Should International Students Buy or Lease a Car?


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Car Insurance

Between buying and leasing a car, which one is the better idea for international students and why?

I am an international student trying to manage finances wisely while studying abroad, which option would be more beneficial for me and why: buying a car outright or leasing one? Could you also consider the typical constraints and opportunities that international students like myself might face in such scenarios?

Nov 18, 2024 | Olivia Brooks, Portland, Oregon
Answer
Mark Fitzpatrick
Head of Insurance, MoneyGeekUpdated December 17, 2024

I would recommend leasing a car for international students. It is less expensive and they don’t have to worry about trying to sell the car when they leave. With leasing, you simply return it to the leasing company at the end of the agreement.

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