Seeing the World on a Budget: Studying Abroad

Written by: Therese (she/her)

2 min read | Published: February 8, 2024

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Traveling is a great way to explore new cultures, learn new languages, and have fun. But traveling can also be expensive, especially if you want to visit multiple countries or regions. One way to maximize your money while fulfilling your travel dreams may be to study abroad.

Studying abroad is an opportunity to pursue your college studies in a foreign country for a semester, a year, or even longer. You can earn credits toward your degree, improve life skills that employers will find valuable, and even make some new friends along the way. It may also help you save money on travel expenses, such as flights, accommodations, food, and transportation. Here are some tips on how to do it:

Choose a destination that suits your budget and interests. Some programs are more affordable than others depending on the country’s cost of living, exchange rate, and scholarships available. Do your research and compare different options before you decide where to go.

Apply for grants and scholarships. Many universities offer financial support specifically for students who want to study abroad. You can look for opportunities based on your academic performance, field of study, destination, or other criteria. Consider applying for low-interest loans with your local Credit Union, or work-study programs prior to your trip to help pay for additional expenses not covered by award earnings.

Plan your travel itinerary wisely. If you want to visit other places while studying abroad, you can save money by booking your flights in advance, choosing low-cost airlines, using public transportation, or joining group tours. You can also look for deals and discounts on accommodations, such as hostels or homestays. Having a plan to cook meals for yourself by shopping at local markets may help you stay within budget as you develop a taste for the local cuisine. What’s more, you can host dinner parties with your newfound friends and classmates!

Enjoy the local culture and lifestyle. One of the best ways to save money while traveling is to immerse yourself in the local culture. You can learn from your host family or classmates, and participate in their activities, festivals, or events. You can also explore the local attractions, museums, parks, and landmarks, which are often free or low-cost. Learning a bit of the local language will also help you communicate better with your new community and get more out of your experience.

Studying abroad can be a rewarding and enriching opportunity that helps to fulfill your dreams of seeing new places and experiencing other cultures on a college student’s budget.