Top 10 Underrated Study Destinations Offering World-Class Education

Many international students consider only five primary destinations: the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and Germany. Are you someone who is also at the same table? If so, please read on to find some underrated destinations you can explore. While these top-tier locations remain popular, several underrated study destinations offer exceptional education, affordable living, and diverse cultural experiences. Here are the top 10 underrated yet world-class study destinations worth considering:

1. Finland

Did you know Finland offers one of the best education systems in the world, and it could be surprisingly affordable for you? For EU/EEA students: Tuition is often free! For non-EU students: Expect to pay between €6,000 to €18,000 per year. But here's the best part: Finland’s living costs are quite reasonable compared to those of its Nordic neighbors, averaging €700 to €1,200 monthly. Want to study at top-ranked institutions? Check out the University of Helsinki and Aalto University — both known for their innovative programs and global reputation. (Study in Finland) 

Popular Programs: Engineering, Environmental Sciences, and Design.

2. Ireland

While Dublin is costly, cities like Galway and Limerick offer lower tuition fees and living expenses. Tuition averages €9,000 to €25,000 annually and living expenses can be managed at €700 to €1,000 per month. The Irish government also offers generous post-study work options. So, you can also consider gaining some practical exposure and returning to India. (Study in Ireland) 

Popular Programs: Data Science, IT, and Pharmaceuticals.

3. Portugal

Now, you do not need to break your bank to study in Europe. You heard me right. Portugal is one of Europe’s most affordable study destinations. Tuition fees for master's programs start at €4,000–5,000 per year. Living costs, including accommodation and food, average €600 to €1,000 per month (pretty affordable). Top universities include the University of Porto and NOVA University Lisbon. (Study in Portugal)  

Popular Programs: Architecture, Business, and Marine Sciences.

4. Taiwan

Are you looking for a study destination that balances quality education with budget-friendly living? Taiwan ticks both boxes! Tuition fees range from €600–15,500 per year, and monthly living expenses are approximately €80–200 per month. National Taiwan University ranks high for its tech-focused curriculum. (Study in Taiwan)  

Popular Programs: Computer Science, Engineering, and Biotechnology.

5. Malaysia

In Malaysia, you can access quality education at surprisingly low costs! It offers affordable tuition fees ranging between €500 and € 4000 per year, with living costs as low as €400 to 800 monthly. Global institutions like the University of Malaya provide world-class education at lower costs. (Study in Malaysia)  

Popular Programs: Business Administration, Engineering, and Medicine.

6. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is a hidden gem as it is serene, and the tuition fees are affordable. With tuition fees averaging €0 and 18,500 per year and living costs of €350 to €750 monthly, the Czech Republic is highly cost-effective. Charles University offers exceptional programs across various fields. (Study in Czech Republic)

Popular Programs: Medicine, Engineering, and Social Sciences.

7. Hungary

Low tuition fees and low living expenses. You have a perfect match. Hungary's tuition fees range from €2,000 to €5,000 per year, and living costs are among Europe’s lowest at €400 to €700 monthly. The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship further reduces costs. (Study in Hungary)

Popular Programs: Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Sciences.

8. South Korea

Imagine paying just ₩4,000,000 (around £3,000) per semester at top public universities, that's significantly lower than many Western institutions. Yes, we are talking about South Korea. Tuition fees at a public university in South Korea cost about ₩4,000,000 (£3,000) per semester, and living expenses of $600 to USD 1,200 monthly. Institutions like KAIST and POSTECH lead in tech and research. (Study in South Korea)

Popular Programs: Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and Business.

9. Poland

Poland’s tuition fees are highly affordable, starting at €2,000 per year, while living expenses average €400 to € 700 monthly. The University of Warsaw and Jagiellonian University are top options. (Study in Poland)

Popular Programs: IT, Engineering, and Management.

10. New Zealand

New Zealand offers tuition fees averaging NZD 26,000 – NZD 37,000 per year. Monthly living costs typically range between NZD 1,200 to NZD 1,500. The country's strong post-study work visa policies make it ideal for career growth. (Study in New Zealand)

Popular Programs: Agriculture, Environmental Studies, and Engineering.

Final Thoughts

Don’t limit your decision to study abroad to mainstream choices. Exploring underrated destinations can open doors to world-class education, exciting career opportunities, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Students who diversify their study destinations often gain broader perspectives and develop stronger global networks. Ready to unlock your potential in an unexpected destination? Start exploring these hidden gems today!