Money, money, money! Advice for international students

Studying abroad is a great opportunity from many perspectives. You can travel the world, get acquainted with different cultures, meet people from all over the globe and go onto numerous adventures. However, there is always a downside to things, and with international studies, it is definitely a money question. It requires quite a budget even in your daily spendings. It doesn’t mean that you have to give up the idea altogether, – just try and be smart with your money. So here we have some useful tips for international students on how to save up some cash, spend wisely and live a happy student life abroad.

The key is not only to save money, but also to spend them in the right way and according to your budget. You have to figure out what expenses should be cut, and where you can transform your routine in order to succeed in this venture. So let us dive in into the world of smart decisions.

• Working

The most obvious way to get budget-friendly is to expand your earnings. Try finding a job, or at least a part-time position.

The important thing is to make sure you can actually work in the country of your study and with your visa type. Consider internship abroad as it is a great way to gain some work experience and also have some extra money on your hands. Consider getting some side jobs like lawn mowing or dog-walking which could also be a nice help with some cash.

• Live within walking distance of your college

One of the big expenses positions in your budget are travelling costs. And it is not limited to actually trips somewhere, we are talking about day-to-day commuting costs. Surprisingly, it might take up a big chunk of your monthly spendings. The solution here is obvious. The advice for students will be to live close to your place of studying so you can walk or bike there. This a perfect way to avoid additional expenses and stay fit! Another tip – try sharing an apartment with someone. It will allow you to have bigger and better options for rent while paying less by splitting the costs with your roommates.

• Utilize student discounts

Of course, it depends on the country of your study, but almost all states give some kind of discounts to students. It could be travelling fares, movie tickets, accommodation costs or anything else really. Make sure to inquire about all of the possibilities available to you as an international student and do not hesitate to use them as much as possible.

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  Be smart with your shopping

In our day and age, this is a huge issue. Everyone is hooked on the consumption craze. But beware – it is a sure route to the destruction of your budget. Certainly, it doesn’t mean that you have to give up all of the purchases and shopping.

Just be smart about it! For instance, shop more via the Internet. It will help you make a more thorough choice and avoid compulsive spendings. Focus on the second-hand things and vintage.

Use a local website to purchase used items or research college boards where students sell a lot of useful stuff including furniture and electronics. Do not deprive oneself of a new cute outfit or a handy clothes – just check the vintage store and outlets. It will surely cost less but there is plenty of high-quality apparel there. The key is to evaluate your basic needs and restrict the hunger for a fast-fashion. It also reduces your impact on the environment, so double-benefit!

• Using Skype to call home

Our digital age has a lot of benefits and getting the Internet is one of them. Besides being able to do and purchase almost anything on the web, even assignments that have been written by the essay writing service from Australia, now you can easily avoid international phone bills by using Skype. It is just as simple as that! No need to restrict your precious time on the phone with your family at home, just let the power of the Internet help you! And watch as your budget becomes more stable each day.

These tips are just a general recommendation for anyone who doesn’t want to break a bank while studying abroad.

Of course, it can be customized and adjusted to your particular situation and case. The main point here – just be rational and plan your spendings. This is a cornerstone of all money routines. Smart money skills can help you not only during your studies but actually at any point in your life. So get ready and plan all those shopping lists and watch for the discounts!

[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’][/author_image] [author_info]William Stewarts is a successful layer that spent his college years studying abroad. He occasionally writes about his experiences as an international student and gives some tips and trick to those who wish to explore the world while studying. In his opinion, this experience allowed him to gain a deeper understanding of world processes and a precious set of social skills. [/author_info] [/author]

Featured image: flickr.com

Source: William Stewarts