Cost of Living

COST OF LIVING

In order to live comfortably while you are in Ivano-Frankivsk, you will need to have about $USD 200 to 220 per month available for living costs, above the cost of your tuition. The cost of living is cheaper than any other cities in European countries. It is difficult to give a precise figure because of the differences in the student lifestyle.

You will receive advice from financial advisers at the on how best to handle your money, but initially, it is important to note that you should have some cash for immediate costs (e.g. airport costs or transport). You may need further funds in the form of traveler’s cheques which can be readily cashed. There are foreign exchange offices everywhere in Ukraine.

We strongly recommend that while in Ukraine you do not carry large amounts of cash in your hand or leave cash in your room. We suggest opening a bank account as soon as possible after arrival. There are three banks with branches in the campus area. There are numerous automatic teller machines that dispense cash 24 hours a day.

Any major amounts of money may be sent in the form of a bank draft, but electronic transfers are, in most cases, the most efficient method of sending funds to Ukraine. Overseas cheques are sometimes difficult to clear and are not recommended.

Most of the festivals and other events around Ukraine are quite affordable. If you want to go to Western concerts, that’s a whole different story. However, most of the entrance fees for domestic events are just a couple of dollars. Movies are out of the question—95% of theaters don’t show English movies (or do so very rarely).

The cost of living in Ukraine when it comes to accommodation is always going to be higher when you’re a foreigner. Yes, it is more expensive. Yes, we are well aware of it. It doesn’t do any good to criticize these choices (looking at the Ukrainian lurkers). We don’t have much choice unless we want to commit to signing an actual lease. Most of us who live a “nomadic” life (i.e. almost everyone in Ukraine.

Generally speaking, during the peak seasons in Kyiv, a foreigner should probably expect to pay about $700-800 for a one bedroom apart in the center of Kyiv.

 

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