Separate monthly and one-off costs
List rent, utilities, food, transport, insurance and personal expenses. Add deposits, travel and setup costs separately. Use current listings in your actual city rather than a country-wide estimate.
Count confirmed income only
Use the net allowance and grants you have been awarded in writing. Check payment timing: even an approved grant may arrive after initial costs are due.
Check accommodation carefully
Verify the landlord, address, contract, deposit terms and whether registration is possible. Avoid transfers under pressure and do not treat a listing on a familiar platform as a guarantee.
Keep a buffer
Leave room for emergencies, a delayed allowance and the journey home. Use the planner to test your own figures; it is an arithmetic tool, not a cost-of-living forecast.
Source / further reading: https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/education/traineeships/financial/index_en.htm
Put it into a plan ↗