What to Consider & Budget for Studying Abroad Next Semester

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Studying abroad is a great experience. It allows you to visit a new place and learn about a new culture in an immersive way while continuing your education. However, there are things that are a part of studying abroad that are often overlooked, especially when it comes to budgeting. Knowing about these things and planning for them ahead of time will allow you time to prepare and budget so you are not caught off guard.

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Study abroad application

Before you even think about preparing to study abroad, you will have to submit a study abroad application. This is more of a time expense than a monetary expense, but you still need to prepare for it and allow yourself plenty of time to get it done well. Many study abroad applications require at least one letter of recommendation, so it is important to allow the person you ask enough time to be able to write a solid letter. Giving yourself enough time for your part of the application, including the essay, will ensure that your application will be accepted and that you will have the chance to study abroad.

Visas

While you may have a passport, you need more than that when you are studying abroad. Some countries allow Americans to stay in their country for up to 90 days without a visa, but most require a visa. Applying for a visa can cost hundreds of dollars, but it allows you to study and work abroad. The visa application process may also take a bit of time, so start applying well in advance so that you are not stressing out about being approved in time to start your program.

Phone plan

When you study abroad, it is recommended that you purchase a phone plan in the country you are studying in, especially an unlimited plan. This way, you can talk to family and friends at home as much as you need, as well as have access to social media. Find a phone service place when you get to the country you are studying in, and they will be able to get you set up with what you need.

Language skills

If you are studying abroad in a country where English is not the primary language, it is important that you brush up on your language skills before studying abroad. Doing so will show that you care about the culture and that you are at least trying, even if you are not the best at speaking the language. You may opt to invest in books, online courses, or other resources to help you practice the language before you go. This way, you are prepared and can get around the country without too many issues.

Sightseeing

During your downtime, you will likely want to explore the country you are studying in. This may mean going to museums and other sites to learn as much as you can about the culture. When creating a budget, allow yourself to have money for these outings so you can fully immerse yourself in your study abroad experience.

Packing list

As you are preparing to leave, make a list of things to pack. Check with your school to see if they have a list of suggested items to make sure you bring with you. Research the country to see what kind of weather they have, so you know what clothes to pack. Bringing what you need will reduce the number of things you will have to buy when you get to your study abroad location. If you do decide to buy your clothes in the country in order to blend in with the locals, make sure that you budget your money to be able to afford the clothes and other expenses.

Transportation

It is unlikely that you will have your car with you when you are studying abroad. You will probably use public transportation to get around, and you will likely take buses to get to other parts of the country so that you can explore beyond the city your school is in. If the public transportation stops, you will likely have to take a cab to get to your destination. Planning for transportation expenses can alleviate stress later on.

Household items

You will be living in a different country for the semester. When you first moved to college, you had to bring a lot of household items such as bedding, kitchen supplies, and other necessities. However, these things are too big and bulky to travel with, so you will want to buy them when you get to your study abroad location. Plan ahead of time to make sure you have the money you need. Research what these things cost in the country you are studying in, or even find out how much it would be to ship the items if you buy them in the United States before you leave.

Studying abroad is a great experience, and you can make sure things go smoothly by planning ahead and budgeting accordingly.

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