Studying abroad at a well-established university is every student’s dream. And in most cases, the only thing stopping you from living this dream is the financial burden of going overseas. Tuition fees, campus activities, and living and eating expenses can dent your finances severely. Fortunately, many developed nations like Germany offer free education and affordable living amenities for anyone who wishes to study there. In fact, studying in Germany might be the most affordable alternative owing to the following reasons.

Public tuition is free
Public universities in Germany provide free education for all, even students who don’t hail from the European Union. Germany is also one of the few countries where tuition costs for private universities are very affordable if you want to pursue a specialization. This is one of the main reasons why many people prefer migrating to the country for further studies and job opportunities. Students are only charged a nominal fee that covers administrative costs, and all services are provided for free. So, compared to most American colleges or universities, German institutions are a cheaper option.

Cheap accommodation
Germany not only offers affordable education but also provides the best accommodation facilities for international students at reasonable prices. For example, single studio apartments and shared studio residences are available for a low cost of €250. You can also share a privately rented flat with fellow students and split accommodations expenses to save more money. Besides, your utility bills won’t cost more than €200, bringing your total to less than €500 a month in living expenses. But note that accommodation is affordable in smaller cities like Leipzig, Freiburg, or Hannover. Since you will be spending a couple of years abroad, it only makes sense to go for affordable housing options.

Scholarship programs
Germany offers several scholarship programs for international students who want to study at private universities. These are broadly classified into state-specific scholarships, partial scholarships, and merit-based scholarships. Education programs under these scholarships are funded by either the government or non-profit organizations. If you meet their application criteria, the government is responsible for paying all tuition fees; you only have to look after your living and eating arrangements. Popular scholarships include the Helmholtz scholarships, Humboldt Scholarships, DAAD scholarships, Erasmus +, and The Deutschlandstipendium. Eligibility will vary based on the application criteria.

Food and utilities
As a student, you work with a tight budget, and it isn’t possible to eat out or order food every single day. Also, international students who hail from countries where their currency is weaker find it challenging to manage their food and utilities in developed nations. Germany, however, has addressed this problem effectively and offers food and local produce at the cheapest rates to all. You can eat out on most days as restaurants provide quality meals for a very affordable price tag. Most universities that feature free education programs also have canteens, cafes, and cafeterias that offer special discounts to students. Additionally, you can buy the best produce from discounted open-air markets and supermarkets to save more money. Preparing a fresh meal at home is also an affordable alternative on any given day.

Free transport
Most German universities offer semester tickets as part of their free education and scholarship program initiatives for availing public transport. International students can benefit from these discounted travel passes valid for trams, buses, and the metro. You can apply and get a semester ticket using your student ID and avail of additional discounts on the DeutscheBahn main railway line for inter-city and state travel. For example, the Bahncard 25 gives you a year-long membership and heavily discounted prices on tickets on your student ID.

Best health insurance
Germany is one of the few places globally that offers premium healthcare services at some of the most affordable prices to local and international residents. Students can avail of this benefit from public insurance providers who provide comprehensive health coverage for less than €120 a month.

Note that knowing the country’s language also helps when you apply to study and work abroad.