Ideas to Save Money as an International Student

Corona Virus impact has primarily affected the academic circles the most. Many international students have decided to skip this year and use the left months as an internship period. Most of them know that the costs of staying abroad are already pretty high.

This, coupled with the inhibitions imposed because of COVID, would translate into unnecessary expenses. Instead of adding more burden to their financial student, they want to take things easy.

Since most of them want to live a balanced life when in an international set up, they should give importance to money. If you are in the same category as them, here are some ways in which you can save money.

Applying to Colleges Which Have No Application Fees or Are Providing Low Costs

During this time, you will find many colleges who have slashed their application fees. If not complete reduction, you may get a part of your fees removed. In other words, you could get to pay only a percentage of the total fees that were applicable earlier.

Schools like Tulane University in Louisiana and Loyola University College have entirely done away with application fees. Apart from them, a few others are quite affordable otherwise.

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According to Blake Smith, Director of international admissions at Henderson State University in Arkansas, they offer lower sustaining costs. The education is up to the mark, whereas the cost of tuition and fees are relatively low.

As per him, the base cost of the 2020-21 session is $18490. This includes the cheapest housing, meals, health insurance, $500 allowance for books, and two 12 credit hours semester and fees. The Bemidji University in Minnesota is low on the cost, with an average cost ranging around $9245.

Experts suggest that if students are wary of costs, they could first attend a two-year community college. For example, at the Mesa Community College in Arizona, tuition and fees are a mere $8010, whereas the figure stands at $8538 for Pasadena City College, California.

Working During School Times

Once you get accepted to any college, you can apply for a part-time job. Simple tasks are available at book stores, computer labs, and you could even act as a tutor. The strategy proves fruitful in more than one way. You gain money and make friends, learn about living in a new country, and get used to campus life.

But, again these days, COVID-19 is widespread everywhere. Finding a job in such a situation can be too taxing. However, you could intern with your college professors. You could also stay alert for any new job openings like in a restaurant or as a librarian.

Keep an eye on jobs where international students are accepted as well. Multiple on-campus jobs, if a person wants, can give his finances a boost. Along with an internship for a professor can provide experience to show in your major.

Tackle as many jobs as many hours are permitted for you to undertake as an International student. Use the money earned to handle rent and other expenses that you have to pay.

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Budgeting and Cutting Unnecessary Expenses

Prospective students should cut back on all kinds of unnecessary costs. Under this travel and books, tackle everything in a manner that little money is spent.

Using a financial planner in a situation like this could prove useful for you. These planners give an idea of unnecessary overheads, and you can reduce from your side. There is also an option to get student discounts on mobile plans, computers, and software.

Apart from that, you could search for second-hand study books, deals in back to school stuff, and cheap travel tickets. Be a part of campus events where you can save on one- time meals and get to network and know more people.

Resist the urge to purchase any unnecessary items while doing online shopping. Students complain they go overboard while buying, and they buy a lot of stuff like snacks and drinks. Smart students keep an eye on any person who is willing to downsize his stuff.

Even seniors are willing to cut stuff and so if you notice anyone doing so, try and grab the chance. You can pick second-hand books, workstations, and desks during such sales at rock bottom prices.

Read More: Why Must International Students Avoid Binge Drinking When Study Abroad?

Living Off-campus

Another trick to save money is to live off the campus. Doing that could bring down your costs to a reasonable extent. However, certain overheads would increase when you decide to stay away from campus. Transport costs, utilities, and other bills are predominant items that figure in this list.

You might also miss out on your friend’s company as well as using University facilities. Also, keep an eye on student discounts on transportation and living. Some companies deal with providing cheap accommodation options to students like you. Research about them before deciding further.

The college international student centre would also have details of flats available for stay. You could also check school student boards and libraries if any student has put up a request to get a roommate. Though all these are just basic methods, your network proves to be the most useful.

Contact your friends and acquaintances to know if they have any opening anywhere. If you are already working anywhere, there could be some assistance offered by them. Not to forget the yellow pages and local directories that have information for students.

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Conclusion

Money may be tight for international students, but you can save it easily if you are careful. Use the above methods, and hopefully, you will gain a lot more than just improving your finances. In these COVID-19 times, getting a proper job may not be easy.

Check your options before taking up something in hand. A bad reference from a job can be damage to your future career. Along with you may also be barred from getting a job elsewhere. Refrain from any such activities that could destroy your prospects. If nothing works, turn to your professors. Most of them would not mind getting an extra hand for their daily work.