One of the most common questions we get from prospective students is simple: "What will I actually spend each month?" Tuition is one part of the picture — but day-to-day living costs are what most affect your budget once you're here. Here's an honest look at what international students typically spend in Belarus.
Accommodation
Most students choose between university dormitories and private rented apartments, often shared with roommates. Dormitories are the more budget-friendly option and are usually located close to campus. Private apartments cost more but offer more independence and are often shared to keep costs down. Costs vary noticeably between Minsk (the capital, and generally the most expensive) and smaller cities like Brest or Grodno.
Food and groceries
Grocery prices in Belarus are significantly lower than in Western Europe, the UK or North America. Students who cook most of their own meals generally spend modestly on groceries each month, while university cafeterias and local cafes offer inexpensive meal options for days when cooking isn't practical.
Transport
Public transport — buses, trolleybuses and the Minsk metro — is reliable and inexpensive, with discounted monthly passes available for students. Most students don't need a car; campuses, dormitories and city centers are well connected.
Phone, internet and essentials
Mobile plans with data are affordable, and most accommodation includes or offers low-cost internet access. Setting up a local SIM card and bank account is one of the first things our team helps with after you arrive — part of our arrival and orientation support.
Healthcare
International students are typically required to have health insurance as part of their study arrangements. Routine care and pharmacy costs in Belarus are generally affordable compared to Western countries. If you ever need medical support, our team can accompany you and translate during appointments — as we did for one student who broke her hand shortly after arriving (read that story here).
Leisure and extras
Cinemas, cafes, gyms and other everyday leisure activities are priced well below Western European levels, so a modest budget for extras goes a long way. Many students find that the overall cost of living lets them enjoy a comfortable lifestyle on a budget that would feel very tight in other study destinations.
So, what's the real number?
We're intentionally not putting a single headline figure here, because it depends on your city, your accommodation choice, and your lifestyle — and we don't think a vague "starting from" number is actually useful to you. What we do instead: every student who works with us gets a full written cost breakdown before committing to anything, covering tuition, our service fee, visa costs, accommodation and registration — itemized, so you know exactly what you're budgeting for.
Want your own breakdown?
Tell us which university and program you're interested in, and roughly what kind of accommodation you'd prefer, and we'll put together a realistic, itemized estimate for your situation — no obligation.