As a first-generation study abroad student on financial aid, the idea of studying abroad initially felt intimidating. I couldn’t help but notice that the concerns weighing on me—like figuring out how to afford the experience, applying for scholarships, saving enough money and sticking to a budget—didn’t seem to trouble many of my peers to the same extent. Worrying about money is always stressful, and it’s easy to feel disheartened when comparing your situation to others who might not face the same challenges.
Despite this, traveling abroad has always been a dream of mine. Growing up in a small, rural town along Maine’s coast and attending college in Lewiston, Maine, my exposure to the wider world has been limited. I’ve always wanted to live and explore beyond the boundaries of my close-knit Maine communities. Although the process felt overwhelming at first, I knew that studying abroad was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity I couldn’t let slip away. I firmly believe that being on financial aid should never hold anyone back from chasing their dreams or exploring the world! So, if you’re a fellow financial aid student wondering how to navigate the study abroad process, here are some tips that will hopefully help to make it happen.
- Utilize Your College’s Resources
One of the most important steps to making study abroad affordable is doing your homework early and thoroughly. Before embarking on my journey, I spent a lot of time researching ways to make the experience financially feasible. I scheduled meetings with my study abroad advisor to explore program options that fit my financial situation. Your advisor is there to guide you, so don’t hesitate to ask specific questions about costs, scholarships, and other financial considerations. I also attended every financial aid workshop offered by my college. Yes, these sessions might seem tedious, but they’re incredibly valuable. They provide essential information about funding opportunities, budgeting strategies, and how financial aid packages transfer to study abroad programs. (Take notes during these workshops—you’ll thank yourself later!)
- Learn From Those Who’ve Gone Before You
I sought out student study abroad advisors who were also on financial aid and asked them about their experiences. Their advice was gold. As students who had already navigated the process, they shared practical tips, strategies, and personal anecdotes that gave me a clearer picture of what to expect.
- Understand Your Financial Aid Package
It is important to be familiar with how your existing financial aid will apply to study abroad. At many colleges, your financial aid package can be used to cover program costs, but the specifics can vary. Ask questions like:
- Will my scholarships and grants transfer?
- Are there additional study abroad-specific funds available?
- Are there any extra fees I should plan for, like housing or travel costs?
- Will my work-study transfer?
- Choose Programs with Affordability in Mind
Not all study abroad programs are created equal when it comes to costs. Some programs are more inclusive of scholarships, housing, and meal plans than others. Consider these factors when selecting a program to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Furthermore, some countries or regions are more affordable than others. For example, studying in Southeast Asia or Latin America may cost significantly less than Western Europe, while still offering incredible cultural experiences. You should be looking into all of this before you make your decision to study abroad, where you’ll study, and what program you’ll go through.
One of the main reasons I chose to study abroad with IES Abroad was its commitment to making study abroad accessible through scholarships. In addition to choosing IES for its scholarship offerings, I carefully considered the cost of living when deciding where to study. I ultimately chose Siena, Italy, over larger cities like Rome or Florence because of Siena’s more affordable lifestyle. The cost of housing, food, and everyday expenses is significantly lower in Siena, which made it a more practical choice for my budget. This will allow me to stretch my funds further while still experiencing the rich cultural and historical charm of Italy.
- Explore External Scholarships
After getting familiar with your financial aid package and researching different programs, it’s essential to look into scholarships offered by external organizations. These scholarships can significantly ease financial burdens and are often tailored to support students with demonstrated financial need.
- Be Mindful With Your Money!
While my financial aid package from my school and IES Abroad is generous, it only covers tuition and doesn’t account for day-to-day expenses. This makes it essential to be intentional about saving and sticking to a budget while abroad. (Look at the Gilman Scholarship, Fund For Education Abroad, Boren Awards, Diversity Abroad, and many others!)
To prepare, I worked a full-time summer job and held three part-time positions during the school year to build up savings. These funds will go toward expenses such as groceries, dining out, transportation, clothes, and other personal spending while living in Italy.
To ensure I manage my money wisely, I enlisted ChatGPT’s help to create a detailed budget. It considers the cost of living in Siena, the amount I’ve saved, and strategies to make the most of my study abroad experience while avoiding unnecessary financial stress. By planning ahead, I will hopefully be able to enjoy my time abroad without constantly worrying about money.
Although I haven’t yet departed for my study abroad trip, all the research and preparation I’ve done has given me confidence and peace of mind as a financial aid student ready to take on this adventure. Although the process can sometimes feel overwhelming, it is entirely possible with careful planning and the right resources. Every step—from researching programs to creating a budget—has been worth it, knowing that I’ll soon have the opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture, broaden my perspectives, and chase a lifelong dream. If you’re facing similar challenges, remember that your financial situation doesn’t have to limit your ability to explore the world!
Gail Curtis
Hi! I’m Gail from Rockport, ME, a small, rural town on the coast. Growing up, I fell in love with nature—mountains, woods, and the ocean. As an English major, I’m also passionate about reading and writing, which let me explore the world in new ways!
