free phd programs for international students in europe

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5 Countries That Offer Free or Very Cheap PhD Programmes

• Updated on  
• May 11, 2023

Do you currently hold a degree or a master’s degree and desire to advance your education by pursuing a PhD abroad? The good news is that those with graduate degrees, like master’s or doctoral degrees, had the best salaries and lowest unemployment rates in several countries. Is that terrible news? A PhD program overseas might be quite expensive. When studying overseas, you would have to take tuition, living fees, and other extra costs into account. However, there is a solution to this. The next step would be researching the nations with the most affordable PhD programs. Fortunately, there are quite a few nations where the cost of attending a PhD program is either zero or extremely low. This enables you to enrol in a prestigious university overseas and learn what it’s like to live in a foreign nation and adjust to other customs. You can concentrate on your studies and any other personal or professional goals when you study for a PhD abroad with little concern for your financial situation. Having said that, the following are the 5 countries that offer free or very cheap PhD programmes in the world.

A Ph.D. in Economics normally includes coursework in both macroeconomics and microeconomics. However, if you intend to teach or conduct formal research in economic subjects, this is a beneficial degree. Once the proposal is approved and the oral exam is passed, the final years of enrollment are devoted to dissertation research, writing, and defence.

Sweden is the greatest option if you want to pursue a PhD in renewable energy or a field that is closely related to it. According to data, about 56 per cent of the energy utilized in Sweden in 2019 originates from renewable sources. What is the nicest thing about obtaining a PhD in Sweden? Everyone can use it for free, even students from other countries. (Note that students seeking bachelor’s or master’s degrees who are not EU/EEA citizens are not eligible for free tuition.)

Seven of Sweden’s universities are included in the top 350 universities in the world according to the QS World University Rankings 2023, making it the home to some of the most highly regarded universities in the world. The KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Lund University, the two top universities in Sweden, are 89th and 95th, respectively.

Key details-

For students in Swedish universities, a PhD signifies the pinnacle of academic success. Similar to other nations, the focus is on your independent study leading to an original thesis that adds new knowledge to the topic.

Must Read: Best Countries for PhD

Swedish Doctoral Degrees

In Sweden, a doctoral study might take one of two forms:

A typical Ph.D. confers a full doctorate (together with the crucial title of “doctor”) after a minimum of four years of full-time work (240 ECTS credits).

As an alternative, you might decide to pursue a licentiate degree. Typically, this only necessitates two years of full-time work toward a more condensed and modest thesis (equivalent to 120 ECTS credits). Some students first enroll for the Swedish licentiate before upgrading to full Ph.D. candidates since it is comparable to the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree provided in the UK or other countries.

In Sweden, there are two teaching terms (August to January and January to June), which are separated by summer and winter breaks. You will often have more flexibility throughout the year as a PhD student, but some additional courses and other activities can be connected to particular teaching periods.

Fees and Funding

There are no tuition fees for PhD study at state-funded Swedish universities (note that this does not apply to Master’s or Bachelor’s degrees). Doctoral programs are free for students from the EU, EEA, and other countries.

The same is true of application costs; there are none to be paid for a PhD in Sweden.

Although you will need to pay for your housing and living expenses, your university might be able to provide assistance.

Admissions Requirements

Universities in Sweden are permitted to establish their own admittance standards for PhD programs. A bachelor’s degree in an applicable area is typically the required minimum, but a master’s degree is also preferable, especially if you’re asking for funding.

Your capacity to exhibit prior research experience will be as crucial as your previous qualifications. It is crucial that you can demonstrate some preparation for the independent research you will conduct on your PhD, even if this is just the dissertation project for one or both of your previous degrees.

Also Read: PhD in USA

Norway is another Nordic nation that ranks among the 5 countries that offer free or very cheap PhD programs. All students, regardless of nationality, are not charged tuition at Norway’s public universities. Norway’s cost of living is comparable to that of Sweden, therefore you may want to look into ways to reduce your out-of-pocket spending. Other than that, you will just need to pay a nominal semester student union charge to cover expenses like tests or sports facilities, which would only cost you between 300 and 600 Norwegian kroner (approximately INR 2353.24 to INR 4706.49). You can try your luck by submitting an application to the University of Oslo , the top-ranked institution in Norway, which is currently placed 101st in the most recent QS World University Rankings.

Following the Bologna approach, Norwegian PhD programs are third-cycle degrees. As a result, conducting research and creating a PhD thesis will be needed for you.

In Norway, PhDs frequently adhere to a standardized format. Before beginning your PhD research and thesis writing, this usually entails a training component. You might also be regarded as an employee of the university, complete with benefits. In this situation, you will need to uphold your teaching and administrative duties.

The fact that all PhD students in Norway get free tuition is a significant and alluring feature of the program. The cost of living is high in the nation. As a result, maintenance financing of some kind is typically required.

Norwegian PhD fees

Universities in Norway do not charge tuition for their PhD programs. However, in order to join and receive a student card at many Norwegian universities, you must pay a charge of INR 4149.5 to INR 8299 to the student union each semester.

Admission Requirements

In Norway, candidates for a PhD are required to hold a master’s degree in a related field. You can check your qualifications’ eligibility at the Norwegian Agency for Quality Assurance in Education. A similar degree may be approved (NOKUT).

Each research organization has a different set of conditions for applications. Always double-check with your desired university.

Typically, PhD candidates must submit a strong research proposal or project description together with the necessary application materials. Other standard materials for PhD applications may also be requested from you. These are some extra materials that might be needed:

• certified copies of all the documents that are pertinent to your education
• a strategy for financing your studies (for the full 3-4 years of full-time study, plus information about the funding source and type)
• An explanation of any significant scholarly or material resource needs
• a minimum of one proposed academic supervisor’s name (unless stipulated otherwise)

Also Read: PhD in Netherlands

Another Nordic nation, Finland , is at the top of our list of 5 countries that offer free or very cheap PhD programs. In Finland, pursuing a PhD is entirely free, even for those who are not citizens, similar to Norway and Sweden. According to QS, Finland is home to two of the top 150 institutions. This includes the 106th-ranked University of Helsinki and the 116th-ranked Aalto University . It is distinguished as a top-tier study destination by more than just its educational features. Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is ranked 66th in the most recent QS study of “Best Student Cities.” The midnight sun and the Northern lights (aurora borealis), which fill the sky with a breathtaking vista for anywhere between 10 and 20 nights a year, are only two of the most magnificent natural phenomena that can be seen in Finland’s vast, open areas.

Finland is a very economical alternative for your PhD study abroad because of its generous higher education policy. Any student, regardless of country, is not now required to pay doctoral fees.

In contrast, fees are often charged to non-EU students for Finnish Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.

Entry Requirements

A master’s degree (or its equivalent) from a recognized institution is necessary for admission to a PhD program in Finland.

Other prerequisites will be determined by the area of study you are applying for and the particular procedures followed by your university. If unsure, consult your department.

Germany is famous for having a top-notch educational system and for being an innovative nation. According to QS, three of its universities are among the top 100. This includes Heidelberg University, which is ranked 65th, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, which is ranked 59th, and the Technical University of Munich , which is ranked 49th. According to the most recent Best Student Cities rankings by QS, two of its cities, Munich and Berlin, are among the top 10.

Types of PhD in Germany

Germans invented the doctoral degree, which is based on independent study leading to the submission and review of a thesis. Most colleges continue to offer this style, although some others provide more “organized” programs:

The traditional PhD requires you to choose a research project and conduct it on your own under the supervision of a qualified supervisor (Doktorvater/Doktomutter). The candidate selects the setting for their research, whether it be in a university, non-university organization, or German corporation.

Structured doctoral programs are conducted mostly in English and are focused on the global market. Along with writing your thesis, you will complete extra training, which may entail partnerships and job placements with outside research organizations.

Doctoral degrees are typically free in Germany for all students, regardless of nationality, due to the generous governmental investment in education. You might, however, have to pay additional costs while you are a student.

All public institutions in Germany offer free tuition for doctoral-level studies for up to three years (six semesters). For any additional time beyond the term of your PhD, you might have to pay tuition.

Despite not having to pay tuition, you will still need to pay a semester contribution (Semesterbeitrag), which typically ranges from INR 8k to INR 29k. This pays for office expenses, student government, and student services (Studentenwerk).

In general, you must have completed at least eight semesters of college work before enrolling in a PhD program in Germany. Your final certification must be on par with a German master’s degree.

Additionally, the Dean’s Office (Dekanat) or Board of Examiners (Promotionsausschuss) at your university must acknowledge your prior higher education degree(s).

International students with exceptional qualifications may be admitted to a PhD program with a Bachelor’s degree (fast-track program), albeit you will normally need to pass an entrance exam.

France , which has four universities ranked among the top 100 by QS, is another nation that makes it to our list of 5 countries that offer free or very cheap PhD programmes. French institutions demand comparatively little tuition. A typical annual cost at a public university, for instance, is around 380 euros (INR 31k at the time of writing). Three French cities—Lyon, Toulouse, and of course, the nation’s capital Paris, which is placed ninth by QS—are included in the top 100 Best Student Cities list as a result of their high academic standing and affordable tuition.

PhD Programmes

The bulk of PhDs is completed as part of a program inside doctoral schools, although French universities occasionally do offer specific doctoral research programs.

The number is 266 in total. In order to provide doctorate training for PhD candidates and foster the growth of early career researchers, they are affiliated with universities and work in partnership with related research laboratories and other centres.

Programme length

For a typical three-year PhD, a “doctorate” consists of six semesters, yielding two teachings (or research) semesters annually:

• late September to early January, with a break between Christmas and New Year
• early February to early June, with a spring break at Easter for several colleges

Exams are normally held at the conclusion of each semester, and institutions take a three-month summer break from July to September. As a full-time student, you will typically complete your PhD in France in 3–4 years.

The current French PhD tuition is the same for all students, regardless of nationality. But costs can differ greatly depending on whether you attend a public or private school (such a Grandes École).

Must Read: PhD in Switzerland

PhD Fees 

Public institutions charge substantially lower tuition since the State invests an average of INR 11,62,147.82 per student, per year.

The following fees may apply depending on your institution:

• Fees for PhD students at public institutions are €380 annually.
• Private institutions – Tuition at private institutions, particularly business schools, range from INR 2.49 Lakh to INR 8.30 Lakh per year.
• Administrative fees (frais de dossier), which universities may impose, are normally modest—a few tens of euros.

In France, each institution is permitted to establish its own standards and conduct personalized evaluations. However, in order to enroll as a PhD student, you will normally need to hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a suitable field.

If you are pursuing your master’s degree and expect to graduate before the PhD program begins, you may apply.

Additionally, you could be accepted based on your performance on entrance tests and in pre-college courses like the ‘Classe préparatoire aux grandes écoles’ (CPGE), which is a frequent practice among French Grandes Écoles.

Pursuing PhD in Finland is entirely free.

The average cost of PhD in the UK is GBP 40,000 (INR 40.67 Lakh)

One of the top countries to pursue an MBA abroad is the United States of America.

Hope now you know 5 countries that offer free or very cheap PhD programmes. Not sure which country to choose for your PhD? Don’t worry! Our Leverage Edu experts will provide you with end-to-end assistance starting from your university application to the time you reach your university and commence your studies. Call us at 1800 57 2000 to book a FREE 30-minute counselling session today.

Nikita Puri

Nikita is a creative writer and editor, who is always ready to learn new skills. She has great knowledge about study abroad universities, researching and writing blogs about them. Being a perfectionist, she has a habit of keeping her tasks complete on time before the OCD hits her. When Nikita is not busy working, you can find her eating while binge-watching The office. Also, she breathes music. She has done her bachelor's from Delhi University and her master's from Jamia Millia Islamia.

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The Best Free PhD Programs. Fully funded PhD programs

Navigating the complexities of PhD programs, one term often dominates the discourse – “fully funded”.

It represents a golden opportunity wherein all tuition fees and living expenses are covered by the educational institution, allowing students to focus on their research and studies free from financial constraints.

In this blog post, we explore what fully funded really means, share the author’s personal journey of pursuing a PhD in Australia, delve into the policies of various countries offering free or nearly free PhD programs, and provide key tips for securing a fully funded PhD opportunity.

Whether you’re considering a domestic program or an international adventure, the insights and tips offered here could pave the way to an invaluable, financially stress-free academic journey.

What Does Fully Funded Mean?

In 2023, the concept of a “fully funded” PhD program signifies that the entirety of expenses related to the doctoral program is covered. This includes tuition fees, which are either waived or entirely paid for by the educational institution.

Beyond tuition, the program also encompasses a living stipend or allowance given to doctoral students. 

Fully funded PhD programs essentially function as a comprehensive scholarship, covering everything from tuition fees to books and other necessary supplies.

While the stipend amount can vary based on the institution, it is generally sufficient to cater to the basic living expenses of the students, covering rent, food, and transportation costs.

The main aim of providing this stipend to doctoral students is to facilitate a learning environment where they can focus entirely on their studies, research, and dissertation, without the distraction of financial pressures. 

Universities, including public ones, offer these fully funded doctoral programs with the intention to draw in the best students.

These students, in turn, are expected to contribute significantly to the advancement of research in their respective fields and derive a high-quality education from their doctorates.

It is important to note that eligibility for these scholarships or stipends requires proof of commitment to the doctoral degree. In my experience, this meant securing a top-class master’s degree. This reassured the university of my dedication to pursuing a PhD and furthering my education.

In recent years, there has been a rise in such fully funded programs online , offering a wider reach for prospective PhDs.

As we move further into 2023, students may increasingly opt for these online PhD programmes, making the pursuit of doctoral degrees more accessible than ever.

Countries with a free PhD / fully funded PhD

Sometimes doing a free PhD means going abroad and doing your PhD in another country.

Personally, I travelled to Australia to do my PhD for the adventure and lifestyle. I was able to get a fully funded placement and international student fee waiver for three years to finish my degree.

Here’s a summary of some of the best countries you could do you PhD in if you want to do it for free.

In the Czech Republic , public universities host a multitude of English-language PhD programs and these programs are free for all PhD students, irrespective of their nationality. However, additional costs may be incurred by international students which might include language courses, health insurance, or student services fees, depending on the university policies.

Sweden maintains a unique policy that not only eradicates PhD fees at public universities but also provides study grants to some PhD students, which serves as a financial aid for their living expenses during the tenure of their studies.

In Germany , public universities offer feeless PhD programs to all students. However, a nominal administration fee, approximately €300 per semester, is required. This fee usually covers student services and perks like public transportation and access to university facilities.

Austria ‘s policy benefits PhD students from within the EU and EEA who complete their doctorates within a stipulated time frame, offering free education at public research universities. International students, on the other hand, have to pay fees, which, nonetheless, are capped by the Austrian government to maintain affordability.

Norway , like its Nordic counterparts, offers free PhD education at public universities to all students, regardless of their origin. But a small semester fee, usually covering student services, is obligatory.

Denmark also practices a policy of free PhD education for EU, EEA, and Swiss students at public universities, but international students are required to pay fees, which are generally on the higher side compared to other European countries.

Finland doesn’t discriminate in terms of nationality and offers free PhD studies at public universities. However, international students are charged for their Masters programs.

Saudi Arabia stands out with its unique policy where all PhD students are awarded scholarships that automatically cover their education fees, as well as help them with living expenses.

In the Netherlands , PhD study isn’t universally free, but many institutions extend the offer of free PhD study to international postgraduates. Some universities consider the PhD students as university employees, offering them a waiver on fees and potentially a salary or benefits.

Switzerland , although not offering free PhD studies, keeps its fees low at around CHF 1500 per year at public universities. State-funded PhD positions are also available to EU, EEA, and Swiss students that come with no fees and a maintenance grant.

Top tips for finding a PhD for free.

Here are the top tips I would give you when Choosing a free PhD.

• Apply to STEM programs: Many PhD (and Master’s) programs, especially in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) fields, are fully funded in the US. Most state schools and Ivy League schools have fully funded programs for these fields.
• Prepare for stiff competition: Because these programs are fully funded, the competition is high. It’s not uncommon for hundreds or even thousands of students to apply to these programs each year, with only a small fraction being accepted.
• Consider assistantships: Fully-funded programs usually provide a stipend in the form of Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) or Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) positions. These roles involve either teaching or conducting research under a professor’s supervision.
• Be ready for some costs: Despite tuition being covered, you may still need to cover some school fees, student insurance, and other miscellaneous expenditures.
• Don’t consider unfunded programs: Many graduate programs do not fund students, but experts advise against attending these schools. The availability of funding indicates the health of the department in terms of research money and growth.
• Work on your application: The application process generally starts around September to December. Standardized tests such as GRE and TOEFL/IELTS are required, along with transcripts, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose.
• Avoid programs that require you to pay: It’s a common sentiment among experts that if you’re paying to be a PhD student, there might be something wrong with the program.
• Apply for fellowships: There are graduate fellowships available for international students that cover tuition and offer a monthly stipend.

Fully funded online PhD programs in the US

Here are some examples of PhD programs in the states that are free and fully funded:

• Applicants to the Ph.D. in English program at UCLA are automatically considered for various funding options. A six-year funding package includes “a minimum of two years of full fellowship, four years of summer stipend support, and up to four years of teaching assistantships.” Beyond tuition, fees and health insurance are also covered.

Connecticut

• At Yale University, the School of Nursing offers full funding to its Ph.D. students. They receive a monthly stipend for four years in addition to paid tuition and health care.

District of Columbia

• Georgetown University offers scholarships and assistantships that cover full tuition and include a stipend and health insurance for the first five years to students in its PhD program in computer science.
• Students enrolled in the economics Ph.D. program at Emory University typically receive full funding. The stipend provided to students is $36,376 per year for five years, starting in fall 2023, and the full tuition scholarship is worth $70,200 per year. Funding for admitted students also includes a $4,370 annual subsidy that covers 100% of a student’s cost of health insurance. First-year students have no stipend-related work requirements.
• The University of Chicago provides funding for up to eight years of study for its anthropology PhD students. This includes a full-tuition scholarship, health insurance, and a living stipend of $33,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year. Students are also eligible to apply for external fellowships.
• University of Notre Dame doctoral students are guaranteed five years of funding. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance.
• The Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa provides full funding to “virtually all admitted students.” This includes tuition and fees, a minimum nine-month stipend of about $20,000 with annual adjustments, and 90% coverage of comprehensive health insurance. Additional funding is also provided for research presentations at major conferences, summer fellowships, and paid time off for independent research.
• At the University of Maryland’s Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Ph.D. students without a master’s degree usually have five years of guaranteed funding. Those with a master’s degree usually are funded four years, with awards stemming from a mix of departmental fellowships and graduate teaching assistantships.

Massachusetts

• The T.H. Chan School of Public Health at Harvard University offers a PhD in biological sciences in public health, providing expertise in disease prevention and treatment. This program includes tuition, a stipend, and health insurance for five years, assuming students maintain satisfactory academic progress. Current research involves diseases such as AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, malaria, and tuberculosis.
• Students enrolled at the Sloan School of Management at MIT have the opportunity to study various fields, such as organization studies, accounting, and information technology. They receive a full-tuition scholarship, a monthly stipend of $4,267, medical insurance, new laptops at the start of their first and fourth years of study, and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.
• Doctoral students studying English at Boston University receive a stipend plus full tuition, fees, and basic health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years, with two of those years typically free from teaching requirements. Funding can sometimes be extended up to seven years, but it’s not guaranteed. Students may also apply for various prizes, fellowships, and short-term research and travel grants.
• Doctoral students in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor are guaranteed full funding, a monthly living stipend, and health insurance. The exact amount can vary and funding comes from a range of sources, including graduate student instructor positions and fellowships.
• Students admitted to the Ph.D. program to study psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities are guaranteed full funding for five years as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and degree progress. This funding includes full-time tuition, a nine-month stipend, and subsidized health insurance.
• PhD students in computer science or computer engineering at Washington University in St. Louis receive full tuition support, health insurance, a generous stipend for living expenses, and a new high-end Apple laptop computer. This support is guaranteed as long as students continue to make satisfactory progress towards their degree.
• Full-time NYU Steinhardt Ph.D. students are eligible for a funding package that includes an annual stipend – $32,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year – tuition coverage for required coursework and student health insurance for five years.
• All students admitted to the interdisciplinary management Ph.D. program at the Binghamton University—SUNY School of Management in New York receive a combination of a full-tuition scholarship and a teaching or research assistantship for each academic year, up to four years.
• Cornell University offers full funding to all students admitted to its PhD program in chemical engineering. This funding can come from a teaching assistantship, research assistantship, or fellowship, and full stipends are granted for nine months, with the likelihood of additional aid in the summer.
• Columbia University provides fully funded tuition and a $25,000 annual stipend for three years to students enrolled in its PhD program in clinical psychology. This stipend also carries into the student’s fourth year, during which they may be expected to serve as a graduate teaching or research assistant.

North Carolina

• Doctoral students at Duke University studying materials science and engineering generally receive full tuition, a stipend, and fee support for the first five years. Students also receive up to six years of health insurance if they are on the university’s student medical insurance plan.

Pennsylvania

• The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education provides full funding to Ph.D. students as part of a fellowship and research apprenticeship package. This funding includes a living stipend, health insurance and coverage of tuition and fees for up to four years if the student maintains full-time enrollment. Some students may also qualify for additional summer funding.
• Students admitted to Bryn Mawr College’s Ph.D. program in social work receive full tuition waivers and “substantial stipends” toward living expenses.

Rhode Island

• Brown University guarantees full financial support for five years to its PhD students in computer science. This includes tuition remission, a stipend, health services fees, and a subsidy for health insurance.
• Funding is guaranteed for all admitted doctoral students enrolled in the special education Ph.D. program at Vanderbilt University. This includes full tuition, a “competitive” monthly stipend, and health insurance for up to four years.
• Rice University offers full financial assistance to students admitted to the PhD program at the Jones Graduate School of Business. This includes a research or teaching assistantship, a tuition waiver, and a $40,000 annual stipend, contingent upon maintaining satisfactory academic progress and full-time student status.
• All students admitted to the University of Virginia’s Ph.D. in Nursing program are eligible for four years of scholarship funding to cover tuition, insurance, and fees, as well as annual stipends. To receive certain aid, students must work 10 hours per week as a graduate teaching assistant.

Washington D.C.

• American University offers doctoral students in its international relations program who do not have external funding a renewable four-year Dean’s Fellowship that is contingent on making satisfactory academic progress. The fellowship includes the cost of tuition, fees, and a stipend that must be earned via a part-time role as a teaching or research assistant.
• The University of Wisconsin—Madison guarantees full funding for the duration of the time doctoral students are expected to be on campus. This funding may come from financial aid, fellowships, assistantships, and/or traineeships. In addition, doctoral students receive a benefits package that includes health insurance.

Wrapping up

This comprehensive article delves into everything you need to know about free PhD programs, also known as fully funded PhD programs, including the essential details, benefits, and potential challenges that students may encounter.

The term “free PhD” generally refers to a fully funded program that covers tuition fees and provides a stipend for living expenses, allowing students to complete their PhD studies without financial burden.

It is crucial to understand why you should never enter a PhD program without proper funding. Hence, pursuing a free or fully funded PhD should be a priority for all PhD students, regardless of nationality or field of study.

These programs may be offered both online and on-campus by various top universities around the world.

Fully funded PhD programs cater to both international and local students, including those pursuing a traditional PhD, online doctorate, or an accelerated executive doctorate of education.

For instance, fully funded online PhD programs in fields like business administration, education policy, and social work in clinical practice are available for students who hold master’s or bachelor’s degrees.

The duration of these programs may range from 1 year for fast-track or shortest doctoral programs to several years for other disciplines. Moreover, many programs focus on specialization in subjects like higher education policy, laboratory research, and much more.

One of the perks of these programs is that many institutions provide a stipend to cover living expenses during the course of study, ensuring that students can focus entirely on their research without worrying about financial constraints.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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5 countries that offer free or very cheap PhD programmes

Are you a degree holder or master’s graduate who wants to take your studies to the next level by pursuing a PhD abroad? The good news is that in some countries, those with graduate degrees — such as a master’s and doctoral degree — had the highest earnings and lowest unemployment rates.

The bad news? The cost of pursuing a PhD abroad can be eye-watering. You would need to consider tuition, living and other miscellaneous expenses when studying abroad. There is, however, a workaround for this. Your next course of action would be to look for the cheapest countries to study a PhD programme.

The following countries have FREE or very cheap PhD programs for all International students: 1. Czech Republic 2. Estonia 3. Germany 4. Iceland 5. Norway 6. Finland 7. France 8. Sweden 9. Saudi Arabia 10. New Zealand. RT and Tag your friends. — Oludayo Sokunbi (Deewon) (@Oludeewon) June 7, 2022

Fortunately, there are more than a few countries where tuition for PhD programmes is free or very cheap. This makes it possible for you to enrol in a world-class university abroad and experience what it’s like to live in a new country and adapt to different cultures.

Studying a PhD abroad with minimal financial worries lets you focus on your education, as well as any personal or professional pursuits.

With that being said, here are five of the cheapest countries to study a PhD in:

International students can pursue a PhD programme in Sweden for free (or near enough). Source: Jonathan Nackstrand/AFP

5 cheapest countries to study a PhD for international students

If you’re planning to pursue a PhD in renewable energy or something closely related, then Sweden is your best bet. Data shows that almost 56% of the energy used in Sweden comes from renewable sources in 2019.

The best part about pursuing a PhD in Sweden? It is free for all — including international students. (Do note that free tuition is not applicable for non-EU/EEA students pursuing bachelor’s or master’s programmes.)

Sweden is home to some of the most highly acclaimed universities in the world, with seven of them listed in the top 350 universities in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2023. The best universities in Sweden — KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Lund University, are ranked 89th and 95th respectively accordingly.

Another Nordic country which tops the list of five cheapest countries to study a PhD in is Norway. Tuition at public universities in Norway is free for all students , regardless of nationality.

NORWAY IS OPEN!! Tuition free Universities in Norway that offer English taught Master’s and PhD programmes to international students – Nigerians inclusive. A Thread: — ＤＯＣＴＯＵＲ (@wakawaka_doctor) October 24, 2021

Like Sweden, the cost of living in Norway is relatively high, so you might want to explore options to help cover your living expenses. Other than that, you will only be required to pay a small semester student union fee to cover things like exam or sports facilities —  which would only set you back between 300 – 600 Norwegian krone (approximately 30 to 60 US dollars).

You can try your luck at applying for the highest-ranking university in Norway — the University of Oslo — ranked 101st spot in the latest QS World University Rankings.

International students who study in Finland get to bask in the spectacular views of an incredible natural phenomena witnessed in only a few parts of the world, such as the Northern Lights. Source: Oliver Morin/AFP

Finland is another Nordic country which tops our list of cheapest countries to study a PhD for international students. Like Norway and Sweden, pursuing a PhD is completely free in Finland, even for non-citizens.

Finland is home to two top 150 universities, according to QS. This includes the   University of Helsinki and Aalto University, which are ranked 106th and 116th respectively.

It’s educational aspects are not the only thing that sets it apart as a world-class study destination. Finland’s capital, Helsinki is ranked 66th in the latest “Best Student Cities” survey by QS.

If you are a lover of nature and the outdoors, Finland’s wide, open spaces are home to some of the world’s most incredible natural phenomena such as the midnight sun and the Northern lights (aurora borealis), which illuminates the sky with a spectacular view for anywhere between 10 to 20 nights a year.

Germany is renowned for its world-class education system and its reputation as an innovative country. Three of its universities are in the top 100, according to QS. This includes the Technical University of Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and Heidelberg University, each ranked 49th, 59th and 65th respectively.

Two of its cities, Munich and Berlin, are in the top 10 best student cities in the latest Best Student Cities rankings by QS.

Dear Hopefuls: FUNDED SCHOLARSHIPS AND UNIVERSITIES WITHOUT IELTS IN FRANCE 🇫🇷 ♤ No IELTS ♤Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD ♤Free tuition ♤English Taught program ♤Stipends ♤Accommodation ♤Health Insurance ♡Part-time work ♤List of scholarships in France 👇 — Adeleke I. O. (Ph.D) (@Dr_Adeleke) February 18, 2022

Another country to make it to our pick of the cheapest countries to study a PhD in is France, with four of its universities ranked in the top 100, according to QS.

Tuition charged at French universities are relatively low . For instance, the nominal fee at public universities is approximately 380 euros (US$396 at the time of writing) a year.

Thanks to its international academic reputation and low tuition fees, three cities in France are ranked in the top 100 Best Student Cities: Lyon, Toulouse and of course, the capital Paris, which is ranked 9th according to QS.

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Science and research in Germany are characterised by a distinguished infrastructure, a wide variety of disciplines, well-equipped research facilities and competent staff. Germany offers various career opportunities for international PhD students and researchers.

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Study in Europe

Scholarships, grants and financial support.

There are 100,000s of scholarships and financial support schemes available across Europe for international students who wish to study here.

Some schemes cover part of the tuition fees, some cover all of the tuition fees, as well as supporting living costs too. Competition can be strong, but it is well worth exploring your options.

Here are some of the main places to find European higher education scholarships and funding opportunities.

Scholarship opportunities per European country

Each country in Europe offers its own scholarship schemes. Visit the country profiles section of this website, to find out more about scholarship opportunities per country.

Erasmus scholarship opportunities

Erasmus mundus joint master degrees.

These scholarships cover the cost of participation in the programme, travel and provide a living allowance.

Learn more about Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees

Participate in an Erasmus+ exchange

Through the Erasmus+ programme, international students can study in one of 33 European countries for between 3 and 12 months as part of their study programme.

Erasmus+ students do not have to pay tuition fees for their time abroad. Some students may also be eligible for a grant contributing to living costs and travel expenses.

There are also opportunities for students from Europe to study at partner higher education institutions in other parts of the world. To be eligible, you need to be studying at a higher education institution that is part of the Erasmus+ programme. Ask your university or find out more on the higher education in Europe page of this website.

Other ways to find a scholarship in Europe

Scholarshipportal.

Scholarshipportal is a database presenting over 1,000 scholarships available in Europe and beyond. Select your desired level of study, the country you're from and where you want to study to see scholarships that match your profile.

Find scholarships to study in Europe

The EURAXESS website shares information about funding schemes across Europe for research posts, fellowships and doctoral studies. Discover the EURAXESS national portals for more detailed information about opportunities in each country.

Explore the EURAXESS national portals

Universities

As well as the schemes listed above, many universities, research institutes and higher education institutions offer their own scholarships and financial support. Browse their websites to see what is on offer.

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If you need to ask a question, please contact Europe direct .

How to obtain funding in Europe as an international PhD student?

There are plenty of opportunities for international candidates to do their doctoral training in Europe as part of a MSCA Innovative Training Network (ITN)

MSCA ITN are part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA). This is a budget line in the EC's Framework Programme for Research, Science and Innovation - currently called HOIRZON 2020 - which is earmarked for activities that equip researchers with the necessary skills and international experience for a successful career, either in the public or the private sector.

Each MSCA Innovative Training Network (ITN) brings together universities, research institutes and other sectors from across Europe (and the world) to train researchers to doctorate level to become future leaders in their field.

The aim of each MSCA ITN is to train a new generation of creative, entrepreneurial and innovative early-stage researchers able to face current and future challenges and to convert knowledge and ideas into products and services for economic and social benefits.

MSCA ITNs are a great opportunity for European and international researchers to obtain world-class PhD training!

There are three types of Innovative Training Networks:

1. European Training Networks (ETN)

Researchers gain experience of different working environments while developing transferable skills.

2. European Industrial Doctorates (EID)

Joint doctoral training delivered by at least one academic partner entitled to award doctoral degrees, and at least one partner from outside academia, primarily enterprise. Each participating researcher is enrolled in a doctoral programme and is jointly supervised by supervisors from the academic and non-academic sector, where they spend at least 50% of their time.

The aim is for the doctoral candidates to develop skills inside and outside academia that respond to public and private sector needs.

3. European Joint Doctorates (EJD):

A minimum of 3 academic organisations form a network with the aim of delivering joint, double or multiple degrees. Joint supervision of the research fellow and a joint governance structure are mandatory. The aim is to promote international, inter-sectorial and multi/interdisciplinary collaboration in doctoral training in Europe.

Who can apply and how?

Each MSCA ITN creates a number of specific PhD positions each looking for a candidate with a specific profile (think of it as a job advert). Importantly, all open PhD positions are advertised on the EURAXESS jobs portal : https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/search .

PhD positions on MSCA ITN are open to early-stage researcher (ESR). This means researchers in the first four years (full-time equivalent) of their research careers who have not been awarded a doctoral degree. Full-time equivalent research experience is measured from the date when the researcher obtained the degree entitling him or her to embark on a doctorate – either in the country in which the degree was obtained or in the country in which the researcher is recruited – even if a doctorate was never started or envisaged. Part-time research experience is counted pro-rata.

In the jobs portal you can use the research tools to refine your search. In the menu shown in the figure above you can select your research field, the sector in which you would like to be recruited, as well as your preferred destination country.

Remember that the positions offered by MSCA ITNs are open only to researchers who fall in the category of ESR and are part of the H2020/Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions.

Among the partners that form the Innovative Training Networks, international and intergovernmental organisations and large companies are generally not included, therefore applicants should be careful when selecting their preferred sector, to avoid making the research results excessively limited or null.

Where do I apply?

Remember: Applicants apply for the position of their choice directly to the respective MSCA ITN that has advertised the open vacancy!

Each vacancy contains information on the training network (which institutions are involved?, in which countries are the network partners based? what is the research focus of the network?), information on the open PhD positions, the eligibility criteria, the application and selection process. Each post will also contain a link to the hompage of the ITN that has posted the offer for interested candidates to find out more ot to get in touch for further details. 

Three MSCA Fellows from ASEAN share their experience, tips & advice:

Dr Wicak Ananduta, post-doctoral researcher at the Delft Center for Systems and Control (DCSC) at TU Delft in the Netherlands

Ms Vanessa Xavier, final year PhD student in the area of molecular mechanisms at the University of Geneva in Switzerland

Ms Gladys Langi, PhD candidate at the Medical University of Bialystok, Poland

Search the EURAXESS Jobs database now and find your PhD position in Europe!

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List of Free Phd Programs In Germany

Mar 4, 2024 | 5 min read

Free PhD programs in Germany are offered at public universities to all students regardless of their nationality, for up to the standard length of a PhD (3 years).

International students looking for free PhD programs in Germany can check out public universities in Germany that offer free PhD programs to all students regardless of their nationality, for up to the standard length of a PhD (3 years). PhD programs are free also in the state of Baden-Württemberg where tuition fees were reintroduced for non-EU students in 2017.

Germany is one of the most popular study abroad destinations and is home to around 3,600 international graduates completing their doctorate every year. Having first introduced the PhD in the 19th century, German universities and specialist research centres continue to offer innovative, tuition-free, postgraduate programs in various specializations to students from all over the world.

Table of Contents

Why Study a PhD in Germany?

Types of free phd programs in germany, top universities for free phd programs in germany, eligibility requirements for free phd programs in germany, how to apply for free phd programs in germany, cost to study free phd programs in germany, scholarships for free phd programs in germany.

Germany has a global reputation as a world leader in technology innovation and research. It also has a robust economy and an attractive quality of life and is particularly renowned in fields such as engineering and manufacturing. Some reasons to study a PhD in Germany include:

• Several German universities have a strong international reputation of which 46 are ranked within the top 1000 in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2020
• Germany offers a high standard of living and welcomes international students with low costs of study and good funding opportunities
• PhD in Germany is usually tuition-free and more than a quarter of doctoral candidates in Germany receive public funding
• The German higher education system is also world-class that has produced some of history’s most formidable thinkers such as theoretical physicist Albert Einstein

There are two types of free PhD programs in Germany depending on their structure and their provider. More detailed information on each type of PhD in Germany can be found below:

Individual Doctorate: This traditional PhD program in Germany is the most popular where students produce their thesis or dissertation under the supervision of a professor, but will mostly be working independently. The duration of this doctoral program varies but usually takes between 3-5 years.

The individual doctorate is known for being flexible but also demands a high amount of personal initiative and responsibility. One can not only obtain a PhD degree by conducting research work at a university but also by completing a project at a non-university research organization or at a German company in the industrial sector.

Structured PhD Programs: These free PhD programs in Germany involves a group of doctoral students being guided by a group of supervisors. Over 600 programs are available for international students with English as the language of instruction.

The structured PhD programs differ from the individual doctorate programs as the research proposals of the students have to fit in with existing PhD programs and cannot be freely structured to suit the individual research project. Students are also required to attend lectures and seminars, and will normally have a mentor.

Several universities in Germany are ranked globally for their PhD programs by various ranking organisations such as Times Higher Education, QS Rankings, and more. Listed below are some of the top universities for free PhD programs in Germany for international students:

• Technical University of Munich
• Heidelberg University
• Humboldt University of Berlin
• Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
• University of Goettingen
• University of Freiburg
• Free University of Berlin
• RWTH Aachen University

The eligibility criteria for free PhD programs in Germany vary based on the university and chosen program. In general, students need to have a good higher education degree which is equivalent to a German master’s degree. Find below the other admission requirements for enrolling in free PhD programs in Germany:

• An entrance exam and interview is needed to enrol extremely well-qualified international applicants with a bachelor’s degree to a doctoral degree program in Germany via a fast-track program
• Students applying for a PhD in English need to prove their English language proficiency with an English language proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL
• Candidates studying or submitting their PhD in German need to prove their proficiency in the language with a test such as the DSH or TestDaF

Documents Required

• Master’s degree from a recognized institution
• Proof of language proficiency (English/ German)
• Motivation letter
• Work experience

The application process differs for admission to an individual doctoral program and a structured doctoral program. Students applying for a structured PhD program should apply directly to the chosen university. The steps below explain the procedure to be followed for admission to an individual doctorate program in Germany:

• Applicants should firstly find a suitable professor who is willing to be their supervisor
• The supervisor can be found through contacts from your previous university or by searching for institutes and research centres or teams related to your area of interest
• The next step after finding a supervisor is to get the confirmation of eligibility as a doctoral candidate from the responsible department or doctoral committee
• For this, one must complete an application that includes a statement from your doctoral supervisor, certified copies of certificates, proof of recognition of your qualifications from the Dean’s office, academic references and the university degree
• The application should also include an English or German language test result, if applicable

Doctoral programs at public universities in Germany are free for all students irrespective of their nationality for up to the standard length of a PhD (3 years). Students may be required to pay the fees if the doctoral degree exceeds this duration.

Students pursuing free PhD programs in Germany are required to make a semester contribution of between €150 to €200 (~US$175-230) for administration and other costs like all other students. The main expenses for free PhD programs in Germany are living expenses.

International students applying for a student visa for Germany need to have access to a minimum of €10,236 (~US$11,266) per year in a blocked account. This amount covers the living expenses, which include rent, food, clothing, transportation, working materials, recreation and other costs.

Most doctoral students in Germany work on a paid research project or receive a scholarship. Students willing to obtain a scholarship to cover their living expenses in Germany can find various funding options on the official website of the university they wish to study at.

Students pursuing free PhD programs in Germany can also take a part-time job to supplement their funding, either within the university or outside. Full-time students from outside the EU are limited to working up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year before applying for a work permit. One can also receive graduate assistantships and fellowships from their university as well as public funding provided by the German government.

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Free PhD Program in Europe for international students -cheapest programs

Europe is the first destinations to study abroad for international students. It is also well-known for its quality education and low tuition cost. Thus, The “ free PhD program in Europe ” provides a great opportunity for aspiring students to pursue advanced education without the burden of tuition fees and other expenses. In Today’s article,  we will discuss “how to get a free PhD program in Europe” and mention complete guidelines about it.

Which Countries Gives Free Phd for International Students?

Many Countries that offer free PhD programs for international students. Some of the most popular ones include Finland, Germany, Norway, and Sweden.  Finland is one of the top-notch of our list of top 10 countries that also offer affordable or free PhD programs. These programs are usually fully funded, meaning that you will not have to pay any tuition or other fees. In addition, they often come with a number of benefits such as a stipend to help cover living expenses. However, Are you interested in pursuing a PhD in one of these countries? So be sure to research each program carefully to ensure that it is a perfect fit for you.

How Can I Get a Free Phd in Europe?

Usually You will not get a free PhD program in Europe .  You will have to pay for your own tuition, living expenses, and other associated costs.  Below we will mention some ways to reduce the cost of a PhD Program in Europe. One way is to apply for scholarships and grants. There are many organizations that offer financial assistance for students studying in Europe. 

Another way to reduce the cost of a PhD program is to choose a less expensive country to study in. For example, you may be able to find cheaper programs in Eastern European countries than you would in Western European countries. Finally, you can also look into part-time or online programs which may be cheaper than traditional full-time programs.

Is Phd Free in Switzerland for International Students?

No, a PhD is not free in Switzerland for international students. While Swiss universities do not charge tuition fees for doctoral studies, international students are still responsible for other costs associated with their education, such as living expenses and health insurance. 

However, many Swiss universities offer competitive fellowships. The fellowships program can help offset the cost of a PhD program for international students. Additionally, there are a number of scholarships and grants available to help finance doctoral studies in Switzerland. A number of scholarships and grants are also available to help finance doctoral studies in Switzerland.

Is Phd Free in Uk for International Students?

No, a PhD is usually not free in the UK for international students. The average cost of a PhD program in the UK is between £14,000 USD – £20,000 USD in a year . There are some scholarships available to international students, but they are typically very competitive and do not cover the full cost of tuition.

FULLY FUNDED PHD IN ITALY! ELIGIBILITY! SCHOLARSHIPS! UNIVERSITIES! JOBS

Fully Funded Phd Programs in Europe for International Students

Europe has a number of fully funded PhD programs for international students. These programs offer an opportunity to study at some of the most prestigious universities in the world. On the other hand, it also receives a full funding package that covers tuition and living expenses.  Here are just a few of the many fully funded PhD programs available for international students in Europe: The University of Oxford offers a number of fully funded scholarships for international students, including the Clarendon Scholarships and Rhodes Scholarships. Both of these scholarship programs cover tuition and living expenses for up to four years of study at Oxford. 

The University of Cambridge also offers various  fully funded scholarships for international students.   Such as the Gates Cambridge Scholarship program. This program provides full funding for up to three years of study at Cambridge. Other top universities in Europe that offer fully funded PhD programs include the ETH Zurich, Imperial College London, and King’s College London. These institutions all have highly competitive scholarship programs that provide full funding for international students.

Free Phd Programs for International Students

There are a few reasons why Students might want to pursue a PhD.  the desire to contribute to knowledge in their field, the opportunity to teach, and the challenge of conducting original research, at the university level. Whatever the motivation, a few of the free PhD programs available for home and international students.  One option for financing your PhD is through fully-funded scholarships. These scholarships cover tuition and living expenses, so they can be a great way to finance your studies.  Many financial aid Organizations offer fully-funded scholarships for international students, including governments, universities, and private foundations. 

Another way to finance your PhD is through teaching assistantships or research assistantships. These positions usually involve working 20 hours per week in exchange for a tuition waiver and a stipend. You are interested in pursuing a PhD but don’t have the financial resources to do so, there are still options available. 

You can get many ways to finance your studies, whether through scholarships, assistantships, or other means. And with so many free PhD programs available for international students, there’s no reason not to pursue your dreams of earning a doctorate degree!

Free Online Phd Programs for International Students

Online platform is a great way to study for remote students all over the world. So many reasons why international students might want to pursue a PhD online. Perhaps they have family obligations that make it difficult to travel, or maybe they simply prefer the flexibility and convenience of online learning. Whatever the reason, there are now more options than ever for earning a PhD entirely online.

In today’s Blog post, we will take a look at some of the best free online PhD programs for international students. Most traditional universities offer at least some degree programs that can be completed online. However, not all of these schools offer full doctoral programs in an online format. The schools on this list are all accredited and recognized institutions that offer high-quality PhD programs that can be completed entirely online. 

1. Walden University: Walden offers over 50 different specialisations within its online PhD program, making it one of the most comprehensive options out there. All courses are taught by expert faculty members, and students have the option to complete their degree. There is also ample support available for students, with 24/7 technical assistance and career services available. International students should note that Walden is authorised to enrol non-immigrant students in distance learning programs by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). 

2 . Liberty University: Liberty University’s Online Doctoral Programs are designed for working professionals who need flexible scheduling options. Courses are delivered through an asynchronous format, meaning that students can log in and complete coursework on their own schedule. The average completion time for Liberty’s online PhD programs is just four years, making it one of the quickest options out there. Additionally, Liberty offers numerous scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically for international students enrolled in its distance learning programs. 

3 .Capella University: Capella University is another great option for international students looking to earn an accredited PhD online. Its FlexPath format allows students to move through courses at their own pace, which means that you could potentially finish your degree faster than you would at a traditional university (although there is no set time limit).

Easiest Country to Get PhD Admission

It is not easy to definitively answer this question as each country has different requirements for PhD admission. However, some countries may be easier to get into than others. For example, the United States generally requires a higher GPA for admission into a PhD program than other countries. Additionally, the United States may also require standardized test scores (such as the GRE) and letters of recommendation. Other countries may have different or less stringent requirements. Therefore, it is important to research the specific requirements for PhD programs in the country of interest.

Europe has a number of free PhD programs for international students. These programs are typically funded by the European Union. They also offer a ton of benefits to those who participate. In most cases, these programs will cover the cost of tuition, living expenses, and travel costs associated with attending the program. Additionally, many of these programs offer a stipend to help you

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