TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction And Understanding The Cost Of Living For Indian Students
Cost of Living Breakdown by Country
a. United States
b. United Kingdom
c. Canada
d. Australia
c. Germany
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on cost of living for Indian students abroad
Introduction And Understanding the Cost of Living for Indian Students
Studying abroad is such an exciting opportunity, but before you jump in, let’s talk about the real deal—living costs. It's not just about paying for classes; you've got to think about rent, food, getting around, and even health insurance. And trust me, if you’re not careful, those costs can pile up fast! For example, rent?
It’s probably going to be your biggest expense, especially depending on where you’re headed. And sure, eating out sounds fun (who doesn’t love trying new food?), but honestly, cooking at home is where you'll save big. Plus, transportation is another one—whether you’re using public transport, biking, or just walking everywhere, finding the cheapest option makes a huge difference depending on where you end up.
It’s all about finding smart ways to manage those everyday expenses so you’re not constantly worrying about money. Don’t worry though, we’ve got you covered! This guide will break down the cost of living for Indian students abroad in different countries and give you some tips on how to save money, like sharing accommodation, being smart with groceries, and using student discounts. With a bit of planning, you can keep your expenses in check and focus more on enjoying your time abroad.
Key Factors Influencing the Cost of Living Abroad
Accommodation Costs
For Indian students, accommodation will likely be the largest monthly expense. Whether you choose to stay in university dormitories, private hostels, or shared apartments, the costs can vary significantly by country and city. Generally, on-campus housing tends to be more convenient but could be costlier compared to living off-campus with roommates.
Cost-saving tip: Consider shared accommodation to reduce rent and utility costs. Look for off-campus housing via Student.com or Uniplaces for options that suit your budget.
Food and Grocery Expenses
Food is another significant expense. Dining out frequently will drain your finances, especially in cities with a high cost of living. Cooking at home is the most cost-effective way to manage food expenses, allowing you to buy groceries in bulk and make healthy, affordable meals.
Transportation
Public transportation is widely used by international students. Most countries offer student discounts on monthly transit passes, and in cities with strong biking cultures like Amsterdam and Berlin, cycling is an excellent, cost-saving alternative.
Cost-saving tip: Use public transportation passes designed for students like the Student Oyster Card in the UK, or rent bikes for cheap, sustainable travel.
Health Insurance
International students are often required to have health insurance while studying abroad. The costs can range widely depending on the country and the coverage plan. Countries like Germany and Australia offer more affordable healthcare options, while the US can be on the higher side in terms of insurance premiums.
Cost-saving tip: Investigate country-specific student insurance plans like DAK Health Insurance in Germany or OSHC in Australia, which are designed specifically for international students.
Check this guide for a complete overview of health insurance options for Indian students in the US
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet)
Utilities add another layer to living costs and are typically shared if you live with roommates. The total monthly utility bill will depend on your location, the size of your accommodation, and your personal usage.
Cost-saving tip: Use apps like Splitwise to share utility costs fairly with your roommates and manage expenses without conflicts.
Leisure and Miscellaneous Expenses
Students need downtime too! Leisure activities such as dining out, going to the cinema, or weekend travel can add up. Finding free or discounted entertainment options can help manage these costs.
Cost-saving tip: Use student discount platforms like UNiDAYS to access exclusive deals on entertainment, travel, and even dining. Many museums and attractions offer free or discounted entry for students, so make the most of these opportunities.
Cost of Living Breakdown by Country
United States
The US is one of the most popular study destinations for Indian students but also one of the most expensive. Living expenses vary greatly between states and cities. Urban centres like New York and San Francisco are significantly more expensive than smaller towns.
Accommodation: $500 - $1,200 (₹41,880 - ₹1,00,512) per month. On-campus housing in big cities like New York could cost as much as $1,200 (₹1,00,512) per month, while more affordable off-campus housing in smaller towns may cost closer to $500 (₹41,880). Use platforms like Zillow or Craigslist to find shared accommodation.
Food: $300 - $500 (₹25,128 - ₹41,880) per month. Cooking at home can save you a substantial amount. Opt for wholesale shopping at stores like Costco.
Transportation: $70 - $100 (₹5,860 - ₹8,376) per month. Most students use public transport in cities like Boston or Chicago, while biking is a cheaper option in more walkable cities.
Health Insurance: $1,500 - $2,500 (₹1,25,640 - ₹2,09,400) per year. Health insurance costs are high in the US, so make sure to explore your university’s student health plan or look for more affordable coverage options.
Miscellaneous: $200 - $500 (₹16,752 - ₹41,880) per month. Budget for leisure activities, shopping, and unexpected costs.
Talking about managing your purse in USA you might also like to check out Top Cheapest Colleges for International Students in the USA.
United Kingdom
The UK is home to many prestigious universities but comes with high living expenses, especially in cities like London. However, smaller towns offer a more affordable lifestyle.
Accommodation: £400 - £800 (₹40,000 - ₹80,000) per month. In London, expect to pay closer to £800 (₹80,000) per month for rent, whereas in smaller towns like Birmingham or Manchester, accommodation can cost as low as £400 (₹40,000). Use platforms like Rightmove and SpareRoom to find affordable housing.
Food: £150 - £250 (₹15,000 - ₹25,000) per month. Grocery shopping at Aldi and Lidl is a great way to keep food costs low.
Transportation: £50 - £80 (₹5,000 - ₹8,000) per month. Most students use public transport, with discounted options like the Student Oyster Card for cheaper travel in London.
Health Insurance: NHS surcharge (~£470 or ₹47,000 per year) International students with a Tier 4 visa are required to pay the NHS surcharge, which gives access to healthcare.
Miscellaneous: £100 - £300 (₹10,000 - ₹30,000) per month. Entertainment costs can be high in cities like London, so take advantage of student discounts.
PS we have a blog on the TOP Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in the UK for 2024 for financial support. This might help you find the right scholarships you’re looking for.
Canada
Canada offers affordable living options for Indian students, especially in smaller cities like Ottawa and Quebec. The quality of life in Canada is high, and healthcare is more affordable compared to the US.
Accommodation: CAD 600 - CAD 1,200 (₹36,600 - ₹73,200) per month. Housing costs vary by city, with Vancouver and Toronto being the most expensive. Use platforms like Rentals.ca to find student housing.
Food: CAD 250 - CAD 400 (₹15,250 - ₹24,400) per month. Save on groceries by shopping at wholesale stores like Costco or discount supermarkets.
Transportation: CAD 80 - CAD 110 (₹4,880 - ₹6,710) per month. Most cities have reliable public transportation systems with student discounts.
Health Insurance: CAD 600 - CAD 900 (₹36,600 - ₹54,900) per year. Health insurance is mandatory, but affordable. Each province offers its own health plan for students.
Miscellaneous: CAD 150 - CAD 300 (₹9,150 - ₹18,300) per month. Entertainment costs vary by city. Montreal and Ottawa have cheaper leisure options compared to cities like Vancouver.
Australia
Australia is another favourite for Indian students, especially those interested in high-quality education combined with a laid-back lifestyle. Sydney and Melbourne are expensive, but smaller cities like Adelaide or Brisbane offer more budget-friendly options.
Accommodation: AUD 700 - AUD 1,500 (₹36,470 - ₹78,150) per month. On-campus housing in Sydney is costly, but off-campus options in smaller cities are more affordable. Use Flatmates to find budget accommodation.
Food: AUD 250 - AUD 500 (₹13,025 - ₹26,050) per month. Shopping at local farmers’ markets can help reduce grocery costs, especially if you’re cooking your own meals.
Transportation: AUD 50 - AUD 100 (₹2,605 - ₹5,210) per month. Public transport is widely used, and discounts are available for students.
Health Insurance: AUD 500 - AUD 700 (₹26,050 - ₹36,470) per year. Health insurance is mandatory. Explore OSHC Australia for more details.
Miscellaneous: AUD 200 - AUD 400 (₹10,420 - ₹20,840) per month. Leisure expenses depend on your location. Take advantage of student discounts for entertainment and travel.
Check out the Best Scholarships for Indian Students in Australia for financial aid opportunities.
Germany
Germany is one of the most affordable European countries for international students. With low tuition fees at public universities and moderate living expenses, it’s an attractive option for Indian students.
Accommodation: €300 - €700 (₹26,370 - ₹61,530) per month. Housing costs are generally low compared to other European countries, and you can find affordable student accommodation through WG-Gesucht.
Food: €150 - €250 (₹13,185 - ₹21,975) per month. Shopping at budget supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl can help reduce your food costs.
Transportation: €50 - €100 (₹4,395 - ₹8,790) per month Many cities in Germany offer discounted public transport passes for students, and cycling is very popular in cities like Berlin.
Health Insurance: €80 - €100 (₹7,032 - ₹8,790) per month. Health insurance is mandatory for students in Germany. Public health insurance options are affordable through providers like DAK.
Miscellaneous: €100 - €200 (₹8,790 - ₹17,580) per month. Germany is known for its vibrant cultural scene, and many events and museums offer discounts or free entry to students.
How to Manage Expenses as a Student Abroad
Create a Budget
Managing your expenses while studying abroad starts with creating a solid budget. This helps you monitor your spending, track your financial goals, and ensure you have enough funds for emergencies.
Budgeting tools: Use apps like Mint or YNAB (You Need A Budget) to organize your expenses and stick to your financial plan.
Look for Scholarships or Part-time Jobs
Many countries allow international students to work part-time, which is a great way to support yourself financially. Additionally, scholarships can significantly ease the cost of living.
Scholarship resources: Visit these useful links for scholarships:
Open a Local Bank Account
Opening a local bank account can save you money on foreign transaction fees and make managing your daily expenses more convenient.
Recommended banks: Consider HSBC in the UK or Chase Bank in the US for student-friendly banking options.
Take Advantage of Student Discounts
Most countries offer a range of student discounts, whether it's for transportation, dining, or entertainment. Carry your student ID wherever you go to take full advantage of these savings.
Don’t Break the Bank, You can do this!
So, when it comes to studying abroad, figuring out the cost of living is key to making your finances work. If you keep things like rent, food, transportation, and health insurance in mind from the start, it’s a lot easier to stay on top of your budget.
Dreaming of studying abroad but not sure where to begin? We've got you covered! Whether you're looking for help with applications, scholarships, or just need some friendly advice, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Apply now by filling out this quick application. Plus, don’t forget to take advantage of the awesome resources available—student discounts, part-time jobs, and scholarships can really help you save money.
With smart planning and the right budgeting tools, you can focus on enjoying your studies abroad without stressing too much over finances. Join our vibrant community, Abroad For Better Future, where we share tips, success stories, and all the support you need to make your study abroad journey smooth and fun!
If you’re looking for more tips on studying abroad for free, check out this link: How To Study Abroad Free For Indian Students
Also check out this link to get the list of Top Cheapest Colleges for International Students in the USA.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on cost of living for Indian students abroad
What is the average cost of living for Indian students abroad?
The cost varies by country, but typically ranges between $10,000 to $20,000 (837,550-1,675,100 INR) per year, including tuition, accommodation, and living expenses. Learn more through platforms like Numbeo.
Which countries have the lowest cost of living for Indian students?
Countries like Germany, Mexico, and Malaysia offer more affordable living options compared to the US or the UK. Check out DAAD for affordable study options in Germany.
Is it cheaper to live on-campus or off-campus?
Off-campus living can often be cheaper, especially when sharing an apartment. Use housing platforms like Uniplaces to compare off-campus options.
How can I reduce my cost of living abroad?
You can reduce costs by cooking meals at home, using public transportation, finding shared accommodation, and applying for scholarships. Learn more budgeting tips from Save the Student.
Is health insurance mandatory for international students?
Yes, health insurance is mandatory in most countries for international students. Check with your university or country’s health system, such as Germany's AOK or the UK's NHS.
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Feel free to read this: Health Insurance for Indian Students in USA.
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