A summer internship in a metro can cost more than it pays. That does not always mean skip it — it means go in with a 2-month budget, not vibes.
Build a 60-day stack
- Stay: PG / hostel / company housing — get the number in writing.
- Food: mess + limited delivery cap.
- Commute: monthly pass beats daily autos.
- Buffer: one emergency auto + medicine fund.
- Fun: a fixed small cap or you will resent the city.
Is it worth it if stipend < costs?
Yes if skills, conversion chance, or portfolio jump are real. No if you will return with high-interest debt and no offer path. Borrowing from parents with a repayment plan beats an instant loan app.
The takeaway
Ask HR about accommodation support, travel reimbursement, and stipend payout date before you book tickets.