It is advisable to travel with a small amount of U.S. dollars and a slightly larger amount of host country currency on the journey over. Check the Welcome Booklet from your specific host country, for additional recommendations.
Money management while you are abroad is a very personal decision and is dependent on resources and options in your host country. Materials sent to you by your host country may have useful tips. AFS Returnees and your host family are other excellent resources to consult for advice about money management.
Most students spend between $100-$300 per month, depending on the costs of expenses in the host country/community. Please remember that costs not covered by your program fee such as, personal items, a school uniform, if applicable, going out to a concert with friends, etc., are your responsibility. You should discuss your budget and spending money with your parents prior to program departure so that you know what spending money is available to you during your program.
General Money Tips
- Make a budget of best estimates before you leave (see worksheet below)
- Establish a means of transferring money if needed (debit account, money wire transfer, etc.)
- Be aware of currency exchange rates and foreign transaction fees on credit/debit cards
- Avoid traveling with large amounts of cash
- Find out if your U.S. bank has an agreement with any banks in your host country as ATM withdrawal fees may be reduced or waived and you may potentially have easier access to money
Spending Money on Short Programs
Your program tuition includes room and board. For dorm programs this means that AFS-USA provides you with a bedroom and meals, including meals eaten during activities and excursions off-campus or outside of the dining hall.
AFS recommends you have access to around USD $200 for personal expenses for a short program. This should cover expenses like toiletries, optional snacks, and gifts. Traveling with cash is risky because if it is lost or stolen, there is no way to recover it so plan carefully how you travel with money.
Remember: It is much more common these days for students to use debit cards or even credit cards. We recommend having access to a debit or credit card during your program. Be sure to inform your bank(s) that you will be traveling internationally.
Monthly Budgeting Worksheet
Knowing what you typically spend each month in the U.S. might help you calculate your needs abroad. We encourage you to research the local cost of items in your host country/community, consult with your host family and then complete the below linked budgeting worksheet: