Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Bangladeshi Student in Tokyo: Managing Costs with Part-Time Work

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Bangladeshi Student in Tokyo: Real Numbers

I often tell students that before coming to Tokyo, you need a realistic idea of expenses. I used to live in Itabashi Ward, and from my experience—costs aren't out of reach if you plan well.

What Are the Main Expense Categories?

1. Rent

A one-room apartment in Tokyo typically costs 50,000 to 80,000 yen per month (about 40,000-64,000 BDT). But if you choose a share house or dormitory, you can find options for 35,000-50,000 yen. One of my students lives in a share house in Shinjuku for 40,000 yen a month.

2. Food & Groceries

Eating out is expensive. If you cook at home, 30,000-40,000 yen per month is enough. Supermarkets like Seimu or Yokuoka sell vegetables and fish cheaply. If you eat out with friends 2-3 times a month, add another 10,000 yen.

3. Study Materials

Tuition is separate, but books, photocopies, and printing cost around 5,000-10,000 yen monthly. JLPT preparation books add extra cost.

4. Transportation

Most students use bicycles, but if you take the train, a monthly pass costs 10,000-15,000 yen. Using a Tokyo Toei Card or Pasmo saves money.

5. Utilities & Phone

Gas, electricity, water, and mobile phone bills total 15,000-20,000 yen. Prepaid plans like Y!mobile or Rakuten Mobile are cheap.

6. Entertainment & Miscellaneous

Movies, concerts, or small trips cost about 10,000-15,000 yen. Many students enjoy free events and parks.

How Much Can You Earn from Part-Time Work?

Japanese law allows up to 28 hours of work per week. In Tokyo, part-time jobs pay 1,000-1,200 yen per hour. So working 112 hours a month can earn you 112,000-134,000 yen. Common jobs include restaurants, convenience stores, and food delivery.

One of my students works at an izakaya in Setagaya Ward, earning 1,100 yen per hour. He says, “I can cover all my expenses except tuition.” But be careful—don't let work hurt your studies.

Sample Monthly Budget

• Rent: 50,000 yen
• Food: 35,000 yen
• Study materials: 7,000 yen
• Transport: 10,000 yen
• Utilities: 15,000 yen
• Entertainment: 10,000 yen
• Total: 127,000 yen

If your income is around 120,000 yen, you can almost break even. But the first month might be higher due to initial purchases.

Honest Trade-offs

Part-time work can cover your costs, but it may affect your studies. Learn time management. Also, Tokyo has a high quality of life, but loneliness can be an issue. Joining student organizations helps.

If you want more details, contact us or check the eligibility page.