By The Nation,Wale Gbadebo
Copyright thenationonlineng
Studying abroad for quality education doesn’t always have to come with a high price tag. Around the world, many affordable and even tuition-free universities provide excellent programs at low cost.
Here’s a comprehensive list of the cheapest universities for international students seeking a bachelor’s or master’s degree without overspending.
1. University of Würzburg – Germany
Founded in 1402, the Julius Maximilian University of Würzburg is one of Germany’s oldest and most respected institutions—and also among the most affordable worldwide. Guided by its vision of “Science for Society,” the university is known for groundbreaking research in health sciences, molecular chemistry, quantum phenomena, and global change studies. With more than 28,000 students across 250+ research-focused programs, Würzburg offers high-quality education at remarkably low cost, making it one of Europe’s best-value universities.
2. Brigham Young University – USA
Established in 1851 in Utah, Brigham Young University (BYU) is a private, non-profit research university renowned for its academic excellence and values-based education. Offering 179 undergraduate, 62 postgraduate, and 26 doctoral programs, BYU stands out for its affordability. Subsidized tuition fees, particularly for LDS students, help keep costs low for international learners as well, positioning BYU as one of the most budget-friendly study destinations in the U.S.
3. Florida State University – USA
Located in Tallahassee, Florida State University (FSU) is a leading public research institution with strong programs in science, technology, arts, and professional studies. Home to more than 30,000 students—including over 2,000 internationals—FSU is both diverse and affordable. For a large U.S. university, tuition and living costs are comparatively low, making FSU a top choice for students looking for quality education without excessive expenses.
4. University of Central Arkansas – USA
Founded in 1907, the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) is one of the oldest higher education institutions in the American South. With over 12,000 students across six colleges—including Business, Education, and Fine Arts—UCA offers diverse and affordable study options. Average annual costs remain among the lowest in the U.S., providing excellent value for international students.
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5. Brandon University – Canada
Established in 1899, Brandon University in Manitoba is committed to accessible and affordable education. It offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, sciences, social sciences, and more. With some of the lowest tuition fees in Canada, Brandon University stands out as one of the country’s most budget-friendly institutions for international students.
6. Bucks New University – United Kingdom
Buckinghamshire New University (Bucks New), founded in 1891 and granted university status in 2007, is one of the most affordable higher education options in the UK. Known for practical and career-oriented programs in aviation, textiles, nursing, management, and film production, Bucks New University combines quality education with lower-than-average tuition fees, making it highly attractive for international students.
7. University of Burgundy – France
Located in Dijon, the University of Burgundy offers diverse programs in science, computer science, arts, and humanities. With over 11% of its student body coming from abroad, the university fosters a multicultural learning environment. Tuition typically ranges from INR 3,00,000 to INR 10,50,000, significantly lower than other Western European universities, making it a cost-effective choice for global learners.
8. Osaka University – Japan
As one of Japan’s top three universities, Osaka University is a world-class public institution with programs in humanities, business, law, and sciences, many of which are offered in English. With affordable tuition and a strong international reputation, Osaka University attracts students from around the globe seeking both academic rigor and cultural immersion.
9. University of Warsaw – Poland
Founded in 1816, the University of Warsaw is one of Central Europe’s most prestigious universities. It combines affordable tuition with high academic standards and a rich cultural experience. The relatively low cost of living in Warsaw adds to its appeal, making it an excellent destination for international students pursuing budget-friendly higher education.
10. University of Buenos Aires – Argentina
Established in 1821, the University of Buenos Aires (UBA) is one of the few universities worldwide that offers tuition-free education to international students. Renowned for programs in law, philosophy, medicine, and social sciences, UBA maintains rigorous academic standards and boasts a distinguished list of alumni, including Nobel laureates and global leaders. With Buenos Aires’ affordable living costs, UBA is a top destination for those seeking high-quality education at virtually no cost.