LIVING OUT OF A SUITCASE: HOW DOES STUDYING ABROAD AFFECT STUDENTS’ FINANCIAL BEHAVIOURS?

Abstract

With the growing number of students undertaking studies abroad, research into their financial behaviours has become increasingly important, particularly in light of the challenges associated with managing personal finances in different economic and cultural environments. Gaining insight into how students manage their budgets while abroad is relevant both for developing financial competencies and for designing support tools for future participants in academic mobility programmes. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to assess students’ financial situation and to identify how experiences gained during studying abroad influence their approach to money management, as well as the development of financial awareness, competencies, and habits. The analysis focused on three key issues: the ways in which students manage their budgets while studying abroad, the financial difficulties they encounter, and the role of international study experience in shaping their subsequent financial attitudes after returning to their home country. The study was based on primary data collected through a questionnaire survey administered to students who were currently studying abroad or had done so in the past. The combination of quantitative and qualitative questions enabled the collection of comprehensive information regarding respondents’ financial circumstances and experiences.