{"id":15138,"date":"2025-05-01T10:25:00","date_gmt":"2025-05-01T09:25:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.york.ac.uk\/student-voices\/?p=15138"},"modified":"2025-09-03T14:20:07","modified_gmt":"2025-09-03T13:20:07","slug":"international-student-budgeting","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.york.ac.uk\/student-voices\/2025\/05\/01\/international-student-budgeting\/","title":{"rendered":"How to manage your money as an international student"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

A frequently asked question when people start considering studying abroad is, \u201cHow much will that cost?\u201d. The currency differences between Indonesian Rupiah (where I\u2019m from) and the British Pound are significant. A week\u2019s worth of groceries in the UK could cover a month\u2019s worth back home, and a single meal out could cost as much as an entire weekend\u2019s worth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite how intimidating that may sound, don\u2019t worry! Studying in the UK isn\u2019t as unaffordable as it might seem. With proper budgeting, smart spending, and making use of student discounts, you can manage your money well and still enjoy your university experience without constantly stressing about finances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Budgeting: planning for financial stability<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Example<\/a>
My budgeting planner<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

I only started budgeting properly in recent months, and I wish I had done it sooner. Planning out my expenses each month helps me keep track of my spending and prevents me from making impulsive purchases\u2014something I really struggled with in my first year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I found myself a cute budget template and customised it to fit my needs. Now that I\u2019m actively saving money, I always refer to my budget before making plans. If multiple friends invite me out, I make sure it aligns with my financial plan. Prioritising certain expenses helps me stay on track and avoid slipping back into reckless spending habits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

That being said, unexpected expenses are inevitable, so I always set aside money for emergencies. While it’s important to be mindful of your budget, remember that university life isn\u2019t just about surviving, it\u2019s about experiencing. Money will come back, but certain experiences may not. So be realistic with your budget. Treat yourself once in a while \u2014 a coffee after a tough exam, a meal out with friends, or a small reward for finishing an assignment. The key is balance!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Groceries: shopping smart to save more<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Supermarket<\/a>
my weekly shopping at morrisons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

I usually spend around \u00a325 a week on groceries, and cooking at home has saved me a lot of money. A single Pad Thai in town could cost \u00a313, but for the same price, I could make a whole week\u2019s worth at home!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the years, I\u2019ve explored different supermarkets to find the best prices, and right now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n