Things to do before Going Abroad for Studies

Students are often confused about what is required to study abroad, or what are the things to do before going abroad for studies. If you are an international student and are planning to pursue your studies abroad, make sure that you are fully prepared, so, that you not only do you can enjoy yourself while you study but also gain a lifetime experience of living and studying in a foreign country. Read this article to check the list of things to do before going to study abroad.

Some things are supposed to be known by international students going to study abroad so that they are able to manage themselves and their expenses well. Plus, one should be adept about the requirements to study abroad and the university the student would be attending. Along with this, keeping one's belongings carefully and managing expenses are equally important when studying abroad.

Whether you are going to the US, UK, Europe, Australia or Canada, there are a few things you should know before going to leave for that country to make your stay a comfortable one. Read on about what you should take care of before leaving and upon arriving.

Must Read: Benefits of Studying Abroad

Things to do before going abroad for studies

There are certain things you need when going abroad for studies, a couple of things and a bit of a reiki of what and where you'll be studying and spending a major chunk of your higher education. Following are some of the things to do before going abroad:

1. Research:

The first and foremost thing is to do in-depth research before moving to a foreign country and know about their culture, weather and a few basic things that you need to survive there. Most universities have a dedicated department that specifically deals with the queries of foreign students. You can get information related to your studies and how to make arrangements for your stay.

Apart from this, you can also check with the authorities about the weather of that particular place, as it will help you in packing the right stuff for yourself.

2. Money:

Students must have prepared a budget before leaving, they must have sufficient money in one's pockets and bank accounts so that they easily can make transactions. In case the money the student carries gets lost or they fall short of money, they should have a plan B for arranging for financial help. Its always better to keep money in separate places and not all together. Students must be prepared to deal with such situations if circumstances so arise.

3. Currency Exchange: 

Students must always carry enough amount of money with them to meet their daily expenses/requirements. Apart from this, you can also carry an international debit/credit card, which is easily available for use at nationalized banks. This will be helpful in making your stay hassle-free. Though the value of the currency might not remain the same, as it was when you calculated it. Even a little change in the currency can have a huge impact on your budget. So, check the values before leaving home.

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4. Carry Necessary Documents: 

Although you must have done it twice or maybe thrice it is one of the most important things to focus on while travelling abroad. Other than the documents that you have submitted to the university, you also required more documents for travelling abroad. Check your passport’s expiry and make sure it lasts beyond the period of your course. Also, apply for a visa as early as possible and for this, please check the visa requirements for the country you are visiting.

5. Bag Packing: 

Winters in many European and western countries are completely harsh from India, so, make sure to carry warm clothes that are suitable for your destination. In addition, you can shop for winter wear after arriving in that country only, as many students prefer to buy them once they reach their destination country. Apart from this, make sure you take an adapter along with you as electric plugs differ from country to country.

6. Accommodation: 

You can ask your university to guide you regarding accommodation facilities. It is always a good idea to confirm your accommodation before going abroad as you will be mentally free and dedicate all your energy towards your studies. Apart from this, you can also register and get an international student identity card (ISIC) and avail of discounts on accommodation and other essential services.

7. List of emergency contacts: 

Always make sure that you keep emergency contact numbers like fire, police or ambulance handy, so, you can contact them immediately if required.

8. Upon Arrival: 

After reaching the designated country, the first thing you need to do is to report to the concerned authority/department/ministry of internal affairs and register yourself. This is mandatory for most countries and every country has their set of rules and procedures which you need to follow.

Apart from this, register yourself with the Indian embassy located nearby. It is important for you to inform the Indian embassy and have their contact number handy, as you can reach out to them in any kind of emergency during your stay.

9. Bank Account: 

One of the most important things to do once you reach your destination country. As your debit and credit card won’t work in a foreign country, so, ask your advisor how to open a bank account and what documents you need to open an account. This will prove to be handy, as you need to pay bills, deposit, or withdraw money frequently.

International Calling Arrangement: In a foreign country, you need a new sim card to contact your family and friends back home. In addition, you need to take an appropriate plan to make and receive international calls so it won’t make a dent in your pocket.

10. Know about their social customs/culture and weather: 

Staying in a different country having different cultures and customs might not be easy for some. It can be language or local customs which you need to understand. Moreover, many western countries are very cold and usually, people from our country are not habitual to cold weather.

11. Prepare well in advance:

It is always a good thing to gather as much information as you can and prepare yourself for all kinds of circumstances. However, even after going through the complete checklist, there will be a few things for which you cannot prepare yourself and have to deal with them when the situation arises. So, always prepare yourself mentally as well to deal with the adventures going to come in your new journey.

All the best!

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This was all about the things to do before going to study abroad. If you wish to study abroad, do reach out to Shiksha's Counselling Services for free!