University fees for international students in Luxembourg and the cheapest options for education

Cheapest universities in Luxembourg for international students

When considering pursuing higher education in Luxembourg, international students often seek affordable options without compromising on the quality of education. In Luxembourg, the landscape of higher education comprises both government-funded public universities and private institutions. Understanding the distinctions between these entities is crucial for prospective students aiming to find the most cost-effective pathway to academic excellence.

Governmentally funded public universities in Luxembourg

Private institutions for higher education

University of Luxembourg – 400 euros per semester

Founded in 2003 as part of Luxembourg's overarching strategy to establish itself as a knowledge-based society, the University of Luxembourg stands as the country's sole public university. Despite its relatively recent establishment, the university's roots extend far into the past, evolving from the merger of four distinct institutions, each with a history spanning over a century, particularly in the field of engineering. These institutions include the Centre Universitaire de Luxembourg, Institut Supérieur de Technologie (IST), Institut Supérieur d’Études et de Recherches Pédagogiques (ISERP), and Institut d’Études Éducatives et Sociales (IEES).

The university offers diverse programs operating across three faculties:

Faculty of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences

Faculty of Law, Economics, and Finance

Faculty of Science, Technology, and Medicine

Language

Tuition fees

LUNEX International University of Health, Exercise and Sports – 9,000 euros per year

Founded in 2016, Lunex University is a leading private institution situated in Differdange, Luxembourg, specializing in the fields of health, sport, and management. Despite its recent inception, Lunex has swiftly established itself as a hub for quality education.

The university operates through several dedicated departments, including Physiotherapy, Sport and Exercise Science, Sport Management, and Digitalization.

Education

Language

Tuition fees

European Institute of Public Administration – 6,300 euros per year

Established in 1981, the European Institute of Public Administration (IEAP) is an independent institution affiliated with the European Union. Its primary mission is to assist civil servants in comprehending the decision-making mechanisms within the European Union and actively engage in the formulation of European policies. Based in Maastricht, the Netherlands, IEAP has expanded its reach with branches, including one situated in Luxembourg.

The institute boasts specialized areas as

EU Governance and Policymaking

Effective Public Administration

Management of Public Funding

Global EU, its Law and Policies

Within these domains, IEAP offers a diverse range of programs and services, including seminars, training courses, consultancy, capacity-building services, comparative research, events and more.

Education

Languages

Tuition fees

United Business Institute (UBI) – from 7,560 to 28,500 euros per year

Founded in 1992 as a non-profit organization, UBI Business School, formerly known as United Business Institutes, has evolved into a private institution of higher education with campuses in Brussels, Luxembourg, and Shanghai. The Luxembourg campus is situated within the picturesque Wiltz Castle, adding a touch of historic charm to the academic environment.

UBI offers a comprehensive range of programs at various levels, including Bachelor of Science (BSc), Master of Science (MSc), Master of Business Administration (MBA), and Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Business Studies and Administration.

The curriculum at UBI revolves around three key pillars

Globalization

Digitalization

Global Corporate Citizenship

Education

Languages

Tuition fees

Luxembourg School of Business – from 9,800 to 39,000 euros per year

Established in 2014, the Luxembourg School of Business (LSB) stands as the sole accredited graduate business school in Luxembourg. Accreditation encompasses the entire institution, including the esteemed Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Management programs. LSB proudly holds the distinction of being the only Luxembourgish institution affiliated with AACSB International, currently undergoing a rigorous accreditation process.

Education

Languages

Tuition fees

Comparison with neighboring countrie

At this point, we have seen the main universities in Luxembourg and their approximate cost. This is already quite illustrative, but those who live in neighboring countries may wonder how these costs compare with those in their respective countries. Let us then look at this in more detail. 

The costs for French, Belgian or German students at public universities in their respective countries are quite similar, ranging from 175 euros in France to 835 euros in Belgium. The table below allows you to see the comparison more clearly:

When examining the table there is one element to highlight and that is the costs for international students. These tend to be notably higher in France and Belgium than in Luxembourg or Germany, although there are some details, in France for example the differentiated rate is only applied in the first year of studies.  

In addition to this, one must also take into account other considerations such as the cost of living, which tends to be much higher in Luxembourg. The following graph shows a comparison between Luxembourg City and several cities in France, Belgium and Germany. The cities in France are marked in blue, those in Belgium in orange and those in Germany in green.

Source: Numbeo

Budgeting for students aiming to study in Luxembourg

Now that we've explored some of the top universities in Luxembourg and their associated costs, let's delve into a crucial aspect: financial planning. Luxembourg, known for its high standard of living, comes with a corresponding high cost of living. As a student, it's essential to consider various expenses to ensure a well-managed budget during your stay.

As a student, it's essential to consider various expenses to ensure a well-managed budget during your stay.

Accomodation and utilities

450-1550 euros per month

Health

33 euros per month for insurance

Groceries and food

250-350 euros per month

Other Expenses

100-200 euros per month

Part-time work for students in Luxembourg

If your budget is tight, you can consider part-time student jobs. The law allows students from the age of 15 to work under a specific contract. The CDD describes certain conditions regarding taxation and the time a student can work. During school time, the maximum average weekly working hours allowed is 15 hours over a period of one month, and it's not possible to work more than 60 hours during that month. On holidays, this restriction does not apply and the maximum working time is 40 hours per week.

There are several places where a student can go to find suitable job offers in Luxembourg. You can either do it online, visit communes and seek the help of the government, or even go to a student job fair that is organized annually. 

Admission to Luxembourg universities for international students

In Luxembourg, students have the opportunity to pursue various degrees, including Bachelor's, Master's, MBA, and other specialized programs. Popular fields of study in Luxembourg encompass subjects like banking, reflecting the country's prominence in the financial sector.

The application process for most universities in Luxembourg typically occurs online. Throughout this process, applicants are required to answer various questions and submit essential documents. It is crucial to ensure that all necessary documents are obtained and translated into either English or the language of instruction.

While specific document requirements may vary between schools and programs, the following list provides a general overview:

Check what you need

To apply to university, you will need several documents.

*The mandatory items are marked with red asterisks.

High school academic transcripts

Previous education documents

Language proficiency exam results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)

High scores and recent certification are required

Statement of purpose

Motivational letter with your objectives and personal touch

Letters of recommendation

Ask your close professors or people who can testify to write them

Updated CV

Current academic achievements

Copy of student visa

Application to a specific visa is made upon enrollement

Copy of passport

Identification papers

Check what you need

To apply to university, you will need several documents.

*The mandatory items are marked with red asterisks.

These documents play a vital role in the application evaluation process. It is advisable for prospective students to carefully review the specific requirements of their chosen program and institution. By gathering and translating the necessary documentation, applicants can streamline the application process, ensuring a smoother transition into Luxembourg's esteemed academic landscape.