Fluent on a budget: Affordable ways to study English abroad

If you’re a non-native English speaker, you’ve probably been here before: You’re trying to apply for your dream job, but the language barrier is standing in the way. Or you've landed in a foreign city, but are struggling to find the right words. Even ordering a coffee can feel like a nerve-wracking task if you’re not confident in your communication skills.

Our students have been there and overcome that. Really, it’s a rite of passage to being bilingual or even multilingual. By the way, the phrase rite of passage refers to an important event that marks a big change in someone's life – like becoming a local in a country where you once felt like a foreigner.

See? It can be that easy to learn English!

But what about the financial aspects of taking such a leap? With tuition, accommodation, and travel costs adding up quickly, it can feel like studying English abroad is just too expensive, but with smart planning, you can achieve fluency without breaking the bank.

Let’s show you how in 3 simple steps:

Step 1: Choose the right location

One of the best ways to make studying English abroad more affordable is by choosing the right destination. With our programmes in the UK, Canada, South Africa, and Cyprus, you can build your English confidence in some of the most vibrant, culturally rich places in the world.

1. The UK – Experience the heart of the English-speaking world, with a wide range of cities offering both history and modernity. London is a major hub, but places like Brighton or Liverpool are more affordable without sacrificing cultural experiences.

2. Canada – Known for its diverse, welcoming atmosphere, cities like Toronto and Vancouver can be expensive, but cities like Calgary offer a lower cost of living while still giving you access to excellent English immersion.

3. South Africa – Cities like Cape Town offer incredible natural beauty and a rich cultural experience (don’t forget the great weather), all while being almost 2-3 times more affordable than many Western countries. With a lower cost of living, you can enjoy a high quality of life without burning holes in your pocket.

4. Cyprus – Cyprus offers a unique Mediterranean setting for learning English, with beautiful weather and a more relaxed lifestyle. Cities like Limassol are not only affordable but also provide a fantastic backdrop for immersion.

These locations provide incredible value, offering access to world-class English education without the high price tag of other major global cities.

Step 2: Research the right programme

Once you've chosen your ideal location, the next step is to explore the features of the course that best suits your needs. Think about the modules: Have they been developed by industry leaders who understand the global job market? Is the programme accredited? Does the programme run on strict timetables? Or offer flexibility so that you can earn while you learn?

At Bayswater, we offer flexible course options so you can study English the way that fits your schedule and goals. Let’s take a look at how we’ve designed our programmes:

1. Choose the length and intensity of your programme: We understand that every learner has different time constraints. That’s why our courses are flexible, allowing you to choose the duration and intensity of your studies.

2. Personalised learning experience: Our programmes cater to your unique learning goals. Whether you're aiming to improve your speaking fluency, preparing for an English proficiency exam, or developing professional communication skills, you can focus on what matters most to you.

Meet locals and students from around the world:

Our accredited programmes offer more than just language skills. We believe in cultural exchange and building real connections! As a Bayswater student, you'll not only meet students from around the world but also make the city your classroom.

Step 3: Maximise your budget with smart choices

Despite what people might make it out to be, studying English abroad is not a fancy-schmancy life decision! Especially when you get resourceful with your choices. For example, staying in shared accommodation or a hostel can cut down your living expenses, leaving more room in your budget for experiences and language immersion. Opting for student housing or a homestay can also offer a more affordable and authentic experience.

Make use of free or low-cost resources to enhance your learning. Many cities offer free cultural events, and online materials that help you practice your English while keeping costs low. Oh, and don’t forget student discounts which can offer massive savings on everything from clothing to computers! Get creative with your resources and we promise you that studying English abroad can be cost-effective!

Join us at Bayswater today to enhance your English skills while also immersing yourself in the vibrant cultures of our diverse locations — from the UK to South Africa and beyond! With flexible course options, cutting-edge materials and a supportive environment, we help you take your English skills to the next level and feel confident in ordering that well-deserved coffee, landing that exciting job and making friends without language ever coming in the way.

If you’re ready to take the next step and unlock a world of opportunities, head to our website to learn more about our General English programmes.