Students are not less hit when it comes to studying abroad in the midst of depreciating rupee. Banks sanction education loan in INR while students need to spend in dollars or pounds for their tuition fee and living expenses.
The happy hours are only for those beneficiary students who have completed their studies and are in a process of repaying their loans. For those looking for new admissions or already in the middle of studies overseas, the foreign education dream becomes yet a distance away. Observing prudence and wisely working out a budget can prove to be a helping hand, at least to some extent.
Here are some tips that can be useful to those planning to study abroad;
* Scholarships: It’s not only the Institute which can help you with a scholarship. There can be many external sources including other institutes, companies working in your area of study, Trusts, National and International agencies and alike. The list is usually available with any University; don’t miss to check in advance and apply for them.
* Housing: Search for student housing which is a bit far from the university but well connected by bus or metro transit facility. Universities generally provide Bus-Metro transit Pass on payment on a session to session basis which can make your travelling literally free. It then does not matter how far or close you are staying to the college/ university. But the facilities in the housing one gets at a little distance from the campus are usually cheaper than those available in or nearby. This can help you save for a shared or single accommodation.
* Earn while you learn: The option of working part time is available to the students on or off campus and is a popular way to support your studies. Your visa type can put some restrictions but students can definitely work on campus and in the university library on a part time basis.
* Books: Don’t upfront purchase all the prescribed books. The libraries in the premier institutions are big resources and have sufficient copies needed. If the books are not available, try looking in stores selling used books. You can even rent books from these stores. They are cheaper and will certainly save dollars.
* Currency exchange: In case you need to do any foreign exchange conversion, prefer a nationalised or the Government bank over a private bank. The transaction charges in the Government banks are generally reasonable as compared to private counterparts.
* Food: Cook your own food and carry a packed lunch to university. University cafes and canteens may be cheaper than most, but it’s still the best to prepare your own food. This will not only help you save money but will also inculcate healthy living habit as you make effort to get up early each day to prepare your lunch.
* Utility bills: Save money by cutting down on your electricity and gas usage. Always ensure lights are off during the day and things like your TV aren’t left on standby. When it starts to get cold, first try putting on a few extra layers before turning up the heat.
* Student discounts: One of the best benefits of student life is undoubtedly the student discounts. You can get your money off on almost anything - from a new clothing purchase to a trip to the movies. Don’t miss to check for student discounts anywhere you spend. Make use of internet to compare the prices before you buy.