A Comprehensive Breakdown of Living Expenses in Georgia for International Students

Overview of living expenses in Georgia for international students

Deciding to study in Georgia opens doors to a unique educational experience in a beautiful country. Before jumping in, it's important to research the cost of living for international students when considering studying in Georgia. Living expenses in Georgia for international students vary based on the city, lifestyle, and housing choices. Understanding these costs helps students manage their finances better while studying in Georgia. This guide covers the main expenses foreign students may face.

With its affordable tuition and rich cultural heritage, studying in Georgia is a compelling option for international students. Accommodation is usually the biggest expense, costing between 960 and 3,600 USD per year, depending on the type and location. Other living expenses include food, transportation, utilities, health insurance, and miscellaneous activities. In total, international students should budget around 7,000 to 8,000 USD per year for living expenses.

In this Blog, we'll explore options for housing, transportation, food, and other essentials to help students plan their finances. Additionally, we'll provide tips and resources to manage the financial aspects of studying in Georgia, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Living Expenses in Georgia: Highlights

Accommodation

Accommodation costs for foreign students in Georgia can vary based on location, type of housing, and amenities. Here are the common types of housing available:

Dormitories

Many universities offer on-campus dorms. These usually have shared or private rooms with shared bathrooms and kitchens.

Apartments

Renting a room or apartment with roommates is a popular, affordable choice. These often come furnished with internet and utilities included. Some students prefer private apartments for more privacy, which range from studio apartments to larger units with full kitchens and bathrooms.

Homestays

Living with a local family (homestay) is another affordable option. This can include meals and offers a chance for cultural exchange and language practice.

Average Costs

Accommodation costs in Georgia typically range from 80 to 300 USD per month:

• Dormitories: 80 to 150 USD per month
• Apartments: 100 to 300 USD per month

City-Wise Costs

• Batumi: 80 USD per month
• Tbilisi: 80 to 250 USD per month
• Kutaisi: 300 to 500 USD per month
• Rustavi: 200 to 300 USD per month

When choosing housing, foreign students should consider proximity to campus, safety, and amenities as these are important factors in living expenses.

Transportation expenses

Public transportation is widely available in major cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi. Options include buses, metro, and trams. The cost of a single fare depends on the type of transport and the distance travelled. Many cities offer discounted rates for students with valid student ID cards. Buying a monthly pass can save money compared to buying individual tickets. Monthly passes usually cost between 10 to 15 USD, depending on the city and the type of pass.

Other options like taxis, personal vehicles, and ride-sharing are available but are usually not preferred by students due to higher costs. Bicycles are a great low-cost alternative for students in Georgia.

Food and grocery budget

Food and grocery expenses for foreign students in Georgia can vary based on dietary preferences, eating habits, and location. Buying groceries and cooking at home is usually cheaper than eating out. The cost of groceries depends on the type of food, quality of ingredients, and where you buy them.

Some universities offer meal plans or dining options on campus, which provide affordable meals at cafeterias or dining halls. The cost of a meal plan varies by university and the number of meals included.

Eating out at restaurants, cafes, or fast-food places should be included in your monthly food expenses. On average, a student's monthly grocery budget may range from 100 to 200 USD.

Health insurance and medical costs

Health insurance is important for foreign students in Georgia. While the Georgian government offers basic healthcare to citizens, international students usually need health insurance to enrol. The cost of mandatory health insurance varies based on the coverage and provider. Students can buy insurance from private companies or through their universities. Private health insurance for foreign students in Georgia costs 100 to 200 USD per month.

Entertainment and leisure expenditures

Foreign students in Georgia can enjoy many leisure activities to fit their interests and budgets. By finding affordable options, using student discounts, and budgeting wisely, students can make the most of their free time.

Many tourist attractions, like historical monuments, castles, and museums, are free to visit, although some may charge an entrance fee. Georgia has a variety of restaurants, cafes, bars, clubs, and theaters to enjoy. The cost of entertainment and nightlife varies by venue, type, and location.

The country hosts many cultural events, festivals, and performances throughout the year, featuring traditional music, dance, and cuisine. Students can shop for clothes and other items at malls, supermarkets, and thrift shops, often getting discounts during sales or with a student ID.

It’s advisable to budget 100 to 200 USD per month for leisure activities.

Additional Utilities

Utility expenses for students in Georgia, like water, gas, heat, trash, and electricity, depend on the type of accommodation, location, and usage. These charges are usually based on how much you use.

Students also need to consider internet and mobile phone bills as part of their utilities. Internet providers in Georgia offer different packages with varying speeds and data limits. Rent for dormitories and homestays often includes the cost of utilities.

On average, students should budget 50 to 60 USD per month for utilities.

Tips for managing living expenses as an international student in Georgia

To effectively manage your living expenses as an international student in Georgia, consider these tips –

1. Create a detailed budget outlining all your expenses and income sources.
2. Explore part-time job opportunities on or off-campus to supplement your finances.
3. Take advantage of student discounts for transportation, food, and entertainment.
4. Cook meals at home instead of dining out to save on food costs.
5. Utilize public transportation or bike to reduce transportation expenses.
6. Purchase second-hand or digital versions of textbooks to cut down on book expenses.
7. Consider sharing accommodations with roommates to split costs.

By following these tips, you can better manage your finances and make the most of your experience studying in Georgia.

Conclusion: Planning for a successful financial experience

Studying in Georgia for international students offers a chance to immerse yourself in a fascinating culture at an excellent value. Researching programs and living costs is crucial before embarking on your journey to study in Georgia for international students. Managing living expenses is important for foreign students in Georgia. Good budgeting helps you stay comfortable. Georgia is popular with students because of its culture, cities, and schools. It's important to understand the costs of living here.

Rent is usually the biggest cost. Whether you live in shared apartments, dormitories, or private places, rent takes up a lot of your budget. On average, spend 7,000 to 8,000 USD per year on living expenses in Georgia for international students. By budgeting wisely, you can manage your money well and enjoy your time studying in Georgia without spending too much.