Studying abroad and pursuing a higher education degree, especially in Europe, is a dream for some Filipinos. But just like any other dream, it has some hiccups and factors to consider before becoming a reality. For most aspiring students, money is one of the biggest hindrances.

To give students an idea of how much they should prepare to study in Europe, we asked some of the Goodwill Ambassadors of European Higher Education Fair (EHEF) 2023 in a press conference held last Sept. 14, 2023, at Shangri-La, Edsa. EHEF is a local education fair that offers a unique opportunity for Filipino students, professionals, academe, researchers, and university officials to engage directly with some of the top higher education institutions from the EU.

Goodwill ambassadors and EU alumni said that the application is free and depends on the scholarship one will be receiving. Some scholarships may include a monthly allowance and stipend for living expenses and tuition.

Meanwhile, Dr. Daniela Laurel, representing Spain, who got a partial scholarship, said that Pinoy students studying abroad can be smart regarding their living expenditures. She also said that living in a school dormitory that offers food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner will help them save a lot.

“My number one advice is apply to public universities. If you get accepted, they will give some level of funding at least for tuition,” she says. “So all you need to think is can I afford to live there if I don’t find any other means.”

Meanwhile, Noel Cruz from Italy said that students in Europe have the option to work. “For example in Politecnico di Milano, you are allowed to work for a maximum of 20 hours,” he says. “I have a friend before who worked in bakeries or even inside the university. There were a lot of student assistants among my colleagues before.”

For those worried about getting sick, Bobby de Ocampo said that students don’t need to worry because the government abroad will help them, maybe even better with what services they can get here in the Philippines.

“I feel I was more secure getting sick in Europe than here because as a student you’re covered by social security. So you don’t pay for anything,” he says. “I got in the hospital so many times I never paid for anything from my doctor’s consultation to medications over there. Whereas, when I got here I was actually more afraid I needed to get private insurance. So if there are people who are afraid to go there because they might get sick or get into an accident, you’re better off there.”

Overall, alumni encouraged students to apply for full scholarships if they are qualified and able. For more information, EHEF will be held onsite on Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, 2023, at Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong City, with its online edition on Oct. 2.