Yesterday, I came across a report called "Prices and Earnings 2009"
. According to this report, 8 out of the 10 most costly cities in the world (or at least, compared for the purposes of the report), are located in Europe. There are other reports with the same results: cities in Europe tend to rank high in terms of prices. Is Europe really that costly for students?
As a student in Europe, you have many resources to live much cheaply than the price level as shown on those reports. For example, you can use your student card to purchase products or services, visit cultural centers and even travel around Europe at a very affordable price. Even though accommodation is usually one of the items that takes a great portion of your budget, you can always share an apartment or accept the affordable accommodation option offered by your university or college.
What is the cost of living in each country?
When applying for a residence permit in Europe, you will be asked to prove you meet the minimum subsistence requirement. The minimum subsistence requirement varies depending on the country and it gives you an idea of the cost of living in that country. For your convenience, we have gathered information about the minimum subsistence requirement in each country. Just browse to the country of your interest and look for the menu item called "Residence permit".
An average student monthly budget in Europe
The prices I show you below may vary depending on the city and your life style, but I belive they give you a good idea on how much it costs for a student to live in Europe:
- Accommodation (could be a room in a shared apartment or a room in your university/college campus; including charges): 300 - 800 EUR
- Telephone / internet (sometimes the Internet connection is included in the rent for the accommodation): 30 - 40 EUR
- Food: 150 - 250 EUR
- Clothing: 40 - 80 EUR
- Hygiene: 40 - 70 EUR
- Course literature, photocopies, and other course material: 20 - 70 EUR
- Local transportation (monthly card): 30 - 80 EUR
- Leisure (movies, museums, excursions): 50 - 100 EUR
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Total: 660 - 1,490 EUR
Apart from the monthly budget, you also have to consider the cost of your insurance plan and the amount of tuition fees mainly if you are a non-EU student.
Don't be discouraged by the reports saying European cities are pricey. Thousands of international students choose to study in Europe every year.
Welcome to Europe!
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