Introduction 

Studying abroad happens to be an experience that is indeed quite exciting. It provides students with an opportunity through which they can get a global perspective along with broadening their academic horizons.

But before you get started with this amazing journey, you must go through careful planning and preparation. Well, this guide to studying abroad will assist you with that. ESM Overseas, which happens to be one of the best student visa consultants, is right by your side to serve that purpose.

So without further ado, let’s get started.

Why Studying Abroad Could Be A Great Decision

There are numerous reasons why studying abroad could be your best bet. Let’s have a look at some prime ones:-

• Academic Experience

Studying abroad provides you with the exposure to explore different perspectives and teaching styles. 

• Self-Dependency

It inculcates in you the virtues of self-dependency and adaptability. These virtues further add value to both your personal and professional life.

• Exploration

Last but not least, studying abroad allows you to explore the world while you pursue your degree.

The aforementioned reasons not only make your life an enriching one but also give you a competitive edge for decent jobs in the global market.

Deciding Where Should You Study Abroad

When it comes to making the decision about the place to study abroad, you should consider factors like climate, language, lifestyle, and most importantly career opportunities. Some of the mainstream destinations for studying abroad happen to be the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Canada, and Australia. 

All those countries not only have top-notch education systems but also have cultural diversity. But you can choose to research beyond them and go with a country that caters to both your personal and academic aspirations. 

Deciding What Should You Study Abroad

You should have immense clarity regarding your course of study. There are numerous fields such as technology, medicine, arts, commerce, business, and many more. And each of those fields comes with bright prospects.

Before you make the final decision regarding what you should be studying, consider researching thoroughly the programs offered, their unique structure, faculty expertise, and placement opportunities.

Choose to go with a field of study that not only fuels your passion but also provides better career opportunities. 

Planning and Managing Finances Overseas

Well, this has to be the most crucial part of your studying abroad requirements. You can get started with estimating the total cost of your entire study period. This calculation will take into account the following:-

• Tuition fees (depending on the university and country)
• Cost of accommodation (private housing or on-campus)
• Travel costs (flights and local transportation)
• Living expenses (groceries, social activities, etc)

If you plan your expenses in advance and manage your finances effectively, it will indeed be quite helpful for your stay abroad.

Applying to Multiple Universities

Applying to multiple universities is one of the most crucial steps to study abroad. This in turn elevates your chances of acceptance and offers you options in case your first choice doesn’t work out. However, before doing so you must consider tailoring your application in accordance with each university’s official requirements, emphasizing why you align perfectly with their program.

Nailing the English Language Test

In certain countries, there is a requirement for international students to demonstrate English proficiency. IELTS and TOEFL happen to be widely recognized tests and passing them becomes mandatory for taking University admissions abroad. If you want to study abroad in the USA, you certainly need to have proof of your English language proficiency which you will acquire by qualifying for tests like Duolingo or PTE Academic.

You must be well-prepared for those tests as scoring impressively in them would not only assist in University application but will also be needed in visa approval. To prepare well, you can rely on practice tests or preparatory courses, especially if English is not your first language.

Scholarship Hunting

When it comes to studying abroad, scholarships can act as a savior by significantly reducing your financial budget. Apply for as many scholarships as possible right from the start. Choose to go with scholarships offered by both universities, government programs as well as private organizations.

Go through their eligibility criteria and application deadlines and fulfill them accordingly. Getting scholarships as per your academic merit or financial need will enable you to secure funding for studying abroad.

Mastering the Student Visa Process

Once you receive your acceptance letter, acquiring a student visa is going to be the next step. Even though each country happens to have its own prerequisites and conditions, generally, you would need the following:-

• A valid passport.
• Your admission letter from the university.
• Proof of adequate financial support.
• Proof of qualifying for English language proficiency test.
• A visa application form.

To avoid unwanted delays, make it a point to apply for your visa as early as possible. If you intend to study in the USA, you must contact an expert USA study visa consultant.

Even though the process of acquiring a student visa can be cumbersome, it’s a crucial step in your journey of preparing for international education.

Planning Travel, Stay, and Accommodation

In your studying abroad checklist, this step tends to be a crucial one. After securing your visa, you must plan your travel, stay, and accommodation. To do so, ensure to book your flights as early as possible. This will get you in the position to strike budget-friendly deals. You must also make it a point to finalize your stay and accommodation before arriving. 

Based on your budget and preferences, you can choose to go with either on-campus housing facilities or private accommodation options.

Packing Like A Pro

While packing for studying abroad, ensure to carry all essentials including toiletries, clothing, electronics, and other personal belongings/items. 

Most importantly, carry your passport, university admission letter, visa, proof of health insurance, copies of your academic transcripts, English language test scores, and other documents that are required. You must keep both physical and digital copies of the aforementioned documents. They must be easily accessible to you throughout the journey.

Lifestyle Preparations

If you have planned to study abroad, be ready for lifestyle changes. The people of each country happen to have a unique lifestyle about which you must have an idea before you go. 

Getting to a whole new country can be quite challenging. But you must look upon it as an enriching experience that you would enjoy while studying abroad.

Managing Money Abroad

To manage your finances effectively, you would have to open a bank account in the country you are planning to study in. Doing so will simplify a lot of things for you such as handling transactions including receiving funds, paying for groceries, paying for rent, and using local currency. 

You must do your homework regarding finding out which banks provide student-friendly accounts. Also, be sure to carry the necessary documents including your passport, proof of enrollment, and visa.

Setting Up Emergency Contacts

Before leaving your home country to study abroad, don’t forget to make a list of emergency contacts. That list must have the name and number of local authorities, your home country’s embassy, and family or friends.

By making a list of emergency contacts, you can rest assured about knowing whom you should contact in case of an emergency while staying and studying abroad, especially for first-timers.

Ready, Set, Study Abroad !!! 

Undoubtedly, studying abroad provides great opportunities, opening up enriching experiences. Relying on this international student guide will indeed prepare you well for your stay abroad. 

Through this post, we have covered all the necessary studying abroad requirements ranging from where and what to study to managing money abroad along with prepping for lifestyle adjustments.

Ready to kickstart your journey to study abroad? Get started today and explore a world of numerous bright opportunities.