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Meridean Overseas
Updated On 27 December 2025 & Read Time 9 minutes
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Every student dreams of a successful career and bright future, often pursuing higher education or side jobs to get there. But is studying abroad viable on a limited budget? Absolutely—it unlocks global opportunities, cultural immersion, and superior education without breaking the bank.
Many middle-class Indian students assume it's out of reach, yet affordable destinations prove otherwise. This guide highlights budget-friendly options, starting with key costs.
Table of Contents
Studying in another country can be exciting, but it also comes with many costs. Here’s a simple breakdown of the expenses you need to consider:
Tuition Fees: This is the cost of your education, and it depends on the country, university, and course you choose. Some countries have low tuition fees, while others are expensive.
Visa Cost: To study in another country, you need a student visa. This comes with an application fee, and sometimes additional charges for processing.
Insurance Cost: Many countries require students to have health insurance. This helps cover medical expenses if you get sick or need treatment.
Living Expenses: You will need money for rent, food, internet, and other daily needs. The cost depends on the country and the city you live in. Big cities are usually more expensive.
Travel Costs: You need money for flights, local transport, and commuting. This includes airfare to reach the country and the cost of buses, trains, or taxis once you are there.
Other Expenses: You will need books and supplies for your studies. You may also need money for healthcare, entertainment, and social activities.
Hidden Costs: Some expenses may not be evident, like extra fees for transferring money, bank charges, or unexpected costs during your stay. It’s good to think about them while planning.
Now that you know all the types of costs associated with studying abroad for Indian students. Let's take a look at the 10 most affordable countries for Indian Students.
Germany is a popular destination for Indian students wishing to pursue higher education, with many renowned universities offering courses in various fields.
If you are looking for the most affordable countries to study abroad, then you will be happy to know that study in Germany for indian students is affordable. Many public universities in Germany offer education free of or with nominal tuition fees. Additionally, scholarships are also available to cover living expenses.
Indian students wishing to study in Germany often target Winter intake in Germany, also known as the autumn/fall Intake. This intake is considered the primary academic entry point for most German universities. The winter semester usually begins in October and lasts until March, offering a wide range of programs and courses.
Here are 5 popular Universities in Germany for Indian Students:
Here is a breakdown of the cost required to study in Germany:
|
Tuition Fees (Annual) |
Free (Public Univ..) - ₹13,20,000 (Private Univ.) |
|
Visa Cost |
₹6,500 |
|
Insurance Cost (Annual) |
₹33,000 |
|
Living Expenses (Annual) |
₹6,00,000 – ₹8,40,000 |
|
Travel Costs (One-way) |
₹45,000 – ₹55,000 |
|
Other Expenses (Annual) |
₹1,00,000 |
|
Hidden Costs |
₹10,000 – ₹20,000 |
France is yet another popular destination for Indian students, offering a high-quality education system, rich culture, and diverse career opportunities. The country has a simplified visa process, with the "Etudes en France" procedure, and provides post-study work visa options, making it an attractive option for students who want to study in France.
Many public universities in France offer comparatively affordable tuition fees, making them a more accessible option for many international students.
Here are 5 popular Universities in France for Indian students:
Here is a breakdown of the cost required to study in France:
|
Tuition Fees (Annual) |
₹15,000 – ₹40,000 |
|
Visa Cost |
₹7,000 |
|
Insurance Cost (Annual) |
₹35,000 |
|
Living Expenses (Annual) |
₹8,40,000 – ₹10,80,000 |
|
Travel Costs (One-way) |
₹40,000 – ₹50,000 |
|
Other Expenses (Annual) |
₹1,20,000 |
|
Hidden Costs |
₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
It may seem like a new name, but Malaysia is becoming popular among Indian students who want to study abroad. Several internationally recognised universities offer a variety of courses, and the country's multicultural environment provides a unique cultural experience.
Several internationally recognised universities offer a variety of courses, and the country's multicultural environment provides a unique cultural experience.
Here is a breakdown of the cost required to study in Malaysia:
|
Tuition Fees (Annual) |
₹2,00,000 – ₹8,00,000 |
|
Visa Cost |
₹7,000 |
|
Insurance Cost (Annual) |
₹5,700 – ₹14,600 |
|
Living Expenses (Annual) |
₹4,40,000 – ₹7,80,000 |
|
Travel Costs (One-way) |
₹20,000 – ₹30,000 |
|
Other Expenses (Annual) |
₹80,000 |
|
Hidden Costs |
₹5,000 – ₹10,000 |
Poland offers a wide range of affordable courses and a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere. Indian students can study abroad in Poland and pursue higher education in Poland, where several English-taught programs are available.
The country has a strong academic tradition and is part of the European Education Area, which ensures globally recognised degrees.
Here are two Popular universities in Poland for Indian students:
Here is a breakdown of the cost required to study in Poland:
|
Tuition Fees (Annual) |
₹1,70,000 – ₹3,40,000 |
|
Visa Cost |
₹8,000 |
|
Insurance Cost (Annual) |
₹25,000 |
|
Living Expenses (Annual) |
₹3,60,000 – ₹6,00,000 |
|
Travel Costs (One-way) |
₹40,000 – ₹50,000 |
|
Other Expenses (Annual) |
₹90,000 |
|
Hidden Costs |
₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
If you are planning to study abroad in Hungary, then be ready to experience a blend of affordability, high-quality education, and cultural diversity. Studying in Hungary is generally considered affordable compared to many other European countries.
Additionally, many Hungarian universities offer courses in English, making it accessible to international students. The country's central location in Europe also provides easy access to neighbouring countries.
Here is a breakdown of the cost required to study in Hungary:
|
Tuition Fees (Annual) |
₹1,00,000 – ₹4,25,000 |
|
Visa Cost |
₹7,000 |
|
Insurance Cost (Annual) |
₹30,000 |
|
Living Expenses (Annual) |
₹4,20,000 – ₹6,00,000 |
|
Travel Costs (One-way) |
₹40,000 – ₹50,000 |
|
Other Expenses (Annual) |
₹1,00,000 |
|
Hidden Costs |
₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
If you are looking for affordable, high-quality education, then Taiwan could be the perfect destination for you. The country offers a safe and friendly environment, with many universities providing courses in English. Studying in Taiwan can be considered affordable, particularly compared to many Western countries.
Tuition fees are generally lower, and the overall cost of living, including accommodation, food, and transportation, is reasonable. Furthermore, Taiwan offers a range of scholarships to support Indian students.
Here is a breakdown of the cost required to study in Taiwan:
|
Tuition Fees (Annual) |
₹2,70,000 – ₹3,30,000 |
|
Visa Cost |
₹3,000 |
|
Insurance Cost (Annual) |
₹25,000 |
|
Living Expenses (Annual) |
₹2,80,000 – ₹4,20,000 |
|
Travel Costs (One-way) |
₹30,000 – ₹40,000 |
|
Other Expenses (Annual) |
₹70,000 |
|
Hidden Costs |
₹5,000 – ₹10,000 |
Mexico is generally considered an affordable country to study abroad. It offers a wide variety of degree programs in fields such as engineering, business, humanities, and medicine at prestigious universities.
Affordable tuition fees and low living expenses make it a popular choice for international students. Additionally, the country offers accessible financial aid and scholarships through government, university, and private programs, making it an accessible option for many.
Here is a breakdown of the cost required to study in Taiwan:
|
Tuition Fees (Annual) |
₹1,00,000 – ₹7,50,000 |
|
Visa Cost |
₹5,000 |
|
Insurance Cost (Annual) |
₹20,000 |
|
Living Expenses (Annual) |
₹5,00,000 – ₹7,50,000 |
|
Travel Costs (One-way) |
₹60,000 – ₹70,000 |
|
Other Expenses (Annual) |
₹1,00,000 |
|
Hidden Costs |
₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
Argentina is becoming an increasingly popular destination for Indian students seeking quality education, rich culture and affordable prices. A variety of programs are available at both public and private universities in the country, with many institutions offering flexible admissions requirements and financial aid opportunities.
Additionally, Argentina’s low cost of living and tuition fees, especially at public universities, make it an attractive option for international students.
Here is a breakdown of the cost required to study in Argentina:
|
Tuition Fees (Annual) |
Free (Public Univ..) - ₹17,50,000 (Private Univ.) |
|
Visa Cost |
₹5,000 |
|
Insurance Cost (Annual) |
₹20,000 |
|
Living Expenses (Annual) |
₹2,00,000 – ₹3,00,000 |
|
Travel Costs (One-way) |
₹70,000 – ₹80,000 |
|
Other Expenses (Annual) |
₹80,000 |
|
Hidden Costs |
₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
Indian students can study in the Czech Republic. The country offers a variety of academic programs, including medicine, engineering, and humanities, many of which are also available in English.
To fill in the visa application process, Indian students have to obtain an acceptance letter from a Czech university, demonstrating sufficient funds, and meeting language requirements.
Here is a breakdown of the cost required to study in the Czech Republic:
|
Tuition Fees (Annual) |
₹2,00,000 – ₹6,00,000 |
|
Visa Cost |
₹7,000 |
|
Insurance Cost (Annual) |
₹25,000 |
|
Living Expenses (Annual) |
₹3,00,000 – ₹5,40,000 |
|
Travel Costs (One-way) |
₹40,000 – ₹50,000 |
|
Other Expenses (Annual) |
₹90,000 |
|
Hidden Costs |
₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
Ireland offers a strong education system, a welcoming environment, and post-study work opportunities. The country has various world-recognised universities, and it is also home to a growing Indian community, making it an appealing destination.
Ireland can be considered an affordable destination for international students compared to other English-speaking countries. Although the cost of studying and living in Ireland can vary depending on the institution, course and lifestyle, it is generally lower than in places like the US or the UK.
Here is a breakdown of the cost required to study in Ireland:
|
Tuition Fees (Annual) |
₹8,10,000 – ₹27,00,000 |
|
Visa Cost |
₹5,000 |
|
Insurance Cost (Annual) |
₹35,000 |
|
Living Expenses (Annual) |
₹10,80,000 – ₹18,00,000 |
|
Travel Costs (One-way) |
₹45,000 – ₹55,000 |
|
Other Expenses (Annual) |
₹1,20,000 |
|
Hidden Costs |
₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
* Note: The tables above include average annual tuition fees, visa costs, insurance, living expenses, travel costs, and other expenses. All figures are approximate and presented in Indian Rupees (INR).
Embark and excel in your study abroad journey with our expert team!
Studying abroad needn't strain your finances—Germany and Argentina provide free public tuition, while France, Taiwan, and Poland keep fees low with global recognition. Leverage scholarships, budget insurance, and efficient transfers to maximise savings.
For expert help selecting options, contact Meridean Overseas, a leading study abroad consultants aiding thousands. Call 1800-1230-00011 or drop and mail at application02@meridean.org now!
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