Expenses and Budgeting
Living in China can be very cheap. For example, subway rides cost about 30 cents, a 15 minute taxi ride downtown is less than five dollars, a hot meal from the cafeteria is about 50 cents to one dollar per plate, and food from one of the many restaurants right outside of campus can be three to four dollars. Ultimately, however, your spending habits will dictate how much money you will need. Going to western restaurants, taking taxis everywhere, traveling, and going out everynight will significantly affect how much you spend. Be smart about your budget. While food is cheap, you will end up doing many more things and buying many more items.Students often spend half their budget in the first few weeks of the semester. Learn to spend wisely.
Housing
All students, except those living with a host family, will live on campus at the University of International Business and Economics. There are two options for on-campus housing—Dorm rooms (building 6) or Apartment-style rooms (building 5). Both are double occupancy, though private rooms may be available for an additional fee. Check the chart to the right to learn more.
Located inside building 6 are a small café and convenience store, an Internet café, laundry room, and kitchens on each floor. On the third floor is a recently refurnished private DVD lounge with a television, DVD player, and couches. In addition, there are two private, wireless study lounges and a small gym; all located in building 6.
Transportation + Meals
Bicycles are the best way to travel short distances in Beijing. Bicycles can be bought for around $20.00 USD. Taxis are affordable and there are thousands in Beijing. Beijing has a modern public transportation system. Local busses are cheap and frequent, and riding the subway is clean, quick, and easy to navigate.
Food in Beijing is plentiful and delicious. Beijing is famed for having 100,000 restaurants and you will find food from all over the world. Located on campus at the University of International Business and Economics are two student cafeterias and a coffee shop. Here, you can get a hot meal for less than one US dollar. You can also eat at one of the nearly 60 restaurants within walking distance of campus. A dish typically costs about two or three US dollars, at most of these restaurants.