• Home
• Before You Apply
• Program Costs

Program Costs

How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?

Are you worried about paying for your study abroad trip? We've got you covered with all the information you need to make a well-informed decision. Remember that study abroad expenses can vary greatly between programs. For the most detailed budget and fee information be sure to look at each program's "Costs and Financial Aid" tab in iAbroad.

Consider more than just the total price when thinking about your study abroad program. Shorter programs are often less expensive than longer programs, but you will have to pay the same airfare and passport fees. That's why we suggest you look at not only the total cost, but consider the average per-day costs and per-credit-hour costs as well.

Average Program Prices

Semester Exchange Programs:

Semester exchange programs let you live and learn abroad by enrolling in local universities in destinations like the U.K., Canada, Germany, or Japan. Program lengths range from three to five months. Compare the estimated costs of these programs with IUI's most recent cost of attendance estimates.

	Semester Abroad	Semester Living On-Campus
Estimated Total Price	$13,841	$12,035
Estimated Price Per Day	$124	$107
Estimated Price Per Credit-Hour*	$923	$802

*Based on a 15 credit-hour schedule

Spring Break Programs:

Spring Break programs let you turn your Spring Break into a credit-bearing overseas experience. Programs offer one to three credit-hours and last between five to ten days.

Summer Programs:

Continue your studies over the Summer in an international destination with a Summer program. Summer programs usually offer three credit-hours and can last anywhere from one week to over a month.

How do Study Abroad Fees Work?

• Program fees are mandatory fees charged to your bursar account that cover things like room & board, administrative fees, and international health insurance.
• Tuition fees are the per-credit-hour fees charged to your bursar account to pay for your classes. Tuition fees for Study Abroad classes are the same as on-campus classes and follows the same banded-tuition policy.
• Personal expenses include any payment you make that doesn't go to IUI. Things like international airfare, extra meals, in-country transportation, and passport/visa fees are all personal expenses.

What can affect the cost of a study abroad program?

We know you want to pick the right program for your budget. That's why we've included these useful tips for getting a better idea of what a program will cost and how to minimize your own expenses.

• Consider Studying in a Smaller City or Town

  While places like London have a lot to offer, the costs of living there are going to be higher than smaller cities or towns in the same country. It is similar to thinking about the cost of living in New York City versus Indianapolis.

• Choose a Country with a Favorable Exchange Rate

  The cost of day-to-day expenses in your destination country is directly affected by the local currency’s exchange rate with the US dollar. Choosing a country with a favorable exchange rate can make your personal expenses much cheaper.

• Look at Exchange Programs

  Program design can affect costs. Exchange programs are set up so that you pay the same IUI tuition as if you were studying on campus. Some programs work with educational organizations to manage the experience abroad. Often times these kinds of program are more expensive, in exchange for providing you with a dedicated staff who look after your comfort and ensure an easy transition.

• Cut Down on Airfare Costs

  Airfare to your program destination can vary greatly—by over $1000. You may want to look into the cost of airfare to the different locations you are considering. Always shop around for the best deals and think about whether it’s feasible for you to fly into or out of a different airport to avoid connecting flights. Don’t let yourself risk your own wellbeing for a cheaper price, however. You don’t want to end up in an empty airport with an overnight layover.

• Use Banded Tuition to Your Advantage

  Understand banded-tuition and If you can, use it to your advantage. You will pay the same tuition for 12 credits as you will for 18 credits, which means you might be able to add a Spring Break program to your academic schedule with no additional tuition fees! Some Summer programs have an academic portion that takes place within the Spring semester, too. Don’t forget to ask us about these Spring-Summer programs.

• Cut Back on Spending

  Your personal expenses make up a large percentage of your total expected fees. You can cut down on your study abroad personal expenses in most of the same ways you can cut down on your expenses right now. Don't be afraid to buy food, groceries and other necessities from local grocery stores instead of international chains you might recognize. You can also take a look at our Tips for Saving Money for more helpful ideas.

• Use Public Transportation

  You can’t bring your car with you when you study abroad, and taking ubers or taxis consistently will add up. Don’t be afraid to use public transportation. Outside of the United States, public transportation is much more commonplace and widely-used. Especially in urban areas, public transportation options are typically cheap and effective.

• Plan Your Budget in Advance

  Plan your study abroad budget with the IU Office of Overseas Study's Budget Worksheet so you can get an estimate of just how much you'll need to save.

While there are real costs associated with study abroad, we encourage you to commit to participating in this life changing experience. It really is an investment that you can make in your personal, academic and professional future.

The above price estimates are averages taken from expected program expenses for Academic Year 2019-2020. Updated April 2021.