This is the easiest and cheapest way to receive money other than a cash advance from Visa or Master Card. There is usually a charge to buy and cash travelers checks. Budgeting for All Costs Ordinarily the total cost of the year abroad will not exceed or will be less than that of a year at a consortium college in North America, unless students elect to do extensive traveling on their own. In planning their budgets for the year, students should consider all costs outlined above plus some contingency for the unexpected and, if possible, for limited additional travel. Although students are expected to attend strictly to their studies and school activities, carrying a full academic load of 12-18 hours per term, and not to act like tourists, there are opportunities for occasional trips especially during vacations which can enrich the experience abroad.
Emergencies can arise which require a return trip on short notice.