Practical Money-Saving Tips for Studying Abroad in Japan and Germany

Studying abroad in Japan or Germany is a fantastic opportunity to pursue academic dreams, but whether in Tokyo or Berlin, the cost of living can be a significant challenge. This guide combines practical money-saving tips tailored for both countries to help you efficiently manage your finances and reduce expenses.

In Japan:

On-Campus Dormitories: These are typically cheaper than private rentals and are located close to the campus, saving both time and commuting costs.

Shared Apartments: Sharing an apartment with other students helps split the cost of rent and utilities.

Live in Suburban Areas: Housing costs in cities like Tokyo and Osaka are high, so consider nearby suburban areas with good public transport connections.

In Germany:

Student Dormitories: These are highly cost-effective and often located near universities.

Shared Flats (WG): Sharing a flat with other students (Wohngemeinschaft) is one of the most common and affordable options.

Living in Smaller Cities: Compared to Berlin and Munich, smaller cities offer cheaper rents and lower living costs.

In Japan:

Coupon Websites: Platforms like savings.co.jp provide discounts on dining, shopping, and transportation, helping you save money effortlessly.

Supermarket Discounts: Shopping for groceries during evening sales is a great way to get items at half price.

Student Discounts: Many transportation services and attractions offer reduced prices for students, so always carry your student ID.

In Germany:

Coupon Platforms: Websites like gutscheine7.de offer up-to-date discounts for supermarkets, clothing stores, and electronic shops, helping reduce living costs.

Affordable Supermarkets: Prioritize shopping at stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Penny to save money.

Private-Label Products: Opt for supermarket own-brand items, which are cheaper and often of good quality.

In Japan: Dining out can be expensive, so cooking at home not only saves money but also allows you to eat healthier. Large supermarkets like AEON and Don Quijote offer a wide selection of affordable groceries.

In Germany: Restaurants are generally pricey, so preparing your meals is the most economical choice. Sharing grocery costs with flatmates can further reduce expenses.

In Japan:

Commuter Passes: If you need to commute frequently, purchase monthly or term passes for significant savings.

Public Transport: Japan’s well-connected and punctual public transportation is both convenient and cost-efficient.

In Germany:

Semesterticket: Many German universities offer this semester pass, allowing students to use public transportation for free or at a low cost.

Regional Group Tickets: Tickets like the Länder-Ticket are great for group travel, splitting the costs among friends.

Shopping: Smart Spending on Essentials

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In Japan:

Second-Hand Markets: Platforms like Mercari and Yahoo! Auctions or stores like Hard Off offer affordable second-hand goods.

Shop Sales: Plan purchases around supermarket sales to maximize savings.

In Germany:

Flea Markets (Flohmarkt): Germany’s flea markets are a treasure trove for inexpensive furniture, books, and electronics.

eBay Kleinanzeigen: This online platform is another great option for finding affordable second-hand items.

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In Japan:

Students can legally work up to 28 hours per week. Common jobs include convenience store clerks, restaurant staff, and language tutors.

In Germany:

Students can work up to 20 hours per week. Popular options include university assistantships, restaurant jobs, and tutoring, which can also help improve your language skills.

In Japan: Universities often provide free resources like gyms, libraries, and cultural events, minimizing entertainment expenses.

In Germany: University cafeterias (Mensa) offer affordable meals, and students can access free campus facilities like sports centers and cultural activities.

Final Words

Whether studying in Japan or Germany, the key to saving money lies in smart planning and resource utilization. From choosing cost-effective accommodation to leveraging coupon platforms like savings.co.jp and gutscheine7.de, to finding part-time work opportunities, every small step can significantly ease your financial burden. With strategic financial management, you can focus on your studies while fully enjoying the vibrant experience of living abroad.