5 Frugal Reasons to Study Abroad

Studying abroad can be a great option to save money on your college education. I know this from my own experience: I studied abroad and ended up in a great situation –top university degree, full academic scholarship and subsidized living arrangements. Had I studied in a local university instead, I would still be paying off my student debts!

Here are a few reasons why you too should look into studying abroad:

1) Tuition is cheaper

Most countries abroad will have a far lower tuition than universities in the US, even considering residential state fees. Some countries offer free university studies, while others have government-subsidized costs. European countries typically have a fee of $1000 per semester at their public universities. If you know the language (or are willing to learn), or if you happen to have nationality in one of those countries, take advantage of the opportunity. Otherwise, don’t be scared away as they all accept foreign students.

2) Cost of living may be cheaper

Depending on where you choose to live, your rent may be lower, as could your bills and other expenses. For example, if you decide to study in the college city of Valparaiso, Chile instead of a metropolitan city in the US, your costs will be significantly lower. (Valparaiso was one of my choices due to affordable rates and great living arrangements for college students.)

3) Scholarship Opportunities

International universities want to attract foreign students and in order to do so, they offer scholarship options.  Many universities have opened international branches to their regular degree programs and are continuously working at filling up the spots. Governments are also sponsoring all sorts of scholarships to bring international talent into the country. These are all possible ways to fund your studies abroad, and you’ll find that competition is more limited than scholarships in your home country.

4) You can study in top universities for less

If you are having a difficult time making it into Ivy League Universities – don’t fret. You can apply to world renowned universities abroad who also happen to be considered top notch educational institutions. I studied in a university which is considered one of the top 100 universities in the world. It adds a touch of class to my resume, and makes it more appealing when applying to jobs.

5) Stand out from the applicant crowd

When applying to a job in the police force, my former roommate had a great advantage:  a degree in Middle Eastern studies, diplomacy and strategy – ALL studied in the Middle East in a top university. Other applicants had a similar background to each other: a US-based degree in political science. Believe me, she was the one to stand out from the crowd and get hired immediately.  Employers appreciate a unique background, adaptability within culturally diverse environments, and creative problem solving in unfamiliar situations – and you’ve proved these all before even meeting them.