000 and living costs around $400 monthly. India is the most affordable, with tuition up to $3,000–5,000 and living costs as low as $275–297 per month.
Are there affordable options in the Americas?
Canada and Mexico provide relatively affordable alternatives. In Canada, tuition fees go up to $30,000–35,000 annually, with living costs averaging $650 per month. In Mexico, tuition ranges up to $6,000–8,000, while living costs fall between $600 and $1,000 per month.
Which country is the cheapest overall?
Among all listed destinations, India stands out as the most affordable country for international students, thanks to its extremely low tuition fees and minimal living costs. Other highly affordable options include Malaysia and Poland, where monthly expenses are significantly below global averages.
Where does Poland rank in affordability?
Poland offers tuition fees up to $5,000 per year for bachelor’s degrees and $7,000 for master’s programs. Monthly living costs range from just $350 to $600, making it one of the most cost-effective study destinations in Europe.
According to Amber and global university rankings by QS, these countries combine affordability with quality education, making them ideal choices for students seeking international degrees without excessive financial burden.