Exploring The World As A University Student: A Guide

Travelling as a university student can be an exciting opportunity to explore new places and cultures, but it often comes with financial challenges. However, with careful planning and a good understanding of the various travel options and money-saving strategies available, students can turn their wanderlust into reality. From exchange programmes and internships to scholarships and budget-friendly accommodations, there are numerous ways for students to travel the world without breaking the bank.

Exchange programs and internships

To find out more about exchange programs, you can speak to your faculty members, student body representatives, and your student finances office. They can provide information on scholarships, bursaries, and other funding opportunities to help make your exchange a reality. It's also worth reaching out to your university's international students' office, as they often manage exchange programs and can provide specific details on partner universities and application processes.

Internships are another excellent way to travel while gaining valuable work experience. Many universities have partnerships with organizations overseas and can facilitate internships for their students. These internships may be paid or unpaid, but even if unpaid, your school or program may reimburse your housing and travel costs. For example, one PhD student secured a $7000 scholarship to support their internship with a local women's NGO in Tanzania, which covered their costs of living and traveling in East Africa for three months.

International internships demonstrate initiative, adaptability, and a willingness to learn and immerse yourself in new cultures. These are highly valued skills that can give you a competitive edge when entering the job market. When exploring internship opportunities, speak to your university's career services or international programs office to learn about potential placements and funding options. They can guide you in finding an internship that aligns with your academic and personal goals.

Whether you choose an exchange program or an internship, these experiences will provide you with invaluable cultural immersion, new perspectives, and enhanced independence. So, take advantage of these opportunities to travel, learn, and grow during your university years.

Scholarships and bursaries

To find scholarships and bursaries, start by checking with your faculty, student body representatives, and the student finances office or student union. They can provide information on available scholarships and how to apply for them. Don't hesitate to reach out and ask, as these opportunities are often competitive, and being proactive can increase your chances of securing funding. Some scholarships may be specifically designed to cover travel expenses, so be sure to inquire about those. Additionally, your government or specific partnerships and initiatives may offer scholarships for international study, so explore the relevant government websites for more information.

Another option is to look into internships abroad, which can provide a great balance between travel and gaining relevant work experience. While most internships are unpaid, they often come with reimbursed housing and travel costs, making them a cost-effective way to travel and build your resume. Many universities have partnerships with organisations overseas and can help you find internship opportunities in your field of study. This can be an excellent way to gain international exposure while also having some of your expenses covered.

If you're pursuing a degree that requires hands-on experience, such as healthcare programs, you can also explore opportunities to fulfil those requirements abroad. For example, medical students can gain their supervised practical hours by volunteering in a hospital in another country. This allows you to combine your studies with travel and gain a unique perspective in your field.

Lastly, don't forget to utilise your student status to access various discounts and deals. Your university-issued student ID can get you free or discounted entry to museums and landmarks worldwide. Additionally, an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) can provide discounts on guided tours, accommodation, and more. These small savings can make a significant difference in your travel budget, so be sure to take advantage of them whenever possible.

Student discounts

One of the best things about being a university student is the ability to access a plethora of student discounts. As a student, you can easily turn your wanderlust into reality. Your university-issued student ID grants you free or discounted access to thousands of museums and landmarks around the world. For example, you can use your student ID to gain entry to the Yonghe Lama Temple in Beijing and the Pushkin Museum in Moscow. You can also get great discounts with an International Student Identity Card (ISIC), including money off guided tours and hotel and hostel accommodation.

Public transport is a great way to get around when travelling as a student, especially with a student ID which can get you some good discounts. Many cities have discounted passes if you buy for more than a day. If your destination is within walking distance, you can save money by walking there and getting some fresh air and exercise at the same time. If you are driving, taking multiple people and splitting the cost is also a useful way to save money.

If you are looking for a hotel, check out websites like Booking.com or Airbnb for deals and cheap hotels. If you are travelling in Europe or Southeast Asia, hostels are a great option to save money. Websites like FlixBus offer very affordable travel options that cover hundreds of cities across Europe.

If you are looking for flights, it is a good idea to make a spreadsheet with your favourite locations, including flight times, prices, hotel prices and links. It is also worth checking if there are any student travel deals available. In the UK, websites like Student Beans, Save the Student, Unidays and STA Travel offer special travel deals for students.

Budgeting and planning

Planning:

Before planning any trip, it's important to set a budget and stick to it. Figure out how much money you can spend on your trip, including transportation, accommodation, food, and entertainment. Use your student status to your advantage and look for cheap transportation and accommodation options. Many cities offer discounted public transport passes for students, and websites like FlixBus offer affordable bus travel across Europe. When it comes to accommodation, consider staying in hostels, which can be a great way to save money, especially in Europe and Southeast Asia. If you prefer hotels, look for student discounts on websites like Booking.com, or consider Airbnb, which can be more affordable in certain destinations.

Budgeting:

To save money, consider travelling during the off-season when prices tend to be lower. Take advantage of your student ID to get discounts on everything from transportation to museum entries. Websites like Swagbucks offer cashback options, and you can also subscribe to websites that offer student discounts, such as Student Beans and Unidays. If you plan to stay in one place for a while, consider tutoring as a way to earn some extra money. Doing some research beforehand can also help you find cheaper options and avoid tourist traps.

Funding:

To help fund your travels, look into scholarships, bursaries, and internships. Many universities offer scholarships for exchange programs or international study, and your government may also provide scholarships for international study. Internships are a great way to gain work experience while travelling, and some universities may even reimburse your travel and housing costs for overseas internships.

With careful budgeting, planning, and a bit of creativity, you can make the most of your university years and explore the world on a student budget.

Transport and accommodation

Travelling as a university student can be an exciting yet challenging experience, especially when it comes to transportation and accommodation. Here are some tips to help you navigate these aspects effectively:

Transportation

When it comes to transportation, there are several options available to university students, including:

• Public Transport: Opting for public transport is often the most cost-effective and convenient choice for students. Many cities offer discounted passes for students, especially when purchased for multiple days. Be sure to carry your student ID to take advantage of these discounts.
• Walking: If your destination is within a reasonable distance, walking can be a great way to explore the area and get some fresh air.
• Driving: If you have access to a car, driving can be a convenient option, especially if you can split the costs with fellow travellers.
• Buses: For intra-European travel, FlixBus is a popular and affordable choice, covering hundreds of cities across the continent.
• Flights: For longer distances or international travel, flights may be necessary. Look for student discounts and consider using websites or apps that offer cheap flight deals.

Accommodation

Finding the right accommodation as a student traveller is crucial for a comfortable and budget-friendly experience:

• Hostels: Hostels are an excellent choice for students, especially when travelling in Europe or Southeast Asia. They offer affordable rates and a chance to meet other travellers.
• Hotels: Websites like Booking.com often offer deals and cheap hotels, and don't forget to use your student ID for potential discounts.
• Airbnb: Airbnb can be a good option, especially if you're travelling with a group, as it can sometimes work out cheaper than a hotel.
• Stay with Friends: If you have friends in the area you're visiting, staying with them can be a great way to save money and spend time with familiar faces.

Remember, when planning your travels, always set a budget and stick to it. Do your research, plan ahead, and take advantage of student discounts wherever possible.

Frequently asked questions