Reference
Study Abroad Terms Reference
Each entry explains what a term means, who sets or charges it, what varies by destination, and what to confirm before paying or signing.
How to use this reference
Each entry explains a term that appears in an offer letter, a visa checklist or a funding plan: what it is, who sets it or charges it, what varies by destination, and what to confirm before paying. The entries are written to be read next to the calculators, not instead of official guidance.
Amounts, thresholds and accepted documents are set by institutions and destination authorities and change over time. Use the reference to understand the structure of a cost, then verify the current figure and rule with the official source before transferring money or signing a contract.
All entries
Cost of attendanceThe full annual price of enrolment: tuition, fees, living costs, books, insurance and travel.
Tuition feeThe price of instruction, usually quoted per year or per programme, separate from mandatory fees.
Proof of fundsEvidence that the student can cover tuition and living costs for a defined period.
Blocked accountA restricted account that holds a required sum and releases it in monthly instalments.
Student visaThe permission that allows study, and the funding and insurance evidence attached to it.
Health insuranceCover required for enrolment or the visa, and the gap between travel cover and local cover.
Accommodation depositCash paid before moving in, held against damage or unpaid rent.
Student loanBorrowing that converts a funding gap into a repayment schedule.
ScholarshipAwarded funding that reduces the cost of attendance, often with conditions and a separate deadline.
Part-time work limitThe hours and conditions under which a student visa permits paid work.
Academic transcriptThe record of courses and grades that admissions and scholarship panels assess.
Credential evaluationA formal comparison of a foreign qualification with the destination education system.