Moving to a new country is already a big change, but add on starting school in that new country? It can be easy to get overwhelmed! You may be navigating a new language, and you’re certainly navigating new systems, new rules, and potentially the scariest of all — a new financial system!
But the truth is you’re not so behind — you’re just new! Take a deep breath and remind yourself that all you need to do is take one small step at a time. And remember that you’re not alone — there are plenty of people around you that will be willing to help, and even systems built just for you. Know that it’s OK to lean on them.
Let’s start with a few small but smart steps to make your life a bit easier …
Get a Campus Job and Use Waivers to Stretch Your Budget
There’s a misconception that immigrant students can’t work at all — but it’s not true! If you’re here on a student visa, there are often approved on-campus jobs available to you. Roles like library assistant, dining hall worker, research or lab helper, peer tutor, or office support are good options. Swing by your campus international student office and ask them what your visa allows.
Another little known fact: many schools offer waivers for fees on testing, graduation, and transportation. On top of that, some departments give out small grants for special projects or research. These are rarely advertised well so it’s smart to ask about them.
Build A Campus Resource Map
It can feel lonely to arrive at a new school in a new country by yourself. But there’s help out there — more than you likely know. So start a resource map for yourself! Nothing fancy — could just be a note on your phone or in a notebook. Then write down any free or affordable support your school may offer. Start with:
- International student services
- Food pantry or meal-share programs
- Tech lending lab
- Tutoring and writing center
- Student health or mental health clinics
This is important, so pay careful attention here: It’s OK to ask for help. Ask another student you trust to help fill in any blanks. Then share what you find. A lot of students feel lost and don’t know these things exist, even the ones born here!
Affordable Banking 101
It’s good to know that banking in the U.S. works differently than in many other countries. And it can be especially tricky for students, because things are not always designed with them in mind. You’ll want to watch out for fees and be aware that certain banks may not accept your form of ID.
But one thing at a time — start with safety. Look for either a credit union or community bank. They usually offer:
- Lower fees
- Better customer service
- Accounts that accept ITINs or other alternative IDs
Definitely avoid any banks that try to pressure you to open a credit card, or charge any surprise fees. When you open your account, our advice is to turn on alerts. Some banks can even send you a text or emails in different languages to help you monitor your balance.
A safe account is far better than a flashy one — less stress, more control, more peace.
Set Up Your Account
Before you sign anything, know what to bring and what to ask. Here’s a quick checklist:
- A valid photo ID (like your passport or consular ID)
- Proof of address (lease, school letter, or bill)
- ITIN or SSN, if you have one
- A full list of all account fees
- ATM network details (where you can take out cash for free)
- Costs for transfers or sending money home
Not sure about the paperwork? Ask a bilingual friend or a campus financial counselor to look it over with you.
Asking questions now is free. Confusion later costs money!
Manage Smart, Low-Cost Remittances
Sending money home is important. But if you do it the wrong way, it can cost a lot. Every small fee adds up fast.
Before you send, compare services. Look at:
- Exchange rates
- Transfer fees
- Speed vs. cost
And try to batch your transfers — sending once a month in a bigger amount usually costs less than sending small amounts each week. Never use a credit card to send money. Instead, treat remittances like any other expense. Only send what you can afford.
A few minutes of comparison can save a week’s groceries.
Budget for Breaks and Travel
School breaks sound fun, but they can bring surprise costs, like plane tickets, housing gaps, or storage fees.
The fix? Start small, and start now.
- Save a little each week, even $10 or $20
- Ask friends about sharing rides or storage
- Create a “breaks and travel” envelope or bank sub-account
When you anticipate the cost, you stay in control of it. Planning ahead makes space for rest and avoids the worry.
Safety and Structure Help You Thrive
Money is hard when everything feels new. But when you build a system, even a simple one, things feel less overwhelming. You don’t need to know everything, you just need a plan.
Make your resource map. Use your campus tools. Ask questions. And update your plan each semester!
You don’t have to figure this out alone. The tools are real, the support is here, and you’re building your life, one step at a time.