Study in Argentina

Since International Studies Abroad established the Argentina study abroad program in 1999, ISA has been witness to the country's increasing popularity as a study abroad destination in South America. The allure of Argentina for American students can be attributed to numerous factors, including a vibrant cultural life and a unique sense of style known throughout Latin America.

European influences are evident in the unique blend of architecture and cuisine, the distinct Argentine accent, and world-renowned artistic contributions to music, literature, and dance. A diverse geography consisting of pristine forests, the majestic Andes Mountains, and beautiful beaches also contribute to Argentina's popularity. Argentina benefits from an excellent educational system and a multitude of very fine universities including the University of Belgrano, the academic anchor of ISA's Argentina study abroad program.

Safety in Argentina:

ISA has been closely monitoring the increase in H1N1 flu cases in Argentina, and has decided to continue with all Semester, Summer and Intensive Month programs in Buenos Aires. We have consulted physicians, the CDC, the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. State Department, and many other sources for the most up-to-date information. According to the World Health Organization's July 1st update, the United States has more than 27,000 confirmed cases while Argentina has approximately 1,500.

The University of Belgrano (UB) has been proactive in their response to the H1N1 virus. The university holds an informational meeting at the beginning of each semester/summer program for incoming students to inform them on the H1N1 Flu status in Argentina, as well as to discuss methods of preventing the spread of the flu. The UB and health authorities in Argentina have a strict policy which requires students who show any flu symptoms whatsoever to stay home until they are free of symptoms. Students are allowed to make up any missed coursework should they be required to miss class, per their doctor's recommendation. Final exams and courses for all international students at the UB and USAL are continuing as scheduled. The UB has also installed hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the school, as well as posted informational H1N1 fliers with health recommendations and precautions. The ISA office staff has taken the same precautions and posted informational fliers around the office and also holds meetings with the students regarding the flu. ISA host families in Buenos Aires are aware of the situation and are closely monitoring their students for signs and symptoms of flu as well.

Our students' health and safety is our primary concern, and ISA would not continue a program which we felt put students in harms way. With this being said, we cannot completely guarantee students' health and safety in any and all situations, but have outlined precautions for the students, and have staff members willing and able to help any student receive treatment at the first sign or symptom.

Life in UK. Living Expenses in UK.

Private Accommodation

It is important to remember, if you are using the lists of private rented accommodation provided by Student Housing Services, that although they try to secure a range of good quality housing at reasonable prices, the properties have not been inspected. You should not assume that listed accommodation is "approved accommodation". You should never accept accommodation without first seeing the property. When you find accommodation you may have to pay a deposit immediately of up to one month?s rent and also one month?s rent in advance (always ask for a receipt). You may also have to pay a deposit for gas, electricity and telephone services. You should therefore have available around ?800 for initial expenses such as deposit, rent in advance and the cost of temporary accommodation.

Your landlord or landlady will usually expect the rent on a fixed day, weekly or monthly in advance. Make sure you have a rent book or a receipt for the rent. If your landlord or landlady does not provide a rent book, buy one yourself (available from stationery shops) and ask them to sign it when you pay rent. A rent book may also list certain house rules (or these may be displayed elsewhere in the house). Check you understand these and can keep to them as they may form part of your contract of tenancy and are usually aimed at keeping the household running smoothly.

In self-contained flats, your rent will usually be payable monthly and your landlord or landlady is unlikely to live on the premises. Any rules you are required to keep will be written in the lease or agreement you have signed which is legally binding. The lease will usually be for specific periods and once you sign you are committed to renting the flat for that length of time. So study the lease carefully before signing, and if necessary take legal advice.

Money Matters

Before coming to the UK you should organize your money to ensure you have enough at the start of your course and for the duration of your course. You will also need to investigate the best ways to bring money into the UK.

Most students will have to buy bedding, clothes and basic essentials a the beginning of their stay. London is in general, milder than other parts of the UK. The summer tends to be warm; winter is usually cold and damp; spring and autumn are somewhere in between. ?300 should be enough for additional clothing needs

Entertainment Costs

London hosts a wide range of entertainment venues catering to all groups of people. Dinner out can cost from ?15 upwards. Cinemas in Central London cost around ?10. Clubs cost from ?8-?15. There are special discounts available to students so make sure you ask.

Travel Costs

The cost of traveling in London is dependent on where you are traveling to and how often you need to travel. Weekly underground passes cost between ?18.00 (or travel in central zones one and two) and ?35 if you are traveling between central and outer London. Bus passes are much cheaper. Excellent discounts exist for full-time students.

London is very well served by British Rail. Reductions are available on British Rail if you buy a Young Person?s Rail card, which is available to anyone under 25 years. If you are over 25 you are entitled to a Student Rail card if you are engaged in 15 or more hours of education a week. Both cards obtain a one third reduction in price on train tickets. These cards can be purchased from BR train stations. British Rail has a number of special offers. Tickets may be cheaper if you book them in advance. These are known as Apex fares. It is important to note that when traveling at peak hours, that is, before 9am and on certain trains from about 5pm to 7pm, tickets will be considerably more expensive. Traveling on a Friday and on certain other days throughout the year is also more expensive