What costs should I include when comparing an international business course with compulsory study abroad against one without it?
Compare the full cost of the degree, not just tuition. For the compulsory study-abroad option, include any additional tuition or programme fees, flights and local transport, visas, insurance, accommodation, food, daily living costs, currency changes, health requirements, equipment and possible costs of keeping accommodation at home. Also consider funding, refundable deposits, lost income and the value of time away from work.
Key points
- Check whether overseas study is included in the advertised tuition or charged separately, and whether you still pay home-campus fees.
- Compare the expected total for each year and for the whole course, including one-off travel and setup costs.
- Ask whether scholarships, grants, loans or fee waivers apply, and whether funding covers travel and living expenses.
- A course without compulsory travel may still involve optional study trips, placements or other extra charges.
Things to check
- Amounts depend on the university, destination, provider, academic year and your circumstances, so confirm fee schedules and funding terms in official course information.
- If the overseas period replaces study at home, some home-based costs may fall, while rent, contracts or other commitments may continue.