The following overview helps you compare living costs Europe for international students January intake 2026. You’ll find key budget figures, side-by-side country breakdowns, and practical tips to plan your finances before you arrive.
Compare country living costs
Below is a snapshot of average monthly expenses including rent, food, transport, and fees for popular European study destinations. All figures refer to your January 2026 intake and cover major university cities.
| Country | Tuition fees | Rent (single room) | Total living costs | Work rights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | €0 at public universities + €150–350 semester fee [1] | €700–900 [1] | €1,200–1,400 [1] | 20 hrs/week at €12–17/hr |
| France | €170/yr at public universities [2] | €800–1,200 (Paris higher) | €700–950 [2] | 20 hrs/week |
| Spain | €170/yr public universities [2] | €400–600 (regional) | €600–900 [2] | 20 hrs/week |
| Netherlands | €9,000–15,000/yr | €700–900 | €900–1,100 [2] | 16 hrs/week |
| Sweden | SEK 90,000–140,000/yr (€8,000–12,500) | SEK 6,000–8,000 (€525–700) | SEK 8,000–10,000 (€700–900) [2] | Unlimited work hours |
Germany overview
In Germany, public universities charge no tuition fees for international students, only a modest semester contribution. You can live on €1,200–1,400 per month in cities like Berlin or Munich [3]. Rent usually accounts for the largest share:
- Berlin: €700–850 for a shared flat or student residence
- Munich: €800–900 for a small apartment
You’re permitted to work 20 hours per week, earning roughly €12–17 per hour. If you want to explore top programs, check out best universities in germany january intake 2026.
France overview
Living costs in France vary sharply between Paris and other regions. In Paris expect:
- Rent: €1,000–1,200 for a studio
- Food and transport: €300–400
Outside Paris you’ll spend €700–950 per month on everything, thanks to lower rents and a 35% housing subsidy via CAF for eligible students [2]. Public university tuition is about €170 per year. You may work 20 hours weekly at part-time rates.
Spain overview
Spain ranks among the most affordable European destinations. Monthly budgets typically run €600–900. Here’s the breakdown:
- Rent in cities like Barcelona or Madrid: €500–650 [3]
- Food: €200–250, if you shop local markets
- Transport: €40–60 for a monthly pass
Tuition fees at public universities start around €170 per year. You can work up to 20 hours weekly.
Netherlands overview
In the Netherlands your living costs average €900–1,100 per month. Rent and groceries each take up roughly a third of your budget:
- Rent: €700–900 in Amsterdam or Rotterdam
- Groceries: €200–250
- Transport: €80–100
Tuition is higher €9,000 to €15,000 per year for non-EU students so factor that into your planning. You’re limited to 16 work hours weekly in most cases.
Sweden and Norway overview
Scandinavia offers free or low-fee tuition, but higher living costs:
- Sweden: SEK 8,000–10,000 (€700–900) per month, unlimited work hours
- Norway: NOK 10,000–12,000 (€900–1,100) per month, free tuition for all, including non-EU students
You’ll find these options ideal if you want to work more hours to offset expenses.
Budget breakdown categories
Accommodation costs
Housing will claim 30–40% of your monthly budget. To manage it:
- Compare student halls, private shared flats, and homestays
- Start your search early, especially for September and January intakes [4]
- Consider university dorms for lower rates
Food and groceries
Groceries cost €150–300 per month depending on city. You can save by:
- Cooking at home instead of eating out
- Shopping at budget supermarket chains or local markets
- Using student discount apps
Transportation
Monthly public transport passes range from €30 in smaller cities up to €120 in capitals. You can cut this by:
- Cycling or walking if distances allow
- Getting semester-long student travel cards
- Carpooling with classmates
Health insurance
Most countries mandate health coverage:
- Germany: €110/month for mandatory student health insurance
- France: €25–€40/month for student social security plus mutuelle
- Netherlands and Spain: €50–€80/month private plans
Check international health insurance students europe january intake for tailored policies.
Manage your expenses
Money-saving tips
- Open a local bank account to avoid foreign transaction fees
- Use prepaid or capped mobile plans
- Exploit free campus resources like libraries and sports facilities
Student discounts
You qualify for:
- Museum and cinema discounts
- Reduced public transport fares
- Software licenses and tech bundles
Always carry your student ID.
Verdict: best options
Most affordable option
Spain and Germany stand out for overall cost efficiency low tuition in Germany combined with zero fees, and Spain’s modest rent and living costs.
Balance cost and quality
If you prefer a vibrant job market and international environment, the Netherlands or Sweden may justify higher living costs. Meanwhile, France offers rich culture and strong student support programs at moderate expense.
By weighing tuition, rent, work-rights, and lifestyle, you’ll choose the country that fits your budget and goals. Once you’ve zeroed in on your shortlist, review 2026 university application deadlines europe international students and europe january intake scholarship opportunities for international students to finalize your plan.
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