Somewhere or the other most of us might have dreamt of studying abroad. Whatever your story may be behind going abroad, we’re going to discuss some of the ideas that will help you to plan a good future abroad. Below is the list of things you need to do before studying abroad.
Research
The first step that you need to take is information gathering for the question of how to study abroad. Visit the study abroad office and the consultant there could help you in the right way. They are professionals, and it is part of their job to help students with the available programs. With them, you can find the best detail about the graduation plans, places, costs, and credits.
Discuss with study abroad counselor
Once the country, courses, and details related to it are known, you can start discussing it to gain more general knowledge from the counselor. The counselor will be able to answer all your queries and will help you to make firm decisions. It’s important to talk to your faculty advisor about your wish to study abroad. They will guide you with course details and allows you to earn a college credit relevant to your efforts.
Study Abroad Credits
You might be wondering what they are, Study abroad credits are the points or acknowledgment of having taken a course at school or university, used as a measure if appropriate hours for graduation have been made. Getting some understanding of it is always useful. It’s always useful to know how many credits you have on the books and what courses you need to be taken during a study program abroad. Make sure you get credit before you finalize any specific program.
Cross-check expenses and the financial aid available.
There are various factors like the duration of your course, tuition fee, credit scores, travel expense that determine your total costs. Once you have rough details about these figures you can plan your financial aid accordingly. You need to plan this way ahead as working on timelines can be messy and it’s totally not a good idea.
Select an appropriate program
Unless and until you decide a course of your interest you won’t be able to move further with the process. Go through all the options you have collected during the research phase. Once your course is finalized its time to move ahead with the application process.
Gather Information
The first research you did was regarding the selection of course and the best institutes. Now you need to research the process for application. Visit the consultancy and they will be able to help you with the application process. Here the process starts where you will have to fill in forms containing your information. You will need a letter of recommendation and you will also need to provide a health checkup certificate.
Paper writing
Many universities may require students to write a paper about their interest in studying abroad. Take this as an advantage to showcase your talent and will convince the readers about your successful future abroad.
Take deadlines seriously
Make a list of deadlines for all processes. And make sure you adhere to it. Deadlines can be for application, financial aid, payment of college fees, tuition fees, etc. If you are a person who procrastinates more, you need to ensure to complete the application process before the deadline.
Application
After you are done with the selection of course and university, it’s time to apply. The online application form is the most used application platform which makes the application process simpler. Most schools and students prefer to send the documents online instead of by post, as it is quicker and typically less costly or free. In case you are not sure about the university norms you can always check their website or inquire with your admission official.
Collect your travel documents
Passport and Visa are the two main documents that are required. In order first comes the application of passport. It is quite simple to apply for a passport; however, it takes time between the procedure and you finally getting your passport. You can even check with your nearby post offices if they provide the service.
Then comes the application for a Visa, it takes less time than a passport. Your consultancy people can help you with study the Visa process. In most cases, it is time to apply for a student visa after you receive a letter of acceptance and are admitted to the school. Keep a note of all criteria and correctly understand how the Visa requirements are in compliance with the country you chose. Make sure you organize all the documents and get all the paperwork done before time. Some of the important documents you would need for student Visa application are bank statement, application form, receipt of the payment done, medical information, your passport and background check clearance certificate. Advice is to keep some extra passport size photographs with you they will come to help at many places.
Mandatory check of housing option
This is the most important thing to do. You will get many options like living in an apartment, live with the host family, Campus housing, etc. Check out and chose the most suitable option for you. Until signing up, please be sure to understand your study abroad housing option.
Time to Fly
Finally, all your hard work has paid off and its time for you to relax. Uh ah, wait! You are still a step away from achieving your dream. The only thing now left is planning your travel. Tickets for airlines must be purchased three months ahead, if possible. Through booking early, save more time and money. Now you need to check all your documents and start packing. Don’t miss any of your documents and valuables which you will need there. Carry a small handbag in which you can keep all your documents, passport, Visa and tickets. Don’t leave these for last minute. Do not stress yourself and enjoy some time with your friends and family members as you are about to leave home for a brief period. Also, do not miss to catch a nice nap which will help you to stay calm and focused. Leave all your nervousness behind its time for you to fly and enjoy a life that you decided for yourself.
Hope these tips are helpful for those preparing to study abroad. We would also like to hear about your experiences if you wish to include them in the section below. All the best to all the new bees who are willing to fly towards their future.
