Are you going to study overseas? Wherever you plan to study in the world you will need to think about the costs involved. Here are some tips to get you started:
Tuition fees
First, you'll need to find out how your basic tuition fees will be covered because any change in your tuition costs may alter your financial support. This will depend on the agreement between your home and your host institutions; ask both institutions before you travel so you are financially prepared!
Safety first!
When travelling and living overseas you must get travel, health and accident insurance. Some scholarships may offer to cover this financially but always check first.
Cost of living
Before you embark on your adventure overseas you'll need to think about living expenses. It might be worth creating a study overseas budget to help you predict what you'll need to spend. It may be much cheaper to live and study in your host country, or it could be a lot more expensive – look at websites like thirdyearabroad.com to see what other students say about your destination. Make sure that you explore your living options! Will you opt for campus or private accommodation? See which best fits within your budget! Also, think about your essential costs such as food and transport, all of this will need to be added to your budget! Monthly subsistence allowances may be available on certain projects - double check this so you don't miss out!
Travel costs
Keep travel costs in mind when drawing up your study overseas budget. Figure out what public transport options you have in your host country and look at daily/weekly costs to give you a rough idea of what you'll need to spend. Taking a quick flight home for the holidays may not be possible once you're overseas. You may also need to get approval from your host and home institutions before planning a visit home. Travel costs may be covered within certain projects but it will depend on the distance between your home and host University.
Unexpected costs
Will you need to take out a different mobile phone plan overseas? What electronic adapters will you need for your laptop and other electronic items? Will you have to pay to ship your belongings to your host country? All of these, and more, may be unexpected costs. Do some research and think about what you'll need to do to make sure you have everything set up and working when you move to a different country.
Trips and extra-curricular activities
Make sure you can enjoy all that your host country has to offer by having funds available for day trips and other excursions that you'll want to take part in while studying abroad. You'll want to enjoy your experience as much as you can, so keep a little extra cash for special and spontaneous occasions!
ATTENTION WELSH STUDENTS!
If you are a Welsh student and would like to go out on a study abroad opportunity you can now apply for a travel grant! You would simply need to complete the course abroad form and if you are successful you could receive funding towards your travel expenses . Find out more: http://www.studentfinancewales.co.uk
Please check your specific project for details on what funding may be available for you. If you have any queries you can email us at globalopportunities@cardiffmet.ac.uk
