After researching and choosing a program, account for the true cost. Find out which expenses and services are included in your program fee and which come out of your pocket. A program with a low fee might look appealing, so investigate what’s included and excluded.

Instruction Fees
Instruction fees are usually part of the program fee.

Airfare
Airfare is often included in program fees. But do not to feel pressured to pay thousands of dollars more for a program just because airfare is included. For low student airfares, visit StudentUniverse.com.

Domestic Travel
Students often underestimate the cost of travel in the host country—expenses ranging from commuting to sightseeing. These are generally out-of-pocket expenses.

• Consider buying a used bicycle in your host country.
• Are discounted prepaid metro (subway) passes available?
• Investigate student rail passes before leaving for your destination.
• In some countries, domestic air travel can be very expensive. Remember this if you plan to fly in-country.

Lodging and Meals
Make certain that the program fee includes lodging and meal costs. But budget extra money for meals outside the prepaid dining plan. Whether you live with a group or on your own may also affect your meal costs.

Find out if your housing has cooking facilities. Shopping at local grocery stores and cooking your own food can help reduce your expenses.

Other Costs
Investigate other expenses:

• Utilities. Are electricity, water, heating, and other utilities included in your program fee?
• Security deposit. Not all programs require a security deposit. If your program does, be prepared to pay as much as a month and a half’s rent.
• Planned and unplanned excursions. Unplanned excursions often arise—visits to sporting events, museums, historical sites, and local nightlife. Budget for these opportunities.
• Laundry. Laundry costs can add up quickly. Consider hand washing to save money.
• Personal care. Budget for toiletry items.
• Passport and visa. A new passport runs about $45–$65. Visa fees vary—usually $30–$40—but the true cost can run over $300 if immunizations are needed.
• Health insurance. Medical insurance coverage is essential. Ask your study abroad program about insurance.
• Books. In some countries, books are more expensive than in the U.S. Check if textbooks are be included in your academic costs. Also, invest in an excellent language dictionary. It's likely that English-language books will be quite expensive.
• Hidden costs. Prepare for many unplanned expenses, including taxes, money exchange fees, and wire transfers. You may have to spend at least $200 per semester for these hidden costs.
• College fees. Your school back in the U.S. may have service charges for helping you make study abroad arrangements. For example, your school may charge you for transferring credits, printing transcripts, remaining enrolled at the school, special mailings, and registration fees. They are usually $50–$100. Ask your school and your study abroad program about these fees.

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