Making Purchases

Credit Cards

Before you head to the airport, call your bank and credit card company to let them know where you’ll be traveling and how long you’ll be there.

Most ATMs will accept your US debit/credit card, but communicate with your bank before you leave so they won’t decline the card and put a warning on your account.

Withdrawals and Transaction Fees

Some U.S. credit cards impose a foreign transaction fee when used overseas. Chase and Capital One both offer cards that don’t impose foreign transaction fees; many other banks do as well.

If you have an ATM card from a small local bank that does not belong to one of these two worldwide networks, you may have problems withdrawing money overseas. Ask your bank about your options to learn what they can offer you while you’re traveling internationally.

Pickpocket Reminder

Be careful of your money, wallet and credit cards when you are in crowded areas like markets, buses, metro stations, subway cars and train stations. Your pocket could be picked at these places if you’re not vigilant.

Budgeting for your Study Abroad

Financial Aid

You may be eligible to use financial aid for your study abroad program. After meeting with an advisor in the International Program Center, collect the resources you need and schedule an appointment with a Financial Aid advisor.

Resources

When budgeting for your study abroad program, reference the 7 Tips to Make Study Abroad More Affordable. This guide provides resources on external scholarships, finding programs that are the best fit for your budget, and ways to save money while abroad.

With the help of the IPC and Financial Aid advisors, work on a budget worksheet to identify anticipated expenses.