Students with Financial Need
If cost is one of the first things you think about when considering study abroad or Study USA, you are not alone. Your financial circumstances may shape not only which program you choose, but also how you experience your time away.
Do not assume that global education is out of reach. The GEC can help you explore options that make sense for you. For information about financial aid, scholarships, grants, and program costs, visit Funding Your Experience.
Things to Consider
As you explore global education, think about the experience you want to have and how your financial circumstances may factor into it.
- Your experience does not have to look like anyone else’s. Your peers may have different budgets for restaurants, weekend travel, entertainment, shopping, and other optional activities. You do not need to spend like your peers to have a meaningful global experience.
- Think beyond the program cost. Consider what everyday life will look like in different locations. The cost of groceries, transportation, meals, and social activities can vary considerably, even among programs with similar overall costs.
- Ask what is included. Housing, meals, transportation, excursions, and other activities may be included in some programs and not others. Understanding what is included can help you anticipate what you will need to spend while away.
- Consider work and responsibilities at home. If you rely on income from a job, contribute financially to your household, or have responsibilities at home, consider how time away may affect you and others who depend on you.
Decide what matters most to you. You may not be able to do every optional trip or activity, and that is okay. Think about the experiences that are most important to you and where you want to spend your money. - Talk about money. Friends and travel companions may have different financial circumstances and expectations. It is okay to say no to an expense, suggest a less expensive alternative, or be open about what works for your budget.
- Plan for the unexpected. Even with careful planning, unexpected expenses happen. Before you leave, know what resources are available and who you can contact if you face an unexpected financial situation.
Questions to Ask Yourself
As you consider a program, you might ask:
- What expenses beyond the program itself should I expect?
- Will I be giving up income from a job while I am away?
- Do I have financial or other responsibilities at home that I need to plan for?
- What experiences while away are most important to me?
- How comfortable will I be if friends or classmates have more money available for optional activities or travel?
- Who can I talk with if I have financial concerns before or during my program?
You Belong in Global Education
Having fewer financial resources does not make your global experience less valuable or mean that you belong there any less. Your experience may look different from someone else’s, and that is okay. Some of the most meaningful parts of global education come from everyday experiences, relationships, and engagement with your host community, not from how much you spend while you are there.
If finances are an important consideration for you, talk with your GEC advisor early. You do not need to have everything figured out before meeting with us, and you do not need to share more about your financial circumstances than you are comfortable sharing.
We would rather help you explore what is possible than have you rule out global education because of cost.