1. Write down the course fees

Open the course page and check the tuition fee for the correct year and student category. Ask whether the amount covers the full course or one year. Check for deposits, payment dates and any extra course costs.

Keep the source link beside each figure in your budget. If a fee changes, you can return to the right page. Read the payment and refund rules before making a deposit.

2. Compare actual housing options

Look at the length of the housing contract, what bills are included and whether a deposit is required. A weekly price alone does not show the full cost.

Check the distance from housing to campus. A lower rent may come with higher travel costs or a longer journey. Make room for basic items you may need after arrival.

3. Include the costs outside tuition

List travel, visa-related charges, insurance or health-related charges where applicable, daily transport, food, phone service and study materials. Use official sources for government charges.

Some costs are paid before travel. Others repeat each month. Put them in separate columns so a yearly total does not hide a large payment due early.

  • Before travel: deposits, required charges and flights
  • On arrival: housing setup and essential items
  • Each month: rent, food, transport and bills
  • Extra reserve: delays or unexpected needs

4. Show the currency and date

Keep the original currency beside each amount. If you convert UK costs into Nepalese rupees, write down the exchange rate and the date used. Include any bank or transfer charges you expect to pay.

Exchange rates move. Discuss what would happen if the rupee cost rises before a payment is due. Your budget should leave room for changes your family can manage.

5. Use confirmed funds in the main plan

List savings, approved loans and confirmed awards separately. Record when each source becomes available. An application for a scholarship or loan is not a confirmed source of money.

Do not rely on future part-time work to make the basic plan work. Work rules, job availability and study demands vary. Check current visa conditions and plan around funds your family can access.

6. Review the budget together

Ask the student to explain each cost and source. Check that everyone understands the first payment, the largest payment and the amount needed for normal living.

Bring the draft budget to your consultation in Biratnagar. A useful discussion will identify missing costs and unclear assumptions. It should help your family decide what is realistic before you commit.

What to remember

Use real course and housing figures. Add the source and payment date. Keep unconfirmed scholarships and future earnings out of the main funding plan.

Put your figures together.

Use our simple budget planner to add your costs and download a copy for your family.

Open the budget planner

Official places to check

Rules, fees and deadlines can change. Use the current official pages when making your plan.

British Council: Scholarships and fundingGOV.UK: Student visa