What you'll learn
- The big costs
- Where to find reliable numbers
- Ways to bring the cost down
1The big costs
- Tuition fees, which vary hugely by country, university and subject
- Accommodation, usually your largest monthly cost
- Living costs: food, transport, phone and study materials
- Health insurance, often required for your visa
- Visa application fees and any proof-of-funds requirement
- Flights, plus a buffer for the first month
2Where to find reliable numbers
Use the university's own cost-of-living estimate and the amount the student visa asks you to show as a minimum. Exchange rates move, so leave a margin.
3Ways to bring the cost down
- Fully or partially funded scholarships
- Countries and universities with low or no tuition for international students
- University housing in your first year
- Part-time work where your visa allows it
GrabScholarships team
Written and checked by our team of students who study abroad in many countries. We update our guides when the rules change.
Why we started GrabScholarshipsMore guides
How to choose a course abroadA good course fits your goals, your budget and the life you want while you study.Read the guide ›How to choose a study destinationThe right country is the one where your course, budget and future plans meet.Read the guide ›Managing money as an international studentA simple system in your first months saves a lot of stress later.Read the guide ›English tests: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE and DuolingoWhich test to take, and how to prepare.Read the guide ›GRE and GMAT: do you need them?Some postgraduate programmes ask for these tests, many do not.Read the guide ›Documents you need to applyGather these early: most delays come from missing paperwork.Read the guide ›Finding accommodation abroadWhere you live shapes your first year. Start early.Read the guide ›Health insurance for international studentsOften a visa requirement, always a good idea.Read the guide ›Student visas: how they workEvery country is different, but the steps are similar.Read the guide ›Pre-departure checklistEverything to sort out before you fly.Read the guide ›