Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad from Pakistan. Top Destinations in 2025

Studying abroad is a dream for many Pakistani students, but financial constraints often become a hurdle. Fortunately, several countries offer affordable education without compromising on quality. From low tuition fees to cost-effective living expenses, these destinations are ideal for students seeking higher education on a budget. Finding the cheapest country to study abroad for Pakistani students in 2025 involves exploring options with scholarships, part-time work opportunities, and economical living standards, making global education accessible and achievable.

Top 10 Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Pakistani Students

Here are the top affordable destinations for Pakistani students to pursue higher education without breaking the bank:

• France
• Hungary
• Germany
• Bangladesh
• China
• Mexico
• Taiwan
• Poland
• Malaysia
• Turkey

These countries offer quality education with budget-friendly options, making them perfect choices for Pakistani students aiming to study at abroad universities for Pakistani students.

Tution fee, Universities and Living Expenses in these Countries

France:

France isn’t just a top tourist destination; it’s also a leading choice for international students, thanks to its world-class education system. Ranked as the 6th best study abroad destination by QS. According to Numbeo.com, the cost of living in France is approximately 230% higher than in Pakistan, with rental expenses up to 435% higher. To manage monthly expenses, including rent and utilities, you’ll need an estimated $800 to $1,200. This brings the total annual cost of living and studying in France to roughly $15,000.

Universities

• University of Paris-Sud
• University of Pierre and Marie Curie (UPMC)
• University of Strasbourg

Hungary

Hungary is an excellent destination for studying abroad, offering affordable tuition fees ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 per year. Living costs are about 150% higher than in Pakistan, with monthly expenses, including rent, ranging from $500 to $1,000. The estimated annual cost of living and studying in Hungary is approximately $8,000 to $12,000, making it a budget-friendly option for international students.

Universities

• Eotvos Lorand University (ELTE)
• Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME)
• University of Debrecen

Germany

Germany is a top choice for international students, ranked 4th by QS for study abroad destinations. Many public universities offer free or low-cost education, with tuition fees ranging from $0 to $500 per semester. Living expenses are about 200% higher than in Pakistan, with monthly costs, including rent and utilities, around $800 to $1,200. The estimated annual cost of living and studying in Germany is approximately $12,000.

Universities:

• Technical University of Munich (TUM)
• Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU Munich)
• Heidelberg University

Bangladesh

Bangladesh is an emerging destination for international students, offering quality education at highly affordable rates. Tuition fees typically range from $600 to $1,500 per year, while living expenses are around 65% lower than in Pakistan. Rent is especially cheap, averaging 80% less, with total monthly living costs between $300 and $500. The annual cost of studying and living in Bangladesh is approximately $5,000 to $7,000, making it an ideal budget-friendly option for students.

Universities:

• University of Dhaka
• Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET)
• North South University

China

China is a popular destination for international students, known for its high-quality education and modern facilities. Tuition fees range from $2,000 to $8,000 per year, depending on the program. While living in China is about 200% more expensive than in Pakistan, with rent costs around 400% higher, the total monthly expenses, including rent and utilities, are between $600 and $1,000. The estimated annual cost of living and studying in China is approximately $12,000 to $15,000.

Universities:

• Tsinghua University
• Peking University
• Fudan University

Mexico

Mexico is a popular study destination, ranked by QS for its strong higher education system. Tuition fees at public universities are affordable, typically ranging from $500 to $1,500 per year. While living in Mexico is about 50% more expensive than in Pakistan, rent is around 100% higher. Monthly expenses, including rent and utilities, range from $400 to $800, with an estimated annual cost of living and studying in Mexico around $8,000.

Universities:

• National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM)
• Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education (ITESM)
• Autonomous University of Nuevo León (UANL)

Taiwan

Taiwan offers quality education at public universities with affordable tuition fees ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 per year. Living costs are about 180% higher than in Pakistan, with rents up to 250% higher. Monthly expenses, including utilities and rent, range from $600 to $1,000, while the annual cost of living and studying is around $10,000 to $15,000. Taiwan’s friendly people and vibrant culture make it an excellent choice for international students.

Universities:

• National Taiwan University (NTU)
• National Tsing Hua University (NTHU)
• National Cheng Kung University (NCKU)

Poland

Poland is a popular destination for international students, offering quality education and affordability. Public universities provide programs with tuition fees ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 per year. Living costs are about 200% higher than in Pakistan, with monthly expenses, including rent and utilities, around $500 to $800. The estimated annual cost of living and studying in Poland is approximately $8,000 to $10,000.

Universities:

• University of Warsaw
• Jagiellonian University
• Warsaw University of Technology

Malaysia

Malaysia is an affordable and vibrant destination for international students, offering tuition fees between $2,000 and $4,000 per year. Living costs are 50% lower than in Pakistan, with monthly expenses, including rent and utilities, ranging from $300 to $500. The estimated annual cost of living and study in Malaysia is $6,000 to $8,000, making it a budget-friendly choice for Pakistani students.

Universities:

• University of Malaya (UM)
• University Technology Malaysia (UTM)
• University Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Turkey

Turkey is a popular destination for international students, offering quality education with tuition fees ranging from $500 to $1,000 per year. Living costs are about 200% higher than in Pakistan, with monthly expenses, including rent and utilities, estimated at $400 to $800. The total annual cost of living and studying in Turkey is around $10,000, making it an affordable option for quality education.

Universities:

• Bogaziçi University
• Middle East Technical University (METU)
• Istanbul Technical University

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cheap Study Destination

Following factors should consider when choosing cheap study destination:

• Tuition Fees
• Living Expenses
• Scholarships Availability
• Quality of Education
• Cultural Compatibility
• Visa and Work Opportunities
• Proximity to Pakistan

Scholarships for Pakistani Students to Study Abroad

• Fulbright Scholarship
• Commonwealth Scholarship
• DAAD Scholarship
• Chevening Scholarship
• Turkiye Burslari Scholarship
• Chinese Government Scholarship
• Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)
• Australia Awards Scholarship
• HEC Overseas Scholarships

PTE and ILETS requirements in Cheap countries

• Germany: IELTS 6.0-6.5; PTE not widely accepted.
• Malaysia: IELTS 6.0 ; PTE 55-60.
• Turkey: IELTS 6.5; PTE 55-60.
• China: IELTS 5.5-6.0; PTE requirements vary by university.
• Poland: IELTS 5.5-6.5; PTE 54-58.
• Hungary: IELTS 5.0-5.5; PTE 51-58.
• Bangladesh: IELTS 6.0; PTE not commonly required.
• Argentina: IELTS 5.5-6.0; PTE not widely used.
• Taiwan: IELTS 5.5-6.5; PTE requirements vary by institution.
• Mexico: IELTS 6.5; PTE50-53.

Budget Friendly Tips for Pakistani Students to Study Abroad

Here are few budget friendly tips for Pakistani students to study abroad:

• Research countries with low tuition fees and affordable living costs.
• Apply for fully-funded scholarships to cover tuition and living expenses.
• Save on language tests by preparing thoroughly to avoid retakes and check IELTS fee in Pakistan beforehand.
• Choose countries with work-study opportunities for additional income.
• Opt for shared accommodations or university dormitories to save on rent.
• Use public transport or student discounts for commuting and other expenses.
• Plan a monthly budget and track spending to avoid overspending.
• Apply early to universities to avail fee waivers or discounted rates.
• Leverage online study resources to save on textbooks and course materials.
• Cook meals at home instead of dining out to reduce daily expenses.

FAQ’s

Are tuition-free options available for Pakistani students?

Yes, countries like Germany and Norway offer tuition-free education in public universities for international students, although minimal administrative fees may apply.

Can I get affordable postgraduate programs in these countries?

Yes, affordable postgraduate programs are widely available, particularly in Germany, Hungary, and China, with additional research funding and scholarships.

Are online programs from these countries a cost-effective option?

Yes, many universities in countries like Malaysia and Poland offer affordable online degree programs that save on living and travel costs.