How to Prepare for Your First International Flight as a Student
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Are you feeling confused and nervous about boarding your first flight to study abroad? This comprehensive guide will help you with everything you need to know, from pre-departure prep (documents, tickets, packing) to navigating the in-flight experience and arrival customs. You'll feel confident and prepared by the end of this blog.
First Time Travel in Flight: Congratulations! You got admission to your dream university. After winning multiple challenges and putting in a lot of preparation, you're finally going to study abroad, leaving India behind. The biggest challenge of studying abroad is that you will live alone and have to take care of yourself. This responsibility doesn’t start when you reach college/university, but when you start preparing for your first time travel in flight to your study destination.
Some students will likely be first-time flyers or travelling internationally for the first time. In both cases, it is natural that you will feel nervous and confused. You don’t want to make any mistakes. Since you are travelling on an international flight first time, you want to know every detail. In this article, we are going through every basic information related to the pre-departure process, the flight experience itself, and what to expect upon arrival.
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How to Prepare for First Time Travel in Flight
Travelling internationally on a flight is one of the last steps to studying abroad. By this point, you have overcome multiple challenges so don’t get nervous. This is just one more step on your journey towards fulfilling your dream. To understand the preparation as first-time flyers on an international flight, divide it into three steps:
- Pre Departure Preparation
- In-Flight Preparation
- Post Departure
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Pre-Departure Preparation As a Student
Unlike a tourist, your preparation needs a lot of research including cheap international flight tickets, baggage information and required documents. In this section of preparation, you will know about things like required documents, ticket booking, Packing tips and other important information. So let’s start!
Required Documents to Board First Flight
- Passport- A valid passport is a must-have. If you don't have one or need to renew it, apply as soon as possible.
- Student Visa- A legal document that allows an international student to enter a country for study purposes. Research and apply for a study visa for your destination country. This process can take time, so start right after getting your admission letter.
- Insurance- Getting health insurance as an international student is important. It's recommended to get health insurance before you board your first international flight.
- University Documents- Carry copies of your university admission documents like acceptance letters, transcripts, financial aid documents, and any other required paperwork. You may be asked to show proof at the airport.
- Flight Tickets- The last and most important step to board the flight is to book tickets. As a student, you might want to consider booking cheap international flight tickets to save money. It's recommended to book your tickets as early as possible
- Forex Card- While not directly related to boarding your flight, a forex card is an essential item for when you land in a different country. It will help you make transactions in the local currency.
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Flight Tickets Booking
At the time of booking your international flight ticket, you should consider multiple factors. Some of them are mentioned below:
- Travel Dates- Try to explore cheap flight tickets on different dates. Flexible travel dates can offer cheaper fares. It is suggested that try to travel on weekdays and during off-peak seasons, you may get cheaper flight tickets.
- Budget- Be strict with your budget. Set a realistic budget for your flight tickets.
- Which Airline to Choose- Do research to find airline options you have. Look for student discounts flights offer.
- Layovers- Most students find direct flights to their study destination, which may be expensive. You can try layover flights to save money. However, keep the total travel time in mind.
Note: You can try websites like StudentUniverse or Skyscanner or some ai websites to find affordable international flights and student discounts.
Understand Your Flight Ticket
No matter if you get a physical ticket or an e-ticket, you must understand your tickets very well.
- Flight Number- Your flight number is mentioned on your ticket. It represents your specific flight.
- Departure or Arrival Times- You can find your departure time and arrival time on your tickets and boarding pass.
- Baggage Allowance- Every person can carry a certain limit of bags with a fixed weight limit. You may need to pay extra fee if you exceed weight limits. So, pack your bags smartly.
- Check-in and Takeoff Time – You need to arrive at the airport at least 4 hours before the take-off time. The check-in process is so long that it contains verifying your identity, confirming baggage, security checks and receiving boarding passes.
Tips to Do Packing for Study Abroad
Your smart packing habit will help you manage your bags while boarding your flight. Keep the maximum weight allowed to keep with you on the flight.
- Things to Keep- Your clothes, medicines, and documents are some of the important things to keep with you.
- Snacks- you can keep some of your favourite snacks with you. For example- Some snacks given by your mom.
Other than this, you can pack some extra things along with you. Note that, things like books, clothes, and blankets you can buy after you reach there.
After completing the above-mentioned steps, you need to reach the airport at least 3 to 4 hours before the flight timings. Locate your airline check-in counter, drop your bags there and proceed for the security check along with your handbag and boarding pass.
Keep your phone wallet, belt, and electronics items in a tray for scanning. After this step, proceed to the boarding gate and wait for your flight announcement.
What to Expect on Your First Flight?
Take your seat and relax! Follow the cabin crew's instructions and fasten your seatbelt. During takeoff, you may feel a pushback and experience a sensation in your ears. Don't worry, these are normal feelings! You can distract yourself by looking out the window.
On your international flight, you might be offered complimentary meals or snacks, or you may need to purchase them. You can also enjoy in-flight entertainment options like movies and music. Turbulence is a normal part of flying, so there's no need to worry.
Things to Expect at Your Arrival
So you are out of India now. After landing follow the instructions of the cabin crew. . Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area, following the signs for your flight number If you have a connecting flight, ask airport staff for directions to your next gate and allow ample time for customs and immigration.
At the airport, you may need to go through a customs check. Have your passport and other required documents ready to show the staff. They may ask you to declare any items you're bringing into the country.
More related articles about Study Abroad Checklists
- Pre-departure checklist for students going to the US
- Checklist before going to study in Europe
- Your Checklist Before you Leave for Australia
- Time Management with Time Zone Converter
That's all you need to know about your first flight. We hope that this information helps you to complete your journey hassle-free. Below, we have mentioned some of the most common FAQs asked by first-time flyers like you.
If you have any queries related to your first-time flight journey, we’re happy to answer them. Feel free to leave your questions in the comments section below or get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors for assistance.
First Time Travel in Flight FAQs
Q. What documents do I need to carry for my flight as student?
A. As an international student who is going to study abroad for the first time, you need to keep these documents with you.
- Valid Passport
- Student Visa
- Flight Ticket
- Insurance papers
- University Acceptance letter
It is suggested that keep copies of these documents along with original papers.
Q. What can I eat and drink on the flight?
A. You'll get snacks and meals on your international flight. you might be offered complimentary meals or snacks, or you may need to purchase them. Also, you can bring some snacks with you in a limited quantity.
Q. What should be a bag size for international flights?
A. The most common size limit for carry-on luggage is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches (56 cm x 35 cm x 23 cm). The international flight baggage weight limit averages is 23kg but some airlines allow a maximum weight for a single piece of baggage is 32 kg. It will be better to check the official website of your airline.
Q: Is Torrens University good for international students?
Torrens University Australia is one of the fastest growing universities in Australia. It offers a culturally vibrant and comfortable environment for international students. Each year thousands of international students from all over the world come to study at various courses of the university. currently, there are 3932 total students at Torrens University out of which 986 are international students.
Q: What GPA is required for the University of South Dakota?
The University of South Dakota expects a GPA score of 2.5 from undergraduates and 3 from postgraduates on the 4-pointer scale. Along with the GPA scores, undergraduates must meet the basic eligibility and submit an ACT score of 21 or higher and an SAT score of 1070 or higher. In addition, they must submit the required documents, such as academic history, transcripts, letters of recommendation, English language scores, and more.
Q: How can I get admission in the University of Manchester?
The application process at the University of Manchester may vary depending on the course and level of study. However, here is the application process for UG and PG courses:
The Undergraduate Application Process:
Step 1: You can apply through the UCAS common application portal.
Step 2: Go to the website and select the course you are interested in.
Step 3: Ensure you meet the Entry requirements (Academic qualifications, English proficiency, etc.
Step 4: Once you decide on the course, submit documents such as SOP, Transcripts and personal statements.
Check out: tips to improve your SOP.
Step 5: You can track the application's progress through your given credentials by UCAS.
Step 6: Once the applicant submits the application to UCAS, it forwards to the University, and the admission teams carefully analyse the application document.
Step 7: The university will send you an offer letter once selected. Hence keep checking your UCAS portal for your application status.
The Postgraduate application process:
Step 1: Select the postgraduate course you are interested in from the University of Manchester.\
Step 2: Ensure you meet the entry requirements for the chosen program, as they vary depending on the course.
Step 3: Complete the online application by providing your personal information.
Step 4: Upload the required documents, such as Academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency ( TOEFL/ IELTS). experience in your fields and references (depending on the course). You also may require Two LORs depending on the course.
To make your admission better, check out the following: How Admission Officers Evaluate your application.
Step 5: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer from the University of Manchester.
Q: Is it hard to get into Newcastle University Australia?
The University of Newcastle is amog the universities that does not publish official data on the acceptance rate. However, as per some unofficial sources, the University of Newcastle Australia acceptance rate is 80%. This makes Newcastle University Australia moderately selective in admissions. Please note that the data on acceptance rate given above is taken from an unofficial source, therefore, it is subject to vary.
Q: Does the University of Essex require IELTS?
International students whose native language is not English must meet the University of Essex English language requirements to get admission. The university accepts IELTS scores as proof of English language proficiency. Mentioned below are the IELTS scores required for UG and PG admission at the university:
English Language Test | Score |
|---|---|
IELTS | Overall score of 5.5 to 8.0 with minimum of 5.5 to 7.5 in each section |
The university also accepts the score of other English language tests such as TOEFL and PTE for admission to undergraduate and graduate programs:
English Language Test | Score |
TOEFL iBT | Overall score of 72 to 114 |
PTE | Overall score of 59 to 84 with minimum of 59 to 80 in each section |
Also read: Required IELTS Score for UK Universities
Q: What GPA is needed to go to Ohio State?
There is no minimum GPA score for UG admission at Ohio State. However, International students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale or equivalent) for graduate admission. Applicants may submit a standardized test score (GRE or GMAT) if their cumulative GPA is below 3.0 for the last degree.
Q: Why do Indian students choose to study at Istituto Marangoni - France?
Indian students choose to study at Istituto Marangoni in France for various reasons. The school offers a unique blend of international exposure, high-quality education, and a strong focus on practical skills that are highly valued in the fashion industry. Additionally, the school's strong industry connections and its reputation for producing successful alumni, such as Rahul Mishra, Dhruv Kapoor, and Anvita Sharma, make it an attractive choice for students seeking to launch their careers in fashion.
Q: Is it worth studying at Melbourne Institute of Technology, Australia?
Melbourne Institute of Technology Australia (MITA) is largely regarded as one of Australia's top institutions. It has a solid reputation in engineering, business, and science.
To begin with, Melbourne Institute of Technology Australia provides a world-class education with an emphasis on hands-on learning. You will be able to gain practical knowledge and abilities in a range of disciplines. Furthermore, the institution provides a wide range of courses and programmes that will provide you with the skills and knowledge required for a successful profession.
Second, the university is well-known on a global scale. It has the highest graduate employability rate in Australia. This is due to the great level of education and possibilities provided by the university to its students.
Third, the university boasts a broad and vibrant culture. While learning, you will be able to pursue your hobbies and meet like-minded people. This will aid in the development of your professional chances and the formation of strong relationships that will continue long after you graduate.
Fourth, the institution provides a wide range of facilities and services to make your studies more pleasurable and productive. You will be able to locate
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