- The most affordable Engineering programmes are in Europe, especially in public universities where tuition fees are substantially covered by the government.
- Domestic students typically benefit from lower tuition fees and additional benefits like scholarships and financial aid.
- Search for scholarships and financial aid on Mastersportal to reduce your educational expenses.
Who benefits: International, European, and domestic students
Details: Public universities in Germany typically charge no tuition fees for undergraduate degrees. Master's degrees are also free if they are consecutive (following directly from a related Bachelor's degree earned in Germany). Students usually pay only a small administrative fee per semester.
Who benefits: International, European, and domestic students
Details: Norway offers free education at public universities for all students regardless of nationality. Students may need to cover a small semester fee.
Who benefits: European and domestic students
Details: For European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) students, public universities in Finland are free. However, non-EU/EEA students typically have to pay tuition fees unless they receive a scholarship.
Who benefits: European and domestic students
Details: Austrian public universities offer free education to EU/EEA students. International students from outside the EU/EEA pay relatively low tuition fees.
Who benefits: European and domestic students
Details: Swedish public universities offer free education for EU/EEA and Swiss students. International students from outside the EU/EEA pay tuition fees.
Who benefits: Domestic students
Details: While not free, the US offers various scholarships, grants, and financial aid programmes that can significantly reduce the cost of education for domestic students. Public universities have lower tuition fees for in-state students.
Who benefits: Domestic students
Details: Similar to the US, Canada offers numerous scholarships and financial aid options for domestic students, although completely free education is not typically available.
Who benefits: International, European, and domestic students
Details: Public universities in Brazil offer free education to all students. Admission is highly competitive, and courses are primarily taught in Portuguese.
Who benefits: Domestic students
Details: While not entirely free, China offers numerous scholarships for both domestic and international students that can cover tuition fees and living expenses.
Who benefits: International, European, and domestic students
Details: Taiwan provides various scholarships to international students that can make education essentially free. Public universities also have lower tuition fees compared to Western countries.
Who benefits: Domestic students
Details: Public universities in Egypt offer free education to domestic students. International students may pay tuition fees, but these are generally lower compared to Western standards.
Scholarships for Master’s in Engineering
Scholarships for Bachelor’s in Engineering
Engineering is a versatile and dynamic field that offers numerous career opportunities across various industries. From Civil Engineering to Aerospace, the skills acquired through an Engineering degree are in high demand.
Engineering graduates have many career paths to choose from, including roles in design, research and development, project management, and consultancy. The average salary for engineers varies depending on the specialisation and location, but it typically ranges from EUR 60,000 to EUR 100,000 per year, with the potential for higher earnings as experience and expertise grow.
Affordable universities to study Engineering, according to our data
Here's a list of the universities from across the world that are listed on our portals and have the cheapest available degrees for both international and domestic students, in both Bachelor's and Master's levels:
Other universities provide cheap degrees as well, but these are the ones that stand out thanks to the number of affordable degrees listed on our portals. Let's find out more about each of them:
1. Politecnico di Milano, Milan
Politecnico di Milano, located in the vibrant city of Milan, Italy, is a renowned public technical university known for its strong emphasis on engineering, architecture, and design. It offers a dynamic student life with access to cutting-edge facilities and a thriving cultural scene. The university is celebrated for its innovative research and close ties with industry leaders.
2. University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
The University of the Witwatersrand, commonly known as Wits, is situated in Johannesburg, South Africa. This public research university is famous for its rigorous engineering programs and its commitment to social justice and academic excellence. Students enjoy a diverse and multicultural campus life, with numerous extracurricular activities and support services.
3. KU Leuven, Leuven
KU Leuven, located in the historic city of Leuven, Belgium, is one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious universities. As a public research institution, it offers a wide range of engineering programs. Known for its high academic standards and innovative research, KU Leuven provides a rich student experience with a vibrant community and numerous cultural events.
4. University of Antwerp, Antwerp
Located in the bustling port city of Antwerp, Belgium, the University of Antwerp is a public university known for its high-quality engineering programs and strong research focus. Students benefit from a diverse and international atmosphere, modern facilities, and a lively cultural scene that includes music, art, and festivals.
5. University of New Haven, West Haven
The University of New Haven, situated in West Haven, Connecticut, USA, is a private university known for its practical approach to engineering education. With a focus on experiential learning, students gain hands-on experience through internships and projects. The campus offers a vibrant student life with various clubs, organisations, and recreational activities.
6. Dublin City University, Dublin
Dublin City University (DCU), located in Ireland's capital, is a dynamic public institution known for its strong focus on innovation and technology. Engineering students at DCU benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and close industry partnerships. The university provides a lively campus life with numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.
7. TU Berlin, Berlin
Technische Universität Berlin, or TU Berlin, is a prestigious public university in Germany's capital. It is renowned for its engineering programs and cutting-edge research. Students enjoy a rich cultural and academic environment, with access to extensive resources and opportunities for international collaboration. Berlin's vibrant city life adds to the appeal.
8. Mercer University, Macon
Mercer University, located in Macon, Georgia, USA, is a private institution known for its personalised approach to education and strong engineering programs. The university emphasises student engagement and offers a supportive community with numerous extracurricular activities. Mercer combines academic excellence with a close-knit campus atmosphere.
9. Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul
Yildiz Technical University, situated in Istanbul, Turkey, is a prominent public institution specialising in engineering and technology. Known for its rigorous academic programs and research excellence, Yildiz Technical offers a vibrant student life with various cultural and recreational activities. The university's location in Istanbul provides a unique blend of history and modernity.
10. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, commonly referred to as PolyU, is a leading public university known for its strong emphasis on applied sciences and engineering. Located in the bustling city of Hong Kong, PolyU offers a dynamic and multicultural campus environment. Students benefit from extensive industry connections and state-of-the-art facilities.
11. National Cheng Kung University, Tainan
National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), located in Tainan, Taiwan, is a top public research university known for its engineering and technology programs. NCKU is celebrated for its research output and industry partnerships. Students enjoy a supportive campus environment with access to modern amenities and a rich cultural heritage.
12. Ecole Centrale de Lyon, Lyon
Ecole Centrale de Lyon, in Lyon, France, is a prestigious public engineering school known for its rigorous academic programs and research excellence. The school offers a stimulating environment with strong industry ties and opportunities for international exchange. Lyon's vibrant cultural scene and historical charm enhance the student experience.
13. Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Paris
Institut Polytechnique de Paris, located in the heart of France's capital, is a leading public institution formed by the merger of several prestigious engineering schools. Known for its high academic standards and research output, it offers a stimulating environment for engineering students. Paris's rich cultural and intellectual life adds to the appeal.
Study costs for Engineering programmes
The cost of studying Engineering can vary significantly based on the country and institution. In major study-abroad destinations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia, tuition fees for Engineering programmes range on average from EUR 5,000 to EUR 50,000 per year. Additionally, living expenses add to the overall cost of studying abroad.
Generally, Engineering programmes tend to be more expensive than degrees in Humanities or Social Sciences due to the need for specialised equipment and laboratory facilities. However, they often lead to higher earnings as well.
To find more affordable degrees in Engineering, look for programmes at public universities which often have lower tuition fees compared to private institutions. This is particularly true in countries where the government heavily subsidises public education.
Find affordable programmes on our portals
On our portals, you can explore hundreds of affordable Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and thousands of affordable Master's degrees in Engineering. That means degrees that cost up to 2500 Euros per year.
At the other end, the most expensive Bachelor’s degrees in Engineering can reach up to EUR 70,000 per year while the most expensive Master’s can reach EUR 80,000 per year, particularly at prestigious high-ranking institutions in the United States. These programmes offer extensive resources, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry connections.
To find the exact fit for you, visit our portals to find a wide range of Engineering programmes taught in English. You can filter results based on discipline, country of study, price range, full-time or part-time study, type of attendance (on campus, online, or mixed), and degree type. You can also sort results to show the lowest tuition fees first.
Where can you study Engineering for free
Studying Engineering for free is an attractive option for many students, and several countries offer tuition-free education, often under specific conditions. Here’s a breakdown by continent, indicating whether it's free for international, European, or domestic students:
Europe
North America
South America
Asia
Africa
Additional tips for finding affordable programmes in Engineering
Pursuing an Engineering degree can be a significant financial investment, but there are several strategies to make it more affordable. You can:
Find a scholarship
Many universities and external organisations offer scholarships specifically for Engineering students. You can find numerous scholarships on our portals which can make studying this discipline more affordable.
Get a part-time job
Working part-time while studying is a practical way to earn extra income and gain valuable work experience. Many countries allow international students to work up to a certain number of hours per week during the academic term, and full-time during holidays. On-campus jobs, internships, and positions related to your field of study are particularly beneficial, as they provide relevant experience and networking opportunities.
Manage your expenses wisely
By planning your finances carefully and making smart spending choices, you can keep your living expenses manageable and focus more on your studies. Start by creating a detailed budget that includes rent, utilities, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Opt for shared accommodation or student housing to reduce costs, and take advantage of campus facilities such as libraries, gyms, and dining halls. Cooking at home instead of eating out, using public transportation, and seeking student discounts can further stretch your budget. Many cities also offer student cards that provide discounts on various services and activities.
In conclusion
Studying Engineering offers numerous benefits, including diverse career opportunities, high earning potential, and the chance to work on innovative projects that impact the world. While the cost of an Engineering degree can be substantial, our portals offer plenty of affordable options for Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees.
Finally, remember to search for scholarships and financial aid, consider part-time work, and learn to manage your living expenses effectively, and you’ll be able to pursue your Engineering dreams without breaking the bank.
If you found this article helpful, please share it with others who might be interested in affordable education options in Engineering. Together, we can make higher education more accessible to everyone.
Additional resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the average tuition fees for an engineering degree?
The average tuition fees for an Engineering degree vary greatly depending on the country and institution. In major study-abroad destinations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia, tuition fees can range from EUR 5,000 to EUR 50,000 per year. Public universities in some countries, like Germany and Norway, offer free or low-cost tuition, particularly for EU/EEA students.
Are there scholarships available for engineering students?
Yes, there are numerous scholarships available for Engineering students offered by universities, governments, and private organizations. These scholarships can cover partial or full tuition fees, and sometimes even living expenses.
Can international students work part-time while studying engineering?
In many countries, international students are allowed to work part-time while studying. For example, in the United States, students on an F-1 visa can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during holidays. Similarly, European countries like Germany and the Netherlands also permit part-time work for international students.