The real cost of a year in Europe: Germany, Netherlands, France, Ireland, Sweden compared

The headline numbers hide the real picture

Ask how much it costs to study in Europe and you will hear “Germany is free” and “the Netherlands is expensive.” Both statements are true in their way — and both miss most of the picture.

This comparison breaks down real annual costs for an international master’s student in 2026. Figures are in euros and include tuition fees (where applicable), rent, food, health insurance, transport, and study materials.

Germany

Germany’s public universities charge no tuition fees in most states. The state of Baden-Württemberg introduced €1,500/semester for non-EU students in 2017, and Bavaria’s Technical University of Munich introduced fees for international students in 2024. Most other states remain tuition-free.

Typical annual budget:

• Tuition (public, most states): €0
• Semester fee (admin + transport ticket): €150–€350
• Rent (shared flat/student housing): €3,600–€5,400
• Health insurance (public, student rate): €1,500