How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?

Studying abroad provides a whole host of benefits from expanding your world view to gaining international experience, which will enhance both your resume and personal growth.

Aside from the enrichment of studying in a foreign country, it might also prove to be the more economical option. Research shows that after adjusting for inflation, the cost of a public four-year university education in the US has tripled between 1989 and 2019. Direct enrollment at an overseas institution for a semester, year, or even an entire degree has the possibility to save you some substantial cash.

In this article, we're featuring nine popular study abroad countries. Each country profile will include sample tuition costs, cost of living averages, and flight ticket estimates. These numbers are up-to-date but are intended to be used as a budgeting reference point. Your own spending habits will determine how much extra money you should set aside, depending on whether you enjoy fancy dinners, frequent travel, cooking at home or thrifty shopping.

In terms of tuition, two sets of prices will be presented: direct enrollment and third-party provider. Direct enrollment means you will be taking care of your application and transition to your new university on your own, much like you did for your home institution in the US. This option cuts out the middle man and usually results in cheaper tuition costs. Third-party providers, while pricier, tend to arrange everything for you and may even include housing and insurance.

So now let's jump right in and explore 9 of the most popular study abroad destinations. Hopefully, with this research, you'll be one step closer to making your study abroad dreams a reality!

France is a great destination for French-language students and Francophiles alike. A country known for its food, wine, and cinema, there are plenty of cultural attractions to make your time in France both educational and memorable.

Through direct enrollment, tuition costs to study abroad in France can be very affordable. Though major cities will carry higher costs, exciting locations located across the country will offer exciting and authentic experiences with a lower price tag.

Tuition for direct enrollment for a semester:

• American University of Paris: $17,046 (2020)
• Syracuse University Strasbourg Center: $26,105 (2020)
• University of Bordeaux: $3,072 per year (2020)

Tuition for a semester with a third-party provider:

• IES Abroad Paris - French Studies: $18,970 (2020)*
• Study Abroad in Grenoble with API!: $11,980 - 18,480*, depending on area of study (2020)
• AIFS Study Abroad in Paris, Sorbonne: Semester: $14,995* (2020)
• CEA Study Abroad on the French Riviera: Starting at $15,995* (2020)

*Note this particular total includes housing

While living in Paris will surely cost you a pretty penny, average living expenses across France are generally reasonable compared to the rest of Western Europe.

Source: Numbeo France

The below ticket prices are round-trip estimates from three major US airports across the country to the capital, Paris. Prices vary depending on the time of year, the destination, and the arrival airport but the following will give you a rough idea of costs for budgeting.

• New York (JFK) to Paris (CDG) - ~$480
• Chicago (ORD) to Paris (CDG) - ~$500
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Paris (CDG) - ~$470

Another hugely popular study abroad destination, it's no secret that Germany is extremely student-friendly. With low or no tuition, student discounts, and an affordable living cost all make this beautiful country a top pick.

German universities offer a wide variety of tuition-free degrees for both EU and international students. For these programs, students are only obligated to pay a small amount for fees. This payment generally includes a transportation pass. Direct enrollment could potentially save you thousands of dollars on tuition.

Tuition for direct enrollment for a semester in Germany:

• Freie Universität Berlin: $345 (2020)
• Humboldt University: $349 (2020)
• University of Hamburg: $362
• Heidelberg University: $1,658 (2020)
• University of Freiburg: $1,829 (2020)

Fees for a semester with a third-party study abroad provider:

• CIEE Program in Berlin: $19,850 (2020)
• IES Abroad in Freiburg: $19,990 (2020)
• USAC Germany: $8,725 (2020)
• API Study Abroad at The Freie Universität Berlin: $16,580 (2020)
• BCA Study Abroad: $19,183 (2020)

In the capital, Berlin, and other large cities, you will inevitably find higher rent prices. However, with the money you save on tuition, you may find it easier to make ends meet.

Source: Numbeo Germany

The below ticket prices are round-trip estimates from three major US airports across the country to the capital, Berlin. Prices vary depending on the time of year and destination and arrival airports but the following will give you a rough idea of costs for budgeting.

• New York (JFK) to Berlin (SXF) - ~$650
• Chicago (ORD) to Berlin (SXF) - ~$700
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Berlin (SXF) - ~$740

The land with the slogan of "pura vida", or pure life, is sure to relax and rejuvenate you with its natural beauty and friendly locals. Costa Rica boasts pristine beaches, forests filled with wildlife, and vibrant cities and towns. Enjoy getting to know this small Central American country in between your studies during a semester abroad.

Tuition rates can vary from as low as $6,855 at a national university to as high as $20,260 through an American university based in Costa Rica. The following third-party providers offer prices among the lowest to study abroad of all the countries on the list, making them an attractive option.

Tuition for direct enrollment for a semester:

• Valparaiso University: $20,260 (2019/2020)
• Augsburg University's Center for Global Education and Experience: $18,995 (2019/2020)
• Universidad Latinoamericana de Ciencia y Tecnología Costa Rica: $6,855 (2020)

Tuition for a semester with a third-party provider:

• ISA Study Abroad in San Jose: $9,950 (2020)
• USAC Heredia: $8,048 (2020)
• API San Jose: $9,480 - $15,480 depending on area of study (2020)

Costa Rica has a very reasonable cost of living which means your money can go far. Cutting costs by eating local or cooking at home will leave you with even more funds for travel and cultural activities.

Source: Numbeo Costa Rica

The below ticket prices are round-trip estimates from three major US airports across the country to the capital, San Jose. Prices vary depending on the time of year and destination and arrival airports but the following will give you a rough idea of costs for budgeting.

• New York (JFK) to San Jose (SJO) - ~$300
• Chicago (ORD) to San Jose (SJO) - ~$375
• Los Angeles (LAX) to San Jose (SJO) - ~$250

Spain is consistently a top study abroad destination due to its gorgeous climate and relaxed pace of life. This popular country isn't just for Spanish language students. Many programs offer courses in English for those just looking to experience the exciting culture and rich heritage.

Studying in Spain can be extremely affordable either through direct enrollment at a Spanish university or with a third-party provider. Even studying in the capital Madrid will cost you a fraction of a semester at a US university.

Tuition for direct enrollment for a semester at:

• Schiller International University Madrid: $6,445 (2020)
• Universidad of Nebrija - $4,890 (2020)
• Universidad Carlos III de Madrid - $143 per credit (2020)
• Universidad de Cadiz - $1,564 (2020)
• UCAM - Catholic University of Murcia: $51 - $217 per credit depending on area of study (2020)

Tuition for a semester with a third-party provider:

• CEA Study Abroad in Granada, Spain - $10,695 (2020)
• ISA Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain - $12,975 (2020)
• USAC Spain: San Sebastian - $11,046 - (2020)

Spain is a country where you can live well without breaking the bank. Good food and wine are cheap, whether you cook at home or eat out. While housing prices have risen in Madrid in recent years, they are still cheap compared to other major European cities. Overall, students can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in Spain when studying abroad.

Source: Numbeo Spain

The prices below are round-trip estimates from three major US airports across the country to the capital, Madrid. Prices vary depending on the time of year and destination and arrival airports but the following will give you a rough idea of costs for budgeting.

• New York (JFK) to Madrid (MAD) - ~$540
• Chicago (ORD) to Madrid (MAD) - ~$700
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Madrid (MAD) - ~$640

Japan is home to fascinating history, healthy and delicious food, and a bustling pop culture scene that is sure to wow more than just die-hard Nintendo fans. This diverse island has something for everyone from art and architecture lovers to craft beer enthusiasts.

Direct enrollment in a Japanese university has the potential to be very affordable, even in Tokyo.

Tuition for a semester through direct enrollment:

• Nanzan University: $4,390 (2020)
• Tokyo International University: $4,137 (2020)
• Kansai Gaidai University: $14,000 (2020)
• The University of Tokyo: $2,462 (2020)

Tuition for a semester through a third-party provider:

• CET Intensive Language & Culture Studies in Osaka: $21,490 (2020)
• CIEE Tokyo: $24,550 (2020)
• USAC Japan: $8,122 (2020)
• IES Tokyo: $21,900 (2020)

Higher prices for living expenses will be found in Tokyo and other major cities. However, Japan's reliable public transportation system makes living outside of the city center much easier.

Source: Numbeo Japan

The below ticket prices are round-trip estimates from three major US airports across the country to the capital, Tokyo. Prices vary depending on the time of year and destination and arrival airports but the following will give you a rough idea of costs for studying abroad in Japan.

• New York (JFK) to Tokyo (NRT) - ~$860
• Chicago (ORD) to Tokyo (NRT) - ~$825
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Tokyo (NRT) - ~$990

Foodies rejoice: Italy will give you the opportunity to experience the country's rich culinary traditions alongside your studies. Enjoy art, culture, history, and the Mediterranean lifestyle during a semester abroad in Italy.

Direct enrolment study abroad in Italy tends to be cheaper at Italian universities than American universities with campuses located in-country.

Tuition for a semester of direct enrollment study abroad:

• Loyola University Chicago Global Centers: $22,065 (2019/2020)
• John Cabot University in Rome: $12,450 for 10-17 credits (2020)
• University of Pisa: $2,710 (2019/2020)
• Syracuse University Florence Center: $31,790, includes housing with a host family, or in a student apartment (2020)

Tuition for a semester of study abroad through a third-party provider:

• CEA Study Abroad in Rome: $17,095 (2020)
• CET History of Art and Italian Studies in Siena: $19,990 (2020)
• SAI Study Abroad at NABA in Milan: $15,500, includes housing (2020)
• ISA Study Abroad in Florence: $15,950 (2020)

Living expenses while studying abroad in Italy will vary based on urban or rural locations, as well as your personal spending habits. Budget a bit extra if you plan on regularly indulging in pizzas, pasta, and gelato.

Source: Numbeo Italy

The following ticket prices are round-trip estimates from three major US airports across the country to the capital, Rome. Prices vary depending on the time of year, destination, and arrival airports but the following will give you a rough idea of pricing for your flight to Italy.

• New York (JFK) to Rome (FCO) - ~$420
• Chicago (ORD) to Rome (FCO) - ~$500
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Rome (FCO) - ~$615

England is a great study abroad destination for first time travelers. Transitioning into life in a foreign country is easier without a language barrier and will help you gain confidence in setting off on your own. World-class universities will enrich your studies while outside of the classroom, its history and natural landscapes will charm you. Explore all England has to offer!

Although tuition costs in England may be slightly higher than other countries on this list, studying in an English-speaking country will give you a wider range of courses to choose from.

Tuition for a semester of direct enrollment study abroad:

• University of Brighton: $17,463 to $18,867 per year (2020)
• Edge Hill University: $15,657 per year (2019 - 2020)
• University of Evansville Study Abroad in Harlaxton: $16,900 per semester (2019 - 2020)
• University of the Arts London: $8,676 per term (2019 - 2020)
• University of Plymouth: $1,398 per 10 credits (2019 - 2020)

Tuition for a semester of study abroad with a third-party program:

• CIEE program in England: $24,150 per term, housing included (2020)
• IES Abroad in London: $19,370 per term, housing included (2020)
• USAC England: $12,580 per term (2020)
• API Study Abroad at University of Westminster: $18,980 per term (2020)
• ISA Study Abroad in London England at King's College London: $17,450 - $22,500 per term depending on area of study, housing included (2020)

Sharing accommodation will keep living costs low. Cooking at home with roommates or cashing in on supermarket meal deals will also help you save a few pounds every month.

Source: Numbeo United Kingdom and Cost of Living in England

The ticket prices below are estimates for round-trip flights from three major US airports across the country to the capital, London. Prices vary depending on time of year and destination and arrival airports but these will give you an idea for budgeting your trip overseas.

• New York (JFK) to London (LHR) - ~$640
• Chicago (ORD) to London (LHR) - ~$600
• Los Angeles (LAX) to London (LHR) - ~$500

Friendly faces, green rolling hills, and rich cultural heritage await you in Ireland. This small but mighty island has it all: pristine beaches, towering mountains, and lively cities that make it easy to call home. While not the cheapest destination on the list, a semester in Ireland is sure to be filled with countless priceless memories.

Ireland is home to prestigious and well-respected universities that are known for delivering top-notch educations. Costs to study abroad for a semester on the Emerald Isle for as low as $5,250 depending on your area of study.

Tuition for a semester of direct enrollment study abroad:

• Trinity College Dublin: $9,918 - $19,592 depending on area of study (2019 - 2020)
• Maynooth University: $7,460 - $7,789 depending on area of study (2019 - 2020)
• University College Dublin: $5,250 - $9,947 depending on area of study (2020 - 2021)
• University College Cork: $7,737 (2020)
• Massey University: $8,200 (2020)

Tuition for a semester of study abroad through a third-party provider:

• USAC Cork: $5,780 (Summer 2020)
• API Galway: $16,980 (2020)
• CEA Study in Dublin: $16,495 (2020)
• CISAbroad Limerick: $15,890 (2020)

Rent prices across the country have risen dramatically in recent years and will constitute a sizable part of your budget, especially in Dublin.

Source: Numbeo Ireland

The below ticket prices are round-trip estimates from three major US airports across the country to the capital, Dublin. Prices vary depending on the time of year and destination and arrival airports but the following will give you a rough idea of costs for budgeting.

• New York (JFK) to Dublin (DUB) - ~$650
• Chicago (ORD) to Dublin (DUB) - ~$590
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Dublin (DUB) - ~$700

One of the world's oldest civilizations, China is where ancient history meets modern-day innovation. Whether you're a business student or simply a culture enthusiast, you'll find many fascinating things to explore across this vast country.

Tuition costs in China are low, whether you choose to stay for a semester or an entire year. Students can study in either Chinese or English, depending on their degree plan.

Tuition for a semester of direct enrollment study abroad:

• Sichuan University: $1,248/semester (2019 - 2020)
• University of Nottingham in Ningbo: $7,847 (one semester, 2020)
• Study Abroad Programs with Shanghai Jiao Tong University: $3,538/year (2019 - 2020)
• Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University: $12,556/year (2019-20)

Tuition for a semester of study abroad through a third-party provider:

• USAC China: Chengdu: $5,080 (2020)
• IFSA/Alliance: Public Health Policy and Practice: $16,150
• ISA Study Abroad in Shanghai, China: $11,950* (2019-20)

*Housing included

Life in China has the potential to be very affordable with the right budgeting.

Source: Numbeo China

The below ticket prices are round-trip estimates from three major US airports across the country to the capital, Beijing. Prices vary depending on the time of year and destination and arrival airports but the following will give you a rough idea of costs for budgeting.

• New York (JFK) to Beijing (PEK) - ~$800
• Chicago (ORD) to Beijing (PEK) - ~$920
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Beijing (PEK) - ~$650

I highly recommend fitting study abroad into your degree plan. As an undergraduate, I spent one month in Spain for a summer study abroad and the only thing I regret is that I didn't stay longer.

As this article shows, spending a semester overseas is possible and well within your reach. With proper planning, you too can be on your way to one of these exciting countries and one of the best experiences of your life!