Tuition costs at colleges and universities around the world vary drastically and are subject to a number of factors. Students are often faced with tuition costs that are beyond their financial reach and based on their residence status the student may not qualify for scholarships or financial aid programs. Many determined students who are either unable to get accepted to college for varying reasons or are unable to afford college tuition fees, frequently search for other alternatives.
It is not uncommon for students to explore post-secondary education programs that are offered at no cost to students. In some countries, post-secondary education is subsidized by the government, this may include the majority of tuition fees, room, board, etc or it may only be partial tuition fees provided by government subsidies. Many countries also offer large scholarships for foreign students to study abroad. These types of programs provide students with opportunities to further their education and obtain a college degree, while gaining a cultural experience.
There are many misconceptions about foreign countries that provide free tuition post-secondary programs. An internet search quickly identifies the lack of trustworthy, concrete knowledge that is available in regard to tuition costs in foreign universities. The most accurate, detailed and dependable information can be obtained from correspondence with the Foreign Embassy of your country. The embassy also has information about scholarships that are available or specialized financial aid opportunities from private and public industry.
Beware of agencies and consultants that offer college information for a fee or offer assistance with application and acceptance to foreign universities. This information is available at no cost from the Foreign Embassy and all universities/colleges. The success of your application and acceptance to a university does not improve through the use of a consultant or agency that claims to work on your behalf to meet deadlines, secure accurate paperwork and complete documents for traveling abroad.
In past years it has been common for many different countries to offer tuition free post-secondary education to residents of their country and in some cases foreign students, living, working or traveling to the country. Most recently, most of those institutions are charging some type of tuition fee and other fees, although in many cases these fees are nominal compared to the cost of post-secondary education in the United States. There are several countries that are part of the European Union states that have previously offered tuition free post-secondary programs.
Finland passed the Universities Act of 2009 and starting in 2010 universities are able to charge tuition fees to students enrolling from outside the European Union states. These fees are minimal in most cases and are highly regulated and implement specific restrictions.
Denmark's higher education system began charging tuition fees for foreign students in 2006. However, tuition continues to be free for students residing in the European Union.
In 2011 Sweden's foreign students will be required to pay application and tuition fees, while students from the European Union states will continue to receive a tuition free post-secondary education.
Greece is another alternative for students seeking free post-secondary education programs. Students who are Greek citizens receive free post-secondary education. International students are also eligible to attend post-secondary institutions if they live and work in the country and meet certain guidelines.
As the global economic recession continues, many countries view income in post-secondary education as an alternative to significant government budget cuts. Many countries have found that tuition fees for international students are a welcomed source of revenue. Through improved international student recruiting and by keeping tuition fees low foreign institutions are able to boost their economies and improve the quality of higher education programming.
