How to study abroad for free

October 27th, 2022 by IEFA

Obtaining a good education is not cheap! College education costs have risen dramatically over the years, making it increasingly difficult for people to afford them. The number of people pursuing higher education is growing, which means there is a greater demand for quality education. It appears impossible, especially in countries with an excellent education system, to do so without a budget in the five figures.

If you have a lot of ambition, a good academic record, and a competitive attitude, there are plenty of opportunities for you to study abroad for free.

While university fees and other living expenses continue to rise across the country, students are looking for ways to pursue a recognized degree without putting too much strain on their finances.

International university education can be costly! Candidates want to study at the best foreign universities without breaking the bank. However, tuition and other living expenses are rising. Here, we will be looking at how to study Abroad for free.

You will be relieved to learn that you can study abroad on a shoestring budget. The next step is to figure out how.

Begin fundraising

If you have a serious interest in studying in another country, you will be surprised to find out how many people are willing to financially back your efforts. You can make your goals a reality in many different ways, including organizing and participating in fundraising events, selling your unused possessions, and using online crowdfunding pages.

Scholarships

If you want to study abroad without breaking the bank, do some research on grants and scholarships. Every year, universities, charities, foundations, and government organizations assist thousands of international students with tuition and living expenses. Unlike student loans, you will never have to repay these sums of money.

With so much financial assistance available, it’s worth investigating which funding pots you might be eligible for. If you can’t find what you’re looking for on the universities’ websites that interest you, get in touch with their admissions team.

However, obtaining a fully funded scholarship is extremely difficult due to the many applicants versus the limited number of scholarships available.

Some of these scholarships will have a specific time frame in which applications are accepted, so you must find out when the scholarship is open before applying. Some scholarships are only available to students from specific countries, so do your homework before applying.

There are various types of scholarships, such as general and specialized funding schemes. Scholarships are also provided by individual universities, government agencies, charitable organizations, and some private businesses.

Scholarships cover two types of expenses:

The cost of tuition

Expenses for living

Individual universities provide scholarships

Some universities automatically consider students for scholarships with a profile higher than 50% of the class medium. It means that some universities will automatically consider students for a scholarship if their profile meets more than half of the criteria established by the university.

In addition, some universities consider students for need-based scholarships, allowing them to pursue higher education without worrying about tuition costs.

Countries you can study for free Abroad

While university fees continue to rise in many parts of the world, some may believe that obtaining a recognized degree qualification in your home country or abroad is impossible without a four- or five-figure budget or a scholarship.

Don’t worry if you’re not from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland. There are still many countries where you can study abroad for free or at a very low cost:5

You’ll be relieved to know that this isn’t always the case. There are many countries around the world where students can study abroad for free or at a very low cost. All you have to do is know where to look.

Below is a list of countries that provide low-cost or free tuition and information on eligibility and current (low) university fees.

Germany

Germany provides an excellent combination of international universities and a high standard of living. Their public universities are valued not only for the number of students they enroll but also for their quality. Everyone, including German and international students, is entitled to free education in Germany.

In Germany, over 300 public universities are offering over 1000 study programs. They have a long history of outstanding teaching, scientific research, and international acclaim. The German government is attempting to keep these universities competing in the global market by providing research funds, scholarships, and grants.

Interest in studying abroad in Germany appears to be increasing. This is large because most public universities in Germany have no undergraduate tuition fees, which applies to both German students and internationals of any nationality.

Germany wants the brightest minds from around the world to study in their country. Admission to low-cost public universities, on the other hand, is extremely difficult. As a result, some private institutions provide extremely low costs specialized programs and other benefits. Scholarships can also help you pay for your tuition and living expenses.

Germans believe that education should not be treated as a profit-making venture and that everyone should have free access. Aside from students, the approach also benefits the country’s economic growth. International students are drawn to free education, which benefits the German economy. You have several options to choose from.

Norway

Higher education in Norway is free for all, regardless of nationality or level of study. Students in Norway can pursue masters or doctoral degrees in English. International students must also demonstrate their command of the English language.

Norway never ceases to astound travelers. It will be an equally interesting study hub for international students. There are numerous free educational opportunities in Norway. Norway has over 200 master’s degrees and undergraduate programs taught in English.

Norway is one of the top countries with free universities. The government funds most Norwegian universities and state university colleges. As a result, you can study at public universities in Norway for free. The best part is that Norway believes in equal educational opportunities for all and thus provides free education to students from both EU and non-EU countries.

Ireland

Ireland is a British Isle with a rich cultural and literary history. Every year, the country invests more than 800 million Euros in higher education. As a result, higher education is entirely free for all Irish and EU students. Several scholarships are available for students not from the region, including 100% fee waivers

Sweden

You can study for free in Sweden. So, how can you study for free in Sweden? You can receive free education if you study at universities partnered with Swedish universities and apply for exchange programs.

International students can also apply for scholarships such as the Lund University Global Scholarship Programme and others. Many Swedish universities also offer Ph.D. programs that are free for all students and pay for these positions. They not only provide English research, but many of them also include paid positions.

Universities in Sweden provide free higher education to students of Swedish and non-Swedish nationalities. You will be paid for your work if you are a researcher pursuing your Ph.D. at any Swedish university. Many Swedish universities also offer scholarships, which can be beneficial for international students who are concerned about how to study abroad for free.

Denmark

Denmark is another country where free education is only for students from the EU/EAA. On the other hand, international students can waive their tuition fees if they are accepted into a Danish university through an exchange program. Scholarships are also available to non-EU students.

Finland

International students from outside the EU/EEA can study for free in Finland. The Finnish government has a policy known as “Finlandization,” which states that students are not required to pay tuition or living expenses. Furthermore, students from all over the world are eligible to apply for a scholarship to study in Finland. Students can also earn money while studying for their Ph.D.

In 2017, Finland was one of those countries where education was free for all, no matter what part of the world they belonged to. However, Finland has excellent financial aid options, so you can still study for free in Finland on scholarships. Remember that if you’re an international student, you can still study in Finland for free if you pursue programs taught in Finnish or Swedish.

France

Although France is not as well-known for its affordable higher education as Germany, international students may be surprised to learn that they can study in France for free regardless of nationality. Most programs that offer free study in France are taught in the native language. However, opportunities to study English are increasing, particularly at the graduate level.

You can also attend a preparatory school to improve your French skills before beginning your degree, but this will cost you money.

Although university fees are technically charged at public universities in France, they are a fraction of those charged in most other countries.

Although university fees are technically charged at public universities in France, they are a fraction of those charged in most other countries.

Work on the Side

Many countries will allow you to work part-time while studying. Although your job will not cover all your expenses, it will help you offset the cost of studying abroad.

Part-time jobs are an excellent way for people to supplement their income while also advancing their careers. Various countries permit foreign students to work for pay for 20 hours per week. Most popular study destinations around the world permit students to work up to 20 hours per week while completing their studies.

In general, these are the maximum number of hours that students can work in addition to their studies; however, they are permitted to work for less than this amount. Students who work part-time are paid on an hourly basis.

The type of job you get will depend on which university you attend. On-campus jobs are available at many universities, including laboratories, libraries, reception areas, cafeterias, and gyms. However, due to the limited number of such positions available, it can be difficult to obtain one.

You should not be concerned, however, because numerous off-campus opportunities are available, such as waiter/waitress, receptionist, data entry, and contact center jobs. Working part-time will not only help you pay your rent, bills, and daily needs, but it will also help your resume.

Furthermore, your international work experience and professional skills will look great on your resume.

Virtually study abroad

With more universities offering online programs than ever, you can earn a top international degree from the comfort of your home.

Even though you will not live in another country, you will meet people from various backgrounds, learn about new cultures, and improve your language skills. Even better, you’ll get all these advantages without breaking the bank.

Even if you are admitted to a university that does not charge you for your higher education degree, living in a foreign country can be costly, particularly if you are from India. There are a few options for raising funds to pursue the course from a location of your choice.

One such method is to raise funds to support your finances while abroad. While raising funds may seem awkward to some, it is one of the best ways to ensure that your dreams are realized without financial constraints.

Begin raising funds.

If you’re serious about studying abroad, you’ll be surprised how many people will come to your aid. Throwing fundraising events, selling your old belongings, and using online crowdfunding pages are just a few ways to make your dreams a reality.

Internships with Pay

An internship is a formal work experience opportunity provided by an employer to potential employees for a set period of time. This work is related to the student’s field, which ultimately helps them improve their profile while learning about their field. Furthermore, the work gives them a competitive advantage over other job seekers in the market.

Aside from providing them with extra money, internships provide students with industry experience that can be useful at work and allow them to manage more responsibilities while receiving less on-the-job training.

Most importantly, interns can network with other professionals in their field, which will benefit them in the future. Paid internships are an excellent way to gain experience.

Paid internships are an excellent way to gain experience and learn how to be a professional. During the internship, there is always an avenue to learn things that will be productive even while studying abroad.

Other places to study abroad for free

Austria

Austria is another European country where students can study for free (or at a very low cost). Regarding higher education costs, EU/EEA students have the same rights as Austrians and can study for free at any degree level. After this period, students pay only €363 per semester. Fees for international students from outside the EU/EEA will be slightly higher.

Greece

Except for some master’s programs, all students from the EU/EEA can study abroad for free in Greece at public universities and colleges. International students from countries other than the European Union are also eligible for low-cost higher education. Greece has a significant educational program for international students.

Belgium

There are two major language communities in Belgium, each with its own take on university fees. On the other hand, EU students will pay a maximum amount per year. While EU students benefit the most from being able to study in Europe for free, fees for non-EU international students are still relatively low.

The Czech Republic

Students who speak Czech can study at any public university in the Czech Republic for free. Students who want to study English can do so at a reasonable cost.

Conclusion

So, after considering all of the factors, we return to our original question: How to study abroad for free? Practically, it’s not possible. Students must bear other costs, but the cost of pursuing higher education abroad can be comparable to that of a sound education system. You can study abroad for free if you apply to universities in these countries.

Studying abroad can help you advance your career, but it can be an expensive experience. Examine our list of countries where you can study abroad for free.

FAQs

Which countries offer free study abroad?

Germany, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, France, the Czech Republic, and Austria are the best countries to study abroad for free or at a low cost.

How can I study in another country for free?

If you’re wondering how to study abroad for free, apply to public universities in Germany or the Nordic countries. You can also apply for scholarships and grants to help you pay for your studies abroad. You can also study virtually and save significant money on your degree.

Academic Value of places to Study Abroad for free

In countries where free education, many undergraduate and graduate programs are regarded as among the best in the world.

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Choosing a college or a university in the USA

October 24th, 2022 by IEFA

thinking about study in the US

The choice of University is one of the very strategic decisions for your career, and it must be approached thoroughly. Universities differ from one another according to many factors.

Naturally, the choice of the University will be held in parallel with the program selection and what speciality you intend to study at the University.

People say the USA is the land of endless possibilities. There are over 4,500 USA universities offering undergraduate degrees. Harvard, Stanford, MIT and Caltech are just a few big names international students dream about. The issue with these endless possibilities is that you will eventually need to choose.

If you are one who also has this dream, and you look forward to seeing your dreams come true, it is essential that you know how to choose a college or University in the USA among many great options. We will be looking at various factors you have to consider to help you make the perfect and right choice.

Difference Between A College and A University

students at US university

As students and parents consider their future educational options, they may become confused about the distinction between colleges and universities. Many believe that a college is a private institution and a university is a state-funded institution. Others may believe that a university offers a better education than a college. In reality, distinguishing between a college and a university is much more difficult.

What is a College

A college is a specific educational institution or establishment. It is one that offers higher education as well as specialized professional or vocational training.

For example, community colleges and junior colleges may only offer two-year degrees. Most colleges offer bachelor’s degrees, and some also offer associate degrees. The institution offers specialized courses and instruction.

What is a university?

A university is an institute that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees. It is a high-level educational institution where students pursue degrees and conduct academic research. They also provide graduate programs leading to a master’s or doctorate.

Medical and law schools are also available at universities for students interested in pursuing professional degrees. Some universities have special programs that allow students to earn both an undergraduate and a graduate degree in a shorter period. Because of the more significant number of enrolled students, universities generally offer classes and programs more diverse than colleges.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a College or a University in the USA

study in the US

It is best if you take your time researching various potential options. It takes time to identify which colleges might be a good fit for you, so start this process months before you want to start your studies. Use the criteria listed below to select the best USA university for you.

Also, keep in mind that the school year in the United States begins in August or September.

Identify your passion

You’re most likely planning a career in the field of study; your best bet is to focus on what you’re passionate about and then work out the details. You must be honest with yourself and ask yourself if you genuinely see yourself studying and pursuing a career in your chosen field. If you answered yes, you’ve already completed the most crucial step.

Do not dismiss your intuition! Even if you’ve always been told that such decisions should be based on logic, you’ll spend the next three to six years studying your subject, so make sure your heart is in the right place.

Make a list of the best USA colleges and universities in your field.

Once you’ve decided on the subject you want to study in the United States, you should begin your search. University rankings and subject-specific rankings can be beneficial in locating US universities that are a good fit for your interests. Make a list of institutions that interest you and thoroughly research each one.

There is no general rule, but all of these resources can assist you in locating the best universities in the United States.

Location and Region

There are over 4500 colleges and universities in the American university system. The college or University, the presence of the campus, its accessibility, climate, and proximity to large cities or natural sites are all important factors to consider. Each state and city has its distinct personality, culture, climate, economy, history, etc.

Some states have a higher proportion of international students than others. If you plan to study in a big city, keep in mind that the cost of living there is quite high. It can also complicate your time because the hustle cab can sometimes affect you and your university student experience.

Although attending college in the city can be a very rewarding experience, as city life can help complement your time as a student and add a layer of cultural discovery to your collegiate career. You will save money if your University is in a nearby small town. However, it may also imply that you do not have access to the amenities or diversity of a large city.

Available Courses

It is best to look into available courses before applying to a college or University to avoid being disappointed with your program. If you already know what academic path you want, make sure that any school you’re considering has a major that fits into that path. If you like the University as a whole and are interested in a particular subject, see if it is covered in the curriculum on offer.

You may attend a school that primarily offers courses in your field of study. Some colleges in the United States specialize in one field, such as business or engineering. On the other hand, students who are still undecided about their academic goals may want to consider enrolling in a college that offers a diverse range of majors.

After all, the courses are what you will spend your time studying, and I can only assume you want to enjoy them.

Academic Standard

Despite what its marketing team may claim, no school can provide the best programs in all fields of study. You can get a sense of a college’s overall academic quality and reputation by looking at its rankings.

You could also try to assess the career and research achievements of the faculty in your target department by looking for awards or recognition for any groundbreaking publications or discoveries.

Size of Institution

Colleges and universities range in size from small colleges with fewer than 1,000 students to large state universities with over 50,000 enrolled each year. The majority of international students attend large research universities. However, before choosing one of these large universities, keep in mind that hundreds of smaller universities and colleges may also be good options for you.

Smaller class sizes and a more sheltered environment are common features of small colleges. Because they typically have a lower student-to-faculty ratio, you may receive more personalized attention. While small schools may not have as many programs as large universities, they frequently offer specialized degrees.

Large, research-oriented universities offer more technical degrees, such as architecture and engineering. Furthermore, if they are public, tuition costs are typically lower. These schools will have more international students, so other students from your country will likely attend.

Students with specific interests and goals thrive at large universities because they can take advantage of various coursework, activities, and professional resources. Larger schools frequently have well-stocked libraries, cutting-edge research facilities, and nationally-ranked sports teams.

Consider the Financial Implications.

You must research to determine the cost of your studies at a US university and your ability to pay. You would have to add transportation, lodging, and other living expenses to these costs. If you discover that some of the US universities you are considering are too expensive for you, that does not mean you must eliminate them from your list.

Most US universities provide financial aid packages to well-prepared students who do not miss the deadline. Please keep in mind that costs rise every year.

Entry Requirement

Minimum scores in the certificate, on standardized exams, SAT and ACT, and tests of English proficiency TOEFL or IELTS are typically specified among the entrance requirements. These tests, though slightly different, focus on general knowledge and skills in math, verbal reasoning, writing, and science. They are usually required of all students for the University to effectively compare students and predict how they will perform in their first years of study.

Institution Environment and Accommodations

meet a lot of students from around the world

Moving to a different country to further their education is exciting and terrifying for most international students. This is why it is critical to begin your research early and gather all the information you require to live comfortably during your studies.

Most universities in the United States provide on-campus housing. That will be fantastic for you because you will most likely have the opportunity to interact with and learn about other students. You must double-check all of these details for each University to which you intend to apply.

Because personal development occurs outside the classroom, it is critical to consider the campus environment when selecting a college. Depending on your interests, you may want to consider schools with well-known athletic teams so that you can attend games and other social events.

Also, if academic achievement is your primary goal, consider enrolling in a Carnegie Foundation-accredited research university. These institutions devote significant resources to student and faculty research projects.

Scholarship programs and funding

international scholarships

You should consider scholarships and funding when considering how to pay for a US education. Not all US universities provide scholarships to international students, and government loans are not always available to cover tuition and fees. According to statistics, only 8% of foreigners are given scholarships in US colleges and universities.

If you are applying for a scholarship, your application for admission must be very careful, even if you are applying to a University where there is little competition for a place. One of the most perplexing traps I’ve seen international students fall into is becoming preoccupied with tuition fees or the types of scholarships available. Aside from government funding, universities can seek funding from various governmental and private organizations in the United States and your home country.

Ranking

When deciding where to study, university rankings can be a useful guide. We recommend you pay close attention to the following world rankings of American universities. Investigate each school’s admission requirements and how your record compares to them.

Keep in mind that most colleges and universities base their admissions decisions on academic performance.

To assess the significance of a ranking position, you must first understand the factors considered in the calculations: the quality of the material base, high research activity, the number of well-known scientists, cultural figures, awards, and discoveries.

These rankings can provide information about certain aspects of schools, but they may leave out important information such as student satisfaction, engagement, and alums performance. They may also be biased toward smaller universities that specialize in a few key areas. At the end of the day, all US universities are known for something, so make sure to cast a wide net.

Check all of the representatives from American universities who are important to you.

Accreditation

Accreditation certifies that a school or program meets a set academic standard. It is critical to understand whether a college or University is accredited. If you attend an unaccredited college or University, you will be unable to transfer your credits to an accredited college or University.

In the United States, no national government authority or Ministry of Education sets higher education standards. Some states authorize or approve schools, but this only applies to financial and licensing requirements, not educational quality.

Colleges and universities have formed associations to set their standards. These organizations, known as “accrediting bodies,” evaluate each college and University in the United States. If the institution meets the minimum standards of the accrediting association, it receives an acceptable rating and is now labelled “accredited.” This means it has earned the right to be included on the acceptable schools maintained by the accrediting association. To remain accredited, a school must maintain these high standards.

Conclusion

graduates

Nobody can accurately predict one’s chances of admission to a particular college. Nonetheless, reviewing the information provided by schools will help you understand your chances of admission.

Selecting a college that can help you achieve your personal and professional goals is critical to your success. Finally, deciding which factors are most important for your lifestyle and what you hope to gain from higher education would be best. After researching these factors, you can make a shortlist of schools and start looking into them.

You can use this school search tool to find the perfect school for you.

FAQs

Difference between a college and a university

Colleges are typically smaller institutions that focus on undergraduate education in various academic fields. Universities are generally larger institutions that provide various undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Many universities are also dedicated to research.

Do Americans Use College or University?

When referring to a higher education institute in the United States, the terms college and University are used interchangeably. A bachelor’s degree can be obtained at a college or University in the United States.

Which is preferable, college or University?

There is no distinction between a college and a university at the undergraduate level. They have their distinction and significance. Universities offer both bachelor’s degrees and undergraduate programs, whereas colleges, with a few exceptions, only offer bachelor’s degrees.

When to start research on colleges and universities

Students can begin looking at colleges and universities whenever they want. Still, it may not make sense to begin intensive research two years before the end of secondary or high school.

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