Destinations
Germany, the Netherlands and Ireland
Europe offers lower tuition than North America or the UK, and many master's programmes are taught in English. The rules differ sharply by country.
Germany
Most public universities in Germany charge no tuition fees for international students, only a semester contribution that covers administration and often a public transport ticket. The state of Baden-Württemberg is an exception: it charges non-EU students tuition per semester.
Non-EU students usually prove their funds with a blocked account (Sperrkonto). In 2026 the required amount is €992 a month, or €11,904 a year. Applicants for the student applicant visa, used to apply from inside Germany, must show €1,091 a month.
Undergraduate courses are mostly taught in German. English-taught programmes are more common at master's level. See universities in Germany for a list.
The Netherlands
Dutch universities offer many bachelor's and master's programmes in English. Applications go through Studielink, the national system, and some programmes have a cap on numbers with an early deadline. Non-EU students pay institutional tuition, which is much higher than the statutory fee charged to EU students. See universities in the Netherlands.
Ireland
Ireland's universities teach in English, and Dublin has a large technology sector. Non-EU students must show access to €10,000 a year on top of tuition, usually with six months of bank statements. Students hold a Stamp 2 permission, which allows 20 hours of work a week in term and 40 hours a week from June to September and from 15 December to 15 January. See universities in Ireland.
Comparing costs
Low tuition does not always mean a cheaper degree. Rent in Munich, Amsterdam and Dublin is high, and Dutch and Irish cities have student housing shortages. Our costs and scholarships page explains how to build a full budget.