Many Middle Eastern students dream of studying in the West for world-class education and career opportunities. While tuition and living costs can be high, there are Western countries that remain affordable — especially with scholarships and work opportunities. Here are the top 10 budget-friendly options for Middle Eastern students.
1. Germany
Tuition fees: Public universities often charge little or no tuition.
Living costs: €850–€1,000 per month.
Why it’s affordable: Government policy keeps higher education accessible.
Scholarships: DAAD Scholarships, Erasmus+.
2. France
Tuition fees: €2,500–€4,000 per year at public universities.
Living costs: €700–€1,200 per month.
Why it’s affordable: Subsidised tuition for international students.
Scholarships: Eiffel Excellence, Campus France awards.
3. Poland
Tuition fees: €2,000–€4,000 per year.
Living costs: €400–€700 per month.
Why it’s affordable: Lower fees and costs compared to Western Europe.
Scholarships: Polish Government, Erasmus+.
4. Hungary
Tuition fees: €2,500–€6,000 per year.
Living costs: €400–€700 per month.
Why it’s affordable: Cheaper than Western Europe while still part of the EU.
Scholarships: Stipendium Hungaricum.
5. Czech Republic
Tuition fees: Free in Czech; €3,000–€7,000 per year for English-taught courses.
Living costs: €500–€800 per month.
Why it’s affordable: High-quality education at lower costs.
Scholarships: Government-funded and Erasmus+.
6. Italy
Tuition fees: €2,000–€4,000 per year at public universities.
Living costs: €600–€1,000 per month.
Why it’s affordable: Public universities are heavily subsidised.
Scholarships: Italian Government and regional grants.
7. Spain
Tuition fees: €1,000–€3,500 per year at public universities.
Living costs: €600–€900 per month.
Why it’s affordable: Among the lowest tuition rates in Western Europe.
Scholarships: Erasmus+ and Spanish Government scholarships.
8. Canada
Tuition fees: $10,000–$15,000 per year (lower at community colleges).
Living costs: $800–$1,200 per month.
Why it’s affordable: Part-time work and PR opportunities reduce long-term costs.
Scholarships: Canada Graduate Scholarships, university entrance awards.
9. United Kingdom (Budget Options)
Tuition fees: £10,000–£15,000 per year (regional universities are cheaper than London).
Living costs: £800–£1,200 per month outside London.
Why it’s affordable: Shorter degree durations reduce overall costs.
Scholarships: Chevening, GREAT Scholarships, university awards.
10. Australia
Tuition fees: AUD $15,000–$20,000 per year.
Living costs: AUD $800–$1,000 per month.
Why it’s affordable: Work opportunities allow students to offset costs.
Scholarships: Australia Awards, Destination Australia.
Western countries don’t always mean expensive education. With careful planning, scholarships, and smart choices of universities, Middle Eastern students can find affordable study options in Europe, North America, and Australia.
Book a free consultation with BESA Group to explore the most affordable study options in the West tailored to your budget and career goals.
