It’s well known that one of the many benefits of studying abroad is the opportunity to learn a new language, but that doesn’t always mean you want to study in a foreign language – especially if it’s hugely different from your own, or your course contains complex terminology. Fortunately, English is the most common second language in the world, and many universities abroad are increasing their range of available English-taught courses in order to attract more international students. We’ve looked at a range of places where you can study abroad in English here, but if you’re on a budget, this article will tell you where you can get a degree for US$5,000 or less.
Of course, you’ll still need to consider other expenses when budgeting to study abroad (student visa/university application fees, health insurance, accommodation, food and so on), but saving money on fees should ensure a cheaper student experience.
Iceland
The main language of instruction at universities in the land of ice and fire may be Icelandic, but affordable English-taught courses are available, albeit mostly at graduate level. Iceland’s four public universities don’t charge tuition fees, meaning you only need to pay an annual registration fee of ISK 75,000 (~US$700). If you’re willing to enroll in the spring semester, the registration fee at the University of Iceland is reduced to ISK 55,000 (~US$500). Non-EU/EEA students will also be charged an application fee when they apply – this is ISK 8,000 at the University of Iceland (~US$70).
Unfortunately, the catch is that Iceland is an expensive country to live in – the University of Iceland recommends students budget at least ISK 119,300 a month (~US$1,100). This means you’ll need at least US$13,200 for your living expenses each year. One other downside: no Icelandic universities feature in the QS World University Rankings 2018.
Malaysia
If you want to study in English somewhere a little warmer, Malaysia could be a good option for you. All courses at private universities are taught in English, and most postgraduate degrees at public universities are also English-taught (they are less common at undergraduate level). Malaysia has an ideal combination of low tuition fees and living costs, with capital city Kuala Lumpur ranked as the most affordable city for students in the QS Best Student Cities index in both 2016 and 2017. Most students pay tuition fees of less than US$3,000 in Kuala Lumpur, and you will only need around US$5,000 for living costs, according to StudyinMalaysia.com.
Highest-ranked university in Malaysia: Universiti Malaya (joint 114th)
Saudi Arabia
With its universities frequently topping the QS University Rankings: Arab Region, Saudi Arabia offers high quality education at a low cost, with no tuition fees at universities such as King Saud University. The country’s strict interpretation of Islam might take a little getting used to, as alcohol is prohibited and there is a strict gender division. There are many courses with English as the medium of instruction, particularly at master’s level and for courses in engineering, science and medicine. Many residents speak English, but it’s worth learning conversational Arabic to help you settle in. Saudi Arabia’s capital and largest city, Riyadh, was ranked as the third most affordable city for students in the latest QS Best Student Cities index. However, living costs are high, and you can’t work during your studies.
Highest-ranked university in Saudi Arabia: King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (joint 173rd)
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