Moving abroad for college brings lots of new costs. From school fees to daily living expenses, you’ll need a solid plan.
Students often worry about money. Also, about How to Ease the Financial Burden as an International Student in 2024. But with some smart habits and tips, you can stretch your dollars further.
Make a Money Plan That Sticks
Track Your Money In and Out
List your monthly money – all of it. Add up what you get from family, jobs, or savings.
Set Up Your Basic Costs
Write down your basic costs:
- Room rent
- Food money
- Phone bill
- Bus passes
- School stuff
Watch Where It Goes
After paying these bills, decide what to do with leftover cash. Put some away for fun and some for savings.
Track your spending on your phone. Many free money apps can help.
Cut Your Daily Costs
Smart Shopping Tips
Shop at local markets and discount stores. They sell stuff cheaper than big stores.
Food Savings
Make food at home instead of buying meals out. Get friends together and cook – it’s cheaper and more fun.
Use Your Student Card
Always ask about student prices. Many shops give discounts if you show your school ID.
Save on Transport
Get a student bus pass. You’ll save money on every trip.
Make Money While Studying
Find Campus Jobs
Try getting a job at school first. They fit work around your classes better.
Best Student Jobs
Good school jobs include:
- Working at the library
- Helping in labs
- Giving campus tours
- Serving at student cafes
- Helping teachers with research
Check Work Rules
Most student visas let you work part-time. Check how many hours you can work.
Get Free Money Through Scholarships
Start Early
Start looking for scholarships now. Many close months before school starts.
Where to Look
Look for money here:
- Your school’s student office
- Your home country’s schools office
- Big organizations
- Companies
- Groups that help students study abroad
Apply Smart
Try for all scholarships, big and small. Little amounts add up fast.
Save Money on Housing
Share Your Space
Live with other students. You’ll split rent and bills.
Location Matters
Check places farther from school. They cost less, and you can take the bus.
Consider Campus Living
Think about living in school dorms. They often pack utilities and internet into one price.
Be Smart About Banking
Local Bank Benefits
Get a local bank account. You won’t pay fees for using money from home.
Credit Card Tips
Pick a student credit card with low fees. But watch your spending – only buy what you can pay for.
Money Transfer Tricks
Find cheap ways to get money from home. Different services charge different fees.
Save on School Books
Smart Book Shopping
Skip new books when you can. Try these instead:
- Get used books
- Borrow from the library
- Download digital copies
- Share with friends
Use School Resources
Check what free stuff your school offers:
- Online libraries
- Study guides
- Past exam papers
- Class notes
Have Fun Without Spending Much
Free Campus Fun
Try these free activities:
- School events
- Student clubs
- School gym
- Study groups
City Adventures
Find free stuff around town:
- Town festivals
- Parks and museums
- Free movie nights
- Community events
Meet New Friends
Join student groups that match your interests. They often plan cheap or free activities.
Stay Healthy on a Budget
Free Health Services
Use your school’s health center. Most services are free with your student insurance.
Exercise for Free
Use the school gym and join free fitness classes on campus.
Cook Healthy
Learn to cook simple, healthy meals. Buy fruits and veggies when they’re on sale.
Plan for Unexpected Costs
Build Emergency Savings
Save a little money each month for surprise expenses.
Know Your Resources
Find out what help your school offers if you hit money troubles.
Keep Good Records
Save receipts and track all your costs. This helps plan future spending.
Closing Tips
What Works Best
Being smart with money makes student life better. Start with a clear plan, find ways to spend less, and look for extra money through jobs and scholarships.
Stay Positive
Lots of students watch their money closely. It’s smart, not stingy.
Make It Work for You
Pick the tips that work for you. Small money habits make a big difference.
Common Questions About Ease the Financial Burden as an International Student
Can I work during school?
Most places let you work part-time. Check your visa rules for work hours.
Where do I find scholarships?
Check your school’s student office, online lists, and your home country’s school office.
Should I get a student credit card?
It helps build credit and works for urgent needs. Pay it off each month.
How do I track my money?
Write down what you spend for a month. Then set spending limits based on your money.
How can I spend less on food?
Cook at home, buy bulk food, use student discounts, and share meals with roommates.
Should I live on campus or off?
Add up all costs – rent, bills, transport, and food. Sometimes campus rooms save money overall.
Learn more How to Write a Financial Aid Appeal Letter: Maximize Your Chances