Budgeting
Monthly Budget (Fall or Spring 16-Credit Program)
Philadelphia can be one of the most affordable cities on the East Coast. Living expenses are the responsibility of, and will vary by, each student. Our program allows students the freedom and flexibility to create a budget that best fits their needs.
Rent prices will depend on number of students in the apartment, number of people per bedroom, location in the city, and type of lodging.
Based on a recent survey, here’s an example of a typical monthly budget:
| Expense | Average Cost | Expected Range |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | $565/month | $375-800 |
| Utilities | $90/month | $0-$150 |
| Furniture Rental/Purchase | $50 | $0-$200 |
| Transportation | $70/month | $10-$200 |
| Groceries | $200/month | $50-$300 |
| Dining Out | $175/month | $50-$300 |
| Entertainment | $175/month | $50-$300 |
| Miscellaneous | $55 | $0-$200 |
| Total Average Monthly Expenses | $1,250 | |
| Total Average for Fall or Spring* | $5,000 |
*Please note: nearly all realtors will require first and last month’s rent and a security deposit upon signing a lease. This deposit is usually equal to one month’s rent divided by the number of roommates. The figures above do not reflect security deposit, nor do they include utility or telephone deposits, all of which are refunded at the end of the semester — provided no damage or additional charges have been incurred.
– Some institutions charge their own fees for processing summer program applications. Please check with your off-campus study office.
– Please note: Students must contract to enroll in the seminar as a part of their overall summer program experience.
*Intent to Enroll Fee must be paid for application to be considered complete. The deposit is nonrefundable and will be deducted from your total tuition price.
**TPC typically rents an apartment dormitory on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania where participants live with other students on the program. Students may also make their own living arrangements, but TPC does not provide alternative housing support. Costs such as food, transportation, entertainment, and other expenses are not included so students should budget accordingly.