Hello Budget...

Rent is often the biggest expense in your monthly budget. In cities like Prague or Bratislava, you have several accommodation options:

Student dormitories: These are usually the most affordable option, especially in university towns. A room in a student dormitory typically costs between €150 and €300 per month, depending on location and amenities. However, dormitory life can sometimes be noisy and may impact your academic success. For this reason, many students eventually opt for quieter housing alternatives such as private apartments or shared flats.

Private apartments: If you prefer more independence, renting your own apartment is an option. Rental prices vary greatly depending on the district. In Prague, the rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center is around €400 to €700 per month, while apartments in the city center can range from €600 to €900. Prices in Bratislava are slightly lower on average. As mentioned earlier, living costs in smaller cities like Pilsen or Brno tend to be more affordable.

Shared apartments (WGs): A great way to save money while making new friends is to join a shared apartment (WG). This allows you to split rental costs with fellow students while also benefiting from a social environment that can make studying abroad a more enjoyable experience.

The cost of food depends on your eating habits and whether you prefer cooking at home or dining out. On average, you should budget around €200 to €350 per month for groceries. If you frequently eat at restaurants, this amount may be higher.

Public transportation in cities like Prague and Bratislava is well-developed and relatively affordable, especially for students:

Monthly tickets: A discounted student monthly pass for public transportation costs around €10 to €12, allowing unlimited use of buses, trams, and the metro within the city.

Alternative options: Many students opt for a bicycle, particularly in cities with good cycling infrastructure. This can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative.

A reliable internet connection and a mobile plan are essential for your studies and daily life:

Mobile plan: A basic mobile plan with sufficient data typically costs between €10 and €30 per month, depending on the provider and plan.

Internet: For internet service in your apartment, you should budget around €15 to €25 per month. In student dormitories, internet is often included in the rent.

As a medical student, you will need a variety of textbooks and study materials, which can be a significant expense, especially in the early years of your studies:

Textbooks and atlases: Purchasing books such as anatomy atlases, pharmacology, and pathology textbooks can cost between €200 and €500 per semester, depending on whether you buy them new or second-hand.

Digital resources: To save costs, many students opt for e-books or use the university library, where many required books are available for loan.

Having health insurance is mandatory for studying abroad. The costs and requirements vary depending on your home country and the type of insurance you choose:

Private health insurance: Students from non-EU countries often need to take out private health insurance, which typically costs between €30 and €60 per month. This insurance covers essential medical expenses during your studies.

National or student health insurance: In many EU countries, students may be covered by their national health insurance if they provide proof of enrollment at a university abroad. Some universities also offer special student health insurance plans at reduced rates. If you are already insured in your home country, it is advisable to check whether your insurance covers you internationally or if you need additional coverage.

International health insurance: If your existing health insurance does not provide coverage abroad, you may need to purchase an international student health insurance plan. These plans offer flexible coverage for medical expenses, doctor visits, and hospital stays while you are studying in another country.

It is highly recommended that you contact your insurance provider in advance to confirm coverage details and arrange any necessary documentation before your departure.

Besides the expenses mentioned above, there are other costs you should consider:

Leisure activities: Hobbies such as cinema, sports, or going out may cost you around €100 to €200 per month, depending on your lifestyle.

Insurance: In addition to health insurance, you may want to consider getting liability insurance. This typically costs an additional €5 to €15 per month.

When you add up all these expenses, you should expect a monthly total budget of approximately €800 to €1,300 (excluding tuition fees), depending on your lifestyle and the city you live in. It’s always a good idea to set aside some extra funds for unexpected expenses. In smaller cities like Brno or Pilsen, these costs can be significantly lower, allowing you to manage your budget more effectively while still receiving a high-quality education.