Which are the most affordable master’s programmes in Europe for Indian students?

Europe has become a top destination for Indian students seeking high-quality, affordable master’s programmes. With low tuition fees, generous scholarships, and access to post-study work opportunities, European universities provide a cost-effective path to international education.

Unlike countries such as the USA or Australia, where education costs can be prohibitively high, several European nations, especially Germany, Austria, France, and Poland, offer master's degrees at public universities for little to no tuition fees. This makes Europe an attractive option for Indian students who are academically driven but also financially conscious.

“According to Study.eu, Germany, France, and Poland are among the top 10 most affordable study destinations in Europe for international students, offering high academic quality and low fees.”

In this guide, you’ll find a breakdown of the most affordable countries, universities, popular master’s courses, eligibility criteria, scholarships, and more.

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Why study a master’s in Europe as an Indian student?

Studying for a master’s degree in Europe offers several academic and financial advantages. For Indian students like you, cost is often a deciding factor, and European universities offer high returns on low investment.

Many European countries offer world-class public education where tuition fees are either minimal or completely waived for international students. These universities are globally recognised and rank well in QS and Times Higher Education indexes.

Apart from affordability, European universities offer English-taught master’s programmes across a wide range of fields from engineering and business to arts and social sciences.

Post-study work visas and immigration policies in countries like Germany, France, and Finland also make Europe a practical choice for students who want international work experience or long-term residency.

Living costs in many parts of Europe, especially Central and Eastern Europe, are significantly lower than in North America, making the overall cost of studying and living much more manageable.

Most affordable countries in Europe for Indian students

If you're planning to study a master’s degree on a budget, here are the most affordable European countries to consider. Each of these countries offers low tuition, accessible scholarships, and a good quality of life. Let’s have a look.

Germany

Studying in Germany is one of the most affordable options for Indian students. Most public universities in Germany don’t charge tuition fees for master’s programmes, especially if your undergraduate degree is in the same or a related field.

You’ll only pay a small administrative or semester fee (usually around EUR 300), which covers services like transport, library access, and student unions. The cost of living is moderate, especially if you study in smaller cities like Leipzig or Dresden.

Germany also offers an 18-month post-study work visa, allowing you to stay and find employment after graduation.

Austria

Austria is another popular destination offering affordable education. Public universities in Austria charge around EUR 726 per semester for international students, making it a relatively cost-effective option. Many universities also offer tuition waivers or fee reductions to eligible candidates. 

Cities such as Vienna, Graz, and Innsbruck are home to reputable institutions that provide a variety of English-taught master’s programmes. Austria is also renowned for its safe environment, well-maintained public infrastructure, and rich cultural heritage. 

Plus, you can also benefit from a one-year post-study work visa, which may be extended if you secure employment in the country.

France

Studying in France is another great option, because France heavily subsidises higher education at public universities, which allows international students to pay significantly lower tuition fees compared to other global study destinations. 

Tuition fees at public institutions typically average around EUR 3,770 per year for master’s programmes. Many of France’s top-ranked universities offer English-medium master’s programmes, particularly in disciplines such as business, international relations, public policy, and engineering.

Cities like Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse offer a vibrant student lifestyle with a wide range of cultural and social opportunities. France also provides up to two years of post-study work rights for non-EU graduates, especially those holding degrees in high-demand sectors such as technology, business, and engineering.

Poland

Poland continues to attract Indian students due to its low tuition fees and living costs. Master’s programmes at public universities generally range between EUR 2,000 and EUR 4,000 per year.
The overall cost of living is very manageable. Most students can live comfortably on EUR 500–700 per month in cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Lublin.

Studying in Poland offers diverse academic options, with strong offerings in STEM, business, economics, and the arts. After graduation, Poland allows international students to extend their stay to search for jobs, with flexible pathways to long-term residence and employment.

Hungary

Hungary is one of the most affordable countries in Europe for international students. Tuition fees for master’s degrees at public universities typically range between EUR 1,200 and EUR 3,000 per year. Indian students can also apply for the prestigious Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship, which covers tuition fees, provides accommodation support, and includes a monthly living stipend.

Cities such as Budapest, Szeged, and Debrecen are popular for their mix of academic excellence, affordable living, and historic charm. Hungarian universities are increasingly offering programmes in English, especially in fields like medicine, engineering, and business. Graduates are eligible for a post-study visa extension, enabling them to seek employment in Hungary after completing their degree.

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Affordable universities in Europe for Indian students

Many public universities in Europe are not only affordable but also internationally recognised for academic excellence and career outcomes. These institutions offer high-quality English-taught master’s programmes at lower tuition costs, and many have scholarships or fee waivers available for Indian and international students.

Below are some Edvoy-recommended affordable universities for Indian students pursuing a master’s in Europe:

University of Vienna (Austria)

• Offers low-cost degrees in social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences.
• Tuition fees: ~EUR 726 per semester for non-EU/EEA students
• Known for its vibrant academic community and strong international outlook.

SRH Hochschule Berlin (Germany)

• SRH Hochschule Berlin is a private university known for its focus on innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Strong ties with industries, especially in engineering and applied sciences.
• Offers a wide range of English-taught master’s programmes in areas like Business, Computer Science, Engineering, and Big Data.

University of Pécs (Hungary)

• Offers affordable English-taught master’s degrees in fields like medicine, business, and arts.
• Tuition fees: EUR 1,500 to EUR 3,000 per year.
• Eligible for the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship, which covers tuition, accommodation, and living costs.

University of Bologna (Italy)

• One of the oldest universities in Europe with a modern academic structure.
• Offers a range of English-taught postgraduate programmes with generous scholarship options.
• Tuition fees: Between EUR 2,000 and EUR 4,000 per year, depending on the course and income declaration.

Warsaw University of Business (Poland)

• Warsaw University of Business is highly regarded for management, logistics, IT, and international business.
• Tuition fees: Between EUR 2,500 and EUR 4,000 per year.
• The university is known for its practical approach to teaching and multicultural environment.

Need help choosing the right university? Book a free session with Edvoy’s experts.

Popular affordable master’s courses for Indian students

Indian students often pursue high-demand master’s programmes in Europe that are both affordable and career-oriented. These include:

• Master’s in Computer Science
• Master’s in Business Administration (MBA)
• MSc in Data Science
• Master’s in Mechanical Engineering
• MSc in Environmental Management
• MA in International Relations
• MSc in Artificial Intelligence
• Master’s in Public Health

Most of these programmes are offered in English and come with internship or project-based learning components, which add to their value.

Also read: Best postgraduate courses in Computer Science to study abroad

Scholarships for Indian students in Europe

Even in countries with low tuition fees, scholarships can help reduce your financial burden further. European universities and governments offer a wide range of fellowships targeted at Indian and other international students. Popular scholarships include:

1. Erasmus+ Scholarships

Offered by the European Union for joint master’s programmes across multiple countries.

2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

Fund tuition, living costs, and travel for Indian students pursuing full-time postgraduate study.

3. Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary)

Fully funded by the Hungarian government, including a monthly stipend.

4. Eiffel Scholarship (France)

Targeted at top international students in engineering, management, and law.

5. Invest Your Talent in Italy

For Indian students pursuing business and tech-related master’s degrees in Italy.

6. Finnish Government Scholarships

Available for students enrolled in select programmes in Finland.

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Eligibility criteria for affordable master’s programmes in Europe

To apply for affordable master’s programmes in Europe, you typically need the following:

• A recognised bachelor’s degree, usually with a minimum of 50–60%
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS 6.0 or higher)
• A Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your academic background, career goals, and motivation
• One or two Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
• Updated CV or Resume
• Some countries may require additional documents like a portfolio, entrance test scores, or interviews, depending on the course

Each university and country may have slightly different requirements, so it's important to check the programme page or speak to an advisor.

According to Eurostat 2023, over 38% of non-EU graduates in countries like Germany and France transitioned into full-time employment or PR within 2 years of graduating.

Post-study work and PR opportunities

One of the major benefits of studying in Europe is the possibility to stay and work after your degree. Most countries offer between 12 and 24 months of post-study work rights to help you find employment and gain experience.

For example:

• Germany offers 18 months
• France offers 2 years
• Finland and the Netherlands offer 2 years
• Austria and Poland offer 12 months (extendable)

If you secure a full-time job, you can often convert your temporary visa into a work permit or apply for permanent residency, depending on local rules.

Navigating post-study work options, visa rules, and the right course can be overwhelming, but that’s where Edvoy comes in. Our expert counsellors offer free, personalised guidance to help you choose the right university, course, and country that match your goals.

“According to LinkedIn Jobs 2025, master’s graduates in Computer Science, Data Science, and Engineering see 20–30% higher starting salaries in Europe than those with only undergraduate degrees.”

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FAQs

Which country in Europe is the cheapest for a master’s degree?

Germany is considered the most affordable, followed by Austria, Hungary, and Poland. Germany, in particular, is known for its high-quality education and strong job market for graduates.

Do I need IELTS to study in Europe?

Yes. Most programmes require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0, though requirements vary by university. Some universities may also accept alternatives like TOEFL, PTE, or offer exemptions if you've studied in English previously. Always check with your chosen institution.

Can I study in Europe for free?

Yes. Public universities in countries like Germany and Austria charge little to no tuition. You’ll only need to budget for living expenses. Many of these institutions offer English-taught programmes, making them an excellent choice for you.

What is the duration of post-study work visas in Europe?

Depending on the country, you’ll get 12 to 24 months to stay and work after graduation. For example, Germany offers 18 months, while France and the Netherlands allow up to 2 years. These periods give you time to find relevant employment and transition into long-term work visas or PR routes.

How can I apply to master’s programmes in Europe?

You can apply through platforms like Edvoy, which helps you find the right universities, prepare your documents, and submit your application all at no cost.