If you are in need of feeding your sense of wanderlust and are also wanting to study another language or just need some extra credits this summer, then why not take the opportunity to study abroad? I know what you are thinking, how am I supposed to afford a trip like that? Believe me, I thought the same thing as I started searching for different programs. Like me, you most likely are getting frustrated and are becoming disappointed as you find all of these glorious study abroad programs that you have been dreaming, that are ridiculously over priced. Well I have learned out of speaking to different study abroad advisers as well as doing some research that there are plenty of ways for you to fund your program, so don’t feel discouraged just yet. Without help from others, I wouldn’t be going to Spain this summer.
Now one easy way you can earn money for your trip is simply by applying to scholarships! I know you’ve probably heard this many of times from other people, but it really does help to do this! I know many scholarships seems to have different tedious parts to their application that seem unnecessary, but just keep in mind that your effort may pay off in the long run. For example, by simply taking the time to write an essay on why I wanted to participate in my study abroad program I was able to earn a scholarship. Although it won’t cover all of my cost, it still helps no matter what. Take it from me, even if it is a $100 scholarship or a $5,000 go for it! That money could cover at least one of your text book fees for your program or maybe even your full tuition.
Another way that you can earn some extra cash is by simply writing letters and asking friends and family if they would be generous enough to donate for your trip. I understand if you feel uncomfortable doing this, because I personally feel guilty doing this at times. Instead of asking them up front, maybe ask if you could do something in return. From babysitting to car washing, you could earn some extra cash by simply working and helping others in your community. Although it is the old fashioned way, it definitely gets the job done.
If you aren’t interested in getting your hands dirty and working yourself, put together a fundraiser that allows you to sell money. For example, find a product that you know interests people in your community and invite them to your party, so that you can earn some money. I have even heard of people making a lot of food and selling it at fundraising events to earn some extra cash. You could even host a big dinner party this and sell tickets to your dinner. Go to your local church or check out different venues to see if they would be generous enough to let you host something like this to fund your program. You could even have some entertainment at this event, see if some local bands could possibly play at your fundraising party. You don’t even have to have a band play, just think of fun little ideas to get your community interested in donating money.
Now I know this doesn’t fit well on my fundraising list, but a way you could save some money is by starting from the very beginning, before you even choose a program! You can save money by simply researching to see what programs give you the best bang for your buck! Don’t just pick a program because its the first one you saw and you are in love with it, make sure to check out the competition too. Some pretty affordable and great reviewed program providers are API (Which is who I am going through by the way!), ISEP, and IES! Definitely consult with your study abroad advisers at your school to get their thoughts on these programs, but I have only heard good things about that. I know I am not an expert on all things study abroad, but I have put many hours into researching different programs and these are by far my favorite and most affordable.
Now one easy way you can earn money for your trip is simply by applying to scholarships! I know you’ve probably heard this many of times from other people, but it really does help to do this! I know many scholarships seems to have different tedious parts to their application that seem unnecessary, but just keep in mind that your effort may pay off in the long run. For example, by simply taking the time to write an essay on why I wanted to participate in my study abroad program I was able to earn a scholarship. Although it won’t cover all of my cost, it still helps no matter what. Take it from me, even if it is a $100 scholarship or a $5,000 go for it! That money could cover at least one of your text book fees for your program or maybe even your full tuition.
Another way that you can earn some extra cash is by simply writing letters and asking friends and family if they would be generous enough to donate for your trip. I understand if you feel uncomfortable doing this, because I personally feel guilty doing this at times. Instead of asking them up front, maybe ask if you could do something in return. From babysitting to car washing, you could earn some extra cash by simply working and helping others in your community. Although it is the old fashioned way, it definitely gets the job done.
If you aren’t interested in getting your hands dirty and working yourself, put together a fundraiser that allows you to sell money. For example, find a product that you know interests people in your community and invite them to your party, so that you can earn some money. I have even heard of people making a lot of food and selling it at fundraising events to earn some extra cash. You could even host a big dinner party this and sell tickets to your dinner. Go to your local church or check out different venues to see if they would be generous enough to let you host something like this to fund your program. You could even have some entertainment at this event, see if some local bands could possibly play at your fundraising party. You don’t even have to have a band play, just think of fun little ideas to get your community interested in donating money.
Now I know this doesn’t fit well on my fundraising list, but a way you could save some money is by starting from the very beginning, before you even choose a program! You can save money by simply researching to see what programs give you the best bang for your buck! Don’t just pick a program because its the first one you saw and you are in love with it, make sure to check out the competition too. Some pretty affordable and great reviewed program providers are API (Which is who I am going through by the way!), ISEP, and IES! Definitely consult with your study abroad advisers at your school to get their thoughts on these programs, but I have only heard good things about that. I know I am not an expert on all things study abroad, but I have put many hours into researching different programs and these are by far my favorite and most affordable.