Whether or not you expect to receive financial aid and scholarships, you can take advantage of many other opportunities to cover your anticipated study abroad costs. The information below provides tips and recommendations on how to save up for global learning, be a wiser spender while abroad or away, and use special offers to pay for your experience.
Side Hustle for Study Abroad or Away
Check out the Developing Your Side Hustle for Study Abroad video produced by UC Merced.
Fundraising
Fundraising can be a very effective way to save up for global learning programs.
Learn more
One way to raise funds is through crowdfunding, where you raise small amounts of money from a large number of people via the internet. Donors could be both people you know and strangers who are persuaded by your campaign. Nowadays, there are many platforms you can use. Do some research to find the one that suits you best. For example, Fund My Travel is entirely travel-focused!
How To Crowdfund
See our How to Crowdfund for Study Abroad/Away Guide.
Other successful ideas for study abroad/away fundraising:
Host Institution Scholarships
Your host institution may have scholarships for international students.
If your program takes place at a university, inquire with your host institution’s international office or the academic department you’ll be studying at to find out if there are any funding opportunities.
Working Abroad or Away
In some cases, you may be able to work part-time while abroad.
Some countries, depending on visa restrictions, allow international students to earn money in a part-time job. See UCEAP’s Work Abroad resource as a starting point. Then, research your host country’s consulate or embassy to confirm details.
Keep in mind that you should give yourself enough time to complete your coursework and enjoy your study abroad/away experience. Many students use their free time while studying abroad or away for independent travel, entertainment, and spending time with new friends.
Most Affordable Programs
Depending on the program type, location, and other nuanced factors, some programs are more affordable than others. See our list of Most Affordable Programs.
UCEAP Extended Payment Plan
UCEAP offers an Extended Payment Plan (EPP) that allows students to pay for their fees over an extended period of time. EPP is an interest-free loan exclusively for UCEAP programs. For more information and to sign up, email studentfinance@uceap.universityofcalifornia.edu
Live Abroad for Less
Want to know how you can save money while abroad? See our How to Live Abroad for Less guide.