What is the cost of studying abroad for Indian students?

Studying abroad isn't just about books and lectures – it's a life-changing adventure. Imagine exploring vibrant cities, making friends with people from around the world, and embracing new cultures. It's a chance to grow personally and academically, with access to top-notch professors and exciting courses.

However, there are expenses that come with living and studying abroad. The foreign exchange rate itself is enough to make you consider your plans. Plus, you may be unsure of the required budget. We are here to support you every step of the way on your educational journey.

To assist you, we've outlined the common expenses you may incur while studying in popular destinations like the US, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. We hope these insights help ensure you're well-prepared for the road ahead.

Read: Can you study abroad with less money?

Important costs to consider and manage

Studying at a university overseas can be costly, with various expenses to consider. The costs also depend on the city you are going to, the university you have chosen, and the degree program you have applied to. 

Typically, you may only plan for tuition fees and accommodation costs. But there are always additional expenses to account for. These costs can add up, especially abroad. 

• Monthly bills for necessities like phone plans, TV subscriptions, Wi-Fi, and utilities can quickly mount, especially for those experiencing independent living for the first time. 
• Consider travel expenses, including commuting to campus, exploring new surroundings, food, entertainment, and travelling home during breaks. 
• University-related costs such as field trips, club memberships, and course-specific materials may arise unexpectedly. 

It's important to anticipate these costs and research the most cost-effective options. Planning and evaluating the value of these extras can assist in budgeting effectively. 

How can you manage the costs of studying abroad?

● Being financially aware and prepared is half the battle won. 

● Cut out unnecessary expenses.

● For a more affordable study abroad experience, consider various scholarships and internships offered by universities for international students.

● Research more affordable options regarding universities, accommodation, cities etc... before proceeding. 

Reach out to IDP for any assistance regarding these and more. 

What is the cost of studying in the USA?

There are no prizes for guessing the top choice for Indian students when deciding to study abroad, the United States. With the US being home to several highly-ranked universities from the Ivy League, it’s no wonder it’s one of the most sought-after destinations. Picture this. About 3,31,602 Indian students went to the US for studies during 2023-2024 [Source: The Times of India].

Note that study costs can depend on the type of course and university you choose. Typically, subjects such as humanities, education, and arts are cheaper to study than STEM subjects.  If you’re considering the US, you should know that there are two types of universities in the US that you can apply for, public and private. Public or state universities are cheaper than private ones in terms of education costs. 

Here are the indicative figures for education and living costs in the US:

What is the cost of studying in Canada?

Canada is also another excellent option for Indian students to study abroad. It also offers globally reputed universities and programs that attract international students. There were more than 1,83,310 Indian students in Canada (in 2023), and the numbers keep growing (ICEF Monitor).  

Compared to the US, it is more affordable for education and living costs.  

There are also a number of scholarships on offer to deserving students. Our website lists more than 1500 scholarships offered by Canadian universities. Again, don't forget that STEM subjects are costlier when compared to humanities or art. 

Here are the indicative figures for education and living costs in Canada:

What is the cost of studying in the UK?

The UK is another popular destination for Indian students. Again, the costs depend on various factors, such as the selected course, university, and location. For example, the cost and rules may vary depending on the country in the UK you opt for - Scotland, England, Wales, or Northern Ireland. 

The UK offers student-friendly benefits, from scholarships to post-study work visas. This makes it an attractive option for international students looking to study and further their careers in the country.

Here are the indicative figures for education and living costs in the UK:

What is the cost of studying in Ireland?

Even though Ireland may not be the top choice for Indian students opting to study abroad, it is worth looking into as an alternative to the UK or the US. 

Students from over 160 countries study in Ireland. More than 9,000 Indian students travelled to Ireland in 2024 for higher studies [Source: The PIE News]. An important aspect is that it is a highly affordable study destination. 

Ireland’s rich history and landscape is another attractive feature for international students. Moreover, the academic approach of Ireland universities is like that of British institutions, and it is the only English-speaking country in the EU. 

Here are the indicative figures for education and living costs in Ireland:

What is the cost of studying in Australia?

Australia is also quite popular for Indian students looking to study abroad. With renowned institutions, especially the Group of Eight, Australia attracts many students from across the globe. The active lifestyle and outdoor adventures that Australia offers are unparalleled, making it very attractive to young people. 

For example, Melbourne hosts a huge international community and is very liveable. It ranks 4th according to the QS Best Student Cities Rankings, 2024. Remember that the cost of studying and living in Australia varies from city to city and university.

Here are the indicative figures for education and living costs in Australia:

What is the cost of studying in New Zealand?

Considered a sibling to Australia, New Zealand is one of the most scenic places to study. It is smaller in area than Australia, with two islands and a population of just over five million, but big on opportunities. Its beautiful coastline along with plenty of outdoor activities that one can indulge in makes it a favourite destination for today’s Gen Z. New Zealand is home to almost 35,000 international students and welcomes people from all over the world.

Did you know that New Zealand is home to many top universities as well?

Here are the indicative figures for education and living costs in New Zealand:

The list above should give you a fair idea of the budget required to plan your studies abroad. Always do your due diligence, plan well, and consult experts before deciding.

Quality often comes at a cost, and choosing good universities abroad for your academic journey is no exception. University education abroad is expensive, but with planning and research, you can achieve your dreams.

Source: Numbeo.com, ICEF Monitor, Indian Ministry of External Affairs