Studying in Europe on a Budget: Finland, Sweden, Malta and Cyprus Explained

Finland, Sweden, Malta and Cyprus offer world-class education at far more affordable costs than the UK or Australia. Here is a full comparison for Nepali students.

Why consider Europe?

While the UK, Australia and Canada dominate the conversation among Nepali students, European destinations offer excellent education at a fraction of the cost — and in some cases, completely free. Shama Abroad works with students heading to Finland, Sweden, Malta and Cyprus.

Finland — Free or very low tuition

Finland consistently ranks among the world’s best countries for education and quality of life. Many Master’s programmes at Finnish universities are taught entirely in English.

• Tuition fees: Free for EU/EEA students; some non-EU programmes are also free or low-cost
• Living costs: approx. NPR 60,000–80,000 per month in cities like Helsinki, Tampere or Turku
• Top institutions: University of Helsinki, Aalto University, University of Tampere
• Strong in technology, design, education and environmental sciences
• Part-time work: up to 30 hours per week during studies

Sweden — World-class with scholarship support

Sweden is home to globally respected universities including Uppsala, Lund and KTH. Most Master’s programmes are available in English and the Swedish Institute offers generous scholarships.

• Tuition fees: NPR 10–18 Lakhs per year for non-EU students
• Swedish Institute Scholarship — covers tuition, living allowance and travel for selected students
• Living costs: approx. NPR 65,000–85,000 per month
• Strong in engineering, technology, business and life sciences

Malta — English-speaking EU member

Malta is the only English-speaking country in the European Union apart from Ireland. It offers affordable tuition and a warm Mediterranean climate.

• Tuition fees: NPR 5–10 Lakhs per year — among the most affordable in Europe
• All programmes taught entirely in English
• Living costs: approx. NPR 45,000–60,000 per month
• University of Malta offers Diploma, Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes
• EU residency benefits including freedom of movement within the Schengen area

Cyprus — Quality degrees at lower cost

Cyprus offers English-taught university degrees from private and public institutions at significantly lower costs than Western Europe, with a pleasant Mediterranean lifestyle.

• Tuition fees: NPR 8–14 Lakhs per year
• Living costs: approx. NPR 40,000–55,000 per month
• English as the primary language at most universities
• University of Cyprus and several international campuses available
• Within the European Union — access to EU job markets after graduation

Visa requirements for Nepali students

• For all four countries, Nepali students require a national student visa (not the same as a Schengen tourist visa)
• Applications are submitted at the relevant country’s embassy — often located in New Delhi, India for Nepali applicants
• Processing times vary from 2–8 weeks depending on the country
• Proof of admission, financial means, accommodation and insurance are required for all