Preparing to Study Abroad: 5 Things You Need To Know

Studying abroad is a great learning experience for students and it also provides you with many exciting opportunities. From traveling to different places, learning new cultures and polishing your skills, studying abroad is a once in a lifetime opportunity that changes your life.

If you’re planning to study abroad, you might have already chosen a university and a program that is suitable for you, read about the university lifestyle and researched about the places to visit. 

But a lot more goes into an international adventure. There are a few things you have to keep in mind, not just about the university but also about your destination country; its culture, laws, visa requirements and more that you will be subjected to when you move abroad.

Before going overseas, here is a list of things you need to prepare in advance:

 

1. Apply for a passport and visa

If you are going abroad to study, you will definitely be advised on which visa to apply and whether you need to fill out any other forms that will make it easier to go to your country of choice.

Student visas can often take several weeks to arrive so make sure you apply for a visa way before your university joining date.

It’s also important to make sure that you have a valid passport that is up to date and will not expire within 6 months. Check this well in advance of your departure date as it usually takes a few weeks for a new passport to arrive.

 

2. Research about the country and its culture

You should take some time to do your research about the people and their culture, familiarize yourself with your study abroad destination and check if the country is experiencing any problems that may affect your travel plans. Even the smallest things like weather conditions and staple food matters. 

You should do thorough research about the cost of living, including rent, food, and transportation. Knowing the country’s culture and the economy will enrich your experience and make your time there more meaningful.

 

3. Figure out your finances

Before heading off, you should make sure your finances are well taken care of. The first thing to do is to set up an online bank account so that you can manage your money while abroad. Most international travelers use their ATM/debit or credit cards to get cash in the local currency.

Secondly, you need to inform your bank and credit card company about your plans od studying abroad. This will enable them to make necessary changes in your account so that you are not locked out. 

It is also advisable to have some cash with you on the day you travel. Convert at least ₹5000- ₹1000  to your destination country’s currency to facilitate your stay before you locate an ATM there. If you are unable to obtain the currency at home, the airport is a great option to withdraw cash at an ATM right as you arrive.

 

4. Get health insurance

This is crucial when you are abroad in case anything happens to you or your belongings. Insurance can come in handy if your bag goes missing or if something gets stolen or damaged.

It is also worth checking what kind of health insurance you might need while abroad. Many students tend to overlook health insurance and vaccinations. You should check whether you need to take any vaccinations before heading out, ensure that you have a good supply of any regular prescriptions and have full access to them abroad. Your insurance should cover accidents and common medical conditions in case you are ill or injured while studying abroad since healthcare is very expensive in other countries.

 

5. Register with your country’s embassy

You need to register with the government to make your presence and whereabouts known. You may also receive important information about the security situation in your host country in the process. Leave copies of your passport or any other citizenship document you may have.

 

 

On top of this, you need to do thorough research about the university you are going to study in and the facilities it will provide. Preparing yourself mentally is also very important before you start your journey abroad. Studying abroad will surely be a fun and safe experience if you are fully prepared. The tips discussed above will give you an idea of how to prepare to study abroad.

 

Study Abroad With iStudyAbroad

If you’re planning to study abroad and require expert guidance and professional help you can arrange a free consultation with iStudyAbroad. 

iStudyAbroad is India’s no.1 study abroad consultants who help students get access to study abroad programs in top universities across the world. By providing exceptional student-oriented services like career counseling, university shortlisting, exam preparation, applications, visa application, and scholarships, we help students achieve their goals and accomplish their dreams to study abroad in top study destinations. Our international application experts have successfully helped over 1000s of students to study abroad.

Sign up for a free counseling to discuss your aspirations with us and get started – https://istudyabroad.co.in/get-started/