7 Most Affordable EU Countries for a Master's Degree in 2026

Pursuing a postgraduate degree abroad is a life-changing milestone, though it often comes with significant financial considerations.

What if you could minimize those costs? You can find your ideal international destination where low tuition fees and a reasonable cost of living make your academic goals much more attainable.

If you are a prospective Bachelor's student, you should also check some of our budget-friendly guides. 

Now, here are the most affordable destinations to earn your Master’s degree in Europe:

1. Italy – attend some of the oldest universities in Europe

Italy is a highly affordable country to live and study in, consistently attracting thousands of international students and tourists every year.

Home to the oldest university in the Western world, Italy offers students a wealth of prestigious Master’s programmes paired with accessible tuition and a comfortable cost of living.

• Average tuition fees in Italy: 0 - 2,000 EUR/academic year (at public universities)
• Average living costs in big cities: 900 - 1,500 EUR/month
• Average living costs in student cities (Pisa, Padua, Turin): 600 - 1,100 EUR/month

Typical expenses include accommodation, food, public transit, travel, and leisure activities.

Discover these affordable universities in Italy:

2. Spain – make friends and enjoy the sun at a low cost

Spain is a top choice for international students, thanks to its Mediterranean climate, welcoming culture, low cost of living, and the perfect environment to practice your Spanish language skills. 

With over 70 universities to choose from, finding the right Master’s degree in Spain is both simple and rewarding.

• Average tuition fees in Spain: 300 - 3,500 EUR/academic year (at public universities, for international students)
• Average living costs: 600 – 1,000 EUR/month

Your monthly budget should cover essential costs like groceries, utilities, social activities, and transportation. In many Spanish cities, this budget can even comfortably include your housing.

Check out the following affordable universities in Spain:

Find out more about tuition and living costs in Spain.

3. Germany – quality education for everyone

Germany stands as a top study destination in Europe, widely recognized for providing world-class education and cutting-edge research opportunities for Master’s students. 

Germany is home to approximately 300 universities—including several top-ranked global institutions—and offers over 900 international Master’s programmes.

While some major German cities have a higher cost of living, the country remains a highly affordable option for international students due to low or non-existent tuition fees.

• Average tuition fees in Germany: 0 EUR/academic year (at public universities)
• Administration fee: 100 - 350 EUR/semester
• Average living costs: 800 - 1,100 EUR/month

Budget for your stay should include accommodation, groceries, bills, mandatory health insurance, and local travel.

Check out the following affordable universities in Germany:

4. France – learn in an iconic international destination

France is a favorite destination for students who appreciate rich history and culture. With universities spread across more than forty cities, France offers an affordable and high-quality path to a Master’s degree.

• Average tuition fees in France: 170 - 650 EUR/academic year
• Average living costs: 700 - 950 EUR/month

Typical costs involve housing, dining, travel, and leisure. Note that some specialized doctorate programmes, such as those in Engineering or Medicine, may carry slightly higher fees, often ranging between 450 and 600 EUR/year.

Check out the following affordable universities in France:

5. Lithuania – a rich education offer, with friendly living costs

With over fifteen higher education institutions providing a wide range of English-taught Master’s programmes, Lithuania is an emerging European destination that welcomes over 3,000 international students every year. 

Lithuanian universities prioritize both theoretical depth and practical experience, giving students the chance to participate in meaningful academic and professional research.

• Average tuition fees in Lithuania: 1,150 - 5,000 EUR/academic year (at public universities)
• Average living costs: 200 - 380 EUR/month

Living costs in Lithuania are among the lowest in Europe. While Vilnius can be slightly pricier, averaging around 850 EUR/month, this typically covers all your essential expenses including rent, groceries, and transport.

Check out the following affordable universities in Lithuania:

6. Hungary – a beautiful Eastern European country, that’s also affordable

Offering a vast array of study options, relatively low living costs, and a vibrant social scene, Hungary provides students with a world-class academic experience.

• Average tuition fees in Hungary: 1,000 - 8,000 EUR/academic year (at public universities)
• Average living costs: 350 - 550 EUR/month, that include housing, food, travelling, entertainment, and social activities

General living expenses cover rent, utilities, food, travel, and personal social activities.

Check out the following affordable universities in Hungary:

7. Portugal – low-cost tuition and amazing views 

Portugal features five universities in the top global rankings—a remarkable feat for a smaller nation. Portuguese institutions combine a long, rich tradition of research with a welcoming atmosphere that international students love.

• Average tuition fees in Portugal: 500 - 1,500 EUR/academic year
• Average living costs: 500 - 750 EUR/month, including accommodation, food, and leisure activities

Check out the following affordable universities in Portugal:

Find out more about tuition and living costs in Portugal.

Studying abroad doesn't have to be a financial burden; in fact, it can sometimes be more affordable than staying in your home country. Whether you're concerned about tuition or daily expenses, many European nations offer high-quality education at a fraction of the cost.

You can use Numbeo to compare the cost of living across various European cities and beyond. 

You can also explore the Online Result Scholarship to find extra support for financing your studies abroad.