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Study Abroad On A Budget

 
UTA student standing in front of river and waterfall with a rainbow


Budgeting Considerations

Worried that you can't afford study abroad? UTA offers many programs that correspond in price to a normal session on-campus. Planning ahead is key to studying abroad on a budget! Read on for tips for economical study abroad. Please consult with the UTA Study Abroad Office for more information. 
 


UTA students on Great Wall of China Program Selection

When it comes time to decide where in the world you will study abroad, keep in mind these factors:
 
  • Larger cities tend to be more expensive than smaller cities
  • Narrow your search to countries with a lower costs of living
  • Pick a non-traditional location outside of Western Europe, Australia or New Zealand
  • Exchange programs can be great ways to save costs while studying in more expensive locations
  • Some affiliate providers include tours in their programs, if you don't feel strongly about excursions or think you could plan something cheaper consider an affiliate without these add-ins
  • Certain, non-traditional locations, might make scholarship applications more competitive



Duomo in Florence

Length of Program

  •  Students can chose between summer, semester and yearlong programs, so carefully consider the cost of the program versus the length of stay
  •  Total program fees for summer and winter programs are usually less expensive than semester or year programs.  However, semester options may have more opportunities for scholarships and funding
  • Evaluate the program price per credit earned.  Semester or academic year programs provide more value per dollar since you can earn twice to three times more credit as summer or winter programs



City street in Japanese town
Funding

There are many great funding opportunities for study abroad students!
  • Apply for the FAFSA by priority deadline
  • Apply for as many study abroad scholarships as you are eligible for
  • Apply for as many UTA scholarships as you are eligible for
  • Study a critical language - there is extra funding for this
  • Study in a non-traditional location -  there is extra funding for this
  • Refer to Other Funding Ideas
 

Small town with red roofs in front of mountains
Housing & Food

  • Housing is arranged for you by most programs. You can save a lot by carefully picking out your housing and meal plan.
  • Find programs where meals are included with housing
  • Homestays are a great option and often include a certain number of meals
  • On-campus housing is usually cheaper especially if meal plans are available
  • If you rent an apartment, make sure to find out about deposits and be careful not to lease longer than your program stay



UTA student in front of the Louvre
 Other Things to Consider

  • Take into account the distance to program site and airfare price
  • Booking your flight at certain times can also help you keep cost down. Read The Worst Day to Buy a Plane Ticket.pdf to find out more on how to purchase your plane ticket for the best rate.
  • Start saving now!