Introduction
Many Indians have long suppressed their desire to study abroad due to the prohibitive costs. This myth has led many parents to think that it would be costly to send their children abroad for a top-level education. A new dimension has now been added to the education scenario. With the help of technological developments and a powerful network of contacts, it is now possible to study abroad. With a bit of luck, a little good fortune, and a little skill, you can enjoy all the advantages of a foreign university without exhausting your resources. Below, we provide a detailed guide for Indian students who wish to pursue their education abroad. Funny you should ask, because studying in the United States of America is a costly business. For all the trouble and expense that’s involved, it’s a remarkable achievement if one can find a very cheap university. Europe and Asia are within your reach. Here are the means to arrive at a correct decision. Gateway has a track record of over 17 years and more than 50,000 placements. Speaking of which, during this period, the institute has helped thousands of students realise their dreams of pursuing a career abroad. Look—we’re the only study abroad organisation that offers the best value for money. We have exclusive university partners, and we offer free services for generating statements of purpose (SOP). For the following, we shall give a clearer idea. Let’s look at it first, too.
Top Tips to Study Overseas without 20 Lakhs in India
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Get Started →Realities of Affordable Study Abroad for Indian Students
What is the cost of studying abroad for an Indian student? A little planning and proper preparation can bring this practical reality to life. Until recently, it has been commonplace that, you know, only a wealthy person could study abroad. However, with today’s increasing globalisation, the number of education systems has grown. Germany, Norway, Austria, Poland, and several other European countries, as well as some in Asia, have been able to offer their students the best of everything. The trick is to look beyond the big-name universities and the countries that are renowned for their high-quality education. Universities in Europe have traditionally been either free or affordable study abroad for Indian students. Several Asian institutions have managed to keep their tuition costs low. Funny you should ask, because, for Indians, there’s the Government of India’s encouragement in the form of scholarships and a supplementary income.
- Neither Norway nor Germany has any tuition fees.
- Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia give us degrees that are recognised at reasonable prices throughout the world.
- Asian alternatives like Malaysia and Taiwan are now emerging as cost-effective, English-taught alternatives.
- The scholarship quota for Indians is increasing, mainly for students with high academic ability.
Indian students should be aware of these facts, he said. If students study these truths, they will be able to find a more effective way to pursue their education in other countries.
Top Tips to Study Overseas without 20 Lakhs in India
Apply Early for the scholarships for Indian students The majority of leading universities provide full or partial scholarships; the sooner you apply, the higher your chances. Search for merits, needs, or country grants.
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Contact Us →Top Low-Cost Study Destinations for Indian Students
Choosing the right country is crucial for Indian students when selecting an appropriate destination to study abroad. And this is one of the reasons why several countries are so popular among students, who are attracted by cheap universities that offer a combination of excellent learning and affordable study abroad for Indian students. One of the most popular countries for inexpensive studies is the United States.
- Germany attracts foreign students by offering free tuition at public universities and providing extensive scientific programs. The cost of living is moderate, and part-time work opportunities are available.
- Norway: Honestly, the public universities offer free education to all, regardless of nationality. English courses are widely available.
- Austria: Non-European students pay low fees, and many institutions don’t even require payment for Indian students. Living conditions: a lively student life and a healthy student body.
- Poland: The resolute student had a great deal to learn from the others in ENGLISH PROGRAMMES in medicine, engineering and business.
- France: Public universities aren’t subject to this difficulty, since the government gives the students the use of the.
- Malaysia & Taiwan: With a cheap student fee and excellent research, Asian hubs have become centres of higher education.
India, a country of vast resources, holds a special place in the world. The culture and language, the natural environment, the sacrificial offerings, and the contributions of great individuals are all very important. It’s essential to choose a country that best suits your academic interests, language level, and vocation.
| Feature | Germany | Poland | Malaysia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (per year) | ₹0–1.5 lakh | ₹1–3 lakh | ₹2–4 lakh |
| Living Expenses (per year) | ₹6–8 lakh | ₹3–5 lakh | ₹4–6 lakh |
| Language of Instruction | English/German | English/Polish | English/Malay |
| Work Opportunities | 20 hrs/week | 20 hrs/week | 20 hrs/week |

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Create Your SOP →Budget-Friendly Universities Abroad Under study abroad under study abroad under ₹20 lakhs
The same rationale guides students in India to the most affordable study abroad for Indian students. The most prestigious institutions offer excellent, affordable education as a comparative advantage compared to the U.K. This approach reminds me of the U.S., where you can spend up to twenty-five lakhs to study a complete course in a university.
- Technical University of Munich (Germany): Most courses actually have no tuition fees, and the semester fees are minimal.
- University of Warsaw (Poland): Tuition for the English-medium courses costs between 15,000 and 17,000.
- Charles University (Czech Republic): Science, social science and humanities are enrolled at two lakh per annum.
- National Taiwan University: For the rest, a bachelor’s degree would cost about 15 Lakhs, he said.
- The University of Vienna (Austria) is known for its low costs and vibrant university town atmosphere.
These are the world-renowned universities that have a strong record of success and provide excellent support to international students. Wait, here’s a thought: some of these considerations apply to our – or, rather, our students’ – scholastic careers. We’re trying to make foreign education more accessible, without compromising on the quality of the courses or the qualifications.
| University Country Annual | Annual Tuition (INR) | QS World Rank 2025 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technical University of Munich | Germany | 0–50,000 | 28 |
| University of Warsaw | Poland | 150,000 | 262 |
| Charles University | Czech Republic | 200,000 | 248 |
| National Taiwan University | Taiwan | 250,000 | 69 |
| University of Vienna | Austria | 100,000 | 130 |
Rishita Dodiya
“Exceptional Support for Study Abroad! My name is Rishita Dodiya, and I have been admitted to Nottingham Trent University. Additionally, I received a scholarship covering 25% of my overall tuition fees. From the first consultation to securing my student visa, Gateway International provided personalised and transparent guidance. Their team, especially Richa Ma’am, Arpita Ma’am, Deepti Ma’am and Nilu Ma’am, helped me shortlist universities, apply for scholarships, and navigate the visa process smoothly. My visa was approved within a week after the appointment, thanks to their meticulous documentation support. I confirm that Gateway International did not charge any fees for their assistance.”

Scholarships for Indian Students: How to Win Big
Indian scholarships are a significant help in making foreign education more accessible and affordable study abroad for Indian students. With the right approach, you can actually obtain partial or complete support for the costs of your studies, board and lodging, as well as travel expenses. You can improve your chances of receiving a scholarship.
- Search early; the most prestigious scholarships have deadlines eight to twelve months before the course begins.
- I applied for both university and national scholarships.
- Get an excellent letter of recommendation and a compelling statement of purpose.
- The following remarks are adapted from the handwritten copy sent to Miss.
- Use the free SOP Generator from Gateway International to create an effective and readable SOP.
The following scholarships, available for Indian students in Germany, the UK, and the US, are more popular among Indian students. Universities in the UK, Canada, and Australia offer scholarships for Indian students. The internet has opened up the opportunity for affordable study abroad for Indian students.
Akshit Virdi
“Overall, my experience with Gateway International was too good, and they supported me at every step. Moreover, they did not charge me anything for the entire process, which made it even more impressive. I highly recommend that all my friends and colleagues obtain their Visas from Gateway International. Best regards, Akshit Virdi”

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View Universities →Cost Breakdown: Living Expenses vs Tuition
The real cost of foreign studies is of primary importance for budget-friendly universities abroad. The average Indian can’t afford to study abroad due to the expense involved.” Here are some costs for popular destinations.
| Country Average | e Tuition (INR/year) | Living Expenses (INR/year) | Total (INR/year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | 0–1.5 lakh | 7–8 lakh | 7–9.5 lakh |
| Poland | 1–3 lakh | 3–5 lakh | 4–8 lakh |
| France | 2–4 lakh | 6–8 lakh | 8–12 lakh |
| Malaysia | 2–4 lakh | 4–6 lakh | 6–10 lakh |
You can easily find out the cost of studying abroad in India. So, you can plan your travel, accommodations, and studies accordingly. Many students are obliged to take up a second job—or, should I say, share accommodations with others of their own calling.
Top Tips to Study Overseas without 20 Lakhs in India
Select Tuition-Free or low cost study destinations Give a thought to countries, such as Germany, Norway, France, or Finland, where international students have to pay little or no fee in terms of their tuition fees.
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Book Now →Application Process for budget-friendly universities abroad
Obtaining financial assistance to study abroad for Indian students isn’t tricky, but it’s time-consuming and requires attention to detail. Here are the stages.
- Research: Search by tuition, stipend, and university.
- Prepare Documents: Academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation as well.
- Apply Early: Many low cost study destinations, it’s true, have seats for foreign students, but some don’t.
- Track Deadlines: The deadlines for scholarships and applications may be different.
- Seek guidance: Use Gateway for university choices, evaluation, and counselling.
A systematic approach increases the chances of securing a scholarship and, hence, the likelihood of studying at an Indian university at a reasonable fee.
Rahul Jain
“Thank you, Gateway International, for your distinguished and outstanding service! I would like to express my deepest gratitude for the exceptional service and support I have received from Gateway International. I have received exceptional support throughout my entire journey of getting a visa.”
Visa Process and Compliance for affordable study abroad for Indian students
The most important thing for a student studying abroad is to obtain a visa. Every country has its own requirements, but if you prepare yourself, the process is relatively straightforward. The following information is required:
- Germany: There are no more than ten francs in a blocked account; the necessary documents are a certificate of.
- Poland: We’ll be asking you to provide proof of funds and a certificate. If necessary, you’ll have to be.
- France: Accommodation certification and proof of sufficient financial resources are required.
- Malaysia: A letter of visa and a health and funds certificate are required.
Your request is well-substantiated, and you meet the requirements of the financial statement. In that case, you’ll—well, actually—receive the new method for issuing study abroad visas. This is an excellent idea.
Top Tips to Study Overseas without 20 Lakhs in India
Over Private Universities, Choose Public Universities The quality of education in a foreign government university is usually the same, but at a much low cost study destinations than that of private universities. When it works, please waive application fees. You can even ask universities to waive their application fees – this may save you up to $5,000-$15,000in expenses for multiple applications.
Standardised Tests and Language Requirements
The primary requirement for more economically viable study abroad opportunities in the United Kingdom and Ireland is English-language proficiency. Some universities may require the results of a standard test as part of their admission process. 1:
- IELTS/TOEFL: The English Department requires students to meet the minimum scores, which vary from country to country.
- German language tests: German proficiency is required for programs in Germany.
- GRE/GMAT: It’s the most demanded subject in the United States, Germany and other countries around the world.
- Duolingo English Test: Many universities recognise it as a convenient method for assessing English proficiency.
Therefore, a candidate preparing for a competitive exam should utilise coaching and practice tests to enhance their preparation. Wait, here’s a thought: Gateway International provides guidance on test preparation to improve admission and scholarship opportunities.
Top Tips to Study Overseas without 20 Lakhs in India
Part-time work Many states grant international students permission to work on a part-time basis. This assists in subsidising living expenses, such as food, rent, and commuting. Do Not Spend Much on IELTS/TOEFL coaching. Consider studying free or low-cost online resources instead of spending over $30,000 on test preparation.Maximising Value: Part-Time Work and Post-Study Options
For the students in India, it’s not just a question of reducing cost but of reducing value. Job opportunities, internships, and working during their vacations are important considerations. – Holidays can make a big dent in your living expenses and enhance your employability.
- Germany: Students can work twenty hours a week during the school year and all of their vacations. It was an 18-month post-study working holiday visa.
- Poland: Part-time work is permitted. Graduates from Polish universities are granted preferential conditions.
- France: For master’s degree graduates, one to two years of post-study work is possible.
- Malaysia: There’s little part-time work. There is a greater focus on internships and industry placements.
Some students are interested in obtaining a permanent work permit in the country where they’re studying.
Top Tips to Study Overseas without 20 Lakhs in India
Seek Universities With No IELTS Requirement If you’ve worked in English before, others will let you skip the Duolingo English Test.Navigating Cultural Adjustment and Support Systems
For Indian students, choosing a foreign country for their studies involves more than just financial considerations. The most important thing to remember is that students who study at our university are here to learn and grow. They must adapt to the universities abroad, which are the most popular places of study. Almost all of these universities provide the best possible facilities for international students, including accommodations, academic support, and cultural activities. During his time at the university, he joined several local Indian associations and participated in many of their activities. Many of these associations, at various German, Polish, and French universities, have an Indian student association that is forceful, in addition to other activities. Gateway helps students to manage this change, with a variety of support and advice before they leave and throughout their stay. Oh, and another thing – studying abroad, according to the students who study here, is to flourish in education, the social world, and the individual.
Common challenges, advantages and influencing points for indian students
A Free IELTS Prep: The Game-Changer By Gateway International
Preparing for the IELTS is one of the initial and most essential steps in the process of studying abroad. Nonetheless, conventional coaching is expensive, with costs ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 or higher.
- Gateway International likes to change the playing ground by providing free IELTS preparation sessions to deserving students. This is how it can help:
- Training by Experts: Have trainers who are aware of what the IELTS examination requires.
- Ordered Syllabus: Study using exams, composition assessment, verbal requirement, and vocabulary development.
- No Hidden Fees: It is 100 per cent free to the qualifying students, with no hidden expenses.
- Flexibility Online: Study in any location and at any time, thereby saving both time and transportation expenses.
As you will save at least 30,000 on IELTS prep, you will already reduce your budget-friendly universities abroad. That is some impact.
Actual Problems Students Encounter when Attempting to Cut Costs Abroad
Although taking the low-cost way is an intelligent move, it is not without its dilemmas. The majority of students who do not want to spend lots of money encounter:
- Insufficient expert recommendations stem from a lack of knowledge about how to proceed and where to begin.
- Poor-quality-free: Question banks are not up to date, and no expertise or unverified material is provided.
- Overwhelm: the process of dealing with IELTS preparation, selecting a university, and getting a visa on their own.
Considering Free IELTS Preparation as the starting point for an affordable study abroad for Indian students is worth exploring.
And in case you are even remotely serious about studying in a different country without going bankrupt, all rupees count. It is not just about saving $20,000–$50,000; it is about clearing the first major financial hurdle to your IELTS preparation.
- University application fee waivers
- Full/partial scholarships
- Affordable study abroad for Indian students include Germany, Canada, and Norway, among others.
- Free Counselling and Visa assistance
Top Tips to Study Overseas without 20 Lakhs in India
Take Free Counselling Admission, SOP writing, visa, and other consultancy services are provided free of charge by education consultancies such as Gateway International, which saves you the consultancy fee.Conclusion
Over the past few years, the number of students who have gone abroad for their higher studies has increased. Numerous students have managed to finance their studies abroad. How? They found that if you can find a way to study overseas without spending much money, you won’t have to pay more than 20 lakh. There are countries with very low tuition fees. The journey isn’t to save a few yuan but to increase the value of the world, build a new alliance and seek a bright future. We’re the oldest and most renowned company of this kind in the world. We’ve been offering the best services since our establishment in 1997. Gateway International gives you the confidence to investigate new horizons and to venture into the unknown. There is a significant opportunity to obtain an education in England and the United States at affordable study abroad for Indian students.
Top Tips to Study Overseas without 20 Lakhs in India
Make a Smart Plan and Budget Prepare a detailed budget that accounts for all unexpected expenses (such as health insurance, travel costs, and Visa fees) and follow it. Last-minute costs can be avoided when plans are properly made early.Latest Updates
- NDTV: There’s news of a new scholarship and a – hmm, how do I put this?—new visa policy for Indian students in Germany and Canada. Read more
- BBC: This scholarship is a new scheme of the British government to help foreign students to afford a course in Britain. Oh, and another thing – the British universities have increased their. Read more
- CNN discusses its influence on education and accommodation rates in Europe and Asia. Read more
- Times of India: On foreign education for under twenty thousand rupees for the students from India. Read more
- QS World University Rankings: At the end of the school year, the International Students’ Association (ISB) announces the rankings of the top universities. Read more
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Find Your Ideal Study Destination
Discover the perfect country for your international education journey. Our AI-powered quiz analyses your preferences to recommend destinations that match your budget, career goals, and lifestyle preferences.
Question 1 of 3
1. Which are the most affordable study abroad to Indian students?
Germany and Hungary are at the top of low cost study destinations.
2. Are cost effective universities overseas of good quality?
Yes – ranked internationally and offer scholarship to Indian students.
3. Is it possible to go abroad and study with less than 20 lakhs?
Yes – choose low cost study destinations and add scholarships.
4. Are scholarships to Indian cost-cutting substantially?
Undoubtedly, incomplete awards can render plans viable in under 20 lakhs.
5. What dangers are there of selecting budget universities in another country?
Conduct thorough research to eliminate extra expenses and make ROI as high as possible.
