Student cost of living calculator

Plan the real cost of a degree abroad. Enter local prices for the city you're considering and we'll total a year and the whole degree, including tuition and health cover.

Currency

Months living there per year

Degree length (years)

Tuition per year

Rent / month

Bills / month

Groceries / month

Transport / month

Phone / month

Social / month

Health cover / year

Visa & flights / year

Proof of funds for a student visa

Each country asks you to show you can pay tuition and living costs: the UK's Student visa, Canada's study permit, Australia's Student visa (subclass 500) and the US F-1 (your school lists costs on the I-20). The required amounts change, so check the official immigration site for the current figure before you apply.

Don't forget

Health cover: the UK charges the Immigration Health Surcharge, Australia requires OSHC, and most US colleges require their own insurance plan.
Deposits: rent deposits and tuition deposits are often due before you arrive.
Exchange rates: build in a buffer of 5–10%.

Frequently asked questions

Which country is cheapest to study in?

It depends on the city and course. Degree length matters: a 3-year UK degree can cost less overall than a 4-year US or Canadian degree even with higher yearly fees.

Should I count 9 or 12 months of rent?

Count the months on your lease. Many private leases in the UK, Canada and Australia are 12 months.

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