Top 15 Countries Where Tuition Is Free in 2024
Education is a vital aspect of personal and societal development, but it can also be a significant financial burden for many individuals and families. In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards providing free education in certain countries, particularly at the university level.
In this article, we will explore the top 15 countries where tuition is free in 2023. This list is based on current policies and projections for the coming years, but it is important to note that educational policies can change over time.
SEE ALSO: Fully Funded Commonwealth Scholarship 2023 at Prifysgol Bangor University
List of Top 15 Countries Where Tuition Is Free in 2024:
- Germany: Germany is often considered the gold standard for free education, as all public universities in the country do not charge any tuition fees for domestic and international students. In addition to free tuition, Germany also offers low or no-cost living options for students, making it an attractive destination for studying.
- Finland: The Finnish education system is highly regarded for its quality and equity. In Finland, all undergraduate and graduate degrees are free for domestic and international students. However, keep in mind that the cost of living in Finland can be relatively high.
- Ireland: Ireland is another country known for its free education system. Both domestic and international students are eligible for free education at public universities, including undergraduate, graduate, and PhD programs. However, students are required to cover living expenses.
- South Korea: Like its neighbors, South Korea offers free education to both domestic and international students at public universities.
- Switzerland: Switzerland is a lesser-known European destination for free education. It offers free education to domestic and international students at public universities, including undergraduate, graduate, and PhD programs. Switzerland is also known for its low cost of living, making it an attractive option for students.
- Japan: In Japan, public universities are tuition-free for both domestic and international students. This includes undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. However, students are required to pass a competitive entrance exam to be admitted.
- Romania: In Romania, students from the European Union can study for free at public universities. Non-EU students also have access to free education, but they are required to pay a small registration fee. However, living expenses in Greece can be relatively high.
- Canada: Canada is a popular study destination for international students due to its renowned universities and low tuition fees. Public universities in Canada charge only a small registration fee, making higher education accessible to all.
- Malaysia: Malaysia is another country that offers free education to both domestic and international students. Public universities do not charge tuition fees, but students are required to pay an enrollment fee and cover living expenses.
- Netherlands: The Netherlands provides free education to all students at public universities, including undergraduate and graduate programs. This policy aims to increase access to higher education for all, especially those from lower-income backgrounds.
- China: China offers free education to both domestic and international students both in English and China-taught programs at public universities. However, living expenses can also be relatively high in major cities.
- United Kingdom: The United Kingdom is another European country that provides free education to both domestic and international students at public universities. In addition to undergraduate and graduate programs, Slovenia also offers free PhD programs to international students.
- United States: In the United States, all citizens and noncitizens have access to free education, including post-secondary education. This includes undergraduate and graduate programs at public universities.
- Mauritius: Mauritius, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean, offers free education to all students at public universities. Students are not required to pay tuition fees for undergraduate or graduate programs, but they must cover living expenses.
- Australia: Australia has a highly regarded education system that is accessible to all citizens for free. This includes all levels of education, from primary to higher education.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in Germany:
Fully Funded DAAD AgEcon Scholarships at University Of Hohenheim
Those awarded the DAAD AgEcon Scholarship at the University of Hohenheim will enjoy a two-year exemption from tuition fees for the Agricultural Economics Master’s program. Furthermore, they will receive extensive support, encompassing health insurance, a monthly stipend for living expenses, travel expenses to and from Germany, as well as research-related expenses (for precise information and extra benefits, please consult the EPOS webpage). Additionally, a crucial element of the DAAD EPOS initiative includes an intensive German language course that takes place from August to September at a language center in Germany before the start of the Master’s program.
Fully Funded VLIR-UOS ICP Scholarships
ICPs, short for International Master Programmes, are specialized programs centered around topics that align with Agenda 2030 and the principles of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). VLIR-UOS supports a carefully selected group of 15 ICPs and grants 10 new first-year Master’s scholarships each year for each of these programs. Seize the opportunity to pursue your education in Germany with the Tuition-free VLIR-UOS ICP Scholarships.
Fully Funded DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Scholarships in Germany
The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme, also known as the Public Policy and Good Governance program, is designed to support emerging leaders from developing nations. This Master’s scholarship initiative, generously sponsored by the German Federal Foreign Office, offers the chance to pursue a Tuition Free Master’s degree program meticulously designed to address the social, political, and economic development requirements of the students’ respective home countries.
Fully Funded Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships
Individuals from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe have the opportunity to apply for the Fully Funded Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships. These scholarships are open to students pursuing studies in any field, provided they demonstrate exceptional academic performance and a strong interest in studying in Germany. Each year, the Friedrich Ebert Foundation grants tuition-free scholarships to a maximum of 40 students.
Recipients of these scholarships, whether pursuing undergraduate, master’s, or Ph.D. programs, receive a monthly stipend of 861 EUR and have their health insurance costs covered. Those students who are parents also receive an additional family allowance of 276 EUR. Regardless of their chosen academic field, students who excel academically and aspire to study in Germany are eligible to apply for these scholarships.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in Finland:
Full-Tuition Waiver Scholarship at University of Helsinki in Finland
The Full-Tuition Waiver Scholarship is a highly competitive opportunity available to international students who have the ambition to enroll in a master’s degree program at the University. It encompasses several types of awards, including fully-funded grants from external sponsors, as well as complete coverage of tuition fees. This array of options empowers eligible students to choose the best fit for their academic pursuits and eases the financial load associated with tuition fees. Be sure not to overlook this golden opportunity to apply for these esteemed Master’s scholarships and unlock your potential for a transformative educational journey at the University.
Tuition Fee Scholarships at Tampere University of Applied Sciences
The University introduced the Tuition Fee Scholarships with the aim of providing financial assistance to academically outstanding students to cover their tuition fees and related study costs throughout the entirety of their program. There are two distinct categories of tuition fee scholarships: the Tampere University tuition fee scholarships and the Finland scholarships. The Finland Scholarship is exclusively open to Master’s degree applicants.
University of Oulu 100% Tuition Fee Programme in Finland
The 100% Tuition Fee Programme is a financial support initiative created by the university to assist students who require financial aid in covering their tuition fees. It provides full-tuition fee scholarships for both undergraduate and master’s degree programs throughout the entire duration of their studies. Scholarships under this program are awarded to exceptional students based on their financial requirements and academic excellence. The 100% Tuition Fee Programme is an incredible opportunity that no student aspiring to pursue their academic journey in Finland should overlook.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in Ireland:
Fully Funded Government of Ireland Scholarships
The Government of Ireland Tuition Free Scholarships, offering comprehensive funding for international students to undertake their academic pursuits in Ireland, are presently open for applications. This opportunity is accessible to students from all corners of the globe, irrespective of their chosen academic discipline, and is aimed at those looking to begin their studies in Ireland.
Tuition-fee Scholarships at National College of Ireland
NCI provides a range of Tuition Free Master’s scholarships and bursaries to international students, aiming to acknowledge exceptional accomplishments and promote diversity within its student community. It is crucial to thoroughly review the eligibility criteria and Terms and conditions associated with each scholarship before submitting your application.
Fully Funded Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships
The Ireland Government, through the Higher Education Authority (HEA), sponsors and finances the Fully Funded International Education Scholarships as part of the Call within the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships Programme. This initiative aims to award approximately 60 Tuition-Free scholarships for undergraduate, master’s, or Ph.D. studies, each covering one year of study. These scholarships are available to qualified applicants who have received an offer of admission at an eligible higher education institution in Ireland.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in South Korea:
Fully Funded International Students Scholarship at KAIST
The Ireland Government, through the Higher Education Authority (HEA), sponsors and finances the Fully Funded International Education Scholarships as part of its Education Scholarships Programme. This initiative aims to award approximately 100 Tuition-Free scholarships for undergraduate, master’s, or Ph.D. studies, each covering one year of study. These scholarships are available to qualified applicants who have received an offer of admission at an eligible higher education institution in Ireland.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in Switzerland:
Fully-Funded Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are awarded through a selection process conducted by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS). This esteemed Tuition free scholarship are designed for young researchers and foreign artists with a master’s degree, Ph.D., or bachelor’s degree, aiming to support their academic and artistic pursuits.
Fully Funded ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship Programme
The scholarship program is available to postgraduate students pursuing their master’s degrees who encounter financial challenges. Many scholars have recognized this program as one of the most competitive study packages for international students due to its comprehensive fully funded scheme, which includes full tuition coverage, allowances, and other stipends for the entire duration of the program.
Fully-Funded WACCI-DAAD Scholarship
The selected candidates will commence their program in January, marking the beginning of the ninth cohort of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) students. This fully funded scholarship encompasses comprehensive support, including tuition fees, approximately two years of accommodation, and annual stipends to facilitate the student’s successful pursuit of their studies.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in Japan:
Fully Funded MEXT Scholarship at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University
This scholarship is available to exceptional international students who have been endorsed by Asian Pacific University (APU). APU Graduate School offers several Tuition-free scholarship options throughout the application period. To be considered for this specific scholarship, applicants must first apply to the university. APU will then identify eligible candidates from the applicant pool and recommend them to the scholarship organization.
Fully Funded WISE Scholarship Program at Hokkaido University Japan
The WISE Scholarship Program aims to promote problem-solving proficiency in veterinary medicine and cultivate the capability to engage in international research within the realms of life sciences and drug development. Through hands-on research exposure in cutting-edge life sciences, participants will acquire the tools to uncover novel insights into life processes and contribute to the field. The School of Veterinary Medicine has established degree prerequisites designed to ensure that graduates possess the essential skills and attributes expected of veterinarians in the Cooperative Veterinary Education Program, VetNorth Japan. This Ph.D. scholarship initiative, jointly provided by Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, confers the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree to students who have successfully honed the requisite competencies and attained the specified academic credits.
Fully Funded Asian Development Bank Scholarships
The Asian Development Bank Scholarships, which are fully funded, were established and financed through collaboration between the Asian Development Bank and the Japanese government. This program provides approximately 135 Master’s and Ph.D. scholarships each year for studies in fields such as economics, management, science and technology, and other disciplines related to development. These Tuition Free scholarships are available to support students.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in Romania:
Fully-Funded WACCI-DAAD Scholarship
The selected candidates will commence their program in January 2023, marking the inception of the ninth cohort of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) students. This fully funded scholarship encompasses comprehensive support, including tuition fees, approximately two years of accommodation, and annual stipends to facilitate the students’ effective pursuit of their studies.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in Canada:
Fully Funded Postgraduate Scholarships and Awards at University of Alberta
The University offers a wide variety of Undergraduate and Postgraduate scholarships and grants, which are generously funded by various organizations and provide varying levels of financial support. These Tuition Free scholarships are specially crafted to assist full-time students enrolled in thesis-based MSc or Ph.D. programs at the university. They play a significant role in augmenting the stipends of these students, easing financial constraints, and enabling them to excel in their academic endeavors.
Fully Funded Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships in Canada
Back in 2008, the Canadian government launched the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) program, with the objective of bolstering Canada’s ability to attract and retain exceptional doctoral students. This postgraduate Tuition Free scholarship initiative is geared toward positioning Canada as a worldwide center for research and excellence in higher education. Vanier Scholars are distinguished by their exceptional leadership attributes and impressive academic track record as they pursue advanced studies across disciplines including the social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, engineering, and health.
Fully Funded McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill University in Canada
McGill University is delighted to announce the availability of up to 30 fully funded Master’s scholarships and 100 entrance awards for Summer/Fall admissions intake. These Tuition free scholarships and awards are specifically tailored to provide support to outstanding students who are aiming to pursue master’s or professional studies at McGill. The primary goal of these Fully Funded McCall MacBain Scholarships opportunities is to attract and unite exceptional individuals dedicated to making a positive impact and assuming significant leadership roles in their respective fields. If you are driven by a passion for positive change and aspire to become a transformative leader, we strongly encourage you to apply and seize the opportunity to become part of McGill’s prestigious scholarship program.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in Malaysia:
Fully Funded Malaysian Technical Cooperation Program (MTCP) Scholarship
The Master’s scholarship available is fully funded, and chosen recipients will receive stipends directly from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia. These stipends will be credited to individual savings accounts. It is highly advisable for scholars to promptly open a Malaysian bank account upon their arrival in Malaysia. The Fully Funded Malaysian Technical Cooperation Program (MTCP) Scholarship offers you the opportunity to pursue your studies in Malaysia without the burden of financial concerns.
Fully Funded Government of Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)
The Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) is an initiative established by the Malaysian Government to attract talented individuals from all corners of the world for higher education in Malaysia. This program is in line with Malaysia’s aspirations to position itself as a prominent hub of academic excellence by enticing, inspiring, and retaining skilled international individuals. The Postgraduate Tuition Free scholarship presents you with the opportunity to pursue your studies in Malaysia without incurring any financial costs.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in Netherlands:
Fully Funded MENA Scholarship Programme to Study in Holland
The primary aim of the MENA Scholarship Programme (MSP) is to facilitate the sustainable advancement towards democracy in the participating countries. While the Postgraduate Tuition Free scholarship is directed at individuals, all applicants must obtain a nomination from their employer to be considered eligible for participation. The need for training should be demonstrated within the context of the applicant’s employing organization.
Fully Funded Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) Scholarships
The primary aim of the Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) Scholarships is to promote sustainable and inclusive development within societies. These Tuition Free scholarships, offered through the program, are accessible to mid-career professionals who are residents of specified countries.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in China:
Fully Funded Chinese Government Scholarship Program
The Chinese Government Scholarship Program (Type B), which is fully funded, is a comprehensive initiative launched by the Ministry of Education. Its purpose is to enable Chinese universities to attract outstanding international students seeking graduate studies in China. Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT) is honored to be one of the esteemed universities selected to take part in this program, with the goal of admitting postgraduate students into Master’s and Ph.D. programs. These scholarships for Master’s and Ph.D. students encompass the coverage of all study-related expenses.
Fully Funded Schwarzman Scholars Program in China
The Schwarzman Scholars Program, which is fully funded, identifies outstanding individuals from a diverse group of international candidates. These candidates are required to have showcased remarkable academic performance, exceptional achievements in their respective areas, and exceptional leadership capabilities. Prospective Scholars pursuing the Master’s scholarships are anticipated to possess these qualities.
Fully Funded ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship
The ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO Scholarship, which is fully funded, will provide financial support for a maximum of 40 doctoral students as they undertake a Ph.D. program at a Chinese University. This fully funded Ph.D. scholarship opportunity offers numerous fantastic benefits such as free tuition, living expenses, and others, enabling students to concentrate on innovative research without worrying about financial limitations.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in United Kingdom:
Fully Funded Commonwealth Scholarship at Prifysgol Bangor University
The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship is geared towards empowering talented and motivated individuals by equipping them with the essential knowledge and skills required for sustainable development. It is tailor-made for those who would encounter financial obstacles in their pursuit of education in the UK. Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships offer financial assistance to capable and enthusiastic individuals, enabling them to gain the knowledge and expertise essential for sustainable development. These scholarships are specifically aimed at individuals who might otherwise lack the financial resources to pursue their studies in the UK.
Fully Funded Rhodes Scholarship at University of Oxford
The Rhodes Scholarship is a fully funded, full-time postgraduate program that offers outstanding individuals from around the world the opportunity to pursue their studies at the University of Oxford. Although applying for this Master’s and Ph.D. scholarship is a rigorous process, it is a rewarding experience that has enabled many young individuals to reach their goals. We wholeheartedly encourage exceptionally talented students from all corners of the globe to apply.
Fully Funded Clarendon Fund Scholarship at University of Oxford
Clarendon Scholarships are awarded on the basis of outstanding academic achievements and potential, encompassing all graduate degree programs available at the University of Oxford. This Postgraduate Tuition Free scholarship provides comprehensive financial assistance to individuals with limited financial resources who intend to enroll as full-time students at the University of Oxford.
Fully Funded Skoll Scholarship for MBA Studies
The Oxford MBA Skoll Scholarship provides extensive financial assistance, encompassing tuition fees and a living stipend, to empower selected candidates to pursue their MBA degree successfully. This Postgraduate scholarship presents an opportunity to study at the Saïd Business School without the burden of financial constraints.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in United States:
Fully Funded MEPI Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship Program to USA
The Tuition-Free Undergraduate Scholarship and Postgraduate Scholarship Initiative aims to assist students who come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and display significant leadership potential, but face financial barriers to pursuing an education modeled after the American system.
Fully Funded Yousriya Loza-Sawiris Scholarship for Studies in USA
Managed by Newton Education Services on behalf of the Sawiris Foundation for Social Development, the Tuition-Free Master’s scholarship is intended to assist accomplished students in their academic endeavors. The Fully Funded Yousriya Loza-Sawiris Scholarship covers all your educational expenses in the USA.
Fully Funded Gates Scholarship for Study in USA
The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a unique and need-based scholarship program designed for outstanding student leaders among minority high school seniors who come from low-income families. It is a fiercely competitive, last-dollar scholarship created to provide crucial financial support to these exceptional individuals so they can fulfill their potential to the fullest. Each year, recipients of this Undergraduate scholarship are selected with the goal of empowering them to reach their highest aspirations.
100% Tuition Fee Scholarships at Berea College for International Students
At Berea College, there is no tuition fee for any student. The No-Tuition Promise guarantees that all admitted students receive complete coverage of their tuition expenses. Remarkably, Berea is unique in the United States as the only institution that provides 100% funding to every international student during their first year of enrollment. This comprehensive financial aid and Undergraduate scholarship package fully covers the costs of tuition, room, board, and fees.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in Mauritius:
Fully Funded Mauritius Africa Scholarship Scheme for Study in Mauritius
Both the Undergraduate scholarship and Postgraduate tuition-free scholarship are available to students who are pursuing full-time undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. studies in on-campus programs at public Higher Education Institutions in Mauritius. We strongly urge interested applicants to take full advantage of this opportunity.
Fully Funded Government of Mauritius Scholarships for Africans
The Government of Mauritius Scholarships, which are fully funded, have been created and funded by the Government of Mauritius to provide citizens of member states of the African Union or African Commonwealth countries with the chance to receive a fully funded Undergraduate scholarship, Master’s scholarship, or Ph.D. scholarship for the entire duration of their studies in Mauritius. Along with covering all tuition and study-related costs, the scholarship also includes round-trip airfare via the most economical route. This airfare is applicable for travel from the student’s home country at the commencement of their studies and for the return journey upon successful completion of their studies.
Top Tuition-Free Scholarships in Australia:
Fully Funded Australia Awards Pacific Scholarships
The central objective of the Australia Awards Pacific Scholarships is to provide individuals with the chance to gain and enhance the expertise and skills required to contribute to positive change and influence the advancement of their native countries. The Undergraduate Tuition Free scholarship and Postgraduate scholarship cover all study-related expenses.
Fully Funded Co-funded Monash Graduate Scholarship
Obtaining the Monash scholarship involves a rigorous and highly competitive selection process, which relies on your academic accomplishments, research contributions, and prior research engagement. The Master’s scholarship and Ph.D. scholarship themselves have significant value, with the potential to reach up to $33,000 to cover the full tuition fee.
Fully Funded Graduate Research Scholarships at University of Melbourne
Exceptional students, whether from the domestic or international sphere, who are enrolling in a Master’s Research program or a Ph.D. program, can take advantage of this scholarship opportunity. The Graduate Research Scholarships are awarded to qualified students on the basis of their outstanding academic performance, offering a stipend as well as fee coverage. Both Master’s and Ph.D. Tuition-free scholarships are accessible to applicants from all academic disciplines and provide fee remission of up to 100%. About 600 recipients will be granted scholarships valued at up to $110,000.
Fully Funded Research Scholarship at Flinders University in Australia
The Fully Funded Flinders Research Scholarship is an extremely competitive scholarship program, with just five awards available each academic year. It is granted to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, possess the capability for independent research, and exhibit potential in research training and performance. Don’t delay; submit your application promptly for the Master’s and Ph.D. Tuition-free scholarships, each valued at $28,854.00.
SEE ALSO: Top 30 University-wide Scholarships for International Students
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many countries around the world where tuition is either partially or fully free for students. These countries prioritize education and believe that it should be accessible to all, regardless of financial background. With the rising costs of education and the increasing demand for skilled workers, it is encouraging to see these countries making higher education more affordable for their citizens. Students looking to pursue their studies abroad should consider these countries and the opportunities they offer for affordable education. However, it is important to note that while tuition may be free, there may still be other costs associated with studying in these countries, such as living expenses and fees for international students. Ultimately, with proper research and planning, students can take advantage of the benefits of free education in these top 15 countries in 2023.