International Student Expenses: What It Really Costs to Study Abroad
When you think about studying abroad, you probably imagine lectures in a grand campus, new friends from around the world, and the thrill of living in a different country. But the real question no one talks about enough is: international student expenses. How much do you actually need? It’s not just tuition. It’s housing, food, insurance, travel, visas, and hidden fees that add up fast. International student expenses, the total cost of living and studying in a foreign country, including tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and daily living costs. Also known as overseas education budget, it varies wildly depending on where you go, what you study, and how you live.
Take the United States, a top destination for international students, especially those with CBSE or Indian board backgrounds looking to pursue medicine, engineering, or tech. An MBBS graduate from India might earn big salaries in the U.S., but getting there costs $40,000 to $60,000 a year just in tuition. Then add rent, groceries, transportation, and health insurance—you’re looking at $60,000 minimum per year. Compare that to countries like Germany or France, where public universities charge little to no tuition for international students, but living costs still run $10,000 to $15,000 a year. And don’t forget the student visa fees, mandatory government charges that include application costs, biometric appointments, and sometimes proof of financial support. These aren’t optional. They’re part of the price of entry.
Some students think they can cut costs by working part-time, but visa rules often limit hours. Others assume online courses or community colleges are cheaper paths—true, but not always transferable. A two-year degree, like nuclear medicine or dental hygiene, can lead to high-paying jobs without a four-year degree, and those programs often cost less. But if you’re aiming for a U.S. medical license after an MBBS, you’ll need to pass exams, pay for prep courses, and possibly relocate again. Every step adds up. And if English isn’t your first language, you might need to take IELTS or TOEFL, which costs hundreds more. Even the smallest things—like buying a local SIM card or paying for a bank transfer—can surprise you.
There’s no one-size-fits-all number. But here’s what’s real: if you’re planning to study abroad, you need a budget that covers at least 12 months of living expenses, even if your program is shorter. You need to know if your scholarship covers meals or just tuition. You need to understand whether your health insurance works outside campus. You need to plan for flights home and emergency cash. The posts below break down exactly what students are spending—from the cost of living in top U.S. states to how much Indian students pay to study in Canada, Australia, or the UK. You’ll see real numbers, not estimates. No fluff. Just what you need to know before you pack your bags.
- By Nolan Blackburn
- /
- 27 Jun 2025
Study Abroad Costs in 2025: Real Expenses and What to Expect
Find out what it truly costs to study abroad, from tuition to daily living. Get real-world examples, tips for budgeting, and insights on making your dream affordable.