What Does College Cost Around the World?

By Erica Gellerman | Published on October 21, 2025

)

Headlines about the cost of college in the US — and the debt that goes along with it — can be depressing. Americans own $1.77 trillion in federal and private student loan debt as of the second quarter of 2023. Almost 7 million people, about one in six federal student loan borrowers, are in default on their loans.

With those scary statistics, you may find yourself wondering how other countries handle the cost of higher education. Are we the only country dealing with this problem? Keep reading to find out—the answer may surprise you.

The US student debt crisis

In the US, not only is the cost of college on the rise but so is our student debt. The average student loan debt for a bachelor’s degree in 2023 was approximately $38,787.

Under our current student loan system, the standard repayment¹ plan for a federal loan is 10 years, though there are different income-based repayment options. Graduates are required to make monthly loan payments, which are often very expensive relative to their salary. This may, in part, explain why approximately 7% of student loans are delinquent at any given time or default.

We’re not the only country dealing with student debt. Other countries have their fair share of student debt issues. The US doesn’t even rank the highest; the UK does.

College costs around the world

The #1 most expensive place to go to college in the world

Student debt is making headlines in the UK as student debt balloons. However, their repayment structure looks quite different from the US’s.

University graduates begin loan repayment once they earn over the income threshold amount for their repayment plan. Each month that they earn over that threshold, their loan payment will be 9% of the amount earned above the threshold if you’re on one of the five plan types.

For example, if they earn £2,500 per month, their loan payment will be £20.34 for the month for Plans 1, 2, 4, or 5. This structure helps keep loan payments affordable for borrowers as they begin their careers.

Here’s the breakdown for the example:

Amount earned over the threshold: £2,500 – £2,274 = £226
Loan payment: 9% of £226 = £20.34

Interest on the loan is the inflation rate plus up to 3%, depending on your income.

With student loan payment amounts directly tied to earnings, the system for paying your loans is simple: your payment is deducted directly from your paycheck. If, after a set amount of years as determined by your plan type, you haven’t finished repaying your loan, the balance is written off and you’re not required to continue making payments.

Repayment example listed above is for illustrative purposes only and may vary by individual.

Even free tuition isn’t free

Students in Sweden enjoy the benefits of $0 lessons but they make up for it in related expenses such as educational materials, housing, transportation, and more. However, their beneficial debt policies make the monthly loan payment more manageable than in other countries.

Other top examples of how much college costs around the world

1. Germany

Tuition Costs: Germany is renowned for its affordable education, especially for international students. Public universities generally do not charge tuition fees for both domestic and international students.

Living Costs: The average living costs for students in Germany are approximately €850 per month, covering rent, food, transportation, health insurance, phone/internet, study materials, and leisure activities.

2. Australia

Tuition Costs: International undergraduate students in Australia can expect to pay between AUD 20,000 to AUD 45,000 per year, depending on the degree and university.

Living Costs: The cost of living for international students in Australia is about AUD 20,000 – 39,000 per year. This estimate includes accommodation, food, public transport, and entertainment.

3. Canada

Tuition Costs: Tuition fees for international students in Canada range from CAD 7,000 to CAD 29,000 per year, depending on the program and institution.

Living Costs: Students can expect to spend approximately CAD 10,000 to CAD 15,000 per year on living expenses, which include accommodation, food, and transportation.

How cultural values and government assistance weigh in

Different countries have distinct models for funding higher education, which can impact the quality and accessibility of education. By comparing these models, we can gain insights into how various systems succeed or struggle.

• Nordic countries: Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden offer free or low-cost tuition funded by high taxes. These countries emphasize equal access to education and have robust student support systems.
• Anglo-Saxon model: Countries like the US and UK rely more on tuition fees paid by students, with varying levels of government support. This model can lead to higher student debt but also supports a wider range of educational institutions and programs.
• Continental Europe: Many countries in Europe, like Germany and France, offer free or low-cost education at public universities, with a strong emphasis on vocational training and apprenticeships. However, these in-demand locations often come with a higher cost of living price tag.

Financial planning: How to prepare for international education costs

Students and families planning for their children’s education need to consider not just tuition fees but also the overall cost of living and potential financial aid options available in different countries.

• Scholarships and grants: Many countries offer scholarships and grants to international students. These can significantly reduce the cost of studying abroad.
• Part-time work opportunities: Some countries allow international students to work part-time, which can help offset living expenses. It’s important to understand the regulations and availability of jobs in the destination country.
• Savings and budgeting: Creating a financial plan that includes saving for tuition and living expenses, understanding currency exchange rates, and setting a realistic budget is essential for managing costs effectively.

Other FAQ’s on what college costs around the world

Q: How does the cost of tuition in the US compare to other countries?
According to data collected by U.S. News & World Report, the average cost of tuition and fees for the 2023-2024 school year is $42,162 at private colleges, $23,630 for out-of-state students at public universities, and $10,662 for in-state students at public schools. In comparison, the UK charges approximately 5,500 to 10,200 EUR per year for local students plus an additional 3,000–8,000 EUR for international students. Meanwhile, several countries, including Germany, Norway, and Sweden, offer free or nearly free tuition for both domestic and international students.

Q: Why is student debt so high in the US?
The high cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses in the US contributes to significant student debt.

Go to college without going broke

High tuition costs and rising student debt aren’t problems unique to the US; students around the world face similar challenges. However, countries like Germany and Sweden offer alternatives that significantly reduce the financial burden on students. By understanding how other countries handle higher education, you can make more informed decisions about your own college journey and explore opportunities that could alleviate financial stress.