How to Plan and Prepare for Study Abroad?

Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity to engage in another culture, learn an alternate language and view the world with new lenses. But to maximise the period, all preparations must be managed. If you plan well, the stress can be minimal and studying abroad is as smooth an experience as it gets. But the question is how to plan for study abroad?

In this blog, we will discuss some of the necessary steps to undertake to plan and prepare for study abroad journey in detail. This blog is helpful for those who are planning to study abroad.

How to Plan and Prepare for Study Abroad?

Here are 12 ways to plan and prepare for study abroad journey.

Jot Down The Deadlines

One of the first things you need to do when planning to study abroad is familiarise yourself with the application deadlines. This is you main pre-requirements for studying abroad. The application and planning process takes time, so be sure to note all important deadlines on your calendar well in advance. Pay attention to dates for items like applying for your program, submitting transcripts and paperwork, paying fees, and arranging travel plans. Missing a deadline could mean missing out on your dream study abroad opportunity.

Get Your Passport and Visa

One of the most time-sensitive parts of how to plan study abroad is getting your passport and visa sorted out. This usually takes months, so apply as early in advance. Make sure your passport has a validity of 6 months after the stated date on which you will commence to return from abroad. Research the visa requirements well in advance and start the application process early to avoid any last-minute complications.

Travel Insurance

It is important to have the right type of insurance coverage when travelling abroad, particularly during long-term stay as part of your study abroad plan. It is critical to have travel insurance that includes medical emergencies, trip cancellation or interruptions due to illnesses and other unforeseen circumstances. Look into different travel insurance options and choose one that suits your needs.

Get Help from The WorldGrad to Study Abroad

The WorldGrad has dedicated study abroad counsellors who provide guidance for students planning their study abroad plan. Meet or get on a call with our counsellors to discuss program options, get guidance filling out applications, and learn about scholarships. We can also connect you with alumni from your destination country. Take full advantage of their expertise so you get answers to all your questions.

Look For Affordable Airfare

You can try price tracking sites, visiting student travel agencies or signing up for airline fare sales notifications as ways of planning study abroad abd getting alerted when there is a sale. Additionally, it is more likely to get best rates if leaving after a short period of booking. Flying on discount days Tuesday-Thursday can also save a bundle.

Keep a List of Useful Contacts While Abroad

It is good to ensure that you have a list of useful contacts prior leaving for study abroad destination. his may include program coordinators, local phone numbers for emergency response services as well as contacts of friends living nearby. Inform family and friends to contact someone on your behalf in the event of a need for help while getting there. With these specifics being at your fingertips, as part of your study abroad plan, you will feel assured and know that help is available if necessary.

Equip Yourself With The Necessary Tech

Whether smartphones or laptops, technology is essential in today’s digital world for communication and keeping up with school work. Study abroad plan should include carrying a laptop or tablet that satisfies your academic needs. Research if your devices will function in the destination country’s electrical system and network frequencies before travelling. Don’t forget to buy travel adaptors to charge your gadgets. Test everything thoroughly before departure in order to avoid any surprises upon your arrival.

Financial Planning

Financial planning for study abroad is an important part while planning to study abroad. First of all, look into the cost of living in your destination country and develop a budget based on that information. Think of costs such as accommodation, transportation, meals, books and health insurance while creating the budget. Furthermore, make your bank aware of the plans of overseas education to suggest options for international banking and alert them on possible card transaction.

Have the Right Clothing

Prior to packing, it’s crucial to plan study abroad by finding out the weather conditions of the destination country during the year. Make sure to pack clothes for each season to feel comfortable despite the change in season. Don’t forget practical shoes and accessories too like sun hats or sunglasses.

Learn the Basics of the Local Language

Getting accustomed to the local tongue before departing means richer cultural immersion once there. Learning some basic phrases of the local language can greatly enhance your experience while studying abroad. Download language apps, listen to dialogue podcasts, take intro classes. Even just learning basic words and phrases shows initiative and makes everyday tasks like ordering food easier abroad. This will enable you to communicate more effectively and make meaningful connections with locals as you plan your study abroad journey.

Consulting Your Doctor About Medication Needs

To plan studying abroad effectively, get a checkup and ask your doctor if you need a prescription for any ongoing medications abroad. Some countries have different standards for certain prescriptions versus over-the-counter options back home. Ensure that you have an adequate supply of any prescribed medications to last throughout your time abroad. It’s also advisable to research healthcare facilities in your destination country and understand the procedures for accessing medical services if needed.

Secure Suitable Accommodation

Finding suitable accommodation is a crucial step in planning and preparing for study abroad. Research different options such as university dormitories, shared apartments, or homestays depending on your preferences and budget. Search for shared apartments on sites like Craigslist or Facebook groups too. Consider factors such as location, safety, cost, amenities, and proximity to your university or college when making a decision. Reach out to fellow students who have previously studied abroad in the same location for recommendations.

How to Choose The Right Place to Study Abroad?

Choosing the right place to study abroad is an important decision that will shape your experience. Consider factors such as academic reputation, available courses related to your field of interest, cultural opportunities, cost of living, visa requirements, and potential career prospects after graduation. Then research cities within each destination country to select an ideal home base.

The universities partnered with The WorldGrad offer multiple undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses of various disciplines. Students can choose a degree course of their interest and study with our Smart Programs to save tuition costs, aiding in the plan and prepare of study abroad process.

Conclusion

By keeping your eye on deadlines, getting paperwork and finances in order well in advance, and learning about your host location – you’ll set yourself up to fully embrace and learn from living in a new culture. Most importantly, enjoy all the planning as part of the exciting journey ahead! With diligent preparation, your planning and preparing for study abroad experience will surely be unforgettable.

How to Plan and Prepare for Study Abroad FAQs

Q1. How do I start preparing for studying abroad?
A1. Students can start preparing for their study abroad journey by researching potential universities that align with their academic goals. Our study abroad counsellors help students find the right university based on their course interest from Australia, the UK and the US.

Q2. What is the study abroad preparation checklist?
A2. The study abroad preparation checklist typically includes tasks such as researching your host country, applying for a student visa, arranging accommodation, organising travel documents, and packing essentials.

Q3. How to academically prepare for study abroad?
A3. Before moving to your host country, research the curriculum, familiarize yourself with the culture and language.

Q4. How to mentally prepare for study abroad?
A4. Research about your destination country and set realistic expectations. As you’re stepping out of your comfort zone, maintain a positive mindset to experience every tiny bit of your study abroad adventure.

Q5. How do I plan to study abroad?
A5. Students can start researching the universities offering their interested degree programs. While planning, one should also consider factors such as finance, visa, and accommodation.