Studying abroad is a dream for many Nigerians. The chance to gain quality education, meet new people, and experience life outside the country is exciting. However, the cost of tuition and living expenses is one of the biggest challenges.
Many families believe that schooling abroad is only for the wealthy. The truth is, there are affordable universities in different parts of the world that Nigerians can attend in 2025 without breaking the bank.
This guide highlights twelve of the cheapest universities abroad that still offer quality education. If you have been considering furthering your studies outside Nigeria, this list could be your starting point.
1. University of Vienna, Austria
Austria has become one of the hidden gems for international students. At the University of Vienna, tuition fees for international students are very low compared to other European countries. On average, students pay about €1,500 per year.
Apart from tuition, Austria is known for its high quality of life and safety. The University of Vienna also offers several courses in English, making it attractive to Nigerian students who may not be fluent in German.
2. Free University of Berlin, Germany
Germany remains one of the most affordable destinations for higher education. At the Free University of Berlin, students pay very little in tuition, in most cases, only administrative fees that range between €250 and €400 per semester. This means students can study almost tuition-free.
The only cost that Nigerians need to prepare for is living expenses. Berlin, although not the cheapest city in Germany, still offers student-friendly housing and part-time work opportunities.
3. Université Paris-Saclay, France
France is known for its world-class universities and cultural richness. At Université Paris-Saclay, tuition fees for international students are around €3,000 per year. This is far cheaper compared to studying in the UK or the US.
Nigerian students can also benefit from scholarships offered by the French government and the university itself. Living in Paris may be expensive, but students can cut costs by staying in nearby smaller towns.
4. Technical University of Munich, Germany
Another great option in Germany is the Technical University of Munich. Like many German universities, tuition fees are almost non-existent, and students only pay administrative charges.
The university is popular for science, technology, and engineering programs. Nigerians interested in these fields can get world-class education at a fraction of the cost.
5. Warsaw University of Technology, Poland
Poland is quickly becoming a hotspot for international students because of its affordability. At Warsaw University of Technology, tuition fees start from as low as €2,500 per year.
Courses are available in English, and the cost of living in Poland is one of the lowest in Europe. Nigerian students will also find that part-time jobs are available for international students to support themselves while studying.
6. University of Debrecen, Hungary
Hungary is another budget-friendly country in Europe. The University of Debrecen charges tuition fees that start from around €4,000 per year depending on the course.
The cost of accommodation and feeding in Hungary is relatively cheap compared to other European nations. Many Nigerian students already study in Hungary, so it is easier to find a supportive community.
7. Moscow State University, Russia
Russia has one of the most affordable tuition systems for international students. At Moscow State University, tuition fees can range from $3,000 to $5,000 annually. Although the Russian language is widely used, many programs are now offered in English. Nigerians studying in Russia also get to enjoy low living costs, particularly in student hostels.
8. University of Porto, Portugal
Portugal is one of the best-kept secrets for Nigerians who want to study abroad at an affordable price. The University of Porto charges international students around €3,000 per year. Beyond tuition, Portugal is a warm and welcoming country with a low cost of living compared to other parts of Europe.
9. University of Belgrade, Serbia
Serbia may not be the first country Nigerians think of when choosing where to study, but it is an option worth considering. At the University of Belgrade, tuition fees for international students are around €2,500 per year. The cost of living is one of the lowest in Europe, making it a realistic choice for families on a budget.
10. Brandon University, Canada
Canada is a top choice for many Nigerians, but the cost often scares people away. The good news is that not all Canadian universities are expensive. Brandon University, located in Manitoba, offers some of the cheapest tuition fees in Canada, starting from about CAD 7,000 per year. Students in Manitoba also enjoy affordable living costs compared to big cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
11. University of Saskatchewan, Canada
Another affordable Canadian option is the University of Saskatchewan. Tuition fees for international students start from CAD 8,000 per year, which is cheaper compared to other Canadian institutions. The university is also research-driven and offers several scholarships to international students.
12. Metropolitan State University, USA
Studying in the United States is often seen as expensive, but there are still universities that are affordable. Metropolitan State University in Minnesota offers tuition fees that start from $8,000 per year for international students.
While this may still be higher than some European schools, it is considered cheap by American standards. Nigerian students can also explore scholarships and work-study opportunities to reduce costs further.
Studying abroad does not always mean spending millions of naira. As highlighted in this list, there are universities across Europe, Canada, Russia, and the USA that Nigerians can attend in 2025 at relatively low costs. What matters is proper research, early application, and careful planning for both tuition and living expenses.
For Nigerians dreaming of an international degree, these universities offer a golden opportunity to gain world-class education without putting too much pressure on family finances.