Studying abroad is one of the most enriching and exciting experiences you could ever have, so it’s important to make the most of it. You’ve got the chance to explore a whole new country and meet people from all across the globe.
But studying abroad isn’t cheap, and depending on where you go you could be spending a lot more money. Things like student accommodation and groceries can end up being more expensive than your home country.
You don’t need to be rich to study abroad though. There are lots of great ways to do it without breaking the bank, so read on to find out more.
1. Think About Accommodation
Your first step in your study abroad journey is to find your new home for the year. There are a lot of different types of student accommodation so it’s important to know what they are.
Some options are more expensive than others, but there are ways to find somewhere cheap. Shared flats are very popular and you can even get your own en-suite bathroom. They’re also a great way to meet new friends from your first day.
You can also opt for a studio apartment which gives you ample privacy but does cost a little more. However, if you are studying abroad as a couple, you can split the cost of rent so it will work out a little cheaper.
2. Plan Ahead
Most international students use their time abroad to go travelling. Many of them spend their weekends going to other cities and countries. This is a lot of fun but it can get costly very fast.
You can still go travelling every other weekend without spending too much though, you just need to be smart about it. Plan far ahead with your trips and book them while they’re still cheap, not last minute. Use buses and trains to get around and look out for budget airlines too.
Planning ahead can help save you money when it comes to the small stuff too. Planning ahead with meals can save you money too. If you do one big grocery shop for your planned meals, you’ll spend less in the long run.
3. Look Out for Deals
Being a student anywhere in the world means looking out for the best deals possible. This rule still very much applies when you study abroad. Make sure to use as many as possible and they can save you so much money.
Keep your student ID with you at all times as you never know which shops offer deals. Use the Internet to find deals in your city and apply for as many offers and discount schemes as you can find.
You can save money on groceries, clothes, food, drinks and so much more.
4. Pick a Cheaper City
The amount you end up spending when you study abroad varies greatly depending on where you want to go. Some cities are way more expensive than others, so it’s all about doing your research.
For example, if you’re coming to study abroad in the UK, you’ll find that London is way more expensive than Newcastle. There are so many great cities in the UK that aren’t London, and by going somewhere cheaper you get to experience them.
Living in a cheaper city means you get to save money that you can spend on travelling or having fun instead.
5. Make Friends with Locals
Finally, one of the best ways you can save money while you study abroad is by making friends with the locals. Locals know exactly where to go to get cheaper stuff and can take you to places the tourists don’t go.
Locals can also tell you what you should buy and what you should avoid. They can help you from making rookie mistakes and they can show you some hidden gems.
Plus, you feel much more at home somewhere when you know the locals and feel like you’re one of them. You get an intimate knowledge of your host city and by the end, you’ll feel like a local too.
It’s Still Possible to Study Abroad on a Budget
Studying abroad can be expensive, but you don’t need to go broke to do it. These are a few great ways to study abroad on a budget. Be smart, get to know the locals and take advantage of every deal you can find. You can spend less time worrying about money and more time having an awesome study abroad experience.
Studying abroad soon and need to find some student accommodation? Get in touch with us and we can help you find your new home.
