What factors should students consider beyond university and tuition fees?

Absolutely, when planning to study abroad, it’s crucial to consider factors beyond just the university and tuition fees. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you evaluate all important aspects:

• Accommodation: On-campus vs. off-campus, shared apartments, or homestays can vary widely in cost.
• Daily Expenses: Food, transportation, utilities, mobile/internet bills, and personal expenses.
• Location: Living costs differ substantially between cities (e.g., London vs. smaller UK towns, Sydney vs. regional Australia).

• Living Expenses Proof: E.g., for the UK (2026 update):
• London: £1,529/month (Total: £13,761 for 9 months)
• Outside London: £1,171/month (Total: £10,539 for 9 months)
• Blocked Account (Germany): €11,904 for one year.
• Australia: AUD 29,710/year for living expenses (2025).
• New Zealand: NZD $20,000/year.

• Availability: Check for merit-based, need-based, or country-specific scholarships.
• Coverage: Some scholarships only cover tuition, others may include living expenses.

• Allowed Hours: Varies by country (e.g., 20 hours/week during term in most destinations).
• Minimum Wage & Job Availability: Impacts your ability to support living expenses.

• Mandatory Insurance: Many countries require international students to have health insurance.
• Healthcare Costs: Understand what’s covered and potential out-of-pocket expenses.

• PSW (Post-Study Work) Visa:
• UK: Up to 18 months for Bachelor’s/Master’s, 3 years for PhD.
• Australia, Canada, and others have similar schemes.
• Pathways to Permanent Residency: Some countries offer clear routes, others do not.

• Personal Safety: Research the city/country’s safety index.
• Cultural Fit: Language, food, weather, and lifestyle.

• Student Services: Access to career counseling, mental health services, and academic support.
• Clubs & Societies: Helps with networking and settling in.

• Internship & Placement Opportunities: Links with employers and job fairs.
• Industry Connections: Especially important for fields like engineering, IT, or business.

• Proximity to Home Country: Flight frequency and cost.
• Transport Infrastructure: Local connectivity within the city/country.

Pollster Education offers 100% free personalized consultations to help you and your family understand all these factors, not just university and tuition fees. Our expert counselors guide you through:

• Choosing the right country, course, and university
• Budget planning and scholarship search
• Visa application, including financial documentation
• Pre-departure orientation and settling-in support