Moving abroad for your higher education can indeed be daunting. Even though you may have spent a lot of time planning your move, there are always some aspects that are beyond your control. There’s a lot of work to be done. A checklist is necessary to ensure a smooth transition at all times.
As a college student, it is important to understand that you are not only moving to another country for studying but also taking complete responsibility for your life. It might seem like a lot, but it can all be handled properly. Here are ten things you should remember before starting your study abroad journey:
1. Get your Documents right
This is a given, but in many cases, we see students miss out on crucial documents that can be very important for them while moving abroad. When it comes to getting your documents in order, it is important to ensure everything is in order and up to date.
You can do a few things to get your documents in order:
- You will want to ensure that your resume is up-to-date and accurate.
- You will want to ensure that your cover letter is well-written and error-free.
- You will want to ensure that your references are in order and that you have their contact information handy.
- Make sure your passport is valid in perfect condition.
Make a list of every potential document needed for immigration and university. Make a folder in which your papers are arranged according to priority. Do not miss this list: The Ultimate Study Abroad Checklist Every International Student Needs
2. Managing your finances
An international student’s relationship with money is never easy. Even if you have enough funds in your bank account, try to maintain some cash on hand. It is usually a good idea to bring some money with you when you travel. Make sure you can conduct online and international transactions with your cards and bank account. Ask your bank whether they have an international branch you can contact even before you leave for your trip.
3. Get the right insurance
While studying abroad, it’s crucial to have a reliable health and accident insurance plan that includes coverage for emergency evacuation and repatriation (although let’s hope it never does!). Even if your health insurance company offers international coverage, there are a few things that travel insurance will pay for that health insurance won’t.For example:
- Coverage if your flight is delayed/canceled
- Lost luggage
- Stolen personal belongings
- Evacuation in the case of an emergency.
- It is better to be safe than regret it later, right?
4. Culture check
It is best to try and learn about the local culture of the city or country you are moving to even before you leave. Try to read literature about the local culture, locate exciting documentaries, and, even better, make connections with other students already enrolled at the university to get a sense of the people’s tastes and culture. This is a wise strategy that will unquestionably improve your study abroad experience.
5. Language refresh
Acquiring the most fundamental words and phrases is essential if you are moving to a country where English is not your native tongue. Even if your program is delivered in English, communicating in the local tongue is always advantageous. Making an effort to fit into a people’s culture or nation is also a sign of respect for them.
6. Finding the right network provider
Each country has a unique selection of network and data providers. Choose your homework before you travel; the easiest way to do this is to check with the university you are traveling to. They typically have the most fundamental information for international students to help prepare. You may get a SIM card for your favorite network provider as soon as you arrive at the destination country at the airport. Most of them often have extremely affordable student packages.
7. Ask for Discounts
Your student ID resembles a magic card. You can obtain discounts on practically everything if you know what to ask for. To encourage and support international students, restaurants, local transit, and retail establishments always provide student discounts. Simply do your study and keep asking questions.
8. Medical Aid
Get yourself registered with a local medical practitioner as early as possible. Healthcare costs abroad are undoubtedly not the lowest. Many things are excluded from insurance coverage. As a result, it is always preferable to register with a general practitioner; institutions even recommend some. This could help you save a huge amount of money.
9. Explore
There is no better way to become comfortable with your host city and campus than by exploring it on foot, even if you appear like a complete tourist. Explore your new neighborhood, look for the most significant structures, and visit museums and national parks. It can be challenging to learn public transportation in a foreign place. Fortunately, you may get free maps of the public transit systems in most big cities.
10. Prepare yourself mentally
It’s never easy to move away from home. Just talk to your family and yourself about these issues. Remember that you are working for a more fantastic future, use the opportunities that lie ahead, and never lose sight of the fact that help is always available. Every time you can, talk to your loved ones and friends. Give yourself enough credit for having the bravery to start a new life in a foreign country. If you take things slowly, you will soon settle into your university in a new city. Make it memorable and meaningful. Always remember to seek assistance when necessary.
There’s no doubt about it: studying abroad is an amazing opportunity to learn more about other cultures and countries, and it can be a huge help if you’re looking to advance your career or personal life. It’s a big step, though, and regardless of your age there’s likely a lot that you still haven’t done or seen. That’s why we’ve compiled this list: to let you know what to expect while abroad and help you take the next steps toward an amazing semester, year, or maybe even lifetime of study!
