As prices for university creep ever higher in the UK and the US, Jess, from FutureLearn looks elsewhere for good quality learning that won’t empty your bank account.

1. Germany

Mainland Europe is generally a good bet for cheap but reasonable quality education. Germany offers free tuition (all you need to pay is a relatively low administration fee) to international students, manageable living costs and some excellent universities like LMU of Munich and the Free University of Berlin. Find out more. 

Pros: Delicious German sausages, cities full of culture

Cons: You’ll probably need to learn German first

2. Denmark

Home of delicious pastries and top educational opportunities, in Denmark you can study a variety of courses in English, and they’re completely free if you’re from the EU. Find out more.

Pros: Good quality of life, free tuition if you’re from the EU

Cons: High costs of living

3. Belgium

Small and mighty Belgium offers a lot in the way of international education: it’s got four universities in the top 200 in the world. It also offers waffles, culture and stunning architecture. Oh and tuition fees are usually pretty low - especially if you’re part of the EU. 

Pros: Waffles, seeing Bruges in real life

Cons: Limited amount you can study in English

4. China

Low tuition fees, english language programmes, delicious food and a fascinating history - it’s no wonder China is an inviting prospect for potential students. Plus the government also offers a range of scholarships to entice international students. The only tricky part might be working out exactly where to study - there’s a big range of institutions. Find out more.

Pros: Low tuition, interesting culture

Cons: High cost of living in certain areas

5. The Internet

The one place you certainly can find education from the best universities all completely for free is on the internet. Online courses (or MOOCs) have really started to come into their own in the last few years. Now you’ll find social features built into courses - so you get far more of a ‘real’ student feel and you can even get academic credit from top universities.

Pros: Free, flexible, accessible

Cons: No freshers week

Want to get learning straight away? Find a course on FutureLearn.