Studying abroad sounds expensive, but with careful planning it can be surprisingly affordable — and sometimes even cheaper than a semester at home. Here is how students can make it work on a tight budget.

• Exchange programs first: Partner-university exchanges usually let you pay your home tuition while studying overseas. This alone can cut costs by half or more.
• Scholarships and grants: Apply for dedicated study-abroad scholarships from your university, government programs, and organizations like the Fulbright Commission. Deadlines are often a year ahead.
• Choose affordable destinations: Cities in Portugal, Poland, Mexico, and Malaysia offer excellent universities at a fraction of the cost of London or New York.
• Housing and food hacks: Live in university dorms, cook at home, use student meal plans, and shop at local markets instead of tourist supermarkets.
• Work while abroad: Many student visas allow part-time work (typically 10-20 hours a week), which can cover rent and groceries.

The verdict: with exchanges, scholarships, and a smart destination choice, studying abroad is within reach for most students — the key is starting the planning at least a year in advance.