How To Study Abroad For Free: A Complete Guide

Studying abroad is a great way to not only earn a university degree but also to face countless opportunities and meaningful experiences you wouldn't have access to otherwise. However, it's no secret that studying abroad can be very expensive. Aside from the extra fee for the international student tuition fees, you'll also need to spare some money for housing, visa, as well as health insurance. By taking all these into account, the cost of studying abroad can add up quickly. Luckily, there are numerous ways how to study abroad for free! Let's find it all here.  

Seek out financial aid

Similar to scholarships, financial aid is usually offered by the government, organizations, as well as local institutions. 

One of the ways to study abroad for free is through the Indonesia Endowment Funds for Education (LPDP), which is a grant by the Ministry of Finance for Indonesian students who want to study abroad for free. 

Only Master's and Doctorate programs are eligible for this scholarship program. For the LPDP Master's programs, the maximum duration of study is two years, while the maximum duration of study for the LPDP Doctorate programs is four years. Moreover, if the time period is exceeded, a penalty can be imposed on the holder of the scholarship.

What is covered by the Indonesia Endowment Funds for Education (LPDP)? Here are several things that you can get:

• Tuition fees
• Admission fees
• Travel expenses
• Visa / Residence Permit application 
• Health insurance
• Living costs

One of the requirements of the Indonesia Endowment Funds for Education (LPDP) is proof of English proficiency. Here are several English proficiency tests that you can use when applying for the Indonesia Endowment Funds for Education (LPDP):

• TOEFL iBT
• PTE Academic
• IELTS

For more info about the Indonesia Endowment Funds for Education (LPDP), check out here!

Check out university scholarships

Another way how to study abroad for free is through the scholarships offered by universities. 

You will get a university scholarship based on your financial situation, academic performance, or other factors. Furthermore, most scholarships cover tuition fees in their entirety or partially, with some being renewable up to your duration of the study if you meet the minimum requirements. In addition, some scholarships will cover all of the costs associated with attending university—including accommodation, travel expenses, and health insurance. 

There are many different types of scholarships by universities: some focus on specific areas of study (such as engineering), or some may offer athletic scholarships, while others are open to any student who meets the criteria.

The application process typically involves submitting your academic transcript, a personal statement, as well as letters of recommendation. 

The best way to find out about the scholarships offered is by checking through the website of the university of your choice. 

Earn while you learn

You can also study abroad for cheaper by working part-time alongside your studies. While your job is unlikely to cover all of your study abroad expenses, it will ease some of the financial burdens of studying abroad.

You can usually find employment on university campuses or outside the campus. You can check with your career center or student union to find out what types of jobs are available, how to apply for them, and what qualifications you need to meet before applying. 

From positions in the library, cafeteria, or bookstore, you'll usually find something that suits your skill set and interests. If you're not looking for an on-campus job, there are usually a lot of opportunities in the surrounding areas as well. Some of the jobs often involve evening work, making it easier to fit around your daytime studies.

Aside from earning extra money, all the work experience you garner will help you develop professional skills that will be helpful once you're heading towards your career. 

Whichever way you choose to try to study abroad for free, taking full advantage of the opportunities available to you is the best way of reducing our financial burden while also maximizing your study abroad experience. With some research and planning, you'll be on your way to study in your dream destination!

It's never too early to begin the search for scholarships. Little did you know, scholarship doesn't only give you a cost benefit, but also could help you for your future prospects.

Download “University Preparation Guidebook: Scholarship Edition” Guidebook to find out all the things you need to know before applying for scholarships. It's FREE, download here.

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