Why study in these countries? Pursuing a PhD is a significant academic and financial commitment. While some countries have high tuition fees and living costs, others offer affordable or even tuition-free doctoral programs. Here, we explore ten of the cheapest countries to study for a PhD, considering tuition fees, living costs, and available scholarships.
1. Germany
Why Study in Germany?
Germany is one of the most attractive destinations for PhD students due to its high-quality education and low tuition fees. Public universities in Germany charge little to no tuition fees, even for international students.
Tuition Fees
Most PhD programs in Germany are tuition-free. However, students may have to pay a small administrative fee of around €150–€350 per semester.
Living Costs
Average monthly cost: €800–€1,200
Accommodation, food, and transport are affordable compared to other European countries.
Scholarships & Funding
DAAD Scholarships (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst)
Research Assistantships (Many PhD students are employed by universities)
2. Norway
Why Study in Norway?
Norway offers tuition-free education at public universities, even for international students. The country has excellent research facilities and a high standard of education.
Tuition Fees
Free for all students at public universities.
Living Costs
Monthly expenses: €1,000–€1,500
Higher cost of living, but students can work part-time.
Scholarships & Funding
Norwegian Research Council Scholarships
Erasmus+ Scholarships
3. Finland
Why Study in Finland?
Finland provides affordable PhD programs with no tuition fees for doctoral students. The country is known for its strong research culture and student-friendly policies.
Tuition Fees
No tuition fees for PhD students at public universities.
Living Costs
Monthly cost: €700–€1,200
Affordable student housing is available.
Scholarships & Funding
Finnish National Agency for Education Scholarships
University-specific grants
4. Sweden
Why Study in Sweden?
Sweden has a strong academic environment and provides tuition-free PhD programs for both domestic and international students. Many PhD positions come with paid employment.
Tuition Fees
No tuition fees for PhD programs.
Living Costs
Monthly expenses: €900–€1,500
Student discounts on accommodation and transport.
Scholarships & Funding
Swedish Institute Scholarships
University research positions with salaries
5. Why Study in Austria
Why Study in Austria?
Austria is home to top-ranking universities offering affordable PhD programs. While there is a small tuition fee, it is much lower than in other Western countries.
Tuition Fees
€363–€726 per semester for non-EU students.
Some universities offer tuition-free programs.
Living Costs
Monthly cost: €900–€1,200
Vienna is one of the most affordable student cities in Europe.
Scholarships & Funding
Austrian Government Scholarships
University-specific grants
6. Why Study in Poland
Why Study in Poland?
Poland offers affordable education with low tuition fees and a relatively low cost of living.
Tuition Fees
€2,000–€3,000 per year for international PhD students.
Living Costs
Monthly cost: €500–€800
One of the cheapest European countries for students.
Scholarships & Funding
Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) Scholarships
University-based research funding
7. Why Study in Czech Republic
Why Study in the Czech Republic?
The Czech Republic provides tuition-free PhD programs at public universities, especially if you study in Czech language.
Tuition Fees
Free for students who study in Czech.
€3,000–€7,000 per year for English-taught PhDs.
Living Costs
Monthly cost: €500–€900
Affordable housing and food.
Scholarships & Funding
Czech Government Scholarships
University-specific research grants
8. Why Study in Hungary
Why Study in Hungary?
Hungary is becoming a popular destination for PhD students due to its low tuition fees and affordable living expenses.
Tuition Fees
€1,500–€3,000 per year for PhD students.
Living Costs
Monthly cost: €500–€800
Budapest is one of the cheapest European capitals for students.
Scholarships & Funding
Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
University research assistantships
9. Why Study in Mexico
Why Study in Mexico?
Mexico has a strong education system, and public universities offer affordable PhD programs.
Tuition Fees
$1,000–$3,000 per year in public universities.
Living Costs
Monthly cost: $500–$800
Affordable housing and food.
Scholarships & Funding
CONACYT Scholarships (Covers tuition and living costs)
University grants
10. Why Study in India
Why Study in India?
India offers one of the cheapest PhD programs in the world, along with a rich research culture in fields like engineering, science, and humanities.
Tuition Fees
$500–$3,000 per year in public universities.
Living Costs
Monthly cost: $300–$600
Affordable accommodation and food.
Scholarships & Funding
Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Scholarships
University-based assistantships
As a PhD aspirant looking for an affordable PhD program, these ten countries offer excellent options. Germany, Norway, Finland, and Sweden provide tuition-free PhDs, while countries like India, Mexico, and Poland offer very low tuition fees and affordable living costs. Additionally, many universities provide scholarships, assistantships, and funding opportunities to support international students.
Before choosing a destination, consider factors like language, research opportunities, and living expenses to make the best decision for your PhD journey. Wish you all the best in your journey.