Making a financial plan now for your study abroad experience will help you live in the moment while you're abroad. Explore these resources, and learn about how much study abroad will cost you. Take the time to research your expenses; your resources, like scholarships and financial aid; and tips on how to save money before you go and once you're abroad. Check out the Study Abroad Expense Worksheet, and read more below for tools and tips to help you out!

Before You Go

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Visit Your Financial Aid Office

Ask about your eligibility for financial aid for study abroad programs.

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Read Ahead

Download free books and begin reading about your host city.

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See What's Included in the Program Cost

Research programs carefully to see what's included in the program cost.

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Create a Budget

Make yourself a budget and determine what you can afford.

After You Arrive

a student looks at souvenirs at a Chinese street market

Avoid Tourist Traps

Eat like locals where the locals eat! Sometimes venturing off the beaten path and asking other students or IES Abroad staff for tips on good places to grab a bite can really pay off.

Inside L'Opera at La Palais Garnier.

Take Advantage of Student Discounts

Many countries have great student discounts for museums, cinemas, theaters, concerts, and transportation.

Students share a meal together in Tokyo. On the table are open bento boxes.

Cook & Share Your Meals

If possible, cook meals and eat together. Eating together is significant part of many other cultures—eat like the locals do! Shop local markets, experiment in the kitchen, and eat together.

busy street in Nantes

Utilize Local Transportation

Learn the local transportation system quickly instead of taking taxis. When you can, walk. Special student rates may also be available.

students laugh while cooking with their host mom in Rabat

Don't Forget Your Host City

Focus on getting to know your host country rather than traveling to many different countries during your time abroad. Remember, there is greater value in being immersed in one culture than in having your passport stamped multiple times!

students visiting the Blue Mountains, posing for a photo in front of a waterfall

Day vs. Weekend Trips

Consider making a few day trips instead of more expensive weekend trips. Taking a train is a great way to take a short trip and experience another city without the added costs of flights and hotels.

three female students having fun at the Eiffel Tower

Compare Prices

For souvenirs, wait before you buy! Compare prices before buying at markets, learn local bartering customs, and take a local friend along with you to get better deals.

students eating German food at a festival in Dresden

Hostels vs. Hotels

If you do travel for a weekend, consider staying in a hostel instead of a hotel. It’s a lot cheaper and a great way to meet other students from all over the world.

“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