How much money do you recommend for out-of-pocket expenses?

We recommend bringing at least $1500 per semester for personal spending and meals. You can bring a little less for homestay (where breakfasts and dinners are covered), but we find that most students spend most of their money in the first few weeks of the program. Money can go very quickly in Tokyo—it’s an expensive city. Some of this depends on personal spending habits, so be sure to decide whether you are a big spender or frugal.

The homestay option is about $600 more than the dorm option, but it provides breakfast and dinner. Many students can cook in the dorms, and others choose lower cost dining options like oBento restaurants. $1500 is a good number to remember, but some students spend much more, and others spend less. For more information and financial tips, see Costs.  Of course, if you travel elsewhere in Japan, you’ll need to budget separately for that.