How much cash should I bring from my country?

✈️ Short Answer: At least $500–$1,000 USD in cash is recommended

— to cover essential local fees, your first few weeks of personal expenses, and any unexpected situations.

Why Do I Need to Bring Cash?

If you’re preparing to study at 3D ACADEMY in Cebu, Philippines, you might wonder how much money you need to bring in cash. After all, you’ve already paid your tuition and dormitory fees before arrival—so why bring more?

The truth is, there are important expenses you will need to pay locally, including:

• Required government permits (SSP, visa extensions)

• Utility fees and textbooks

• Personal items and mobile SIM cards

• Transportation, meals, and optional tours

Most of these costs must be paid in Philippine pesos and in cash, especially during your first 2–4 weeks.

Breakdown: What Will You Need to Pay After Arrival?

Even though tuition is prepaid, here are mandatory local fees every student must pay in cash upon arrival or during their stay:

These fees can add up to PHP 20,000–40,000 or more depending on your stay—roughly $350–$700 USD.

And that’s before you buy snacks, a SIM card, or take a weekend trip!

Visa Extensions: What You Need to Know

If you’re staying for more than 30 days, you must extend your tourist visa. Here’s the fee schedule:

Note: After the first extension, you can apply for the 2nd and 3rd together to save time.

Also, each extension has a PHP 500 handling fee, and during processing, your passport will be held by immigration for about 5 working days—you won’t be able to travel during this time.

What Else Will You Spend Money On?

Besides local fees, daily living in Cebu involves typical personal expenses. Here’s what most students spend money on in the first few weeks:

Most students spend 5,000–10,000 PHP ($90–180 USD) within their first 2–3 weeks, depending on lifestyle and habits.

So, How Much Should I Bring?

Here’s our official recommendation:

This cash will help cover:

• ✅ Required local fees

• ✅ First month’s living expenses

• ✅ Weekend activities and excursions

• ✅ Emergency or unexpected costs

You don’t need to carry more than this—once you’re settled, you can use ATM withdrawals or bank transfers if necessary.

Can’t I Just Use My Credit or Debit Card?

You can, but there are some limitations:

• Many small shops, transport, and school-related payments are cash-only

• Some ATMs charge PHP 250–300 per transaction

• Your bank may block international transactions by default

• Connection problems and machine errors are not uncommon

Before leaving your country:

• ✅ Notify your bank of your travel dates

• ✅ Enable international ATM withdrawals

• ✅ Set a withdrawal PIN you’ll remember

• ✅ Bring a backup card just in case

Where Can I Exchange Currency?

You’ll find reliable money changers in:

• Ayala Mall / SM City Cebu – safe and competitive rates

• Mactan Cebu Airport – convenient but lower rates

• Near the school – ask staff for guidance

• Some staff may assist you with small exchanges during orientation

Bring clean, undamaged USD bills, preferably printed after 2006 for the best exchange rates.

How to Carry and Store Cash Safely

Cebu is generally safe, but it’s important to be smart:

• Don’t carry all your cash with you. Take PHP 1,000–2,000/day at most.

• Use your dorm locker or suitcase to store larger amounts.

• Don’t count money in public places.

• Avoid withdrawing large amounts at night or in isolated ATMs.

Many students also split their money—keeping some in a money belt, some in luggage, and some in a secure pouch.

Real Advice from Former Students

“I arrived with only $300 and had to run to an ATM right away. Definitely bring more—it saves stress.”
— Haruka, Japan

“The visa extension and deposit took more than I expected. $1,000 cash was just enough for the first 2 months.”
— Leo, Taiwan

“I joined weekend tours, bought gifts, and still had cash left over. Better safe than sorry!”
— Nina, Korea

✅ Final Checklist: What to Prepare

• ✅ Bring $500–$1,000 USD in cash depending on your stay length

• ✅ Notify your bank about international travel

• ✅ Bring a backup debit or credit card

• ✅ Pack a mix of small and large USD bills (no tears or marks)

• ✅ Ask our staff for help with exchange, ATM use, or budget planning

Summary

Having the right amount of cash will help you settle in smoothly, avoid financial stress, and fully enjoy your study abroad experience in Cebu.

About 3D ACADEMY

3D ACADEMY is an international English language school located in Cebu, Philippines, offering high-quality ESL programs in a friendly, supportive, and multicultural environment. Since its founding in 2002, 3D ACADEMY has welcomed thousands of students from countries such as Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, China, Russia, Brazil, Vietnam, and more.

We are proud to provide a practical, immersive English education that goes beyond the classroom.

Why Choose 3D ACADEMY?

What makes 3D ACADEMY special is our focus on personalized learning and international exchange. Whether you are a complete beginner or an advanced learner, we offer one-on-one (man-to-man) lessons, flexible course options, and a supportive environment where you can grow at your own pace.

Our teaching staff is composed of experienced, passionate instructors who are trained to work with students from diverse backgrounds and levels. From basic conversation to academic English or test preparation (TOEIC, IELTS), we have courses tailored to your goals.

Our Programs

We offer a wide variety of courses, including:

• General ESL (1:1 + group classes)

• Business English

• TOEIC / IELTS preparation

• Power Speaking Courses

• Working Holiday Prep

• Optional classes (add-on 1:1 or group lessons)

All courses include daily speaking practice, grammar, vocabulary, listening, and more—so you can gain real-world English communication skills.

Dormitories & Facilities

Students can choose between our on-campus dormitories and nearby hotel-type residences. Facilities include:

• Classrooms with air conditioning

• Study areas and lounges

• On-site cafeteria with international meals

• 24/7 security and Wi-Fi access

• Optional gym membership

Everything is designed for student comfort, safety, and convenience.

Total Support for Beginners

Worried about not speaking English? Don’t be.

3D ACADEMY has Japanese, Korean, and Chinese-speaking staff to help you with arrival, orientation, health issues, or daily life in Cebu. Many students come here as complete beginners and leave with confidence thanks to our beginner-friendly curriculum and one-on-one classes.

A Global Experience

Our school environment is a unique blend of cultures. You’ll meet people from all over the world, make lifelong friends, and use English every day—not only in class, but also in real life.

Studying at 3D ACADEMY isn’t just about learning English. It’s about discovering new cultures, exploring beautiful islands, and growing as a global citizen.

Join Us

Whether you’re planning a gap year, career change, or preparing for overseas work or study, 3D ACADEMY offers a safe, affordable, and life-changing English learning experience.

Let your English journey begin in Cebu—with 3D ACADEMY.