Financial Planning: A Practical Guide for Indian Students Considering Study Abroad

Considering Study Abroad: As the Chief Marketing Officer at a burgeoning ed-tech startup, I have had the privilege of guiding numerous Indian students on their journey to studying abroad. The excitement and opportunities are immense, but so are the financial challenges. Here, we offer a comprehensive guide for Indian students planning their education overseas, combining industry insights with practical advice.

As many as 8 lakh students from India travel to foreign countries for higher studies every year and spend around $28 billion; equivalent to 1% of India’s GDP. While the dream of studying abroad requires a certain amount of preparation academically, it is also pertinent to plan the finances early on to avoid any last-minute hassles and falling into scams.

Understanding the Costs

The first step in financial planning is understanding the costs involved. Apart from tuition fees, students must consider living expenses, travel costs, insurance, and contingency funds. Each country and university has its unique cost structure, so research is key. For instance, studying in the UK might have higher living costs than Germany, where many universities offer free higher education.

Also read: Study Abroad: The Do’s and Don’ts of Student Visa Application

Budgeting Smartly

Once you know the costs, the next step is to create a budget. This should include all foreseeable expenses and a buffer for unforeseen ones. As an ed-tech professional, I’ve seen students benefit from budgeting apps and tools, which help track expenses and manage finances efficiently.

Exploring Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships can significantly reduce financial burdens. Many universities, governments, and private organizations offer scholarships based on merit, need, or specific criteria like field of study or nationality. Indian students should also explore the scholarships specifically designed for them, such as the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation scholarships.

Educational Loans

Educational loans are a common way to fund studies abroad. In India, numerous banks and financial institutions offer education loans at competitive interest rates. It’s important to understand the terms of repayment, the interest rate, and the loan tenure. Some loans also offer a moratorium period, which allows students to start repayments after completing their education.

Also read: Planning to study abroad? Know how to successfully receive a scholarship

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Most study-abroad destinations permit students to work part-time. This can be a valuable source of income and also offers work experience. However, students must be aware of the legal work limits and not let employment interfere with their studies.

Currency Fluctuations and International Transactions

Currency rate fluctuations can significantly impact your budget. I advise students to monitor exchange rates regularly and consider opening a student bank account in the host country to save on transaction fees. Some fintech services also offer competitive exchange rates and low transaction fees.

Insurance

Health and travel insurance are crucial for studying abroad. Some countries have mandatory health insurance policies for international students. It’s important to choose the right insurance plan that covers medical emergencies and unforeseen travel issues.

Lifestyle Choices and Cost-Cutting

Living frugally can make a big difference. This includes choosing affordable housing, using public transport, and avoiding unnecessary expenses. In my experience, students who plan their meals and limit dining out tend to save considerably.

Also read: Study Abroad: A Guide to Writing a Statement of Purpose (SOP) for University Admissions

Emergency Fund

Always have an emergency fund. Unforeseen circumstances, such as a health emergency or a sudden trip back to India, can be costly. An emergency fund acts as a financial cushion.

Staying Informed and Seeking Advice

Staying updated with financial news, policies related to international students, and tax implications in the host country is important. Additionally, seeking advice from financial advisors, university financial aid offices, or experienced students can provide valuable insights.

Studying abroad is a significant investment in your future. With careful planning and prudent financial management, it can be an enriching and relatively stress-free experience. At our ed-tech startup, we are committed to supporting students in this journey, offering guidance and resources to make their dreams a reality.

Embarking on your study-abroad journey requires meticulous financial planning, but the rewards are immeasurable. As Indian students step into global arenas, their financial savvy will be as crucial as their academic prowess. With the right approach, the world is truly your oyster.

By Vaibhav Gupta, Co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer, iSchoolConnect.