Fancy living the European dream? Big money, high salaries, tax proofs — that’s what it takes to move to Europe for work or retirement. But what if all you want is a quality education without bleeding your wallet dry? Let’s see where you can get a degree without burning through your savings.
Greece Good news: foreigners can study at Greek public universities for free — just a small student fee of around 500–600 euros a year. Most programs are in Greek, so you might need some language courses first. No entrance exams, just your high school diploma, translated and notarized. Application window in late July, and enrollment by mid-August.
France In France, some public universities let you study for next to nothing. Bachelor’s programs cost around 180 euros per year, Master’s about 250. Know French, though. Apply from October to December, and you’ll know by April.
Austria In Austria, university fees start at around 750 euros per semester. Programs are in German or English, but even for English ones, an A2 level in German might be required. If you’re not up to speed in German, prep courses are available to boost your language skills and fill any subject gaps. Apply for winter semester from July to October, and for summer from January to February.
Germany Germany offers free public education to foreigners except in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. You just pay student fees — 300-600 euros a year. If you’re fresh out of high school, apply to Studienkolleg to align with the German system. Apply by mid-July for winter or mid-January for summer semester.
Slovakia Students from abroad countries can study for free in Slovakia if they choose a program in Slovak within the standard duration. Programs in English cost 500 to 12,200 euros a year. Slovak language courses are available to get you prepared. Deadlines vary but usually apply by late February or March, with exams from June to September.
Just do it!
