11 countries Brits can study in for free

Britain welcomes hundreds of thousands of international students into its universities every year. From exchange programmes to postgraduate options, it’s a favourite among those looking to invest in a once-in-a-lifetime study abroad experience.

In contrast, only a fraction of UK students cross borders for the sake of education. UNESCO data from 2012 found only 33,000 Brits – that includes postgraduate and exchange students and full-time undergraduates – studied overseas.

Money appears to be one of the top obstacles. Respondents to a British Council survey last November cited they were turned off by having to spend a lot to travel and live abroad.

One respondent said:

“As part of an undergrad[uate] course, it feels unnecessary and expensive, as it wouldn’t count towards my final degree, but would be an extra year of study to fund.”

Contrary to their beliefs, it is possible for them to study abroad for their undergraduate degree despite financial restrictions.

According to the BBC, they can do so on a continent not too far off, ie. the European Union.

These are the 10 EU countries and one European Economic Area (EEA) country where Brits will not be charged undergraduate tuition fees:

1. Germany
2. Sweden
3. Norway
4. Finland
5. Denmark
6. Poland
7. Hungary
8. Austria
9. Greece
10. Croatia
11. Slovenia

As long as the British student fulfills the admission criteria of that institution, he or she is eligible for study. And it will be free provided home students in that country do not pay any fees, too.

The 11 countries on the list represent a diverse, meaty range of undergraduate options to choose from. But be wary that this doesn’t mean there will be zero costs incurred. Depending on each country, there will be some costs charged, such as living costs, or some restrictions to getting free tuition.

For example, Norway – where education is free for everyone from within and outside the EU – is not only home to stunning natural landscapes, but also a wide variety of English-taught programmes at every study level. Take note, however, that living costs may be higher than usual, around NOK 120,000 (~US$14,530; GBP 11,140) per year.

If you’re looking for free tuition and lower living costs, it is better to focus your research on universities located in countries like Poland or Greece.

After all, the Polish capital Warsaw is the 12th-most-affordable city for students in the world according to the QS Best Student Cities 2018.

But take note that free tuition at Polish universities is only available if you pass the entrance exams in Polish (which local students have to take as well) and study your course in the Polish language.

English-taught programmes are available but the costs are slightly steeper at around €2,000-3000 (~US$2,185-3,280; GBP1,756-2,635) per year.

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