Tuition Free Universities in Europe and Some Scandinavian Countries

Many international students long to study abroad for several reasons. First, to gain experience from learning in a developed country. Second, to compete with students from all over the globe in the same classroom, and third, to exchange ideas and share knowledge. The scholarships available, particularly for underprivileged students are scarce and the fees are exorbitant that many are scared to take the challenge to venture studying abroad which would enable them to broaden their knowledge and return home to innovate or replicate some of the knowledge gained.

All is not doom and gloom for international students as some countries like Norway, Finland, Sweden, Germany and Austria proffer varied types of low tuition schemes and tuition waivers that international students with a strong academic background can grasp to acquire knowledge from world class universities. However, international students whose intention is to apply to study in these countries must note that their living expenses remain unsorted and would be their responsibilities. Countries like Norway have a high cost of living especially in the capital city, Oslo. Although fees are "free" (I don't like to use the word "free" because most of the universities charge registration fees of about £150  maximum) and it is my perspective that education, no matter how it is framed, it is hard to say it is entirely free.

It is reported that Norwegian state universities (watch out for the word state) and university colleges do not require international students to pay fees. This is applicable to all levels of education from undergraduate, Masters and Ph.D. programmes. For some specialised Masters programmes, students would be expected to pay fees, likewise in private institutions. Even though private institutions charge fees to international students, the costs are significantly lower compared to other countries providing similar educational services. List of universities and colleges in Norway (please click on link https://www.studyinnorway.no/Where-can-I-study#

Another country with low tuition cost is Austria. If you are an non-EU/EEA student with interest to study in Austria, then you could be charged an estimated 370-800 Euros per semester for tuition fees, and if you are a citizen of a least developed country you could be exempt from paying tuition fees at public universities in Austria, but would be expected to pay an estimated 18 Euros for the Student Union membership. Do not forget living costs. List of higher education institutes in Austria http://www.studyinaustria.at/study_in_austria/higher_education_institutions/

In Germany, it is reported that all universities would be free for international undergraduate students. Like in all the countries, you would be expected to look after yourself-accommodation, and living allowances still require consideration before you embark on any study venture abroad. Masters programmes are often charged, whereas doctoral studies are considered free in Germany. List of universities and the amounts students have to pay in the different federal states in Germany http://www.internationale-studierende.de/en/prepare_your_studies/financing/tuition_fees/

In Sweden, The Swedish Institute and other universities offer international students full and partial scholarships in the form of tuition waivers to international students. Remember, these waivers are made after a judgement on your academic background and sometimes, on your leadership skills. The highlight for me in Sweden is that PhD positions are considered paid with no tuition fees and and a monthly salary.

List of universities in Sweden which offer full and partial waivers https://studyinsweden.se/scholarships/university-scholarships/

In Finland, rules have changed and tuition fees will be introduced as of Autumn 2017. However, some gifted children from non-EU countries would be considered for scholarships. For doctoral candidates, CIMO scholarships would be available.
List of Finnish Universities http://www.studyinfinland.fi/wheretostudy

Note that in all countries mentioned above, you would be expected to learn the language for daily communication.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Want to Earn $1000 a Month? Links Where You Can Find Remote Proofreading Jobs.

10 Countries with Minimal Tuition Fee for Africans