International students in Mumbai typically spend INR 8,000–25,000 per month on a hostel or PG room, INR 4,000–8,000 on food and INR 500–1,500 (local trains are the lifeline) on transport. Mumbai is India's financial and entertainment capital — and all figures are far below comparable Western student cities.
Planning a budget is the first practical step after choosing a college. Here is what students actually spend in Mumbai, India's financial and entertainment capital.
Why Students Choose Mumbai
Mumbai University, IIT Bombay, ICT and dozens of AICTE colleges call the city home. The local-train network and metro make cross-city commutes routine.
Where Students Live
Popular student areas: Colaba, Churchgate and Fort for South-Mumbai colleges; Powai, Andheri and Vile Parle for the IIT Bombay / western-suburb belt; Navi Mumbai for newer campuses. College hostels are the cheapest option when available; private PGs and shared flats fill the gap.
Monthly Budget at a Glance
| Expense | Typical monthly range |
|---|---|
| Hostel / PG rent | INR 8,000–25,000 |
| Food (mess + eating out) | INR 4,000–8,000 |
| Local transport | INR 500–1,500 (local trains are the lifeline) |
| Phone / internet | INR 300–600 |
Figures are approximate 2026 ranges and vary with area and lifestyle.
Tips for International Students
- Take the college hostel in year one — it is the easiest way to settle in.
- A local SIM with UPI payments set up makes daily life dramatically cheaper.
- Student concessions apply on many transport passes — carry your college ID.
How Admission Works
Foreign National, NRI, OCI, PIO and CIWGC students apply to Mumbai colleges through the official State CET Cell portal fn.mahacet.org — one application, merit-based for most courses, no MHT CET for the international quota.
Register Free on fn.mahacet.orgFrequently Asked Questions
How much does a student need per month in Mumbai?
A realistic all-in budget including rent (INR 8,000–25,000), food (INR 4,000–8,000) and transport (INR 500–1,500 (local trains are the lifeline)) — varying by area and lifestyle.
Is Mumbai safe for international students?
Maharashtra's student cities host learners from 68 countries. Standard urban precautions apply; campuses and student areas are accustomed to international residents.
Can I work part-time as an international student?
Indian student visas do not generally permit off-campus employment. Plan your budget on family or scholarship funding.
What are the State CET Cell fees?
The total fee is USD 1,200 — a USD 50 eligibility-check fee when you submit documents, and USD 1,150 registration after eligibility is confirmed. Tuition is paid separately to your college.