Financial Planning

Managing Your Student Finances in India

Plan your budget effectively with this guide to tuition fees, living costs, scholarships, and financial requirements for studying in India.

India Student Money Guide

Plan your fees, living costs and scholarships for the 2026-27 school year

AccommodationUSD 150

Food & GroceriesUSD 100

TransportationUSD 45

Utilities & InternetUSD 10

Personal & LeisureUSD 50 + USD 30 + USD 15

Total MonthlyAbout USD 400

Example: one semester of B.Tech fees at an NIT college through DASA

USD 2,000 to USD 4,000

B.Tech (engineering degree) fees for foreign students, 2026-27. At National Institute of Technology (NIT) colleges, through Direct Admission of Students Abroad (DASA): USD 2,000 to USD 4,000 a semester (half a year). At Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras: INR 500,000 a semester.

Living Costs Calculator

Financial Topics

Money Topics

Each guide covers one part of your budget.

Tuition Fees

Complete breakdown of tuition costs across universities in India

Key information

Program-wise fee structure
Public vs private universities
Additional academic costs
Payment schedules and methods

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Living Costs

Comprehensive guide to living expenses and budgeting in India

Key information

Accommodation costs by city
Food and daily expenses
Transportation costs
Personal and entertainment budget

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Financial Proof

Documentation and requirements for proving financial capacity

Key information

Required financial documentation
Bank statement requirements
Sponsor documents
University-specific requirements

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Scholarships

Available scholarships and funding opportunities for international students

Key information

Government scholarships
University-specific funding
Merit-based opportunities
Application deadlines and process

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Student Jobs

Work opportunities and regulations for international students

Key information

Work permit regulations
On-campus job opportunities
Part-time work options
Post-graduation work rights

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Budget Overview

Plan Your Budget

These are monthly costs in US dollars (USD), not counting tuition.

Main monthly costs

Not counting tuition fees

Essential Monthly Expenses

Accommodation

USD 150

Housing

Food & Groceries

USD 100

Food and housekeeping

Transportation

USD 45

Local travel

Utilities & Internet

USD 10

Mobile phone

Personal & Academic

USD 50 + USD 30 + USD 15

Personal costs: USD 50 a month

Stationery (pens, paper, books): USD 30 a month

Laundry: USD 15 a month

Total Monthly Budget

Average living costs for students

About USD 400

Excluding tuition fees

Costs vary significantly based on location and lifestyle. Figures are estimates and subject to change.

Money Management

Your Bank Account in India

Open a Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) account, a bank account for foreigners living in India, at an approved bank. Then give the account details to the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), the government office that registers foreigners in India.

Smart Financial Tips

Expert advice to help you manage your finances effectively while studying in india

Budgeting

Plan your living costs for each month first, then add tuition.

Pay small bills with UPI (Unified Payments Interface), a way to pay with your phone.

Keep a little cash in Indian rupees.

Change money only at official money-exchange shops.

Pro Tips for india

Currency Management

• Monitor exchange rates and transfer money when rates are favorable
• Use multi-currency cards to avoid conversion fees
• Keep some local cash for emergencies

Local Financial Culture

• Learn about local tipping customs and practices
• Understand tax obligations for international students
• Explore local student financial support programs

Remember: Financial planning is key to a successful study abroad experience. Start planning early and don't hesitate to seek advice from financial advisors or your university's international student services.