Computer Science is a broad academic discipline under Applied Science that deals with computer systems. Careers in this field are highly in demand as almost all industries heavily depend on AI, where employees’ daily tasks involve the use of computer software. Nowadays, the labor market primarily targets graduates from this field. With a high employability rate, it is apparent that there is an increasing number of students pursuing a degree in Computer Science.
Studying computer science can be expensive, but fortunately, several universities around the world offer tuition-free education. This article highlights five renowned universities where international students can pursue a degree in computer science without paying tuition fees. By exploring these options, you can begin your educational journey with greater financial ease, allowing you to focus more on your academic and career goals.
Top Tuition-Free Institutions to Study Computer Science
Five prominent universities offer tuition-free education in computer science or related fields.
1. FH Aachen University of Applied Sciences
FH Aachen University of Applied Sciences is a public, practice-oriented university in Germany that trains students to build real-world software and systems. In computer science–related studies, the emphasis is on applied skills, programming, software engineering, data-centric computing, and systems thinking, supported by hands-on labs and project work that mirror industry workflows. As a University of Applied Sciences, FH Aachen’s computer science education is designed to translate quickly into employable technical competence, while still grounding students in the core concepts that scale across technologies.
For students specifically looking for free computer science schools, FH Aachen stands out because it is tuition-free as a state university: you typically do not pay tuition fees, but you do pay a semester contribution that supports student services and administration. This model can make a full computer science degree far more financially accessible than many alternatives, especially for students who want a recognized German credential without high tuition costs. The predictable semester contribution (rather than tuition) also makes budgeting clearer across the length of a degree.
Academically, FH Aachen’s strength in computer science comes from its applied mission and the way computing is embedded alongside engineering and technology disciplines—an advantage for students who want to work on real systems, not just theory. Opportunities to learn through team projects, build portfolios, and connect study outcomes to professional practice are central to the experience. FH Aachen also lists dedicated master’s options such as Computer Science (M.Sc.) and related informatics programs, which help students progress from fundamentals to advanced topics while staying in an application-driven environment.
Here is what students at FH Aachen University of Applied Sciences Say:
“Secondly, the ‘free tuition’ fee attracts me to explore Germany as well, as I think it gives me more freedom in exploring what I am interested in without being restricted to more expensive fees from other universities in other countries.”
Shafiq
“After passing the C1 exam, I managed to secure a spot at FH Aachen to pursue my degree in Computer Science”
Shafiq
“For my degree (German program), 90% German, 10% English”
Shafiq
2. University of Tartu
Founded in 1632, the University of Tartu is the first university in Estonia and it is famous for vigorously focusing on research and development activity. It is not only providing a computer science program, in which tuition fee is waived for international students who wish to study in Estonian-taught courses.
The university offers a suitable atmosphere for academic achievements and offers numerous opportunities for internships and research experiences, which makes it suitable for computer science students.
3. University of São Paulo
The University of São Paulo was established in 1934 and is one of the largest and most accredited universities in Latin America. Computer Science at USP is well-established, and the tuition fees are nonexistent for both international and local students.
The university boasts of its research productivity as well as its impact in the fields of technology and engineering. Students enjoy a campus environment and many co-curricular activities. Due to USP’s connections with industries, there are also great employment prospects for future engineers once graduate from this University.
4. University of Helsinki
The University of Helsinki was established in 1640, and it is considered one of the most significant universities in Northern Europe. It is famous for its focus on research and development, especially in science and technological fields. For EU/EEA students, tuition fees are relatively low and for non-EU/EEA students there are several scholarships available to help with the costs. Computer Science is one of the main focuses of the university, and this makes it an ideal institution for international students in terms of quality.
5. Brno University of Technology
The Czech Republic also offers “free” higher education for students willing to take study programs in their native language. A high level of proficiency in the Czech language will be the student’s ticket in gradually reducing the costs of living in the country. For those students who are particularly looking for degree programs in the field of Computer Science, Brno University of Technology is an ideal school for it offers specialization programs.
As stated above, Computer Science is a broad academic discipline, and there are many underlying branches covered in this discipline. The university offers programs concentrating in Information Technology, a branch in Computer Science that is currently in demand in the labor market. Undergraduate and postgraduate programs include Information Technology with specializations such as Computer and Embedded Systems, Cybersecurity, and Computer Networks. While doctoral programs have combined degrees that will award students with Computer Science and Engineering degrees.
FAQs: Studying Computer Science
Can International Students Receive Scholarships While Enrolled in Tuition-Free Schools?
Yes, international students can apply for scholarships while being enrolled in tuition-free universities. Some of the above-mentioned universities have special bursaries for living expenses and other incidental charges. For instance, the University of Helsinki offers scholarships for students from outside the EU/EEA. These scholarships can go a long way in easing the financial constraints that international students experience thus easing their education costs.
What Other Costs Should Students Expect When Studying Abroad?
In general, free education greatly contributes to easing financial challenges; however, international students are likely to incur other expenses when pursuing education in other countries. These may be fares, rent, food, clothing, and other incidental expenses which can be quite astronomical, particularly in the urban centers. Creative coercion often involves the necessity of health insurance, which is an extra cost.
Further, students must consider the cost of books and software used in studies, and fees towards the visa which differs from country to country. These are aspects that students should cater to, and they should look out for scholarships in a bid to minimize these costs.
In conclusion, enrolling in tuition-free universities offers international students a unique opportunity to earn degrees in computer science without the burden of tuition costs. By choosing these options, students can focus on their academic and career achievements while gaining a strong foundation in a diverse learning environment and connecting with influential industry sectors. This enriching experience enhances their education and opens doors to employment opportunities in the rapidly growing technology industry.
We hope that you found this article on tuition-free computer science schools informative and helpful. Make sure to also check out the Available Computer Science Programs for International Students!
