Expensive Countries to Study Abroad for Pakistani Students – 2026 Updated Guide
Every year, thousands of Pakistani students aspire to study abroad. But with global inflation and currency fluctuations, planning education overseas in 2026 has become more challenging than ever. Knowing which are the most expensive countries to study abroad helps you plan smartly and choose a destination that balances cost with career value.
This updated 2026 guide by Foreignway gives accurate, data-backed insights on tuition fees, living expenses, and key attractions of top destinations. Sources include official government portals, immigration authorities, and international university data.
Table of Contents
Why Cost Awareness Matters in 2026
For Pakistani families, sending a student abroad means converting rupees into stronger currencies like the USD, GBP, or EUR — a big financial stretch. Yet, the expensive countries to study abroad continue to attract applicants because:
- They offer world-ranked universities.
- Degrees hold global recognition.
- Graduates enjoy higher career outcomes.
- Many nations offer work rights or PR opportunities.
1. United States – Still the World Leader in Education
The U.S. remains one of the most expensive countries to study abroad in 2026. With over 1.2 million international students, its demand never slows down.
Average Costs (2026 estimates):
- Tuition: USD 28,000–60,000 per year (higher in private universities)
- Living: USD 15,000–20,000 per year, depending on the city
Top universities: Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Yale.
Visa reference: U.S. Embassy in Pakistan – Student Visa Information.
Pakistani students prefer the U.S. for research flexibility, paid internships, and strong post-study work routes (OPT, H‑1B). Many universities also offer assistantships to ease costs.
2. United Kingdom – Prestige Comes at a Price
The U.K. remains among the most expensive countries to study abroad due to its high tuition and London’s cost of living.
Average Costs (2026 estimates):
- Tuition: £22,000–£40,000 per year
- Living: £14,000–£22,000 per year (especially in big cities)
Top universities: Oxford, Cambridge, London School of Economics (LSE), University of Manchester.
Official reference: UK Government – Student Visa Application.
Pakistani students value the U.K.’s one-year master’s option, reducing total expenses. Plus, the Graduate Route Visa allows staying up to two years post-study.
3. Australia – Rising Tuition, Still a Great Opportunity
Australia continues to top many lists of expensive countries to study abroad in 2026 because of high rent and food prices.
Average Costs (AUD):
- Tuition: AUD 30,000–47,000 per year
- Living: AUD 24,000+ per year (as per 2026 estimate by Study Australia)
Top universities: University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, ANU, Monash University.
Official reference: Government of Australia – Study Australia Portal.
Pakistani students are drawn to Australia for its vibrant culture and post-study work rights. But budgeting for accommodation is now more important than ever.
4. Canada – Expensive but High Return Value
Canada’s education system combines global recognition with possible PR pathways, though it is now one of the most expensive countries to study abroad.
Average Costs (CAD):
- Tuition: CAD 22,000–38,000 per year
- Living: CAD 18,000–24,000 per year (2026 updated figures)
Top universities: University of Toronto, McGill, UBC, University of Waterloo.
Official reference: Government of Canada – Study Permit Information.
Pakistanis prefer Canada for co-op programs that allow part-time income during degrees. Despite rising housing costs, long-term residency options keep it attractive.
5. Singapore – Small City, Big Costs
Singapore stands out in Asia’s list of expensive countries to study abroad, known for academic excellence and safety.
Average Costs (SGD):
- Tuition: SGD 32,000–55,000 per year
- Living: SGD 15,000–20,000 per year
Top universities: NUS, NTU, and SMU.
Official reference: Immigration & Checkpoints Authority Singapore – Student’s Pass.
Pakistani students studying business, engineering, or IT find Singapore highly rewarding, though space and housing costs remain premium.
6. Switzerland – Education Meets Luxury
Switzerland’s university quality and lifestyle put it among Europe’s most expensive countries to study abroad in 2026.
Average Costs (CHF):
- Tuition: CHF 18,000–35,000 per year
- Living: CHF 22,000+ per year
Top universities: ETH Zurich, EPFL, University of Geneva, EHL Hospitality Business School.
Official reference: Study in Switzerland+ Official Portal.
Pakistani students pursuing hospitality and finance courses consider Switzerland ideal for networking and internships with global brands.
Quick Summary – Top Most Expensive Countries to Study Abroad (2026)
| Country | Estimated total yearly cost | Key advantage |
| USA | USD 45,000–80,000 | Global research universities |
| UK | GBP 35,000–60,000 | One-year postgraduate programs |
| Australia | AUD 50,000–70,000 | Post-study work visas |
| Canada | CAD 38,000–60,000 | PR opportunities |
| Singapore | SGD 45,000–70,000 | Asian innovation hub |
| Switzerland | CHF 40,000–60,000 | Elite hospitality education |
How Pakistani Students Can Manage Expenses
Even in the expensive countries to study abroad, strategic financial planning makes a top education achievable.
Practical tips:
- Apply early for merit and government scholarships.
- Explore public universities in smaller cities.
- Share apartments to cut living costs.
- Take permitted part-time work.
Refined Final Thoughts
Selecting among the expensive countries to study abroad in 2026 isn’t just about cost — it’s about long-term return on investment. Each destination offers distinct academic excellence, career paths, and lifestyle experiences. Careful planning, smart budgeting, and the right guidance turn these costly dreams into achievable goals.
With Foreignway, Pakistani students can make informed decisions, prepare strong applications, and embark on their global education journey with confidence. Explore complete guidance, current visa updates, and scholarship advice at the official Foreignway website — and take the first step toward a world-class future.
Q1: Which is the most expensive country for Pakistani students in 2026?
The United States remains the most expensive overall, followed by the U.K. and Australia due to their high tuition and housing expenses.
Q2: Can Pakistani students get scholarships in these countries?
Yes. Almost all expensive countries to study abroad offer merit or need-based scholarships — including Fulbright (U.S.), Chevening (U.K.), and Australia Awards. Applying early significantly increases your chances.
