Understanding the real cost of living abroad helps you budget with confidence and avoid surprises. This guide breaks down the main expenses international students face.
## Weekly rent
Rent is your biggest weekly expense. Prices vary widely by country, city and room type:
- **New Zealand**: NZD 250–450/week (student residences often higher) - **Australia**: AUD 300–550/week - **Canada**: CAD 400–900/month (shared rooms lower) - **United Kingdom**: GBP 150–350/week - **Singapore**: SGD 600–1,200/month
Always check whether the price is per week or per month — it varies by country.
## Bills: what's usually included
Many student residences and some private rentals include bills in the rent. Check whether your rent covers:
- Electricity - Hot water - Cold water - Internet
If bills are not included, budget an extra **NZD 30–60/week** (or local equivalent) on top of rent.
## Bond and deposits
A bond or deposit is money held by the landlord or a government body as security. It is typically:
- **2–4 weeks of rent** upfront - Refundable at the end of your lease if the property is left in good condition - Held by an independent tenancy service in countries like New Zealand and Australia
Never pay a bond in cash to an individual without a receipt or contract.
## Groceries and food
Weekly groceries usually cost between:
- **NZD 80–150/week** (cooking at home) - More if you eat out frequently
Tips to save:
- Shop at local markets and budget supermarkets - Cook in bulk and meal-prep - Share groceries with flatmates
## Transport
- **Public transport**: student discounts are usually available — get a student concession card - **Walking/cycling**: free and healthy for shorter distances - **Monthly passes**: often cheaper than single fares
Budget roughly **NZD 30–60/week** for transport.
## Health insurance
Most countries require international students to have health insurance:
- It may be included in your student visa fee (e.g. New Zealand) - Or you'll need to arrange it separately - Budget **NZD 200–600/year** depending on the country
## Other regular costs
- Mobile plan: NZD 15–30/month - Internet (if not included): NZD 20–40/month - Course materials and textbooks - Entertainment and social activities
## Budgeting tips
1. **Track everything** for your first month — you'll see where your money goes 2. **Set a weekly limit** and stick to it 3. **Build an emergency fund** of at least one month's expenses 4. **Use student discounts** everywhere — transport, food, software, entertainment 5. **Avoid impulse spending** — wait 24 hours before non-essential purchases
## Sample weekly budget (New Zealand)
| Expense | Approx. cost (NZD) | | --- | --- | | Rent (shared room) | 280 | | Groceries | 100 | | Transport | 40 | | Bills (if not included) | 40 | | Phone & internet | 20 | | Personal/social | 50 | | **Total** | **~530** |
Your numbers will differ, but this gives you a realistic starting point.
## Final tip
Living costs can feel high at first, but with a clear budget and smart habits, student life abroad is very manageable. Plan ahead, track your spending, and don't be afraid to ask for advice.
