The Argentine currency is the peso ($). There are $ 100, $ 50, $ 20, $ 10, $ 5 and $ 2 notes, varying in color, and 1, 0.50, 0.25, 0.10 and 0.05 cent coins.

ATM machines are plentiful in Buenos Aires and using your ATM card will generally give you the best exchange rate available. Check with your bank beforehand to find out how much you will be charged each time you make a withdrawal.

In addition to bringing an ATM card to obtain cash, it is smart to bring a credit card as well. Hospitals often require a credit card number to treat students. In addition, many hotels will require a credit card number in order to make a reservation. For this reason, ISA highly recommends that you be sure to bring a credit card for medical emergencies.

What is the Argentine peso worth compared to the dollar? With the peso in constant flux, please see www.oanda.com for up-to-date exchange rates. While traveling, it may be helpful to carry a portable currency converter, which can be purchased at most travel stores.

The cost of living in Buenos Aires, in general, is comparable to the cost of living the a metropolitan city in the United States. This can seem expensive in comparison to other Latin American countries; however there are many ways to live comfortably on a budget if you pay attention to what you spend and look out for the countless deals and events offered throughout the city.

Budgeting
Former students have given us some idea of what you should expect to spend per week while in Argentina. Due to the fluctuations in rates of exchange and differences in individual spending habits, we can only give you estimated figures. Based on the past, most students seem to spend between US$100 and US$150 per week. This figure does not include traveling that you may wish to do on the weekends, optional excursions, heavy shopping or entertainment.

Please keep in mind that some students spend less and others more. On Thursdays or Fridays make sure that you have enough cash to get you through the weekend, and always go to the bank at least one day before going on an excursion. When budgeting, keep in mind that it is always better to overestimate than to underestimate.

To give you an idea of common approximate expenses and commodities a typical student will incur, please see the brief list below (all costs are in US dollars):

TRANSPORTATION:
Subway: $0.30 cents (flat fare)
Taxi: $1.50 + 0.13 added each 200 metros
City Bus $0.30 (minimum fare)

GOING OUT:
Ticket for Colón Theater: $8 - $63.
Ticket for a regular soccer match: $10 - $20.
Ticket for a Boca-River soccer match: $50 - $160.
Admission to museums: Free or ticket from $1.50-$4.

MEALS:
Parrillada (barbecue) from $6 - $20
Empanadas (small meat pies) $1
Puerto Madero area (lunch/dinner) $10 - $20

The ISA program cost includes items such as tuition and fees, housing, insurance, and more. To view what is included in your program price, please visit the What's Included section of the ISA Buenos Aires program page.

The Additional Estimated Expenses sheet in the Accepted Students section of the ISA website has the following estimated expenses listed:

• Airfare
• Books and Supplies
• Meals (2 meals per day are included)
• Passport
• Student Visa
• Entrance Fee
• Personal Travel

It is recommended that students look into purchasing an ISIC card for their studies in Buenos Aires. The ISIC card is an internationally recognized student ID card that gives students thousands of discounts worldwide from travel to cinema, meals and more. While you will likely have a student ID from your host university abroad, it may not grant you discounts that an ISIC card could. You will likely be able to purchase an ISIC card abroad, but it is most convenient to purchase this card BEFORE you arrive, as it may grant you travel discounts, and you won't have to deal with the hassle of international delivery. To find out how to get an ISIC card, visit www.isic.org. Once there, you can find information on discounts in Buenos Aires, and what is needed to obtain an ISIC card.