Things to Do Before Going Abroad for Studies In 2024
Studying abroad can be an exciting and life-changing experience. However, it can also be overwhelming if you don’t prepare adequately. To ensure a smooth transition, there are a few things you should do before moving abroad for studies.
One of the essential things you must do is research the country you’ll be studying in and learn about its culture, customs, and laws. This will help you avoid any cultural faux pas and ensure that you don’t break any laws unintentionally.
You can also find out about the local language and try to learn some basic phrases(especially greetings and responses to common pleasantries) before you arrive. This will help you communicate with locals and make your stay more comfortable.
Secondly, you should handle all the necessary paperwork and formalities before leaving. This includes obtaining a student visa, arranging for health insurance, and ensuring that your passport is valid for the duration of your stay.
It’s also a good idea to make copies of all your important documents and keep them in a safe place in an emergency. By taking care of these formalities beforehand, you can avoid any last-minute stress and enjoy your study abroad experience to the fullest.
Read also: Fully Funded Government Undergraduate Scholarship
Academic Preparation | Things to Do Before Going Abroad for Studies
Since your main purpose for traveling abroad is for studies, it is important you look through all your academic documents and make the necessary provisions for your new school before your departure date and make sure you are not leaving out anything no matter how little
Verify Admission and Course Details
Before going abroad for studies, it is important to verify the admission and course details with the university. This includes confirming the acceptance letter, the start date of the course, and any additional requirements such as language proficiency tests or medical exams. It is also important to check the course syllabus and ensure that it aligns with your academic goals and interests.
Arrange Academic Documents
Arranging academic documents is an important part of academic preparation for studying abroad. This includes obtaining official transcripts, diplomas, and certificates from previous educational institutions. It is also important to have these documents translated into the host country’s language, if necessary. Additionally, it is recommended to have multiple copies of these documents in case they are lost or misplaced.
Read also: Allan and Nesta Ferguson Scholarship
Understand Academic Expectations
Understanding academic expectations is crucial for success when studying abroad. This includes familiarizing oneself with the academic culture of the host country, as well as the specific expectations of the university and course. It is recommended to research the grading system, attendance policies, and academic integrity standards. It may also be helpful to reach out to current students or alumni for advice on how to succeed academically in the host country.
Legal and Documentation
Apply for Passport and Visa
Before going abroad for studies, it is important to have a valid passport and visa. It is recommended to apply for a passport at least six months before the intended travel date. Students should also check the visa requirements of the country they will be studying in and apply for the appropriate visa accordingly. It is important to note that visa processing times can vary, so students should plan accordingly and apply well in advance.
Understand Legal Obligations
Students must understand the legal obligations of the country they will be studying in. This includes knowing the local laws and regulations, as well as understanding their rights as a foreign student. It is recommended to research the legal system of the country and seek advice from the embassy or consulate if necessary.
Prepare Important Documents
Students should prepare and carry important documents with them while traveling abroad. This includes their passport, visa, admission letter, health insurance documents, and academic transcripts. It is recommended to make copies of these documents and keep them in a safe place in case of emergencies.
This will help them avoid any legal issues and ensure a smooth transition to their new academic environment.
Financial Arrangements
Take a proper look at all financial arrangements both the ones you are to pay and any promises made by friends or family. You can even confirm from the school if there are scholarships and know how to apply or qualify for them beforehand. You can pay more attention to;
Budget for Living Expenses
Before going abroad for studies, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the living expenses in the destination country. Students should research and create a budget for their living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other necessary expenses. It is essential to be realistic while creating a budget and consider all possible expenses.
Set Up a Bank Account
Students should set up a bank account in the destination country to avoid any financial inconvenience. It is recommended to research the best bank options and choose the one that offers the best services and has a convenient location. Students should also consider the bank’s charges before opening an account.
Read also: African Union Internship Program
Apply for Scholarships and Loans
Studying abroad can be expensive, and students should explore different options to finance their education. Scholarships and loans are two popular options to cover the expenses.
Students should research and apply for scholarships and loans as early as possible to increase their chances of getting financial aid. It is also essential to read and understand the terms and conditions of the scholarships and loans before accepting them.
You should plan and prepare your finances well in advance to avoid any financial stress during your studies.
Research Host Country Culture
Before embarking on a study abroad program, it is essential to research the host country’s culture. This includes understanding the customs, traditions, and social norms of the country.
Knowing the cultural differences can help students avoid any misunderstandings and ensure that they are respectful and polite during their stay. It is also helpful to learn about the history and current events of the country, as it can provide valuable context and insight.
Learn the Local Language
Learning the local language is a crucial aspect of cultural preparation. It is essential to be able to communicate with locals and navigate daily life in the host country. Even if the program is taught in English, knowing the local language can help students immerse themselves in the culture and make meaningful connections. Students can start by learning basic phrases and vocabulary, and then progress to more advanced language skills.
Read also: Swedish Institute (SI) Global Professionals Masters Scholarship For Students
Attend Pre-Departure Orientation | Things to Do Before Going Abroad for Studies
Most study abroad programs offer a pre-departure orientation to help students prepare for their time abroad. These orientations cover topics such as culture shock, safety, health, and academic expectations. Attending these orientations can help students feel more confident and prepared for their study abroad experience. It is also an opportunity to ask questions and connect with other students who will be studying abroad.
In summary, cultural and language preparation is crucial for a successful study abroad experience. Researching the host country’s culture, learning the local language, and attending pre-departure orientation can help students navigate the challenges of studying abroad and make the most of their experience.
Leave a Reply