Sierra Christerson, the Baylor University Bears Abroad Marketing Intern, shares 4 tips for Studying Abroad on a Budget. She writes:
4 Tips for Studying Abroad on a Budget
Studying abroad is often seen as a once in a lifetime opportunity to travel the world and earn credit at the same time. For me, that was certainly the case. I knew I had to study abroad and the first place on my bucket list was Australia. However, there are many factors, the most prevalent issue being finances, that may keep a student from being able to study abroad. Being a student myself, I know that college requires you to be on a budget, tighter for some than others. I believe that studying abroad is an opportunity worth investing in, so here are my four tips for preparing to study abroad on a budget.
- Research trips that will give you the most bang for your buck
The key to finding the perfect study abroad trip is to research what trips your school offers for your area of study. Once you have narrowed this down, look at the itinerary and price of each trip, and decide how much you would benefit from each. Try to consider social benefits such as making new friends, personal growth and cultural experience along with academic benefits. - Apply for all financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Most schools offer financial aid for their study abroad opportunities because they want all students to be able to go on these trips. Apply to every scholarship or financial aid opportunity available! - Use a crowdfunding organization to help pay for your trip
There are many online organization sites such as GoFundMe.com that allow you to collect small amounts of money from a large group of people in order to fund your trip! Create the fund early and share on social media with family, relatives, and friends! - Save your money!
Whether it is through a job, allowance, or gifts, saving money is key to being able to enjoy your time abroad! Calculate how many hours you should work in order to cover all or most of your study abroad costs! The finances for the trip should be available early in the year before you go abroad, giving you time to get a job or pick up more hours in order to help fund your trip!
Being a student myself, I find these tips so helpful when talking to other students about study abroad. Many students do not recognize all of the opportunities available to help make studying abroad more affordable. By following these tips, planning your time, and finding a trip that you are passionate about, you are bound to have a great time abroad!
– Sierra, Baylor Bears Abroad Marketing Intern
