Studying overseas is amazing. You’ll encounter new cultures and experiences, but there are also new ways to go broke.
Between tuition, rent, overpriced lattes, and that mysterious “student fee” your university charges, your bank account can quickly start looking empty.
But don’t worry. Here are 10 ways to save money while studying abroad. Some suggestions are practical, some are questionable, but all are very real.
1. Befriend the Kitchen
Cooking your own meals will save you from financial trouble and bad takeout. You might burn things at first, along with your dignity, but soon you’ll be creating budget-friendly dishes. Bonus tip: pasta is cheap, filling, and doesn’t care about your GPA.
2. Avoid the “I Deserve It” Trap
Yes, you worked hard this week. No, that doesn’t mean you need a $9 artisanal coffee or a shirt that says “Paris” in glitter. Your wallet will disagree with your “self-care” shopping ideas.
3. Master the Art of the Student Discount
From museums to bus tickets, places love acting like they help students. Always ask, “Do you have a student discount?” with confidence. Worst case, they say no. Best case, you save enough to buy an extra pack of instant noodles.
4. Become Allergic to Taxis
Public transport exists for a reason. Yes, the bus might smell strange sometimes, but it’s ten times cheaper than a cab. Walking is also free exercise and helps you find thrift shops.
5. Rent, Don’t Buy… Almost Everything
Textbooks, sports gear, kitchen appliances—renting is your best option. Your rice cooker doesn’t need to become a long-term commitment.
6. Say No to “Peer Pressure Tourism”
Every group of international students has that friend who insists you join every expensive trip “because you’ll regret it later.” You know what’s more regretful? Your credit card bill.
7. Bring Back the Old-School ‘Sharing Economy’
Flatmates can be annoying, but they’re great for splitting the cost of Wi-Fi, streaming subscriptions, and bulk groceries. Just don’t share shampoo. That’s where trust ends.
8. Work Smart, Not Just Hard
A part-time job can help, but make sure it’s actually worth your time. Choose jobs that offer free perks—working at a café means free coffee, and working at a bookstore means free… paper cuts (and maybe discounts).
9. Limit the “Homesick Splurge”
Ordering snacks from home is nice, but that $15 bag of chips probably won’t taste as good as you remember. Nostalgia can be expensive.
10. Learn to Politely Say “I’m Broke”
Sometimes you need to be honest. Your friends will understand. If they don’t, send them a photo of your bank account balance—it’s scarier than any horror movie.
Final Thought:
Studying overseas is about learning—both in classrooms and in life. One of the most valuable lessons is how to make $20 last until Friday without sacrificing your sanity (or too much caffeine).
