Study Abroad 101: How to Make It Work on a Tight Budget

Financing a year-long study abroad adventure can be really hard on the pocket: even a semester abroad in certain places costs almost two-thirds of a year at I.U. Although a lot of people want to join a program, some of us have tighter budgets than others. While applying for the program in Aix, my major concern was money: even after I went through the application and interview process and was finally accepted, I wasn’t sure if I could finance my time in France. For all the students in similar situations, I have some great advice for you!

First, the Gilman scholarship saved me. You can get up to $5,000 and if you are studying a non-European language, you have the possibility of winning (I believe) $2,000 more. It is an amazing opportunity: the application process can be long so start early! This scholarship is almost fully paying for my housing for the school year.

Next, Hutton Honors College gives scholarships to any student studying abroad, whether it’s for a summer, a semester, or for a year. You can only win this scholarship ONE time, so make sure you put it to good use! This scholarship covered all my travel expenses and is helping to pay for the rest of my housing.

Don’t count out smaller scholarships! Apply as early as you can to as many as you can. These smaller scholarships are offered through Indiana University and through private organizations. Do as much research as possible—it will pay off in the end.

Finally, it is possible to find work abroad. I was told (and convinced) that I would have very few to absolutely no opportunities to make money in France. Since you cannot legally work at a restaurant or a store, the office staff for the program has set up a way for students to meet members of the community, thereby creating  job opportunities. For example, there is a group of Anglo-Saxons in Aix: it costs money to join the group (not much at all) but you are put into contact with Aixois who need English tutors for their children, help around the house, baby-sitters, etc. Other programs may have absolutely no opportunities like this but for you Francophiles, students can make a little money here every week!

Although these suggestions will not pay for all of your expenses while abroad, they definitely help lower the living costs. While spending a year abroad is probably best for learning about the culture in which you live, any time abroad will be time well spent. Even if you only feel comfortable spending money for a summer program, do it! This is your one sure opportunity to study out of the country before you continue on to bigger (and hopefully better!) things. Take advantage of all the opportunities I.U. offers! And don’t forget – it is possible to finance your time out-of-country. It may be more stressful with less money, but you will never regret the experience.

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