Unlike the English, American, Canadian and Australian universities, European universities are much more affordable for Pakistani students. Moreover, contrary to common misconceptions, European universities also provide high-quality teaching and research opportunities to their graduates.
Among all the European countries Norway, Austria, Germany, and Finland in particular offer more generous tuition fee waivers to international students.
Tuition Free Universities in Norway
Norwegian state universities generally charge a minimal tuition fee which amounts to 300-600 Norwegian Krone (equivalent to only Pakistan Rs 11,000) per semester. This applies to all levels, including undergraduate studies, master’s, and Ph.D. programs. However, some state universities in Norway do charge some fees for selective programs.
On the other hand, even though the majority of private Norwegian higher educational institutes charge tuition fees, but the good news for international students is that their fee is equal to what Norwegian students are being charged. This is very unlike British, American, Canadian, and Australian universities where international students are charged significantly higher than national students.
However, one important thing that international students interested in studying in Norway should consider is that the cost of living is slightly higher in Norway. Living cost per year in Norway amounts to approximately 90,000 NOK per year (equivalent to approx. Rs 18.5 lakhs).
Tuition Free Universities in Austria
If you are a non-EU / EEA student, federal/public universities in Austria only charge a tuition fee of about 726 Euros per semester. International students on scholarships get exemption even in the minimal tuition fees mentioned above.
The cost of living in Austria is approximately 800 Euros per month (equivalent to Rs 1.5 lakhs) which includes accommodation, food, and personal expenses.
Tuition Free Universities in Germany
As of October 2014, all universities in Germany except Baden-Württemberg were tuition fee free for bachelor’s and consecutive master’s degree programs for all students including international students.
Unlike undergraduate studies, most master’s programs in Germany come with tuition fees, but these programs are still much less expensive compared to universities in other countries. On the other hand, doctoral studies at German universities are in principle free. On average, German students spend about 500-800 Euros per month (making Rs 1 lakh) for accommodation, transport, food, and miscellaneous expenses.
However, international students at all levels of education are allowed to work part-time (20 hours per week). The minimum wage for these part-time jobs ranges between 9 to 12 Euros per hour so a student can earn up to 960 Euros per month which would allow them to easily cover their living expenses without being financially dependent on their family’s support.
Tuition Free Universities and Scholarships in Finland
Tuition fees for non-EU / EEA students in Finland for English taught bachelor’s and master’s degrees was introduced in autumn 2017. However, the doctoral level studies in Finland still remain free for all students including international students.
Estimated living expenses for a student in Finland average around 700-900 Euros per month.
Tuition Scholarships in Swedish Universities
Even though application and tuition fees apply to students who are not citizens of an EU / EEA / Nordic country or Switzerland studying at the bachelor’s or master’s level; however, the Swedish Institute and a number of other Swedish universities offer full and partial scholarships to international students.
PhD positions in Sweden are usually offered as paid positions by universities or external funding bodies. This means that if you are offered a position as a Ph.D. candidate, you will not be required to pay tuition fees and will also receive a monthly stipend to manage your living expenses.