Leave the UK: It's Cheaper to Study in Europe
Studying in London is a still a goal for many. However, UK universities are now charging over £9,000 a year for locals and up to £30,000 a year for non-European students. Maybe it's time to think about cheaper, but still prestigious alternatives, right?
After asking our Spotahome students around Europe, here's a what we found.
1. Italy
Italian Tuition Fees are generally lower than in other countries in Europe. Masters and other specialised courses might have higher costs, while PhD students who receive university grants do not pay tuition fees.
In Italy, there are two types of universities. Public Universities, like Bologna, Turin where the average tuition fees are between €850-2,000 per year. And Private Universities, which charge much higher fees. For example, the Bocconi in Milan charges an average of €12,000 per year (depending on the household income).
2. Norway
In Norway, higher education at public universities is free for everyone, from both within and outside the EU. The only exception is for a few specialized programs. Another great reason to study in Norway or any other Nordic country is the large availability of English-taught courses. The downside is obviously the high cost of living in these countries.
3. Germany
Germany is fast growing in popularity with international students and expats from all over the world. In particular, Berlin offers high-quality universities, ** low costs of living and a high quality of life**. There is no fee for undergraduate and PhD level at all public universities. Master’s students who have not taken their undergraduate degree in Germany will typically pay around €20,000 per year, but you should always check the available scholarships.
Photo credits @the_storyteller
4. France
A good thing about studying in France is that tuition fees are the same for domestic and international students. For 2018/19, they are set at €170 per year for bachelor’s programs, €243 for most master’s programs, and €380 for PhDs. However, if you were to study at the Sorbonne in Paris, the tuition fee would be 6500 euros per year. Living expenses will be highest in the capital, but you may find it worth the extra cost if you were studying at one of the best universities in the world. Additionally, if you don't speak fluent French, you can attend many courses in English.
5. Poland
Poland is another great place to study abroad on a budget. It offers a high quality of education, in cities with lots of culture and history. If you speak Polish and take the same entrance exams as Polish students, you can also study for free. If Polish isn't your thing, there are also many English-taught programs available. University in Poland costs around €2,000-3000 per year but living costs are on the low side.
Obviously, there are also other interesting destinations. You could look into Austria, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Malta and Norway. But, before enrolling, make sure to check the quality of the specific university.
Other Things to Consider:
The idea of living La Dolce Vita in Rome or practice Spanish on Las Ramblas in Barcelona, might sound appealing, but it's important for you to do your research beforehand.
Fundings & Scholarships
If you are thinking about leaving the UK to study abroad, you should look into the many funding and scholarships that students undertaking a higher education can apply for. Some of them not only cover tuition fees but living costs as well. Once you've decided where you are going to study, make sure to find your perfect home!
Additional Costs
You also need to find out about additional costs, cost of living and, most importantly, if your degree is internationally recognised. Studying in Germany, Poland or France might come out cheaper, but then you'll have to add the cost of travelling to/from the destination, health insurance and other costs.
Can You Work there?
You'll also discover that many countries will put a limit on how many hours a week you can work while on a student visa, so it's well worth looking into all of these factors. On the other side, many universities offer scholarships to the best foreign students. Finally, there are some countries where education is free or only charge a symbolic amount.
A peculiar example is the Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa, Italy. A free public institute for higher education which picks only the most exceptional students from all around the world. At the Normale, lessons are held on a seminar basis. Lecturers, researchers and students all live in the same spaces while sharing teaching and laboratories. Students live in the college completely for free and follow a particular course of studies which include a mix of experience, research, study and intuition.
Is Your Degree Recognised?
You'll need to check if your chosen degree is recognised both in the UK and in the country you're studying in. You don’t want to waste three years studying abroad and then realise that your degree is not accepted anywhere else.
Vous-Parlez Français?
Or German, Italian, Polish, Spanish? Are you a fast-learner or you struggle to pick up a new language. This is another aspect you should consider.
Will you need insurance?
Check your travel insurance and make sure it covers not only for your medical expenses but also for your personal possessions.
An increasing number of British students are opting to study abroad to learn a new language, find an Italian girlfriend ? or simply to have a more international profile. While many decide to take an entire course abroad, there has been a recent and sudden rush of UK students applying for the EU’s Erasmus programme.
Is this the "Brexit Effect"?
Read more about studying abroad here: