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Today, with so many opportunities available in college and universities, doing a study abroad is a great option to see the world, learn a new language, and experience a new culture, all while getting school credit. Doing a study abroad can introduce you to new experiences as well as put you in touch with new contacts and give you experiences you can build your resume with. Usually provided by certain classes, or by the university itself, these opportunities are few and far between, but very worthwhile. Tuition helps to cover some costs, but in most cases, you’ll end up footing most of the bill yourself. For prospective students wishing to study abroad, but who feel hindered by expenses, there are options out there. Fortunately, there are a few useful tips below that can help enable students to save and afford their studies from afar.
Financial Aid
In choosing to study abroad, the initial step that should be taken to make the destination more affordable, is checking for financial aid. Although many students are already well informed of the availability of loans and grants with financial aid, most are unaware of being able to apply it toward a study abroad program if certain qualifications are met. In addition, there are study abroad scholarships specifically merited to those students wishing to study abroad. Independent financial institutions sometimes grant assistance to study abroad students, work study programs for work on campus, and even exchange programs that allow students to trade places with other foreign students of other countries.
Crowdfunding
Outside of financial aid, another useful tip to lessen the expense of a study abroad trip is crowdfunding sites. With the use of online crowdfunding sites, students can set up a campaign to enable their friends and family to donate to their cause. Crowdfunding sites can be very beneficial to students wishing to study abroad by serving as a means of extending help and allowing students to connect via networking. Reach out to alumni, to fellow students, and relatives to start your campaign rolling.
Budgeting
Being able to adhere to a few adjustments in order to live within a budget is always a useful tip to consider when trying to cut down on expenses and save more money. Living within a budget entails cutting back or refraining from any unnecessary spending on habits that typically include shopping, fast-food eating, going to the movies, salon maintenance, or any other extracurricular activities that consume a significant portion of one’s income. Students can even opt to sell old unwanted clothes or books as a way to earn additional income. Be sure to save and spend wisely as you prepare as well. Get photos for your passport, pack tight and full suitcases and be sure to exchange money when rates are good.
Being able to travel and study abroad is usually a lifelong dream for most students eager to explore the world. It is a wonderful educational experience that no deserving student should be denied due to their inability to afford it. There are so many excellent resources and individuals who are willing to help students in pursuit of bettering themselves that following a few of these tips will surely get students there.
This article was contributed by guest author Eileen O’Shanassy.