Preparing to study abroad involves obtaining necessary documentation, ensuring good health, obtaining reliable insurance, budgeting, communication, finding accommodation, and packing appropriately. Researching the host country can help avoid culture shock.
Studying abroad is an eye-opening experience. The people, the culture and even the climate differ from what you are used to. By researching your host country, you can avoid culture shock. However, there are other important details to consider when preparing to study abroad:
1. Documentation
A passport and student visa are critical documents you need to legally stay in a foreign country. Apply for a passport several months before your application to study abroad. Your passport can later be used to prepare your student visa if your host country requires you to have one.
Photocopy these documents and give them to your family and student advisor in your country. Keep a copy for yourself by packing it separately from the original documents. This way, it will be simpler to generate new documents if the originals are lost or stolen while studying abroad.
2. Health
Before leaving, see your doctor for a complete physical exam to ensure good health. Bring a copy of your medical records in case of an emergency abroad. Know your host country’s immunization requirements and become immunized before your departure.
3. Insurance
Get a reliable health insurance policy that includes medical evacuation and repatriation if a medical emergency occurs. Consider taking out a comprehensive travel insurance policy if you intend to travel a lot while abroad.
4. Money matters
Develop a realistic budget for your study abroad and stick to it. Learn about the cost of living and account for fixed expenses like rent and utilities. Reserve money for entertainment and occasional purchases. Add your one-time expenses too, like buying a car and your rent deposit.
Have at least three months of savings before you leave to study abroad. When you arrive abroad, set up your account at a reliable bank, with branches close to campus and where you live. Have some money transferred from your account at home. To be safe, avoid carrying a lot of cash. Instead, have checks and debit or credit cards ready.
5. Communication
Regular communication with your family and friends is essential when studying abroad. The Internet connects the world with just a mouse click. Your campus library allows free Internet access during business hours, so you can email family and friends. However, you may be prevented from using more advanced Internet features, such as chat programs and Internet phone calls. You can buy an international calling card to make affordable calls home.
6. Accommodation
To save money, request accommodation on campus when you apply for your study abroad program. Universities prioritize international students, although on-campus accommodation may only be offered for a limited period, such as the first semester or year. Research the rental market in advance to avoid paying expensive rent due to a lack of more affordable options.
Share a spot with your campus friends. It helps save on fuel costs when you ride share to classes. Staying with a host family exchanging domestic services such as cleaning and babysitting is another cost-effective alternative. However, check with the student’s guidance counselor in advance to avoid violating any laws.
7. Packing
Pack only what you need to settle in your host country. Avoid taking clothes for an entire year. Chances are, you won’t even use most of them, especially if the weather is completely different.
Know the weather when you arrive so you can wear appropriate clothing. Remember to bring adapters if you are bringing your own electrical appliances. Place important documents pertaining to your study abroad in a carry-on bag and keep it with you at all times.
Going to study abroad opens your mind to another world. Your experience shouldn’t be fraught with a lack of last-minute preparation and planning; so keep these tips in mind for a hassle-free departure to your host country.
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