Beyond Abroad’s detailed guide to study abroad costs in 2025
Many students dream about studying abroad but are worried about the cost. In this article, we go deeper into what it really costs to study abroad in different corners of the world.
But here’s the thing: studying in Manhattan won’t cost the same as studying in Phuket. Your budget will differ depending on whether you choose a mega-city in Asia or a small college town in California, not to mention the type of program you chose.
Nobody likes financial surprises, especially when you’re already busy planning your study abroad adventure. That’s where partnering with Beyond Abroad becomes your secret weapon! Our experience and university partnerships don’t just make your journey smoother – they make your entire experience more affordable, too.
Student Visa Costs
In most cases, securing a student visa will be your first major step for studying abroad. This essential document allows you to legally live and study in your destination country throughout your program. Here’s what student visa costs look like worldwide.
- Europe: EU students don’t need a visa to study in another European country. Non-EU students:
- <90 days: May not need a visa if they are from a visa-exempt country.
- >90 days: Must apply for a Type D student visa before arriving. The cost varies between €50–€100.
- United States: International students need an F-1 Student Visa, which requires an application fee of $185 (non-refundable) and an additional SEVIS fee of $350.
- Asia: Asian countries often allow students from visa-exempt nations (like the US, EU, Canada, and Australia) to enter without a visa or get one on arrival for stays under 90 days. For longer programs, a student visa is required, with costs ranging from €20 to €150.
- Latin America: Cost varies between $50-$150. Students from partner countries may receive reduced rates.
Oceania: In Australia, all international students must apply for a visa (Subclass 500 visa), regardless of the duration of their studies. A Subclass 500 visa costs around AUD2,000. In New Zealand, students must apply for a student visa if the course is longer than 3 months. For the most up-to-date information on costs, visit the official New Zealand Immigration website.
Each country has a different visa process, so we recommend talking to our experts at Beyond Abroad and checking our dedicated page about visa for studying abroad.
Health Insurance Costs
Most universities or countries require health insurance for international students. It covers medical treatments, hospital stays, prescriptions, and sometimes even emergency evacuation or repatriation. Most student visas require proof of health insurance that covers the full duration of your stay, even for a short-term study program.
- Europe: Many European countries have public healthcare systems that offer free or low-cost services to international students. This include those from the EU or countries with bilateral agreements. However, students from outside the EU often need private insurance which may cost €200–€700 per year.
- United States: The US has some of the highest healthcare costs in the world, so insurance is crucial. Most universities either provide their own student insurance plans or require you to purchase one. The average cost is $1,500–$3,000 per academic year.
- Asia: Student health insurance costs vary depending on the country but average between €300–€800 per year.
- Latin America: Healthcare tends to be more affordable, with insurance costs ranging from $200–$600 per year.
- Oceania: International students in Australia and New Zealand must have Overseas Student Health Cover or equivalent. It’s mandatory for visa approval and must cover the entire stay. The average cost is AUD $450–$600 per year.
Check our page on study abroad insurance, for more detailed information and resources.
Tuition Fees: What You’ll Pay to Study
Tuition fees cover the costs of studying at an institution. They are usually the largest expense when studying abroad and can vary enormously depending on your destination, the type of program, and the institution you choose.
- Europe: Many countries offer low or even zero tuition fees at public universities for international students. This makes Europe one of the most affordable destinations for higher education.
- United States: Tuition tends to be higher, especially at private universities. However, there are multiple scholarships and funding opportunities available. Are you an athlete? Don’t miss out on securing a sports scholarship! Community colleges are also a budget-friendly option in the US.
- Asia: Countries like South Korea, Taiwan, and Singapore offer top education with moderate tuition fees ranging from €2,000 to €10,000 per semester. But you can also find more affordable option in emerging education hubs such as Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Thanks to our partnerships with universities, Beyond Abroad provides access to affordable study opportunities.
- Latin America: Tuition fees tend to be lower than in North America and Europe, especially at public universities.
- Oceania: Tuition fees are comparable to or slightly lower than in the US, with many universities charging international students between $15,000 and $30,000 per year. There are generous scholarship programs available.
How to save on tuition fees:
- Pick countries with low or no tuition fees, like many in Europe, Asia, and Latin America.
- Apply for scholarships and grants. Beyond Abroad has exclusive scholarships and discounts through its university partners.
- Consider community colleges in the US for affordable tuition and transfer options.
Accommodation
Accommodation costs vary widely depending on the country, city, type of housing, and how close to campus. Capital cities and major urban centers are in general more expensive. Housing closer to the university usually costs more but saves commuting time and transport costs. These are the most common housing options:
- University Dorms: Popular for first year and international students. They’re on or near campus and great for meeting others. Often include Wi-Fi, furniture, and utilities. Convenient but not always cheap, especially in the US, Australia, and the UK.
- Shared Apartments: More independence and often cheaper. You split rent and bills with roommates but handle your own chores.
- Private Rentals: Most expensive and harder to arrange from abroad. Offers the most privacy.
- Host Families: Great for learning language and culture. Sometimes meals are included. Usually affordable and a good choice for immersion.
By Region:
- Europe: Many universities offer affordable dorms. Most students opt for sharing apartments. Southern Europe (like Portugal and Italy) tends to be cheaper than Scandinavia, but prices vary by city.
- United States: On-campus housing is common, especially for first-year students, but pricey ($800–$1,400/month), often including meal plans. Living off-campus can be cheaper in small college towns but more expensive and harder to find in cities like New York or Los Angeles.
- Asia: Known for budget-friendly options, especially in Southeast Asia. On-campus housing is popular, safe, and affordable (€100–€400/month).
- Latin America: Shared housing is common and affordable. Homestays are great for language practice. On-campus dorms are rare except in private universities.
- Oceania: Dorms are common but costly (AUD $800–$1,500/month, often with meals). Shared apartments are usually the most affordable choice
Meals Costs and Eating Options
Food is a daily expense that can quickly add up when you’re studying abroad. While budgeting is important, don’t forget to enjoy the local cuisine! Food is a big part of the study abroad experience.
- Cooking at Home: Preparing your own meals is usually the most budget-friendly option. In Asia, Latin America, and certain parts of Europe groceries are reasonably priced, and local markets offer fresh produce at low costs.
- Eating Out: Dining out every day can quickly become expensive. However, in many Asian and Latin American countries, street food is both cheap and convenient.
- Meal Plans: Some universities, particularly in the USA and Oceania, offer meal plans for students. This is normally the most expensive option. It may cost hundreds or even thousands per semester. In Europe, many universities have affordable cafeterias where you pay per meal and there’s no meal plan needed.
Transportation
Getting around your new city is part of the adventure – and part of your budget. Transportation costs go way beyond just getting to campus every day. Think weekend trips to explore the rest of the country, grocery runs, nights out with friends. It all adds up, so plan accordingly.
- Europe: Public transport is reliable and affordable, with student discounts widely available. For instance, both Lisbon and London offers student discount on public transportation.
- United States: Big cities like NY or Chicago have good public transit. In most other areas public transportation is limited. Students often have rely on cars, shuttles, or live close to campus to save on commuting.
- Latin America: Public transit is affordable but varies in quality. Ride-sharing apps are popular and cheaper than in North America or Europe.
- Asia: Offers many low-cost options like efficient trains, buses, and ride-hailing apps. Scooters and bikes are common for students.
- Oceania: Students can use buses, trains, and trams with student discounts. Biking or walking is common near campus.
Ready to Study Abroad?
The more prepared you are, the more you can enjoy your study abroad experience. With the cost breakdown from this guide, you’re equipped to create a realistic budget and avoid financial surprises. Now you can focus on what truly matters; making the most of your time as an international student.
Still working out the details of your study abroad plans? Beyond Abroad and our study abroad consultants are ready to assist! We’ll help you find the ideal program, navigate applications and visa requirements, and answer all your questions along the way.
Your study abroad adventure is closer than you think. Get in touch with us today and explore the world as a student!