The University of British Columbia

Living Expenses

Living expenses form a large part of school year costs.  Personal experiences vary, and can depend on whether you live on or off campus.

Estimated living expenses for a single student for 8 months while at Law school are:

• Living ON-campus, approximately $9,200 assuming:
  $5,186 (based on studio in Gage residence) + $300/mo (groceries) + $200/mo (entertainment/misc)
  
• Living OFF-campus, approximately: $10,400 assuming:
  $800/mo (rent & utilities) + $300/mo (groceries) + $200/mo (entertainment/misc)
  
  PLUS
• $432 for BC Medical Services Plan which is required for BC residents in addition to AMS Extended Health & Dental Plan(or equivalent plan)

When budgeting for your personal living expenses, remember to include:

• rent or mortgage payments
• damage deposit
• insurance
• groceries
• restaurants, cafeteria lunches
• utilities:  hydro, phone, internet, cable
• clothing & laundry (including professional attire for law interviews)
• personal hygiene products
• interest (loan, credit cards)
• entertainment
• transportation costs (e.g. taxis, trips home)
• other miscellaneous costs

CanLearn has a useful Financial Planner to calculate your budget online.