Budgeting Tips for International Students Living in Indonesia
Embarking on a journey as an international student in Indonesia can be an exciting adventure!
In this article, Arish Madataly, a Madagascar native pursuing a Bachelor’s in Computer Science in Indonesia, navigate the financial aspects of studying abroad.
This guide is tailored for international students, especially those benefiting from scholarships like the BINUS World Class Scholarship (BWCS). Managing your finances is essential to maximize scholarship advantages and achieving financial stability! In addition, proper budgeting makes it easier to maintain track of spending habits, which is why a well-defined budget serves as a financial checkpoint to prevent impulsive purchases and unnecessary expenses.
Before you start, let’s begin by understanding the cost of living
- Accommodation
As an international student, especially if you are on scholarship, your accommodation will be provided at BINUS Square Hall of Residence (BSQ), with the cost of a double occupancy room covered by the BWCS. Some students upgrade to a single room, incurring additional room rent. Nevertheless, sharing accommodation with other students can be a cost-effective choice, especially for scholarship recipients who do not need to pay any accommodation fees.
- Food and Groceries
Explore local markets and affordable eateries to save on food expenses. Ordering food can be expensive, whereas cooking at home is budget-friendly. BSQ provides kitchens that you can use to prepare your meals.
- Transportation
Fortunately, the university provides a free shuttle bus for commuting to campus and returning to BSQ. Additionally, consider using public transportation or getting a bike to reduce transportation costs when going out. Take the time to familiarise yourself with local transport options.
- Leisure and Entertainment
Balancing academic responsibilities with leisure activities is essential for a well-rounded experience. Identify affordable or accessible recreational options in Indonesia, such as local cultural events, community gatherings, or student discounts for entertainment. This way, you can enjoy your time without straining your budget.
- Telecommunication
Telecommunication in Indonesia poses challenges for international students, especially when acquiring new SIM cards for phones purchased outside the country. Local registration is necessary for phones; otherwise, a temporary SIM card is provided for three months. After this period, activation of the SIM card is required. However, after two instances, the process becomes increasingly difficult and may involve a fee. The optimal solution is to purchase a phone within Indonesia.
This guide not only offers practical advice but also encourages you to experiment and find personalized budgeting methods that work best for them in the Indonesian context.