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5 Countries That Offer Free or Very Cheap PhD Programmes

• Updated on  
• May 11, 2023

Do you currently hold a degree or a master’s degree and desire to advance your education by pursuing a PhD abroad? The good news is that those with graduate degrees, like master’s or doctoral degrees, had the best salaries and lowest unemployment rates in several countries. Is that terrible news? A PhD program overseas might be quite expensive. When studying overseas, you would have to take tuition, living fees, and other extra costs into account. However, there is a solution to this. The next step would be researching the nations with the most affordable PhD programs. Fortunately, there are quite a few nations where the cost of attending a PhD program is either zero or extremely low. This enables you to enrol in a prestigious university overseas and learn what it’s like to live in a foreign nation and adjust to other customs. You can concentrate on your studies and any other personal or professional goals when you study for a PhD abroad with little concern for your financial situation. Having said that, the following are the 5 countries that offer free or very cheap PhD programmes in the world.

This Blog Includes:

Swedish doctoral degrees, fees and funding, admissions requirements, norwegian phd fees, admission requirements, entry requirements, types of phd in germany, phd programmes, programme length, phd fees .

A Ph.D. in Economics normally includes coursework in both macroeconomics and microeconomics. However, if you intend to teach or conduct formal research in economic subjects, this is a beneficial degree. Once the proposal is approved and the oral exam is passed, the final years of enrollment are devoted to dissertation research, writing, and defence.

Sweden is the greatest option if you want to pursue a PhD in renewable energy or a field that is closely related to it. According to data, about 56 per cent of the energy utilized in Sweden in 2019 originates from renewable sources. What is the nicest thing about obtaining a PhD in Sweden? Everyone can use it for free, even students from other countries. (Note that students seeking bachelor’s or master’s degrees who are not EU/EEA citizens are not eligible for free tuition.)

Seven of Sweden’s universities are included in the top 350 universities in the world according to the QS World University Rankings 2023, making it the home to some of the most highly regarded universities in the world. The KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Lund University, the two top universities in Sweden, are 89th and 95th, respectively.

Key details-

For students in Swedish universities, a PhD signifies the pinnacle of academic success. Similar to other nations, the focus is on your independent study leading to an original thesis that adds new knowledge to the topic.

Must Read: Best Countries for PhD

In Sweden, a doctoral study might take one of two forms:

A typical Ph.D. confers a full doctorate (together with the crucial title of “doctor”) after a minimum of four years of full-time work (240 ECTS credits).

As an alternative, you might decide to pursue a licentiate degree. Typically, this only necessitates two years of full-time work toward a more condensed and modest thesis (equivalent to 120 ECTS credits). Some students first enroll for the Swedish licentiate before upgrading to full Ph.D. candidates since it is comparable to the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree provided in the UK or other countries.

In Sweden, there are two teaching terms (August to January and January to June), which are separated by summer and winter breaks. You will often have more flexibility throughout the year as a PhD student, but some additional courses and other activities can be connected to particular teaching periods.

There are no tuition fees for PhD study at state-funded Swedish universities (note that this does not apply to Master’s or Bachelor’s degrees). Doctoral programs are free for students from the EU, EEA, and other countries.

The same is true of application costs; there are none to be paid for a PhD in Sweden.

Although you will need to pay for your housing and living expenses, your university might be able to provide assistance.

Universities in Sweden are permitted to establish their own admittance standards for PhD programs. A bachelor’s degree in an applicable area is typically the required minimum, but a master’s degree is also preferable, especially if you’re asking for funding.

Your capacity to exhibit prior research experience will be as crucial as your previous qualifications. It is crucial that you can demonstrate some preparation for the independent research you will conduct on your PhD, even if this is just the dissertation project for one or both of your previous degrees.

Also Read: PhD in USA

Norway is another Nordic nation that ranks among the 5 countries that offer free or very cheap PhD programs. All students, regardless of nationality, are not charged tuition at Norway’s public universities. Norway’s cost of living is comparable to that of Sweden, therefore you may want to look into ways to reduce your out-of-pocket spending. Other than that, you will just need to pay a nominal semester student union charge to cover expenses like tests or sports facilities, which would only cost you between 300 and 600 Norwegian kroner (approximately INR 2353.24 to INR 4706.49). You can try your luck by submitting an application to the University of Oslo , the top-ranked institution in Norway, which is currently placed 101st in the most recent QS World University Rankings.

Following the Bologna approach, Norwegian PhD programs are third-cycle degrees. As a result, conducting research and creating a PhD thesis will be needed for you.

In Norway, PhDs frequently adhere to a standardized format. Before beginning your PhD research and thesis writing, this usually entails a training component. You might also be regarded as an employee of the university, complete with benefits. In this situation, you will need to uphold your teaching and administrative duties.

The fact that all PhD students in Norway get free tuition is a significant and alluring feature of the program. The cost of living is high in the nation. As a result, maintenance financing of some kind is typically required.

Universities in Norway do not charge tuition for their PhD programs. However, in order to join and receive a student card at many Norwegian universities, you must pay a charge of INR 4149.5 to INR 8299 to the student union each semester.

In Norway, candidates for a PhD are required to hold a master’s degree in a related field. You can check your qualifications’ eligibility at the Norwegian Agency for Quality Assurance in Education. A similar degree may be approved (NOKUT).

Each research organization has a different set of conditions for applications. Always double-check with your desired university.

Typically, PhD candidates must submit a strong research proposal or project description together with the necessary application materials. Other standard materials for PhD applications may also be requested from you. These are some extra materials that might be needed:

• certified copies of all the documents that are pertinent to your education
• a strategy for financing your studies (for the full 3-4 years of full-time study, plus information about the funding source and type)
• An explanation of any significant scholarly or material resource needs
• a minimum of one proposed academic supervisor’s name (unless stipulated otherwise)

Also Read: PhD in Netherlands

Another Nordic nation, Finland , is at the top of our list of 5 countries that offer free or very cheap PhD programs. In Finland, pursuing a PhD is entirely free, even for those who are not citizens, similar to Norway and Sweden. According to QS, Finland is home to two of the top 150 institutions. This includes the 106th-ranked University of Helsinki and the 116th-ranked Aalto University . It is distinguished as a top-tier study destination by more than just its educational features. Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is ranked 66th in the most recent QS study of “Best Student Cities.” The midnight sun and the Northern lights (aurora borealis), which fill the sky with a breathtaking vista for anywhere between 10 and 20 nights a year, are only two of the most magnificent natural phenomena that can be seen in Finland’s vast, open areas.

Finland is a very economical alternative for your PhD study abroad because of its generous higher education policy. Any student, regardless of country, is not now required to pay doctoral fees.

In contrast, fees are often charged to non-EU students for Finnish Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.

A master’s degree (or its equivalent) from a recognized institution is necessary for admission to a PhD program in Finland.

Other prerequisites will be determined by the area of study you are applying for and the particular procedures followed by your university. If unsure, consult your department.

Germany is famous for having a top-notch educational system and for being an innovative nation. According to QS, three of its universities are among the top 100. This includes Heidelberg University, which is ranked 65th, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, which is ranked 59th, and the Technical University of Munich , which is ranked 49th. According to the most recent Best Student Cities rankings by QS, two of its cities, Munich and Berlin, are among the top 10.

Germans invented the doctoral degree, which is based on independent study leading to the submission and review of a thesis. Most colleges continue to offer this style, although some others provide more “organized” programs:

The traditional PhD requires you to choose a research project and conduct it on your own under the supervision of a qualified supervisor (Doktorvater/Doktomutter). The candidate selects the setting for their research, whether it be in a university, non-university organization, or German corporation.

Structured doctoral programs are conducted mostly in English and are focused on the global market. Along with writing your thesis, you will complete extra training, which may entail partnerships and job placements with outside research organizations.

Doctoral degrees are typically free in Germany for all students, regardless of nationality, due to the generous governmental investment in education. You might, however, have to pay additional costs while you are a student.

All public institutions in Germany offer free tuition for doctoral-level studies for up to three years (six semesters). For any additional time beyond the term of your PhD, you might have to pay tuition.

Despite not having to pay tuition, you will still need to pay a semester contribution (Semesterbeitrag), which typically ranges from INR 8k to INR 29k. This pays for office expenses, student government, and student services (Studentenwerk).

In general, you must have completed at least eight semesters of college work before enrolling in a PhD program in Germany. Your final certification must be on par with a German master’s degree.

Additionally, the Dean’s Office (Dekanat) or Board of Examiners (Promotionsausschuss) at your university must acknowledge your prior higher education degree(s).

International students with exceptional qualifications may be admitted to a PhD program with a Bachelor’s degree (fast-track program), albeit you will normally need to pass an entrance exam.

France , which has four universities ranked among the top 100 by QS, is another nation that makes it to our list of 5 countries that offer free or very cheap PhD programmes. French institutions demand comparatively little tuition. A typical annual cost at a public university, for instance, is around 380 euros (INR 31k at the time of writing). Three French cities—Lyon, Toulouse, and of course, the nation’s capital Paris, which is placed ninth by QS—are included in the top 100 Best Student Cities list as a result of their high academic standing and affordable tuition.

The bulk of PhDs is completed as part of a program inside doctoral schools, although French universities occasionally do offer specific doctoral research programs.

The number is 266 in total. In order to provide doctorate training for PhD candidates and foster the growth of early career researchers, they are affiliated with universities and work in partnership with related research laboratories and other centres.

For a typical three-year PhD, a “doctorate” consists of six semesters, yielding two teachings (or research) semesters annually:

• late September to early January, with a break between Christmas and New Year
• early February to early June, with a spring break at Easter for several colleges

Exams are normally held at the conclusion of each semester, and institutions take a three-month summer break from July to September. As a full-time student, you will typically complete your PhD in France in 3–4 years.

The current French PhD tuition is the same for all students, regardless of nationality. But costs can differ greatly depending on whether you attend a public or private school (such a Grandes École).

Must Read: PhD in Switzerland

Public institutions charge substantially lower tuition since the State invests an average of INR 11,62,147.82 per student, per year.

The following fees may apply depending on your institution:

• Fees for PhD students at public institutions are €380 annually.
• Private institutions – Tuition at private institutions, particularly business schools, range from INR 2.49 Lakh to INR 8.30 Lakh per year.
• Administrative fees (frais de dossier), which universities may impose, are normally modest—a few tens of euros.

In France, each institution is permitted to establish its own standards and conduct personalized evaluations. However, in order to enroll as a PhD student, you will normally need to hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a suitable field.

If you are pursuing your master’s degree and expect to graduate before the PhD program begins, you may apply.

Additionally, you could be accepted based on your performance on entrance tests and in pre-college courses like the ‘Classe préparatoire aux grandes écoles’ (CPGE), which is a frequent practice among French Grandes Écoles.

Pursuing PhD in Finland is entirely free.

The average cost of PhD in the UK is GBP 40,000 (INR 40.67 Lakh)

One of the top countries to pursue an MBA abroad is the United States of America.

Hope now you know 5 countries that offer free or very cheap PhD programmes. Not sure which country to choose for your PhD? Don’t worry! Our Leverage Edu experts will provide you with end-to-end assistance starting from your university application to the time you reach your university and commence your studies. Call us at 1800 57 2000 to book a FREE 30-minute counselling session today.

Nikita Puri

Nikita is a creative writer and editor, who is always ready to learn new skills. She has great knowledge about study abroad universities, researching and writing blogs about them. Being a perfectionist, she has a habit of keeping her tasks complete on time before the OCD hits her. When Nikita is not busy working, you can find her eating while binge-watching The office. Also, she breathes music. She has done her bachelor's from Delhi University and her master's from Jamia Millia Islamia.

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5 countries that offer free or very cheap PhD programmes

Are you a degree holder or master’s graduate who wants to take your studies to the next level by pursuing a PhD abroad? The good news is that in some countries, those with graduate degrees — such as a master’s and doctoral degree — had the highest earnings and lowest unemployment rates.

The bad news? The cost of pursuing a PhD abroad can be eye-watering. You would need to consider tuition, living and other miscellaneous expenses when studying abroad. There is, however, a workaround for this. Your next course of action would be to look for the cheapest countries to study a PhD programme.

The following countries have FREE or very cheap PhD programs for all International students: 1. Czech Republic 2. Estonia 3. Germany 4. Iceland 5. Norway 6. Finland 7. France 8. Sweden 9. Saudi Arabia 10. New Zealand. RT and Tag your friends. — Oludayo Sokunbi (Deewon) (@Oludeewon) June 7, 2022

Fortunately, there are more than a few countries where tuition for PhD programmes is free or very cheap. This makes it possible for you to enrol in a world-class university abroad and experience what it’s like to live in a new country and adapt to different cultures.

Studying a PhD abroad with minimal financial worries lets you focus on your education, as well as any personal or professional pursuits.

With that being said, here are five of the cheapest countries to study a PhD in:

International students can pursue a PhD programme in Sweden for free (or near enough). Source: Jonathan Nackstrand/AFP

5 cheapest countries to study a PhD for international students

If you’re planning to pursue a PhD in renewable energy or something closely related, then Sweden is your best bet. Data shows that almost 56% of the energy used in Sweden comes from renewable sources in 2019.

The best part about pursuing a PhD in Sweden? It is free for all — including international students. (Do note that free tuition is not applicable for non-EU/EEA students pursuing bachelor’s or master’s programmes.)

Sweden is home to some of the most highly acclaimed universities in the world, with seven of them listed in the top 350 universities in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2023. The best universities in Sweden — KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Lund University, are ranked 89th and 95th respectively accordingly.

Another Nordic country which tops the list of five cheapest countries to study a PhD in is Norway. Tuition at public universities in Norway is free for all students , regardless of nationality.

NORWAY IS OPEN!! Tuition free Universities in Norway that offer English taught Master’s and PhD programmes to international students – Nigerians inclusive. A Thread: — ＤＯＣＴＯＵＲ (@wakawaka_doctor) October 24, 2021

Like Sweden, the cost of living in Norway is relatively high, so you might want to explore options to help cover your living expenses. Other than that, you will only be required to pay a small semester student union fee to cover things like exam or sports facilities —  which would only set you back between 300 – 600 Norwegian krone (approximately 30 to 60 US dollars).

You can try your luck at applying for the highest-ranking university in Norway — the University of Oslo — ranked 101st spot in the latest QS World University Rankings.

International students who study in Finland get to bask in the spectacular views of an incredible natural phenomena witnessed in only a few parts of the world, such as the Northern Lights. Source: Oliver Morin/AFP

Finland is another Nordic country which tops our list of cheapest countries to study a PhD for international students. Like Norway and Sweden, pursuing a PhD is completely free in Finland, even for non-citizens.

Finland is home to two top 150 universities, according to QS. This includes the   University of Helsinki and Aalto University, which are ranked 106th and 116th respectively.

It’s educational aspects are not the only thing that sets it apart as a world-class study destination. Finland’s capital, Helsinki is ranked 66th in the latest “Best Student Cities” survey by QS.

If you are a lover of nature and the outdoors, Finland’s wide, open spaces are home to some of the world’s most incredible natural phenomena such as the midnight sun and the Northern lights (aurora borealis), which illuminates the sky with a spectacular view for anywhere between 10 to 20 nights a year.

Germany is renowned for its world-class education system and its reputation as an innovative country. Three of its universities are in the top 100, according to QS. This includes the Technical University of Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Heidelberg University, each ranked 49th, 59th and 65th respectively.

Two of its cities, Munich and Berlin, are in the top 10 best student cities in the latest Best Student Cities rankings by QS.

Dear Hopefuls: FUNDED SCHOLARSHIPS AND UNIVERSITIES WITHOUT IELTS IN FRANCE 🇫🇷 ♤ No IELTS ♤Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD ♤Free tuition ♤English Taught program ♤Stipends ♤Accommodation ♤Health Insurance ♡Part-time work ♤List of scholarships in France 👇 — Adeleke I. O. (Ph.D) (@Dr_Adeleke) February 18, 2022

Another country to make it to our pick of the cheapest countries to study a PhD in is France, with four of its universities ranked in the top 100, according to QS.

Tuition charged at French universities are relatively low . For instance, the nominal fee at public universities is approximately 380 euros (US$396 at the time of writing) a year.

Thanks to its international academic reputation and low tuition fees, three cities in France are ranked in the top 100 Best Student Cities: Lyon, Toulouse and of course, the capital Paris, which is ranked 9th according to QS.

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How to apply for doctoral studies in Europe

Find out how to apply for doctoral studies, including a PhD, in Europe.

Getting started

In Europe, every university sets its own application criteria for doctoral studies. 

To successfully enter the world of research, it´s very important to be proactive and start your preparation early. 

The enrollment procedures take time. Prepare early, check entry requirements and collect your documents. 

Choose your topic

Choose your research topic well before starting your studies. 

Find out which university or programme meets your research interests and your academic background.

Find a supervisor

Finding a supervisor before applying could be either compulsory or advisable and it is usually the applicant’s responsibility. 

Check the research teams in the university and look at the publications written by your potential supervisor, as well as their research projects and supervised dissertations to ensure that his or her research areas match your plans.

Check language requirements

Examine the language skills needed for enrollment. It might be necessary to take a test or present internationally validated test results. 

Recognition of qualifications

Find out what documents need to be translated before applying and which ones may need ENIC-NARIC evaluation. 

Some documents might need to be certified by a notary, with an apostille attached.

Prepare your documents

The required documents vary. Usually, you need to prepare the following:

• official copy of the previous diploma(s)
• curriculum vitae (CV)
• research proposal for your PhD
• motivation letter
• references and/or recommendation letters

Find a position and funding

EURAXESS is a European Commission portal providing information on research positions and funding to help researchers come to Europe to study, work in another European country and more.

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Where to Study in Europe Tuition-Free for Postgraduate Studies

posted on May 6, 2018

Let’s face it – with today’s skyrocketing university fees in almost every other country, it has become a hectic endeavor to find a university that offers tuition-free course studies.

It almost seems like earning a recognized postgraduate degree – either at home or abroad – is quite impossible without access to a four-figure budget, or without securing a scholarship .

This isn’t necessarily the case. If you are thinking of studying abroad, you’ll be delighted to know that there are many countries in Europe where you can study for free or for a very affordable tuition fee. You just have to know where to look.

Top 4 European Countries with Tuition-Free Postgraduate Programs

What comes to mind when you think of Sweden? A country steeped in Viking history? Or is it its grand cityscapes? Or better yet, a country whose coastline speckles of rocky landscapes?

Well, Sweden is not just home to Ikea. It’s one of our world’s most progressive countries when it comes to accessible and quality education. Although it’s among the European Union’s most expensive countries, you might have a different experience as a postgraduate student.

Wondering how you can take advantage of a tuition-free course study in Sweden? It’s easy. European Union (EU) citizens, those who reside in the European Economic Area (EEA) or in Switzerland are eligible. However, non-EU students will have to part with some fees.

Sweden has a diversity of about 53 colleges and universities you can choose from. Back in February 2016, the non-EU, EEA or the Swiss students had to part with about SEK900 ($110) as tuition fees.

What of now? The tuition fees are about SEK80,000 ($9,800) to about SEK140,000 ($17,200) per academic year. You might also have to part with about SEK8,000 ($1,000) for minimal living expenses.

All that said, the cost of tuition in Sweden is evidently cheaper in contrast to most countries. What’s more? Most postgraduate courses are taught in English. This surely takes away the necessity to learn Swedish for most students.

This is certainly a country with heaps of character. And it’s not just because of its avant-garde urban zones. In winter, Finland is dotted with vast frozen forests whereas its summer holidays feature midnight daytime saunas!

Back in 2012, a report by the Economist Intelligence Unit for Pearson holds that Finland has the best education system in our world . However, Finland introduced tuition fees to non-EU/EEA master’s students taking a course in English in the autumn of 2017. Postgraduate applicants from any country are eligible for tuition-free doctorate level studies that are taught in Finnish or Swedish. There are scholarship schemes for non-EU students in some universities.

How can Finland afford this? Well, with an annual budget of about €11.1 billion, it certainly can. Actually, the country attracts more and more international students every other year. At any one time, there are over 6,000 foreign students enrolled for a degree program in Finland. It might interest you to know that there are over 330 master’s courses of English language in this country.

Each Finnish university defines its own tuition fees. By legislation, the minimal annual tuition fee is set at about €1,500. Nonetheless, you can expect the eventual amount to be higher than this. Case in point – the University of Helsinki states that the tuition fees will range from about €10,000 – €25,000 annually . You also have to consider the cost of living in Finland. You might have to part with about €700 – €900 a month.

Full of multi-ethnic, student-friendly cities satiated with culture and history, Germany presents an impeccable university experience for students from across the globe.

Germany put an end to tuition fees for undergraduates studying at public universities back in 2014. This makes education accessible to anyone who chooses to study there. Even though there still are tuition fees for postgraduate studies, the typical cost still is far less than anywhere in the world. What’s the good news? The fee for domestic and international students is the same, regardless of where you’re from.

In case you’ve already studied a bachelor’s degree in Germany and you intend to go ahead to study the consecutive master’s program – tuition will be free. However, if you’re studying a non-consecutive postgraduate degree outside Germany, you might have to part with over €10,000 per semester.

You might want to brush up your German language skills before you submit your application. Why? Most courses are taught in the native tongue. There’s a wide range of scholarship schemes available for postgraduate students studying in Germany, some of which are based on individual needs. Every successful applicant must prepare to part with about with about €40-€70 per semester to cover administration costs.

There are over 900 English language degree courses on offer at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in Germany. In comparison to western European countries, the living costs in Germany are almost the same – but definitely lower than those of Scandinavia. Students will have to part with about €670 a month to cover food, accommodation, and other expenses.

Can you imagine a first-hand revel of the northern lights or an experience of the vast Scandinavian outdoors? Well, there truly is no better place in our world to get up close to nature than in Norway. Its cities are exciting with great music scenes and a growing coffee culture.

Even though there may be a language barrier to overcome for those who wish to study in Norway, there are no tuition fees for postgraduate students. Regardless of your country of origin, you are eligible for tuition-free studies.

The English language courses are fairly conventional at the postgraduate levels. Otherwise, you will have to attest your proficiency in Norwegian right before you’re accepted to a study course. It might interest you to know that there’s accessible financial support to help students cover their living costs in this expensive Scandinavian country.

Each and every student should prepare to part with a semester fee of about 500 NOK (€66). Nonetheless, this will only put you in a position to realize and take advantage of a couple of discounts.

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8 Countries Where US Students Can Study For Free In Europe

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Why pay heavy tuition fees at home when you can study in some of the best cities in Europe for free?

Statistics show that in 2015/16 the average tuition fees at an in-state public college were $9,410 and a whopping $32,405 at private colleges. These high fees are one of the reasons why US students are choosing to jump across the pond to Europe, a continent famous for its culture and history and increasingly known for its free degrees. Here’s a list of 8 of the countries where American students can study for free in Europe:

One of Europe’s economic strongholds, Germany is known for being friendly and welcoming to international visitors. Not only has the country got some of the best and cheapest student cities in the world, the high level of English spoken in the country makes it a great choice for US students.

Germany is the fourth most popular country in the world for international students, and that’s because its universities have completely done away with tuition fees for students of any nationality. Berlin ,  Munich  and  Frankfurt  are some of the top destinations in Germany for international students and Student.com offers accommodation in all of them. In all, we offer student accommodation in Germany in over 30 cities.

Believing education to be a right rather than a privilege, Germany is leading the way in making a university degree possible for all. In June 2015, more than 4,600 US students were fully enrolled at Germany universities, an increase of 20% over the previous three years. There are over 1,000 programmes taught in English by German universities, meaning language need not be an issue in getting your degree.

Data from the German Academic Exchange Service shows that monthly living expenses for students in Germany are currently around $960. This includes rent, transport, food and entertainment. It’s worth noting that even though tuition is completely free at German public universities, there will be a small semester fee to support the student union and related activities. This costs from $55-$280 each semester.

Humboldt University in Berlin and the Technical University of Munich are among the highly-ranked German universities that charge no tuition fees to American students.

Paris is well-known as one of the best student cities in the world and continues to top polls year after year. Outside of the capital, there are the historical cities of Lyon or Toulouse to consider if you want to mix university life with a touch of the ancient. Montpellier, an hour’s drive from the Mediterranean beach, is the other major student city in France – a quarter of its residents are enrolled at a university. You can also check all of our student accommodation options in France – we list apartments in over 50 cities!

If you are an American who would like to study in France then we have très bien news – it will cost you almost nothing. University tuition at public institutions in France incurs only a small fee of $208 per year for an undergraduate degree and $290 for a masters. Be aware, though, that these costs do not apply to the Grandes Ecoles universities in France who will charge much higher tuition fees. As well as boasting several of the world’s best universities, France is known for its internationally acclaimed specialist business schools such as ESCP Europe , ESSEC Business School , HEC Paris and INSEAD.

To enrol as a student in France you must submit an application to the school that you wish to attend including passport details, plus proof of your grades. American students will need a visa to study in France which is applied for through the CEF procedure run by CampusFrance. Under French law, you need to show evidence that you have enough funds to cover your expenses while studying within the country, and if your course is going to be taught in French you must also prove proficiency in the language.

The real-life land of ice and fire is a fantastic choice for US students who want to save money on their tuition fees. Where else can you balance your study with sitting in a natural hot spring and staring at the northern lights?

Amazingly, all public colleges in Iceland are free for American students. International students make up 5% of all students in the country. The University of Iceland, located in the capital Reykjavik, is one of the largest in Iceland and does not charge any tuition fees. There is, however, an annual registration fee of $600 for American students. Applicants must have an equivalent level of education to the Icelandic matriculation examination. In general, courses are taught in the Icelandic language but there are a few postgraduate programmes provided in English by the University of Iceland, Reykjavík University and the University of Akureyri.

Students are advised that they will need around $980 per month to cover their accommodation and living expenses in Iceland. Americans studying in the Iceland for longer than three months will need to apply for a residence permit once they have secured a place at a university.

American students can reap the benefits of paying no tuition fees at any of the country’s state universities. The University of Oslo , University of Bergen , University of Stavanger , Norwegian University of Life Sciences , University of Agder and the University of Nordland are some of the colleges that are free for US students.

However, living expenses in Norway can be high. Students are will need around $1700 per month to cover the cost of accommodation, food, transport and leisure activities. There is usually a small semester fee to pay of $35-$75, too.

The Norwegian Universities and College Admission Service (NUCAS) is the coordinator of undergraduate admission. US applications will need to submit evidence of their high school graduation diploma and one year of academic university or college studies or three Advanced Placement Tests with at least grade three, according to the admissions guide GSU-list . For courses where the instruction is in Norwegian proof of proficiency in the language is also essential.

Although Oslo is the obvious choice in Norway, the city of Tromsø is also great for students. As well as being home to the northernmost university in the world, Universitetet i Tromsø , the ‘Paris of the North’ has all the quintessential Norwegian charms – reindeer, huskies and an icy coastline visited by whales.

Finland currently offers free tuition fees for US students at all universities, both at undergraduate and postgraduate level. However, from 2017 this is set to change somewhat. Although fees will be added by some institutions for American citizens, some Doctorate level studies and all programmes taught in Finnish or Swedish will remain free.

US students can apply to Finnish universities online, either directly to the university or via the centralized admissions service University Admissions Finland (UAF). . It is necessary to obtain a residence permit before entering Finland to study, as well as having access to funds of at least $7,375 to cover expenses for a year (although the cost of living in Finland is likely to be higher than this).

Helsinki on Finland’s south coast is by far the largest urban area in the country. The city is home to the University of Helsinki and Aalto University , the top two colleges in Finland. It’s a great place to enjoy the renowned high quality of life, technological advancements and extreme seasons of this Nordic gem.

Many Swedish universities provide free PhD tuition to American citizens, and even better, most of the programmes are taught in English. PhD positions in Sweden are usually offered as paid positions by universities or external funding bodies, so you not only study for free but earn a salary, too. Alternatively, a range of scholarship options are available for American students.

As of February 2016, the fee for US students to apply to study in Sweden is $110. You’ll also need at least $1,000 per month to cover living expenses. Americans can apply via Sweden’s centralized university admissions application portal, Universityadmissions.se . A residence permit is required before you enter the country.

Sweden is home to several world-leading universities. Research university Uppsala is the oldest having been founded in 1477. It ranks among the best universities in Northern Europe and it is quite prominent in internationally, too. Lund University and the KTH Royal Institute of Technology are in the world’s top 100 colleges.

7. Slovenia

An underrated corner of Europe tucked between Italy and Croatia, compact Slovenia provides the best of the mountains and the beach with excellent travel opportunities to neighbouring countries. Slovenia in fact has a highly-rated education system considered one of the best in the EU. The University of Ljubljana , in the city of the same name, is considered Slovenia’s main university and is one of the largest colleges in the world. It was Slovenia’s only university until the University of Maribor opened in 1975. Undoubtedly, Ljubljana is one of the prettiest European cities to attend university.

Slovenian universities usually charge American students tuition fees for undergraduate study, but similar to Sweden there are plenty of opportunities to gain a free Doctorate qualification. Apply directly to the university you wish to attend with a secondary school qualification certificate or degree certificate from a recognized university. About 150 English programs are available, and often Americans will need to pay a small registration fee when they enroll.

Student accommodation is cheap in Slovenia. Private housing starts from $220 per month while a university dormitory is under $150. A coffee is $1.60 and a meal in a moderately-priced restaurant not more than $15.

8. Czech Republic

US Students who speak Czech or are willing to learn are able to study abroad for free in the Czech Republic at any public university. Students who wish to study in English can also study fairly cheaply, at around $1,080 per semester. Public universities often charge a small registration fees of just over $20. The application system is also straightforward and can usually be completed online, simply requiring proof of secondary school education.

With the architecturally stunning city of Prague, the historic castles of Brno or the unexplored former industrial stronghold of Ostrava to discover, the Czech Republic has a lot to offer American students. There are over 70 universities to choose from, including Czech Technical University and Charles University in Prague, two of the top-ranked centres in emerging Europe. Living costs are far more affordable in the Czech Republic than in most of Western Europe, at around $350-750 a month.

Where will you study?

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Free PhD Program in Europe for international students -cheapest programs

Europe is the first destinations to study abroad for international students. It is also well-known for its quality education and low tuition cost. Thus, The “ free PhD program in Europe ” provides a great opportunity for aspiring students to pursue advanced education without the burden of tuition fees and other expenses. In Today’s article,  we will discuss “how to get a free PhD program in Europe” and mention complete guidelines about it.

Which Countries Gives Free Phd for International Students?

Many Countries that offer free PhD programs for international students. Some of the most popular ones include Finland, Germany, Norway, and Sweden.  Finland is one of the top-notch of our list of top 10 countries that also offer affordable or free PhD programs. These programs are usually fully funded, meaning that you will not have to pay any tuition or other fees. In addition, they often come with a number of benefits such as a stipend to help cover living expenses. However, Are you interested in pursuing a PhD in one of these countries? So be sure to research each program carefully to ensure that it is a perfect fit for you.

How Can I Get a Free Phd in Europe?

Usually You will not get a free PhD program in Europe .  You will have to pay for your own tuition, living expenses, and other associated costs.  Below we will mention some ways to reduce the cost of a PhD Program in Europe. One way is to apply for scholarships and grants. There are many organizations that offer financial assistance for students studying in Europe. 

Another way to reduce the cost of a PhD program is to choose a less expensive country to study in. For example, you may be able to find cheaper programs in Eastern European countries than you would in Western European countries. Finally, you can also look into part-time or online programs which may be cheaper than traditional full-time programs.

Is Phd Free in Switzerland for International Students?

No, a PhD is not free in Switzerland for international students. While Swiss universities do not charge tuition fees for doctoral studies, international students are still responsible for other costs associated with their education, such as living expenses and health insurance. 

However, many Swiss universities offer competitive fellowships. The fellowships program can help offset the cost of a PhD program for international students. Additionally, there are a number of scholarships and grants available to help finance doctoral studies in Switzerland. A number of scholarships and grants are also available to help finance doctoral studies in Switzerland.

Is Phd Free in Uk for International Students?

No, a PhD is usually not free in the UK for international students. The average cost of a PhD program in the UK is between £14,000 USD – £20,000 USD in a year . There are some scholarships available to international students, but they are typically very competitive and do not cover the full cost of tuition.

FULLY FUNDED PHD IN ITALY! ELIGIBILITY! SCHOLARSHIPS! UNIVERSITIES! JOBS

Fully Funded Phd Programs in Europe for International Students

Europe has a number of fully funded PhD programs for international students. These programs offer an opportunity to study at some of the most prestigious universities in the world. On the other hand, it also receives a full funding package that covers tuition and living expenses.  Here are just a few of the many fully funded PhD programs available for international students in Europe: The University of Oxford offers a number of fully funded scholarships for international students, including the Clarendon Scholarships and Rhodes Scholarships. Both of these scholarship programs cover tuition and living expenses for up to four years of study at Oxford. 

The University of Cambridge also offers various  fully funded scholarships for international students.   Such as the Gates Cambridge Scholarship program. This program provides full funding for up to three years of study at Cambridge. Other top universities in Europe that offer fully funded PhD programs include the ETH Zurich, Imperial College London, and King’s College London. These institutions all have highly competitive scholarship programs that provide full funding for international students.

Free Phd Programs for International Students

There are a few reasons why Students might want to pursue a PhD.  the desire to contribute to knowledge in their field, the opportunity to teach, and the challenge of conducting original research, at the university level. Whatever the motivation, a few of the free PhD programs available for home and international students.  One option for financing your PhD is through fully-funded scholarships. These scholarships cover tuition and living expenses, so they can be a great way to finance your studies.  Many financial aid Organizations offer fully-funded scholarships for international students, including governments, universities, and private foundations. 

Another way to finance your PhD is through teaching assistantships or research assistantships. These positions usually involve working 20 hours per week in exchange for a tuition waiver and a stipend. You are interested in pursuing a PhD but don’t have the financial resources to do so, there are still options available. 

You can get many ways to finance your studies, whether through scholarships, assistantships, or other means. And with so many free PhD programs available for international students, there’s no reason not to pursue your dreams of earning a doctorate degree!

Free Online Phd Programs for International Students

Online platform is a great way to study for remote students all over the world. So many reasons why international students might want to pursue a PhD online. Perhaps they have family obligations that make it difficult to travel, or maybe they simply prefer the flexibility and convenience of online learning. Whatever the reason, there are now more options than ever for earning a PhD entirely online.

In today’s Blog post, we will take a look at some of the best free online PhD programs for international students. Most traditional universities offer at least some degree programs that can be completed online. However, not all of these schools offer full doctoral programs in an online format. The schools on this list are all accredited and recognized institutions that offer high-quality PhD programs that can be completed entirely online. 

1. Walden University: Walden offers over 50 different specialisations within its online PhD program, making it one of the most comprehensive options out there. All courses are taught by expert faculty members, and students have the option to complete their degree. There is also ample support available for students, with 24/7 technical assistance and career services available. International students should note that Walden is authorised to enrol non-immigrant students in distance learning programs by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). 

2 . Liberty University: Liberty University’s Online Doctoral Programs are designed for working professionals who need flexible scheduling options. Courses are delivered through an asynchronous format, meaning that students can log in and complete coursework on their own schedule. The average completion time for Liberty’s online PhD programs is just four years, making it one of the quickest options out there. Additionally, Liberty offers numerous scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically for international students enrolled in its distance learning programs. 

3 .Capella University: Capella University is another great option for international students looking to earn an accredited PhD online. Its FlexPath format allows students to move through courses at their own pace, which means that you could potentially finish your degree faster than you would at a traditional university (although there is no set time limit).

Easiest Country to Get PhD Admission

It is not easy to definitively answer this question as each country has different requirements for PhD admission. However, some countries may be easier to get into than others. For example, the United States generally requires a higher GPA for admission into a PhD program than other countries. Additionally, the United States may also require standardized test scores (such as the GRE) and letters of recommendation. Other countries may have different or less stringent requirements. Therefore, it is important to research the specific requirements for PhD programs in the country of interest.

Europe has a number of free PhD programs for international students. These programs are typically funded by the European Union. They also offer a ton of benefits to those who participate. In most cases, these programs will cover the cost of tuition, living expenses, and travel costs associated with attending the program. Additionally, many of these programs offer a stipend to help you

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Tuition-free Universities in Germany taught in English

• Check out our Video Course (64 min.)
• 180+ Universities offer English programs for free
• Public Universities in Germany are free
• Special case: Baden-Württemberg
• Study for free - even at Top Universities
• Private Universities
• No German needed
• List of tuition-free universities in Germany with English programs

Video Course

Get Accepted into Your Dream German University — with the Perfect Letter of Motivation!

I’m sure you've heard by now that Germany has a multitude of tuition-free study programs which are available not just only to German citizens, not just only for EU citizens, but also for all international students! Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, wait, what if you don't speak German?! Great, looks like you'll have to miss out. Wrong!

Germany's public universities have tuition-free study programs that are in English! You don't have to be fluent or even have ever studied German to come study in Germany.

International students have 240 universities in Germany with 2735 English-language bachelor's and master's programs to choose from!

It can be daunting to get up and move to a different country with a completely different culture and language, but having your study program taught in a foreign language shouldn't be another added stress, especially if you are a beginner or have no German skills. Having the comfort of studying in a more familiar language eases the transition of going to a new place for your studies. We understand that searching for the perfect university can be overwhelming, so let us break down the many options you have available to you to study in Germany, in a language you're comfortable with, for FREE!

Check out our Video Course (64 min.) on "How to write a Letter of Motivation"

22 videos plus checklist and template

More than 180 German Universities offer English degree programs with no tuition fee

You can study in Germany using the English language

If you have been honing your German skills for some time and are not limiting your search to English-language programs, then you have more options open to you as Germany has more than 400 universities in total! There is a great range of universities from large universities to smaller ones, should you be looking for a more one-on-one style approach to learning with your academic adviser. However, for those of us who haven’t quite mastered (or even started to learn) the wonderful and complex German language, there is no need to worry because there is something for you in Germany!

Over 200 universities in Germany offer English-language study programs to give international students opportunities to pursue a postgraduate degree though they don't speak German. The English degree programs available all have English-speaking faculty and staff as well. A variety of study programs are available to you, from film studies to political science to chemistry! Universities in Germany are aware that being able to study in a German-language program requires a lot of work and is near impossible for international students to achieve outside of Europe. So don't be discouraged in thinking you need to be fluent in German to study at these great programs. Additionally, once here, there are German-language courses available to you which you can take alongside your studies.

Public Universities in Germany are free for international students

In Germany, public universities are tuition-free, and not just for German or EU citizens! You don't have to have ever been to Germany or speak German to apply to universities in Germany. International students are welcome and encouraged to apply to universities in Germany, and with so many tuition-free English programs, there is a lot to choose from.

Why would Germany do such a crazy thing you ask?

Well, the general idea is that international students come to study in Germany and integrate into society here during their studies, and upon graduation, they join the German workforce, creating cultural bridges between their home country and Germany. Since Germany has the strongest economy in the EU, it's safe to say that they might be onto something!

Further Reading

Exception: Professional Degrees at Public Universities

On the other hand, there are study programs (approx. 15-20%) which require tuition, though they are at public universities which include:

most of the professional or executive master's degrees , e.g. LL.M. (Master of Law), MBA (Master of Business Administration) or MPA (Master of Public Administration),

some very specialized study programs , such as those which include laboratory components or highly specialized technology as equipment may counter into an extra cost,

some international degree programs , like double degree programs that collaborate with other universities outside of Germany or joint master's programs (e.g. Erasmus Mundus).

However, this is not a specialized fee directed at international students, but rather a general fee for ALL students who wish to apply to these specialized study programs.

Our helpful StudyFinder can filter these programs out for you so that you can make sure you find the perfect program for you.

• If you are interested in checking out some of these specialized degree programs, you can use special filters, e.g. for MBA or LL.M. programs or double-degrees.
• Otherwise, just keep your eye on those tuition-free programs which are always offered at public universities by filtering for "no tuition fees".

Special case for Non-EU students: Baden-Württemberg

There is a special case which you should keep in mind on the hunt for your university program in Germany. In the state of Baden-Württemberg, located in the Southwest region of Germany, there is a small tuition fee (1,500 €/semester) for students coming from outside of the EU. 

If your top-choice universities are in Baden-Württemberg, the most popular cities being

• Stuttgart  (being the capital),
• Heidelberg ,
• Freiburg im Breisgau ,
• Karlsruhe ,
• and  Konstanz (Constance) ,

don't let this non-EU tuition rule discourage you.

Many universities offer reduced tuition or tuition waivers to non-EU students who come from certain countries.

For more information on this non-EU tuition fee, refer to the  Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Science, Research, and Art's page  which discusses this tuition-fee in detail.

Baden-Württemberg is the only federal state in Germany that charges general tuition-fees for Non-EU students

Study for free in Germany - even at Top Universities

Front of the Humboldt University in Berlin.

©  Christian Wolf . Type of license:  CC BY-SA 3.0 DE.

In Germany, all public higher education institutions are free, even the highest ranked universities in the country! Unlike other countries that charge crazy tuition fees due to the high demand of students who wish to attend them, the top-ranked German universities charge the same tuition price as the rest: nothing. That's right, you don't have to limit your university search just because of tuition prices since even the most prestigious German Universities are free, e.g.

Freie Universität Berlin (Free University of Berlin),

Heidelberg University (Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg) *,

Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (Humboldt University in Berlin) ,

LMU - Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (University of Munich) ,

RWTH Aachen University (Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen) ,

Technical University of Munich (Technische Universität München) ,

University of Bonn (Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn) ,

University of Freiburg (Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg) *, *except for Non-EU students (cf. "Special case: Baden-Württemberg").

While these are some of the many top-ranked universities in Germany, there are also other institutions that are well-known and have great programs that also are public and therefore do not charge tuition fees.

Private Universities: moderate fees, great options

In addition to public universities, Germany has a vast selection of private universities with great study programs as well. Maybe you might have heard of one of these private Universities that offer degrees taught in English:

• Bucerius Law School ,
• Frankfurt School of Finance and Management ,
• Hochschule Fresenius - University of Applied Sciences ,
• IUBH University of Applied Sciences ,
• Jacobs University Bremen ,
• Kühne Logistics University ,
• WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management ,
• Witten/Herdecke University ,

While private universities charge a tuition fee to their own discretion, the fees are still significantly lower (average of 5,000 € - 7,000 € per semester) than at private universities in other countries.

Private universities charge a tuition fee to all students, not just international students.

In spite of these fees, private institutions are still very popular in Germany and many students prefer to attend these, sometimes looking for a very specialized program or option for a smaller student size in courses. Whatever the reason may be, should you be interested in looking at the different private universities which Germany has to offer, click here to view the programs and institutions that our StudyFinder has for you.

No German needed - more than 2,100 Degree programs in English

So, you aren't fluent in German? No problem! There are more than enough study programs available in English for you to choose from. By now you know that studying in Germany doesn't mean studying in German. If you are pursuing a degree program abroad that is affordable and in a language you are comfortable learning in, then Germany is the place for you. The variety of English-language study programs available for international students ensures that there is a study program for everyone!

Additionally, these universities also have staff and faculty which speak English and can answer any questions you may have. This can be particularly useful throughout the application process. However, MyGermanUniversity can also fill you in on the ins and outs of applying to a university once you find your dream study program. Sign up for our email list where we send tips and information or join one of our weekly webinars to have your questions answered by one of our study counselors!

Summary Box

International students have more than 140 tuition-free universities in Germany that offer 1790 English language degree programs with no tuition fees.

Public universities in Germany are tuition-free for ALL students, whether you're an EU citizen or not (except for the special case of Baden-Württemberg where Non-EU students must pay 1,500 € per semester).

For more specific questions, sign up for our email list where we send tips and information or join a weekly webinar to learn more about studying in Germany and to have your questions answered by one of our study counselors.

List of tuition-free universities in Germany with English degree programs

Aalen University

Program Fees: € 0 - € 1,500

M.A. (Master of Arts)

M.Sc. (Master of Science)

Academy of Fine Arts in Nuremberg

Program Fees: € 0

Albstadt-Sigmaringen University

Anhalt University of Applied Sciences

B.A. (Bachelor of Arts)

M.Eng. (Master of Engineering)

Ansbach University of Applied Sciences

Aschaffenburg University of Applied Sciences

B.Sc. (Bachelor of Science)

Augsburg University of Applied Sciences

Bard College Berlin

Barenboim-Said Akademie

B.Mus. (Bachelor of Music)

Bauhaus-Universität Weimar

M.F.A. (Master of Fine Arts)

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Study in Europe 2022 "How to do a funded PhD in Europe"

Join us on Saturday, 24 September at 4pm (Singapore) to learn how you can carry out your doctoral training in Europe and how EURAXESS can support you on this journey! 

Europe boasts a huge diversity of opportunities for doctoral training. European PhD programmes enjoy international recognition for excellence thus providing an exceptional career launch pad for young researchers.

Many European countries charge very little or no fees for PhD studies while also offering scholarships for international applicants. The European Commission’s Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) offer funding for thousands of PhD students each year to carry out their doctoral research across Europe.

Find out about the MSCA Doctoral Fellowships and get tips & advice for your PhD journey from ASEAN PhD students in Europe!

The webinar will be held in English.

Joseph Jing Heng Lim 

Joseph hails from Singapore and is currently pursuing his PhD as a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Early Career Researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research in Germany. He holds a BSc in Biological Sciences from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore.

Jeanne Svensky Ligte

Indonesian Jeanne is currently pursuing her doctoral studies in Textile Public Procurement within the MSCA Innovative Training Programme "SAPIENS Network Project" at Lodz University of Technology in Poland. She holds a B.Eng in Industrial Engineering from Universitas Hasanuddin in Indonesia and an M.Eng in Supply Chain Management (Latvia, Germany, Spain).

Manh Ha Luong

Vietnamese PhD candidate Manh Ha Luong holds a master's degree in Migration and Intercultural Relations from an Erasmus Mundus joint programme coordinated by the University of Oldenburg (Germany), and a bachelor's degree in Economics and International Business from an accredited programme between Foreign Trade University (Vietnam) and Colorado State University (USA). Ha received the Marie Skłodowska-Curie fellowship at the University of Bamberg (Germany) in 2021.

Dr Susanne Rentzow-Vasu is the Regional Project Coordinator for the European Commission-funded EURAXESS Worldwide network, a role she has held since 2012. EURAXESS Worldwide supports researcher mobility and career development, while enhancing scientific collaboration between Europe and the world. She is based in Singapore.

About Study in Europe

Study in Europe aims at connecting international students to universities, research opportunities and scholarships offered across Europe. It encompasses the countries that participate in the European Union’s Erasmus+ programme. Erasmus+ enables students and professors all over the world to study and teach at European universities. You can find the full event agenda here. 

The Best Free PhD Programs. Fully funded PhD programs

Navigating the complexities of PhD programs, one term often dominates the discourse – “fully funded”.

It represents a golden opportunity wherein all tuition fees and living expenses are covered by the educational institution, allowing students to focus on their research and studies free from financial constraints.

In this blog post, we explore what fully funded really means, share the author’s personal journey of pursuing a PhD in Australia, delve into the policies of various countries offering free or nearly free PhD programs, and provide key tips for securing a fully funded PhD opportunity.

Whether you’re considering a domestic program or an international adventure, the insights and tips offered here could pave the way to an invaluable, financially stress-free academic journey.

What Does Fully Funded Mean?

In 2023, the concept of a “fully funded” PhD program signifies that the entirety of expenses related to the doctoral program is covered. This includes tuition fees, which are either waived or entirely paid for by the educational institution.

Beyond tuition, the program also encompasses a living stipend or allowance given to doctoral students. 

Fully funded PhD programs essentially function as a comprehensive scholarship, covering everything from tuition fees to books and other necessary supplies.

While the stipend amount can vary based on the institution, it is generally sufficient to cater to the basic living expenses of the students, covering rent, food, and transportation costs.

The main aim of providing this stipend to doctoral students is to facilitate a learning environment where they can focus entirely on their studies, research, and dissertation, without the distraction of financial pressures. 

Universities, including public ones, offer these fully funded doctoral programs with the intention to draw in the best students.

These students, in turn, are expected to contribute significantly to the advancement of research in their respective fields and derive a high-quality education from their doctorates.

It is important to note that eligibility for these scholarships or stipends requires proof of commitment to the doctoral degree. In my experience, this meant securing a top-class master’s degree. This reassured the university of my dedication to pursuing a PhD and furthering my education.

In recent years, there has been a rise in such fully funded programs online , offering a wider reach for prospective PhDs.

As we move further into 2023, students may increasingly opt for these online PhD programmes, making the pursuit of doctoral degrees more accessible than ever.

Countries with a free PhD / fully funded PhD

Sometimes doing a free PhD means going abroad and doing your PhD in another country.

Personally, I travelled to Australia to do my PhD for the adventure and lifestyle. I was able to get a fully funded placement and international student fee waiver for three years to finish my degree.

Here’s a summary of some of the best countries you could do you PhD in if you want to do it for free.

In the Czech Republic , public universities host a multitude of English-language PhD programs and these programs are free for all PhD students, irrespective of their nationality. However, additional costs may be incurred by international students which might include language courses, health insurance, or student services fees, depending on the university policies.

Sweden maintains a unique policy that not only eradicates PhD fees at public universities but also provides study grants to some PhD students, which serves as a financial aid for their living expenses during the tenure of their studies.

In Germany , public universities offer feeless PhD programs to all students. However, a nominal administration fee, approximately €300 per semester, is required. This fee usually covers student services and perks like public transportation and access to university facilities.

Austria ‘s policy benefits PhD students from within the EU and EEA who complete their doctorates within a stipulated time frame, offering free education at public research universities. International students, on the other hand, have to pay fees, which, nonetheless, are capped by the Austrian government to maintain affordability.

Norway , like its Nordic counterparts, offers free PhD education at public universities to all students, regardless of their origin. But a small semester fee, usually covering student services, is obligatory.

Denmark also practices a policy of free PhD education for EU, EEA, and Swiss students at public universities, but international students are required to pay fees, which are generally on the higher side compared to other European countries.

Finland doesn’t discriminate in terms of nationality and offers free PhD studies at public universities. However, international students are charged for their Masters programs.

Saudi Arabia stands out with its unique policy where all PhD students are awarded scholarships that automatically cover their education fees, as well as help them with living expenses.

In the Netherlands , PhD study isn’t universally free, but many institutions extend the offer of free PhD study to international postgraduates. Some universities consider the PhD students as university employees, offering them a waiver on fees and potentially a salary or benefits.

Switzerland , although not offering free PhD studies, keeps its fees low at around CHF 1500 per year at public universities. State-funded PhD positions are also available to EU, EEA, and Swiss students that come with no fees and a maintenance grant.

Top tips for finding a PhD for free.

Here are the top tips I would give you when Choosing a free PhD.

• Apply to STEM programs: Many PhD (and Master’s) programs, especially in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) fields, are fully funded in the US. Most state schools and Ivy League schools have fully funded programs for these fields.
• Prepare for stiff competition: Because these programs are fully funded, the competition is high. It’s not uncommon for hundreds or even thousands of students to apply to these programs each year, with only a small fraction being accepted.
• Consider assistantships: Fully-funded programs usually provide a stipend in the form of Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) or Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) positions. These roles involve either teaching or conducting research under a professor’s supervision.
• Be ready for some costs: Despite tuition being covered, you may still need to cover some school fees, student insurance, and other miscellaneous expenditures.
• Don’t consider unfunded programs: Many graduate programs do not fund students, but experts advise against attending these schools. The availability of funding indicates the health of the department in terms of research money and growth.
• Work on your application: The application process generally starts around September to December. Standardized tests such as GRE and TOEFL/IELTS are required, along with transcripts, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose.
• Avoid programs that require you to pay: It’s a common sentiment among experts that if you’re paying to be a PhD student, there might be something wrong with the program.
• Apply for fellowships: There are graduate fellowships available for international students that cover tuition and offer a monthly stipend.

Fully funded online PhD programs in the US

Here are some examples of PhD programs in the states that are free and fully funded:

• Applicants to the Ph.D. in English program at UCLA are automatically considered for various funding options. A six-year funding package includes “a minimum of two years of full fellowship, four years of summer stipend support, and up to four years of teaching assistantships.” Beyond tuition, fees and health insurance are also covered.

Connecticut

• At Yale University, the School of Nursing offers full funding to its Ph.D. students. They receive a monthly stipend for four years in addition to paid tuition and health care.

District of Columbia

• Georgetown University offers scholarships and assistantships that cover full tuition and include a stipend and health insurance for the first five years to students in its PhD program in computer science.
• Students enrolled in the economics Ph.D. program at Emory University typically receive full funding. The stipend provided to students is $36,376 per year for five years, starting in fall 2023, and the full tuition scholarship is worth $70,200 per year. Funding for admitted students also includes a $4,370 annual subsidy that covers 100% of a student’s cost of health insurance. First-year students have no stipend-related work requirements.
• The University of Chicago provides funding for up to eight years of study for its anthropology PhD students. This includes a full-tuition scholarship, health insurance, and a living stipend of $33,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year. Students are also eligible to apply for external fellowships.
• University of Notre Dame doctoral students are guaranteed five years of funding. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance.
• The Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa provides full funding to “virtually all admitted students.” This includes tuition and fees, a minimum nine-month stipend of about $20,000 with annual adjustments, and 90% coverage of comprehensive health insurance. Additional funding is also provided for research presentations at major conferences, summer fellowships, and paid time off for independent research.
• At the University of Maryland’s Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Ph.D. students without a master’s degree usually have five years of guaranteed funding. Those with a master’s degree usually are funded four years, with awards stemming from a mix of departmental fellowships and graduate teaching assistantships.

Massachusetts

• The T.H. Chan School of Public Health at Harvard University offers a PhD in biological sciences in public health, providing expertise in disease prevention and treatment. This program includes tuition, a stipend, and health insurance for five years, assuming students maintain satisfactory academic progress. Current research involves diseases such as AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, malaria, and tuberculosis.
• Students enrolled at the Sloan School of Management at MIT have the opportunity to study various fields, such as organization studies, accounting, and information technology. They receive a full-tuition scholarship, a monthly stipend of $4,267, medical insurance, new laptops at the start of their first and fourth years of study, and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.
• Doctoral students studying English at Boston University receive a stipend plus full tuition, fees, and basic health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years, with two of those years typically free from teaching requirements. Funding can sometimes be extended up to seven years, but it’s not guaranteed. Students may also apply for various prizes, fellowships, and short-term research and travel grants.
• Doctoral students in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor are guaranteed full funding, a monthly living stipend, and health insurance. The exact amount can vary and funding comes from a range of sources, including graduate student instructor positions and fellowships.
• Students admitted to the Ph.D. program to study psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities are guaranteed full funding for five years as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and degree progress. This funding includes full-time tuition, a nine-month stipend, and subsidized health insurance.
• PhD students in computer science or computer engineering at Washington University in St. Louis receive full tuition support, health insurance, a generous stipend for living expenses, and a new high-end Apple laptop computer. This support is guaranteed as long as students continue to make satisfactory progress towards their degree.
• Full-time NYU Steinhardt Ph.D. students are eligible for a funding package that includes an annual stipend – $32,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year – tuition coverage for required coursework and student health insurance for five years.
• All students admitted to the interdisciplinary management Ph.D. program at the Binghamton University—SUNY School of Management in New York receive a combination of a full-tuition scholarship and a teaching or research assistantship for each academic year, up to four years.
• Cornell University offers full funding to all students admitted to its PhD program in chemical engineering. This funding can come from a teaching assistantship, research assistantship, or fellowship, and full stipends are granted for nine months, with the likelihood of additional aid in the summer.
• Columbia University provides fully funded tuition and a $25,000 annual stipend for three years to students enrolled in its PhD program in clinical psychology. This stipend also carries into the student’s fourth year, during which they may be expected to serve as a graduate teaching or research assistant.

North Carolina

• Doctoral students at Duke University studying materials science and engineering generally receive full tuition, a stipend, and fee support for the first five years. Students also receive up to six years of health insurance if they are on the university’s student medical insurance plan.

Pennsylvania

• The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education provides full funding to Ph.D. students as part of a fellowship and research apprenticeship package. This funding includes a living stipend, health insurance and coverage of tuition and fees for up to four years if the student maintains full-time enrollment. Some students may also qualify for additional summer funding.
• Students admitted to Bryn Mawr College’s Ph.D. program in social work receive full tuition waivers and “substantial stipends” toward living expenses.

Rhode Island

• Brown University guarantees full financial support for five years to its PhD students in computer science. This includes tuition remission, a stipend, health services fees, and a subsidy for health insurance.
• Funding is guaranteed for all admitted doctoral students enrolled in the special education Ph.D. program at Vanderbilt University. This includes full tuition, a “competitive” monthly stipend, and health insurance for up to four years.
• Rice University offers full financial assistance to students admitted to the PhD program at the Jones Graduate School of Business. This includes a research or teaching assistantship, a tuition waiver, and a $40,000 annual stipend, contingent upon maintaining satisfactory academic progress and full-time student status.
• All students admitted to the University of Virginia’s Ph.D. in Nursing program are eligible for four years of scholarship funding to cover tuition, insurance, and fees, as well as annual stipends. To receive certain aid, students must work 10 hours per week as a graduate teaching assistant.

Washington D.C.

• American University offers doctoral students in its international relations program who do not have external funding a renewable four-year Dean’s Fellowship that is contingent on making satisfactory academic progress. The fellowship includes the cost of tuition, fees, and a stipend that must be earned via a part-time role as a teaching or research assistant.
• The University of Wisconsin—Madison guarantees full funding for the duration of the time doctoral students are expected to be on campus. This funding may come from financial aid, fellowships, assistantships, and/or traineeships. In addition, doctoral students receive a benefits package that includes health insurance.

Wrapping up

This comprehensive article delves into everything you need to know about free PhD programs, also known as fully funded PhD programs, including the essential details, benefits, and potential challenges that students may encounter.

The term “free PhD” generally refers to a fully funded program that covers tuition fees and provides a stipend for living expenses, allowing students to complete their PhD studies without financial burden.

It is crucial to understand why you should never enter a PhD program without proper funding. Hence, pursuing a free or fully funded PhD should be a priority for all PhD students, regardless of nationality or field of study.

These programs may be offered both online and on-campus by various top universities around the world.

Fully funded PhD programs cater to both international and local students, including those pursuing a traditional PhD, online doctorate, or an accelerated executive doctorate of education.

For instance, fully funded online PhD programs in fields like business administration, education policy, and social work in clinical practice are available for students who hold master’s or bachelor’s degrees.

The duration of these programs may range from 1 year for fast-track or shortest doctoral programs to several years for other disciplines. Moreover, many programs focus on specialization in subjects like higher education policy, laboratory research, and much more.

One of the perks of these programs is that many institutions provide a stipend to cover living expenses during the course of study, ensuring that students can focus entirely on their research without worrying about financial constraints.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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