Budgeting
One of the most important skills that every international student should learn is budgeting. Budgeting helps to keep track of expenses and plan future spending. There are many apps and online services available on the market that make budgeting easier, such as CoinKeeper, Expense Accounting - Budget OK, Monefy. They allow students to keep a record of their expenses, establish financial habits and plan future spending.
Saving money on food
Food is one of the most essential expenses of any person. And no, we don't want to suggest you stop eating - such an approach would be wrong. We suggest more rational ways of saving money on food:
- You can cook food at home rather than ordering delivery. There are plenty of grocery shops in Belarus, and the prices in our country are quite reasonable, so you can have a tasty and full meal for a small amount of money.
- Many shops and cafes in Belarus offer students discounts and promotions to save money. Therefore, you can also take a look at coupons or promotional booklets. Often on a certain day of the week different cafes or pizzerias do a 1+1 promotion, for example, you buy 1 pizza and get 2 as a gift.
Saving money on accommodation
Accommodation is another big expense for an international student. To save money on accommodation, students can resort to the following options:
- Dormitory is one of the cheapest accommodation options for nonresident students. Many universities in Belarus offer places in dormitories for international students at affordable prices (about $40 per month).
- Renting with friends is another favourable accommodation option. Students can rent one flat for two people and share living expenses and rent. Where to search for a flat, what are the current prices for accommodation and what can be the pitfalls we have detailed in an article on our website.
Saving money on entertainment
Entertainment is an important part of student life, but it can get expensive if you're not careful. But of course, you shouldn't put an end to your social life, it's better to look for a way out.
- Attending free events: Many cities in Belarus offer free events such as concerts, exhibitions and festivals. You can see what is going on in Minsk on this website.
- Using public transport: If you want to save money, it is advisable to use public transport rather than taking taxis all the time. There are buses, trolleybuses, trams and metro in Belarus, you can use them to get around the city. By the way, fares are very affordable, transport runs on schedule, you can go anywhere in the city. And all the information about public transport we have collected in a single material.
- Hiking in parks: Nature is one of the cheapest forms of entertainment, and nature in Belarus is beautiful at any time of the year! Entrance to the park is free of charge.
Earning extra money
Saving money is good, but students can earn extra money to cover their expenses. Part-time jobs are one of the most popular ways to earn extra money among students.
- Work in your specialty: If your specialty allows, search for internships or jobs related to your future profession. Not only will this help you earn money, but it will also give you valuable experience.
- Work at university: Find out about vacancies in departments or student organisations. Often universities offer part-time jobs that do not require a lot of time.
- Coursework writing: If you are a good student, you can offer coursework or diploma writing services.
- Freelancing: Freelancing platforms offer jobs for designers, copywriters and programmers. This is a great way to earn money and develop your skills.
- Waiter or Kitchen Worker: These jobs often offer flexible schedules and the opportunity to earn tips.
- Seasonal work: Summer holidays are a great time to work at camps, on farms or in shops.
Student life is full of opportunities and, despite financial difficulties, you can always find ways to earn and save money. Use your skills, be active and don't be afraid to try new things. Most of all, don't forget what you came to Belarus for in the first place. Study comes first, and then everything else.