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A degree in engineering can promise you three things: employment prospects, financial goals and social recognition.
Upon graduation, engineers have the highest average starting pay at a median annual wage of US$91,420, with over 195,000 job openings per year for the next decade or so, according to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics.
However, despite all the benefits an engineering degree will reap, it is undoubtedly one of the most expensive programmes to pursue, especially for international students.
College Tuition Compare shares that the average undergraduate tuition fees in top institutions cost an estimated US$49,854 for international students in the 2023/24 academic year.
These costs add up tremendously, especially with living expenses such as rent, groceries, and transportation.
But if you’re determined to fulfil your dreams of becoming an engineer, there are countries that offer quality programmes where you won’t have to break the bank to do so.
Germany is home to some of the biggest automobile brands, such as Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes Benz. Source: AFP
The cheapest countries to pursue a degree in engineering
Germany
Not only is Germany known for its low living costs, but it is also known for its affordable engineering degrees.
The country is probably most famously known for its public universities not charging low tuition fees, making it among the world’s cheapest countries for international students.
The average tuition fee for international students in Germany’s public universities is around US$108 to US$324 (100 to 300 euros). If you choose to attend one of the country’s private universities, the fees can amount to US$5,401 to US$21,607 (5,000 to 20,000 euros).
The country is also generous with its scholarships, with examples including the DAAD Scholarship and Humboldt Research Fellowship.
It is also easier for international students to live and work in Germany upon their graduation now, thanks to initiatives like the Promotion of International Talent for Integration into Studies and the Labour Market, more commonly known as “FIT.”
Some of Germany’s top universities include:
New Zealand
Pursuing a degree in engineering in New Zealand has many benefits.
Universities there are known for their practical teaching environments, globally recognised qualifications, and a chance to work in a high-demand industry with a strong focus on innovation and sustainability — all while enjoying a high quality of life.
Depending on your chosen university, the tuition fee for a standard four-year engineering programme ranges from US$11,451 to US$25,765 (20,000 to 45,000 New Zealand dollars).
More than that, there is a growing demand for engineers in the country. New Zealand is in chronic need of engineers to match the growing economy, meaning there could be more job opportunities for international students to fill. This makes it the perfect choice for international students looking to relocate overseas.
Some of New Zealand’s best universities include:
China has become an international hub for those interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths), specifically. Source: AFP
China
Considered the fastest-growing economy and the world’s largest education system, China boasts many ambitious and technical engineering courses.
With plenty of new economic development and upcoming engineering projects, students will be exposed to an array of experiences in multiple sectors and disciplines.
Most programmes here last four years, and the cheapest start from US$2,481 (18,000 Chinese yuan) a year. This makes pursuing your degree in engineering in China a bang for your buck, especially since some universities offer English-language courses.
Some Chinese universities to check out:
More international students can earn a degree in engineering from certain Hong Kong universities for the 2024/25 academic year. Source: AFP
Hong Kong
Eight higher education institutions administered under Hong Kong’s University Grants Committee (UGC) will be upping their annual intake of international students from 3,000 to 6,000 for the 2024/25 academic year.
This means that there’s no better time than now to pack your bags for Hong Kong and pursue that engineering degree from some of the best universities in Asia.
A standard four-year programme here ranges from US$74,300 to US$93,000. Each university offers a range of financial aid and scholarships too, so seizing those opportunities could even lessen your financial burden.
Explore these three Hong Kong universities:
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South Korea
If you’ve ever visited South Korea, you’ll know that studying here is like a dream. The country expertly balances millennia of tradition with modern-day innovation, so much so that you’d be able to experience the upcoming world’s highest spokeless ferris wheel and the blossoming Haneul Park near each other.
Earning a degree in engineering in South Korea will range from US$19,800 to US$38,965. While you might have to spend a year learning the language, picking up Korean could even help you gain a tuition fee waiver.
Check out some of the top South Korean universities:
- Seoul National University
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST)
- Yeungnam University
Canada
Compared to the UK, Australia or the US, Canada has a lower cost of living and cheaper tuition fees. It’s no different, even if you’re pursuing a more expensive degree such as engineering.
Here, students will get the best of both worlds – a quality education at an affordable cost. Tuition fees range from approximately US$5,100 to US$14,600 per year.
Canadian universities are known to include research components in their degree programmes, allowing students the opportunity to participate in exciting projects.
Some of Canada’s top universities include:
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Norway
Consider pursuing a degree in engineering here, as most public universities in Norway don’t charge tuition fees, even for international students.
You’ll only have to pay for administrative fees, student union fees, and other general living costs if you choose to study engineering here.
If you wish to enter a private university, tuition fees range between US$7,557 to US$9,717 (7,000 to 9,000 euros) for bachelor’s programmes, while master’s programmes cost between US$9,717 to US$20,514 (9,000 to 19,000 euros) a year.
You don’t have to speak Norwegian either, as most universities offer programmes or international exchanges in English.
Here are some universities to consider:
Disclaimer: This article was last updated on March 25, 2025.
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