13 Affordable Medical Schools in Europe

Studying medicine in Europe offers an excellent blend of affordability, world-class education, and international recognition. Europe presents a cost-effective yet prestigious alternative for students seeking to avoid the steep costs of American or UK medical schools. With many programs taught in English, EU and non-EU students are exploring opportunities across the continent.

This article lists 13 affordable medical schools in Europe, compares their tuition costs, and assesses their recognition globally, including accreditation and eligibility for medical licensing exams like USMLE and PLAB.

Affordable Medical Schools in Europe (with Tuition Fees in USD)

1. Medical University of Lublin, Poland

Tuition: ~$12,000/year
Duration: 6 Years
Language: English
Recognition: WHO, ECFMG, USMLE-compatible

Located in eastern Poland, Lublin’s medical university is highly ranked among European institutions. It partners with US hospitals for clinical rotations and prepares students for the USMLE.

Why Choose Lublin?

• Strong US partnerships

• Affordable tuition for high-quality education

• English-taught MD programs

2. Semmelweis University, Hungary

Tuition: ~$13,500/year
Duration: 6 Years
Language: English
Recognition: WHO, GMC, USMLE

One of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious medical schools, Semmelweis is located in Budapest and boasts modern facilities and high graduate success rates in global licensing exams.

Top Highlights:

• Globally respected degree

• Research-driven curriculum

• Prepares for USMLE and PLAB

3. Charles University (1st Faculty), Czech Republic

Tuition: ~$12,000/year
Duration: 6 Years
Language: English
Recognition: WHO, ECFMG, EU

Charles University is one of the oldest universities in Europe. The 1st Faculty of Medicine in Prague offers a rigorous English-language MD program for international students.

Advantages:

• Rich academic history

• Well-connected in Europe

• EU-recognized degree

Read Also: 10 Best Medical Research Schools

4. Carol Davila University, Romania

Tuition: ~$6,000/year
Duration: 6 Years
Language: English
Recognition: WHO, EU-recognized, MCI

This Romanian university in Bucharest offers one of the lowest tuition fees in Europe. It’s increasingly popular among students from India, Nigeria, and the Middle East.

Why It Stands Out:

• Low cost with solid academic output

• Recognized across EU nations

• Language support for English speakers

5. Medical University of Sofia, Bulgaria

Tuition: ~$8,000/year
Duration: 6 Years
Language: English
Recognition: WHO, ECFMG, EU

Sofia’s medical school is known for its comprehensive program, affordable living, and favorable visa policies for non-EU students.

Ideal For:

• Budget-conscious students

• Those looking for ECFMG eligibility

• Living in a culturally rich Balkan region

6. Kharkiv National Medical University, Ukraine

Tuition: ~$4,500/year
Duration: 6 Years
Language: English
Recognition: WHO, ECFMG

Despite recent conflict in Ukraine, Kharkiv remains a cost-effective option with the good academic structure for medical education in Eastern Europe.

Pros:

• One of the cheapest in Europe

• ECFMG listed

• Great for students on a tight budget

7. University of Belgrade, Serbia

Tuition: ~$7,000/year
Duration: 6 Years
Language: English
Recognition: WHO, MCI

This Serbian institution offers internationally approved MD degrees. It’s also a destination for students targeting India’s MCI recognition and USMLE exams.

Key Highlights:

• Highly affordable

• Recognized in multiple regions

• Modern teaching hospitals

8. Tbilisi State Medical University, Georgia

Tuition: ~$6,000/year
Duration: 6 Years
Language: English
Recognition: WHO, ECFMG

Georgia has become a hotspot for international students in recent years. Tbilisi State offers a dynamic and English-friendly curriculum.

Why It’s Gaining Popularity:

• Very affordable

• Strategic location between Europe and Asia

• Clinical rotations are available in Europe and the US

9. Lithuanian University of Health Sciences

Tuition: ~$10,500/year
Duration: 6 Years
Language: English
Recognition: WHO, EU, USMLE-prep

Located in Kaunas, Lithuania’s leading medical university has an international faculty and offers research opportunities for undergraduates.

What Sets It Apart:

• High-quality facilities

• Member of international student exchange programs

• Strong EU and US recognition

10. Riga Stradiņš University, Latvia

Tuition: ~$12,500/year
Duration: 6 Years
Language: English
Recognition: WHO, ECFMG, GMC

Riga Stradiņš attracts students from over 50 countries and is especially popular among Nordic students due to its European standards.

Benefits:

• Well-structured English MD programs

• Modern simulation labs

• Safe and student-friendly city

11. Comenius University, Slovakia

Tuition: ~$11,000/year
Duration: 6 Years
Language: English
Recognition: WHO, USMLE, PLAB

Comenius University in Bratislava offers competitive tuition and a program that prepares students for licensing in the US, UK, and Canada.

Why Choose It:

• Strategic EU location

• High success rate in global licensing exams

• Bilingual opportunities

12. Nicolae Testemitanu University, Moldova

Tuition: ~$4,200/year
Duration: 6 Years
Language: English
Recognition: WHO, ECFMG

This lesser-known university in Moldova is one of Europe’s most budget-friendly medical schools, ideal for students willing to explore new regions.

Highlights:

• Super low tuition

• Globally recognized

• International student support

13. Yerevan State Medical University, Armenia

Tuition: ~$4,000/year
Duration: 6 Years
Language: English
Recognition: WHO, MCI, ECFMG

Yerevan offers a low-cost, internationally recognized degree in a safe and welcoming country. It is especially attractive for South Asian and African students.

Why Consider Armenia?

• Cost-effective

• Friendly visa policies

• English-medium education

Read Also: UK Medical Schools Acceptance Rate

How to Choose the Right Medical School in Europe

When selecting from these affordable European medical schools, consider the following:

1. Tuition and Cost of Living

Factor in both tuition and the average living costs in the city or country. Ukraine, Armenia, and Moldova are the most budget-friendly.

2. Language of Instruction

Ensure the program is fully in English and offers language support for clinical practice in local hospitals.

3. Recognition and Accreditation

Check if the university is:

• Listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS)

• ECFMG-certified (for USMLE)

• GMC-recognized (for PLAB)

• EU-accredited

4. Graduate Success

Review how graduates perform in licensing exams like USMLE, PLAB, or FMGE.

FAQs on Affordable Medical Schools in Europe

Is it worth studying medicine in Europe?

Yes, Europe offers affordable, internationally recognized degrees with access to USMLE, PLAB, and EU-wide medical practice.

Can I work in the US or UK with a European MD degree?

Yes—if the school is listed in WDOMS and ECFMG-approved, you can sit for USMLE or PLAB.

Are European medical schools taught in English?

Many universities offer fully English-taught programs designed for international students.

How competitive is admission?

Less competitive than US or UK schools, with requirements generally including high school science subjects and entrance exams like BMAT or UCAT.

What’s the cheapest medical school in Europe?

Yerevan State Medical University and Kharkiv National Medical University are among the most affordable, with fees around $4,000–$4,500 per year.

Conclusion

Europe offers an incredible opportunity to study medicine at a fraction of the cost charged in countries like the US or the UK, without compromising on quality. From the heritage of Charles University to the affordability of Yerevan, students can find the right balance between budget, quality, and global recognition.

Whether you’re targeting the USMLE, PLAB, or practice within the EU, these 13 affordable medical schools in Europe are excellent gateways to a medical career.