Lucy Pickford
When starting any new adventure one thing that can get in the way is the cost. Sometimes this can make your dreams seem completely impossible. This is often the case when you’re not quite sure what should be included and what you need to think of. That’s why we’ve put together a handy guide for understanding the cost of studying abroad.
Accommodation
This can often be one of the biggest costs when studying abroad. This also depends on what sort of education you’re looking for. What is worth considering though is that living in a foreign country for study will be cheaper than a short visit, as longer-term accommodation is cheaper than staying a few days in hostels or hotels. This is where study trips are great for short term study as they allow you to explore a new country but with cheaper accommodation costs as you’ll be able to get a room in a share house, school accommodation or in a homestay. Going through a company can also help you ensure that you get good accommodation as they’ll work with preferred, and vetted, partners.
School
Next on the list is of course, the cost of your education while you’re studying abroad. This can vary from country to country and depending on what you’re studying. If you’re studying in Europe and you’re from Europe some countries actually offer free higher education. Denmark, Finland and Norway and Sweden are great examples of this.
As you might expect, what you want to study will also have an impact on the cost of studying abroad.
Language schools are often cheaper and a great way to continue education for those that love studying and want to learn something that they will be able to apply immediately.
Food
By putting some thought into how and what you eat when studying abroad can make or break your bank balance. For example, if you get stuck into a habit of eating out all the time then you’ll soon end up with empty pockets. However, if you do some research into cheaper local restaurants and finding the best time to visit your local supermarket you’ll soon be able to eat your favourite foods while saving some money.
If you’ve opted for a share house to live in then you’ll have access to a kitchen and learning to cook a few regional dishes with locally produced ingredients will go a long way. We recommend regional! If you’re a Brit living in Japan for example, it will cost you a small fortune to make a roast dinner whereas mastering the art of homemade okonomiyaki will keep you healthy and happy.
Transportation
Another one that depends on the country you’re in but just paying for travel between school and home can add up. An investment in renting a bike will help save you plenty of money and keep you fit. Most countries/cities will have commuter prices on local transport and it’s worth doing a bit of research. If you’re only studying abroad for a short time then check with your study provider as some of the costs for cultural activities might be included in your study trip. It can also be a good idea to pick a type of accommodation that’s near your school. Many language schools will have dormitory options on campus or within a short distance. If you are considering a short term study trip then it often offers great value for money with travel being your only cost outside of the whole package.
Moving costs
If you’re going away for long terms studies in another country, moving your life can be the big cost that you don’t expect. Packing up your life and transporting it to the other side of the world can be expensive. Our suggestion is to reduce the number of things you bring. If you’re studying long term, we can guarantee you won’t need as much stuff as you think you do and if you’re studying short term, you don’t need as much stuff as you think. Not only are there plenty of shops, but most countries also have a second-hand system of some sort. As such, remember to stick to the essentials. Your favourite clothes, toiletries and medicine and a few personal items that will help you get through any homesickness you might be feeling.
Fun
Of course, you’ll want to enjoy yourself and explore your new country while you’re studying abroad. Again, the best money-saving tip is to go local. Do what locals enjoy for fun. These options will almost always be cheaper and they will give you an insight into the country you’re staying in. You may want to do a few touristy things but keep these down. Of course, if you opt for something like a study trip, there’ll be a range of cultural activities included and the cost will be reduced overall.
So now you have an idea of which costs you need to keep an eye on and a few tips for keeping the cost of studying abroad down, whether it be for a couple of weeks, months or even years!
