Pursuing a degree in history can be a transformative experience, offering a deeper understanding of the past and its influence on the present. However, the high cost of tuition often stands in the way of many aspiring students, particularly those looking to study abroad. You’re not alone if you’re passionate about history but worried about affording international education. Many students face the challenge of finding quality higher education without a hefty price tag. Fortunately, several esteemed institutions worldwide offer excellent history programs without tuition fees, making education accessible to students regardless of financial background.
Read on below to learn about some free history schools that don’t have tuition fees.
Top Tuition-Free Institutions to Study History
For students interested in studying history but deterred by high tuition costs, several institutions worldwide provide quality education without tuition fees. Here are some top choices where you can pursue a history degree without the financial burden:
1. University of Bergen
Established in 1946, the University of Bergen (UiB) is a prominent public university in Norway known for its strong focus on research, particularly in the natural and social sciences. Because of its commitment to research and its diverse range of English-taught programs, UiB is an excellent choice for international students pursuing history. The university also has a well-established Faculty of History, offering history and related programs that delve into regional and global perspectives.
In line with Norway’s public education policy, the University of Bergen does not charge tuition fees for international students coming from EU/EEA and Switzerland. However, students are responsible for their living expenses. The absence of tuition costs makes it an affordable choice for students from all over the world.
2. University of Göttingen
The University of Göttingen (Georg-August-Universität Göttingen) is one of Germany’s classic public research universities, long known for strong humanities scholarship and internationally connected research culture. For students looking at “free” history universities in Germany, Göttingen stands out because it offers rigorous history training in a tuition-free public system (students typically pay only a semester contribution) while providing pathways into global, social-science-adjacent historical study. Its history offerings support broad thematic depth, from economic and social history to transregional perspectives, making it a compelling choice for students who want both traditional historical methods and modern, globally oriented subject matter.
That mix of academic depth and flexibility is especially visible in Göttingen’s interdisciplinary options within history. As scholarship recipient Maria Voronkova described of her program, “My study program is very interesting and unique, as it is interdisciplinary in character and quite flexible,” emphasizing how students can shape their studies around their interests. She also highlighted that the curriculum “allows students to form their own profile by choosing classes according to their individual interests and orientations,” which is a big reason Göttingen can feel like a best-in-class pick for history students who want to specialize, whether in global markets, migration, institutions, or cultural exchange, without being boxed into a single narrow track.
Here is what students at University of Göttingen Say:
“The university also offers free German language courses, so it is a great opportunity, while studying in English, to learn or improve German.”
Maria Voronkova
“For my study program, I needed to provide notarized and translated education transcripts, proof of English proficiency (in my case, an IELTS certificate), and a letter of motivation.”
Maria Voronkova
“Students at German public universities do not pay tuition fees but only semester fees (usually between 300 and 400 euros per semester).”
Maria Voronkova
3. University of Helsinki
The University of Helsinki, founded in 1640, is Finland’s oldest and largest university, known for its research-driven approach. The university is particularly well-regarded for its humanities and social sciences programs. With its main campus in Helsinki, Finland’s capital city, the university offers students a dynamic, urban setting combined with cutting-edge research facilities.
The university offers tuition-free education to EU/EEA students, while non-EU students pay tuition fees for most programs. However, the university provides scholarships to help cover costs for non-EU students. This, combined with Finland’s high standard of living and emphasis on accessible education, makes it an attractive option for international students.
4. University of Vienna
The University of Vienna is one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities. It offers a variety of history degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Students can specialize in areas such as medieval, modern, and contemporary history, and there are also interdisciplinary programs that combine history with other fields, like cultural studies or political science.
The University of Vienna has an impressive roster of alumni, including figures like Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis, and Kurt Gödel, a prominent logician and mathematician. The university collaborates with numerous global institutions and participates in international networks such as the Erasmus+ program. These connections allow students to engage in exchange programs, internships, and research projects that enhance their career prospects and academic experience.
5. University of Iceland
The University of Iceland is one of Iceland’s most prominent educational institutions. It offers a wide range of humanities, sciences, and social sciences programs. It is known for its strong emphasis on research and has significantly contributed to various fields, including history, literature, and environmental studies.
The University of Iceland does not charge tuition fees for domestic and international students, making it an attractive option for those concerned about educational expenses. However, students must pay a nominal registration fee to get started.
FAQs: Studying History for Free
Can International Students Receive Scholarships While Enrolled in Tuition-Free Schools?
Yes, international students enrolled in tuition-free schools can often apply for scholarships. While tuition-free institutions do not charge tuition, students still have expenses related to living, travel, and study materials. Scholarships can help alleviate these costs. For instance, you can benefit from scholarships offered at the University of Vienna. Moreover, the University of Vienna participates in international scholarship programs like Erasmus+, which offers funding for students who wish to study abroad within Europe. This financial aid will help in covering travel and living expenses, making international education more accessible.
What Other Costs Should Students Expect When Studying Abroad?
When studying abroad, international students should be prepared for various academic and living costs beyond tuition fees, even if they are enrolled in tuition-free institutions. Living expenses can be significant and vary greatly depending on the country and city. Students should budget for housing, including rent, utilities, and deposits. Food costs are also a significant factor, with students needing to account for groceries and dining out. Moreover, academic supplies should not be overlooked either. This includes costs for textbooks, course materials, and technology such as laptops or software necessary for studies. Additionally, health insurance is often a requirement for international students, and it can vary in price depending on the coverage and country.
Pursuing a degree in history offers an enriching journey into the past, shaping our understanding of contemporary society. While financial constraints can be a significant barrier, especially for those seeking to study abroad, the availability of tuition-free institutions provides a viable pathway for aspiring historians. Universities such as the University of Bergen and the University of Vienna eliminate tuition fees and offer diverse programs and scholarship opportunities that make education accessible to all.
We hope this article on free history schools was informative and helpful. Make sure to also check out the Available Programs in Europe!
