Savanna Hoffman
International student fees can be a daunting aspect of studying abroad, with tuition fees in English-speaking countries often exceeding $15,000 per year. In the UK, for example, international undergraduate fees range from £11,400 to £67,892 per year, while postgraduate fees can be anywhere from £6,500 to £54,500. To avoid paying international student fees, one option is to apply for scholarships, which are more common for postgraduate degrees. For instance, Arizona State University offers merit-based scholarships to international students with high academic achievement. Another option is to work part-time, which is permitted on campus for students at some universities, such as ASU. Additionally, students can save money on exchange rates by comparing money transfer providers for international payments.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Student category | Since autumn 2021/2022, international students are those who don't have the right to live in the UK and its islands. |
| EU, Swiss and EEA students | Since autumn 2021, most students from these regions don't qualify for home fee status or access to UK student loans. Exceptions are made for those registered with the EU Settlement Scheme and Irish students. |
| UK undergraduate fees | Capped by the governments of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. |
| International student fees | Vary by institution and type of course. |
| Visa requirements | Proof of finances and financial guarantees are required for visa applications. |
| Tuition fee range for international students in the UK | Undergraduate: £11,400–£67,892 per year; Postgraduate: £6,500–£54,500 per year. |
| Payment methods | Forex cards, international wire transfers, foreign currency demand drafts, university online payment portals, credit cards, debit cards, cash, SWIFT transfers, and checks. |
| Scholarships | Some universities offer scholarships to international students based on merit or financial need. |
| On-campus employment | Some universities allow international students to work on campus, providing flexibility and an opportunity to earn. |
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What You'll Learn
Scholarships and bursaries
Scholarships are the most common form of funding available for international students, with students usually applying on the basis of academic ability or potential, or talent in other areas like sports or music. These scholarships may cover tuition fees in full, reduce them, or contribute to the cost of living and studying away from home.
Bursaries and grants based on students' personal circumstances, such as coming from a low-income household, are less common. They are usually one-off payments to help with travel costs or settling-in expenses. Universities offer scholarships and bursaries to attract students from overseas and to help them with the substantial cost of moving far from home to study.
Funding for international undergraduate students in the UK can be split into two categories: those offered by UK universities and those offered by third parties, usually governments or organisations in the student's home country. The UK government runs a variety of scholarship programmes to financially support international students who are looking for help funding their studies in the UK. The three main UK government scholarships are:
- GREAT Scholarships: Scholarships to UK universities across a variety of subjects, for students from 18 countries.
- Chevening Scholarships: Offers fully-funded master's degrees in the UK.
- Commonwealth Scholarships: Scholarships given to talented individuals with the potential to make a positive impact on the global stage.
Some universities may also offer scholarships and bursaries to international students who pay their fees in full at the start of their course. International students may also receive a bursary or fee reduction from a university based on a prior relationship or existing link with them, for example, if a family member is a current student or alumnus.
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Work on campus
International students are generally forbidden from working off-campus jobs, but they are allowed to work on campus while they study. Depending on the visa sponsor status of the institution, international students may be able to work full-time during holidays and up to 20 hours a week in term time.
Working on campus can be a great way to avoid international student fees, as it provides a source of income that can be used to offset the cost of tuition and living expenses. On-campus jobs are often convenient and flexible, allowing students to balance their work and study commitments.
There are a variety of on-campus jobs that international students can consider. These may include roles such as:
- Research assistant: Assisting faculty members with research projects and tasks.
- Teaching assistant: Supporting instructors in teaching undergraduate courses.
- Library assistant: Helping with circulation, shelving, and other library operations.
- Administrative assistant: Providing administrative support to university departments.
- Campus tour guide: Guiding prospective students and visitors around the campus.
To find on-campus job opportunities, international students can check the university's career services website, which often lists available positions. They can also visit specific departments and inquire about any open positions. Additionally, networking with faculty, staff, and other students can be a great way to learn about potential job openings.
It is important to note that the availability of on-campus jobs may vary depending on the university and the time of year. International students should also ensure that they are complying with the terms of their visa and the regulations set by the university regarding work hours and eligibility.
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Payment methods
International students have multiple payment options to pay their tuition fees. However, the availability of these options depends on the university and the country. Here are some of the commonly used payment methods:
Forex Cards
Forex cards, also known as foreign exchange cards, are prepaid cards that can be loaded with foreign currency. They are a safe and budget-friendly option for students as they can be used to withdraw money from ATMs and pay for expenses in the local currency. However, they may have additional charges and are not accepted everywhere.
Wire Transfers
International wire transfers are a secure and convenient way to send money from one bank account to another. Information such as the exact amount, bank details, and SWIFT code are required for this type of transfer. While it is a reliable method, wire transfers can be costly and irreversible.
Foreign Currency Demand Draft
A foreign currency demand draft is a reliable and low-cost option as it includes the beneficiary's name and cannot be misused. However, it has a longer processing time and may not be suitable for emergency transfers. There is also a risk of theft, and the draft may expire if the deposit is delayed.
University Online Payment Portal
Most universities have their online payment portals, which are often the quickest and most convenient way to pay tuition fees. Students can use their credit or debit cards to make payments. It is recommended to inquire about payment-size discounts and only use the official university website to avoid any scams.
Scholarships and Funding
Scholarships and funding opportunities are available for international students, although they may be more common for graduate students. Some universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, and many students also receive funding from their home governments. Additionally, international students may be allowed to work part-time during their studies to support their living expenses.
Saving and Personal/Family Funds
International education can be costly, and many students and their families save up for years to afford it. In some cases, families may take on tremendous debt to send their children abroad for their education. It is important to carefully consider the costs and benefits of the degree before making a decision.
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Visa requirements
The visa requirements for international students vary depending on the country and institution of study. Here are some important considerations for navigating visa requirements as an international student:
Student Visa Application:
The first step is to apply for the appropriate student visa, which is typically specific to the country of study. For instance, international students planning to study in the UK can apply for the Student route visa, allowing them to work while studying and stay in the UK for a specified duration.
Timing:
It is advisable to start the visa application process early, as it can take time to gather the required documentation and complete the necessary steps. In the UK, for example, applications for the Student route visa can be made up to six months in advance.
Financial Requirements:
Overseas students often need to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their tuition fees and living expenses. This proof of financial stability is typically required before entering the country of study. The specific amount required may vary depending on the country and institution. For instance, students from the EU, EEA, and Switzerland are usually exempt from this requirement when studying in the UK.
Work Opportunities:
Understanding the work restrictions for international students is crucial. In some countries, full-time international students are permitted to work a limited number of hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. This can provide a source of income to help with living expenses.
Visa Processing Fees:
International students may need to pay additional fees specifically for visa processing. These fees are separate from tuition fees and other expenses.
Visa Validity and Extensions:
Pay close attention to the validity period of your student visa. If you plan to stay in the country after completing your studies, you may need to apply for a different visa or an extension. Some countries offer graduate visas, allowing international graduates to stay and seek employment for a specified period.
Navigating visa requirements as an international student can be complex, and it is always advisable to consult official government and university sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Living costs
The cost of living for international students varies depending on the country and institution. Here are some general guidelines to help you estimate and plan for living costs as an international student:
United Kingdom
The UK is one of the most popular destinations for international students due to its world-class institutions and culturally diverse cities. However, the cost of living in the UK can be high, and you'll need to budget carefully. Tuition fees for international students in the UK often exceed £10,000 per year, and you'll need to pay for living costs on top of that. These living costs include accommodation, food, transportation, utilities, internet, books, and other personal expenses.
When applying for a Student visa to live and study in the UK, you'll need to prove that you have enough money to cover your living expenses. It's important to note that scholarships in the UK are limited and usually only cover a small portion of the tuition fees. Therefore, most international students in the UK self-fund their studies.
United States
The cost of living for international students in the US can vary depending on the location and the institution. On-campus living may be more convenient and include expenses such as utilities, internet, and meal plans, which can cost between US$150 and US$350 per month. Off-campus accommodations, such as renting an apartment with roommates, will require you to manage all living expenses, including rent, utilities, food, and transportation.
Textbooks and additional fees can also add up to US$500 to US$1,000 per year. It is recommended to set aside at least US$2,000 for miscellaneous expenses to ensure you can comfortably cover all costs. International students in the US will also need to consider the cost of health insurance, as medical care can be expensive.
Germany
Germany offers free tuition for international students in many cases, which is a significant advantage. However, you will still need to budget for living costs, which can vary depending on the city and your lifestyle.
Other Considerations
When planning your finances as an international student, it's important to consider your sources of funding. Some students may have savings or family support, while others may rely on scholarships, grants, or international student loans. Additionally, part-time work may be an option, but it may be challenging to rely solely on a minimum wage job to cover all your expenses.
In summary, the cost of living as an international student varies by country and institution, and it's essential to research and plan your finances carefully to ensure you can cover all your expenses.
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Frequently asked questions
You can avoid paying international student fees by obtaining residency in the country where you plan to study. Alternatively, you can study online with an international university that does not charge additional fees for international students.
There are several ways to pay international student fees, including:
- International wire transfer
- Foreign Exchange Cards (Forex Cards)
- Foreign currency demand draft
- University online payment portal
- Credit cards
- SWIFT transfer
- Cash payments
International student fees in the UK vary depending on the university and the course. Undergraduate fees typically range from £11,400 to £67,892 per year, while postgraduate fees range from £6,500 to £54,500 per year.
