Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Nigerians 2026 is becoming a top search phrase because schooling abroad is expensive — but some countries offer extremely low tuition fees, affordable living, and access to scholarships.
Many Nigerians think studying overseas requires millions of Naira, but with the Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Nigerians 2026, you can pay as low as ₦0 tuition fees in some European countries, especially where the government funds education.
Pengman recommends the following list if you want a country that is:
- Safe,
- Affordable, and
- Scholarship friendly.
Not sure where to start? See our ranked list of the best countries for Nigerians in 2026. Top 7 Best Countries to Study Abroad for Nigerians 2026.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cheap Country
Before selecting from the Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Nigerians 2026, focus on:
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Cost of tuition | Some countries offer ₦0 tuition (public universities) |
| Cost of living | Determines how much you spend monthly |
| Language | English-taught programs or the need for IELTS |
| Work permit | Can students work part-time? |
| Post-study visa | Ability to stay back and work after graduation |
These factors determine whether a country is truly an affordable study abroad destination for Nigerians.
Top 10 Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Nigerians 2026
1. Germany — FREE Tuition (Public Universities)
Germany tops the list of the Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Nigerians 2026 because public universities have zero tuition fees, especially at the bachelor’s level.
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | FREE (public schools) |
| Living cost | €850 – €1,000/month |
| Work hours | 20 hrs/week |
- No tuition
- Work while studying
- Post-study work permit (18 months)
Pro Tip (Pengman Recommends):
Choose schools in cities like Leipzig or Dresden — rent is cheaper.
External Resource:
Official DAAD Scholarship Website (German Government Scholarships)
https://www.daad.de/en/study-research-in-germany/
2. Norway — Tuition Free & High Employment Rate
Norway is fully tuition-free for both bachelor’s and master’s programs at public universities.
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | FREE |
| Living cost | NOK 128,887/year (proof of funds) |
- No tuition
- World-class universities
- Pathway to permanent residency
If your focus is study abroad cheap, Norway is unbeatable.
3. Poland — Low Tuition + Affordable Living
Poland has one of the lowest living costs in Europe, making it one of the affordable study abroad destinations for Nigerians.
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | €1,800 – €3,500/year |
| Living cost | €350 – €450/month |
Benefits:
- High visa approval rate
- 20 hours per week work permit
- Many programs are taught in English
4. Hungary — Easy Scholarships & Low Tuition
Hungary offers scholarships for Nigerians, such as Stipendium Hungaricum, which covers:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Monthly stipend
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | €1,500 – €3,000/year |
| Living cost | €300 – €500/month |
You don’t need IELTS in many schools where WAEC/NECO is accepted.
5. Italy — Regional Scholarships + Low Tuition
Italy has universities that cost as low as €500/year, and the government offers regional scholarships that cover:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Monthly allowance
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | €500 – €2,000/year |
| Living Cost | €450 – €700/month |
This makes Italy part of the Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Nigerians 2026, especially for those seeking scholarships for Nigerians.
6. Malaysia — English-Speaking & Affordable
Malaysia is excellent for Nigerians who want:
- No language barrier
- Low tuition fees
- Easy visa processing
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $1,500 – $4,000/year |
| Living cost | $300 – $500/month |
Programs are taught in English — IELTS often waived for WAEC/NECO holders.
7. Mexico — Cheapest Tuition Outside Europe
If you’re considering a non-European option, Mexico offers:
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $1,500 – $5,000/year |
| Living cost | $400 – $600/month |
- WAEC/NECO accepted
- No IELTS required
- Affordable living
8. Czech Republic — Free Tuition (if you study in Czech)
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | FREE for Czech-taught programs |
| Living cost | €350 – €550/month |
Some English programs exist with low tuition.
9. France — Cheap Public Universities
France offers subsidized education.
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | €170 – €650/year (public universities) |
| Living cost | €600 – €900/month |
Bonus: Students get 50% transport discount and housing support.
10. Portugal — Low Tuition + Pathway to PR
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | €1,500 – €4,000/year |
| Living cost | €400 – €600/month |
Portugal is ideal for students looking for visa sponsorship for international students and PR.
Conclusion
Choosing from the Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Nigerians 2026 lets Nigerian students get global education without breaking the bank. These countries offer:
- Low tuition fees
- Scholarships
- Work permits
- Post-study visa pathways
Pengman recommends selecting any of the Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Nigerians 2026 if you want a high-quality education, international exposure, and a future career abroad.
FAQ: Cheapest Countries to Study Abroad for Nigerians 2026
Which country is the cheapest to study for Nigerians?
Germany and Norway are the cheapest because they offer zero tuition fees.
Can I study abroad in 2026 without IELTS?
Yes. Countries like Germany, Poland, and Malaysia allow Nigerians to study without IELTS.
Can I work while studying?
Most countries allow between 20–30 hours per week during the semester.
Which country is best for scholarships?
Hungary, Germany, France, Canada, and the USA have strong scholarship programs for Nigerians.