Your Complete Guide to Studying Abroad: From Admissions to Accommodation

Studying abroad is a transformative experience that brings you a variety of academic and personal opportunities. However, the journey from deciding to study abroad to settling into your new home can be a daunting task to start with. 

So, to make things easier for you, this guide breaks down the process of studying abroad step by step; from admissions to accommodation. So, take notes and start planning your study abroad journey. Let’s find out! 

1. Choosing the Right Destination and Program

For an enriching study abroad experience, selecting a destination and a program that aligns with your goals, aspirations, and personal preferences is crucial. Here are some tips regarding the same:

• Research courses: Start by looking for programs that offer majors relevant to your field of interest.
• Evaluate rankings: Check the university rankings and make sure that your shortlisted institutions are well accredited.
• Evaluate cultural and lifestyle factors: Consider the climate, food, and culture of your planned destination. It’s very important that these aspects meet your preferences or you’ll lose your interest pretty soon.
• Check post-graduation opportunities: Consider the availability of future work opportunities along with Optional Practical Training (OPT) policies for international students. Post-graduation opportunities make sure you can stay back and work after your academic years in the country.

2. Understanding the Admissions Process

The admission process may vary based on the country and the university you have picked. However, they generally include some common steps. Here’s how it goes: 

• Research requirements: Review the admission requirements of the program you have picked. This can include academic qualifications, standardised test scores, and language proficiency.
• Prepare your application materials: Keep your documents organised for the admission process. The common documents you may need include:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Statement of purpose (SOP)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Test scores (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, or GMAT)
  • Resume or CV
• Submit your application: Make sure to submit your applications on the online portals of the universities you are applying to. Make sure that the documents are uploaded correctly.
• Track deadlines: Track the deadlines for your applications, scholarships, and visas separately as they may vary from each other. 

3. Planning Your Study Abroad Finances 

Studying in the USA can be expensive. But that doesn’t mean you cannot study in your dream university. Scholarships and financial aid can be a great help when you are planning to study abroad. Student loans, if planned well, can also be a great option to go about. Let’s take a look at some of the solutions:

• Explore scholarships: Any type of financial aid talk regarding the US starts with scholarships, and why not? There are a bunch out there for your help, like Fulbright, Humphrey Fellowship, and other university-specific grants.
• Apply for assistantships: Many US universities offer graduate assistant roles or teaching assistant roles that include tuition waivers and stipends for your ease.
• Consider student loans: Financial institutions act as student loan providers and also offer loans for international students. 
• Budget wisely: Create a budget to estimate the costs of your expenses like tuition, student housing in Seattle, and travel. This will help you plan and avoid financial stress in the future.

4. Navigating the Visa Application Process

Now that you’ve figured out the finances of your abroad experience, let’s see how you can apply for a student visa. The process includes:

• Acceptance letter: On securing an offer of admission from your chosen university, you will receive a letter of acceptance. This letter is crucial to the application process. 
• Pay the SEVIS fee: Keep in mind that the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System i.e. SEVIS fee is mandatory for F-1 visa applicants.
• Prepare your documents: Here too you must present your documents. Common ones include:
  • Valid passport
  • I-20 form (issued by your university)
  • Proof of financial support
  • Academic transcripts
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
• Schedule a visa interview: Book an appointment at the nearest US embassy or consulate for the process ahead. 
• Attend the visa interview: Prepare for the interview. The discussion may include your study plans, financial situation, and ties to your home country.
• Track your application: The visa processing times can vary depending on different factors, so applying early and monitoring your application status would prove to be a good idea.

5. Arranging Accommodation

The kind of housing can make or break your experience. After you have sorted out your finances and visa, it is time to find the right housing. Here are the popular options you can consider:

• University housing: In this category of housing, many universities offer dormitories or on-campus apartments. These are often the most convenient options for an international student. 
• Off-campus housing: If you’re looking for more independence, renting an apartment can be the best option for you. You can start your search by joining house-hunting forums, Facebook groups or even student housing booking sites. 
• Homestays: This category of accommodation will be best for you if you’re serious about living like a local. You can learn the local customs and cultures by observing your host family during your stay. 
• PBSAs: Purpose Built Student Accommodation is specially built for students looking to make the most out of their student experience abroad without breaking the bank. This option often includes important amenities and a diverse bunch of roommates to socialise with. 

Conclusion

So, to sum up all that we’ve conveyed, we’d say that studying in the USA is an adventure that comes with its preparations. Once you have taken care of these, studying in the USA can open a world of whole new opportunities for you. So, stay patient and grounded if things don’t go your way cause every challenge comes with a lesson. Be hopeful and keep trying. Good Luck!

How can amber help you?

amber helps you secure student accommodation of your choice on your study abroad journey. Having served 80 million students (and counting), amber is your one-stop shop for all your accommodation needs. Download the amber app from the Google Play Store or App Store to book an affordable home for your adventure.

Author: Ayush

Ayush is a daydreamer with a knack for rationalizing his abstract thoughts into reality. You will find him gazing at the flowers, longing for the raindrops to play music on their petals. He likes to enjoy an unhealthy amount of cinema, for he believes that is the healthiest way to live a thousand different lives.