Best Places to Study Abroad for the Cost-Savvy

Berlin, Germany

Looking to delve into German language and culture without breaking the bank? As the cheapest major city in Germany, studying abroad in Berlin is a no brainer for the cost-savvy traveler.

Study Abroad in Berlin

“So to anyone planning on studying abroad: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? What would you learn? Think about it, and then figure out a way to go there and learn that. It’s what I am doing, and I cannot express how excited I am to finally be able to experience Berlin in person and see what I end up learning there.”
Sydney B. • University of Michigan – Ann Arbor • Berlin – Metropolitan & Urban Studies

Cape Town, South Africa

If you have an adventurous soul, Cape Town is the place to study abroad. With mountains, beaches, and more at your fingertips, every day is a free adventure to explore this scenic city. On our study abroad Cape Town programs, you experience all that Cape Town has to offer – without spending a dime! And, did we mention that South Africa has a low cost of living? This means you’ll be enjoying more for less.

Study Abroad in Cape Town

“Also, if I didn’t stress it enough on my soapbox earlier, I’m back to tell you to! study! abroad!”
Mary Kaitlin E. • Villanova University • Cape Town – University Of Cape Town

Madrid, Spain

Like Berlin, Madrid is one of the cheapest cities in Europe. Plus, Madrid is full of beautiful parks and plazas for you to meander to your heart’s content for free. Oh, and did we mention the tapas? Delicious and easy on the wallet – you get the most bang for your buck in Madrid.

Bonus: Madrid is centrally located, making it easy and inexpensive to explore the rest of this diverse country. If you’re full of wanderlust, but traveling on a budget, Madrid is the study abroad destination for you. Check out all of our study abroad Madrid programs.

Study Abroad in Madrid

“I got so much more than I expected out of studying abroad.”
Melanie G. • Carnegie Mellon University • Madrid – Engineering, Math & Science

Quito, Ecuador

Imagine exploring Quito’s vibrant neighborhoods, admiring the beautiful colonial Spanish architecture, and visiting the city’s Museum of Culture. You’ll do all of this – and more! – for free when you study abroad in Quito. Plus, because Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar, it’s super simple for you to make and follow a budget. Check out all of our study abroad Ecuador programs.

Study Abroad in Quito

“I am glad that this opportunity allowed me to grow in many positive ways by challenging me to become patient, listen more and also to be confident in myself and abilities.”
Tabitha A. • The George Washington University • Quito Direct Enrollment – Universidad San Francisco de Quito

Rabat, Morocco

Rabat is rich in cultural heritage and diversity, and its low cost of living and favorable exchange rate makes it an ideal location for an immersive and inexpensive study abroad Morocco experience. Plus, Rabat offers plenty of activities that won’t break your bank, from art galleries and museums to cultural festivals held throughout the year. In Rabat, there is plenty to keep you busy while on track with your budget.

Study Abroad in Rabat

“To all of you future IES students: I’m positive that you will not regret choosing Rabat!”
Brianna G. • Georgetown University • Rabat – Study in Rabat

Shanghai, China

Shanghai’s low cost of living makes this city an ideal place to study abroad on a budget. With cheap food (and lots of it!), you’ll try adventurous, new cuisine, and save money while you’re at it. (Tip: Our study abroad in Shanghai programs are some of our most affordable ones, too.)

Study Abroad in Shanghai

“This Summer definitely taught me a lot about what it means to be independent, especially in a completely foreign setting...”
Jake K. • Lehigh University • Shanghai Summer – Engineering Internship

“Also, realize you aren't alone in this struggle. Tons of other IES abroad students have had amazing semesters on a budget!”
Miah T. • Kenyon College • Nantes – French Language Immersion & Area Studies

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