Studying abroad may be a dream for you, but achieving it can be a lot more challenging than you think. Apart from the academic preparation and visa formalities, money will be the biggest concern. You have to plan and prepare well because it isn’t going to be cheap. You will need lots of money at every stage, starting from the tuition fees to airfare and housing, food, commute, and other living costs. It is best to carefully research your expected expenses and money-savings opportunities at the destination even before you embark on your study abroad journey. Fortunately, there are plenty of ideas you can explore to cut your expenses and make big savings eventually. Let us share some with you.

CANCEL SUBSCRIPTIONS BACK HOME

You can start saving early by cancelling all the services and subscriptions as soon as you have your study abroad plans in place. Make a list of streaming services you use and cancel them a few months ahead of leaving. It will help you save up lots and gives an opportunity to steer clear of distractions as you prepare for the academic exams. Lightening the financial responsibilities back home gives you a great start, as you have more money in your wallet and fewer things to worry about before you embark.

FLY BUDGET AIRLINES

You can start saving even before you land at your international education destination. It is easy to save a bit by picking cheap international flights with a budget airline. The fares will be far more affordable than popular airlines, so skip them if you want to save. You can go the extra mile with savings by doing little things, such as taking the seat they assign you and packing your snacks instead of buying the meal. You will end up having extra cash in your wallet when you reach the university by just following this simple tip.

SHARE ACCOMMODATION

Shared accommodation is definitely a smart way to squeeze your study abroad budget. But you will probably not want to have a room partner at this point because of the threat of the pandemic. You can still save if you rent an apartment with two rooms and split the costs with a flatmate. It will help you save up on standing costs such as agent commissions, utilities, and maintenance. Once you are comfortably settled with your flatmate in the new home, you will probably have to worry less about the virus.

PREFER WALKING TO CUT COMMUTE EXPENSES

When you reach your destination and start attending the university, the daily commute expenses will pinch your pocket. Even if you use public transport, bus fares and metro passes quickly add up. Consider walking when possible because it will help you save a lot. Moreover, you can experience the city inside out by exploring foot routes you will probably never know about when you use cabs or public transport. Fitness adds up to the advantages of walking, so it is the best thing you can do when you are there.

COOK YOUR OWN MEALS

Being in a new city and trying the local cuisine sounds exciting, but eating out can burn a hole in your wallet. So you must skip the temptation to act as if you are on a holiday, and cook your own meals. The best thing about cooking yourself is that you can source fresh ingredients from the local market and prepare the healthiest food at home. If time is a concern, sharing duties with your flatmate is a good idea. Once you start cooking, you can master some quick and easy recipes that take a few minutes, and you get to polish your culinary skills as well.

SEEK STUDENT DISCOUNTS

Being a student lets you save money everywhere, from flights to accommodations, museums, and eateries. Most places offer services at a discount for students, and you only have to show your student I.D. card to access them. An International Student Identity Card gets you a bigger advantage as it is an internationally accepted proof you can use anywhere. Student discounts can help you knock off some costs here and there, and they can add up to a considerable amount in the long run. If you can’t see a student rate at the place you want to access a discount, ask for one.

LOOK FOR ODD JOBS

Apart from saving money as an international student, you can also look for opportunities to supplement your income. A student visa entitles you to work, so you can start looking for odd jobs when you are ready to take up one. If the workload is too much, you can skip the idea of a part-time job and work only on the weekends on an hourly basis. The best place to start looking for such opportunities is in your school because it can help you save on commute time and expenses.

Materialising your study abroad dreams will be a lot easier if you manage your finances smartly. Following these actionable tips and ideas right from the start can set you up for success.