Student Experience
An International Student's Monthly Budget in San Marcos: Real Numbers
TXST's cost of attendance gives an annual total; to plan with your family you need a monthly view. Here is a realistic budget for an international student in San Marcos — one of the most affordable college towns in Texas.
Sample budget (off-campus, shared apartment)
| Item | Frugal | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (one bedroom in a shared unit) | $550 | $800 |
| Utilities and internet (shared) | $60 | $100 |
| Food | $250 | $400 |
| Phone | $25 | $45 |
| Transport (free shuttle / gas) | $0 | $120 |
| Health insurance (monthly average) | $150 | $200 |
| Entertainment and personal | $80 | $200 |
| Total per month | ~$1,115 | ~$1,865 |
2026 reference figures, excluding tuition and books. Living on campus with a meal plan, the first two lines plus food come to about $1,480/month over 9 months.
Compared with other cities
San Marcos is noticeably cheaper than Austin (rent 30–50% higher) and far cheaper than Los Angeles, New York or Boston (double or more). That's why many families choose TXST: big public university quality at small-town living costs.
Five ways to save
- Ride the Bobcat Shuttle instead of buying a car in year one — saves gas and car insurance (~$150–$250/month).
- Cook at home and shop at Asian markets in Austin every two weeks.
- Buy used or rent textbooks through the bookstore and student groups.
- Use student discounts: Spotify, Amazon Prime Student, free software via TXST (Microsoft 365, Adobe).
- Work on campus (up to 20 hours/week on an F-1 visa) — income plus experience.
Proof of funds
For the I-20, TXST requires proof of funds for one academic year per the cost of attendance. The Vietnam Office guides you through bank statements and financial documents — see the full cost breakdown.
