The whole thing about studying abroad sounds pretty complicated. You have advisors with answers, brochures, and program descriptions. You might have already read reviews from past students and are busy getting connected with friends studying abroad. Even though you are pretty much confident about everything, there is a tiny voice in the back of it saying ‘Do you really?
Let’s be honest. A lot of things can go into an international trip. It’s okay to feel lost sometimes. But do not worry. We’ve got you back. In this blog,’ How to prepare for studying abroad, we’ll share tips to help you with your study abroad journey from the experts at Campus World, the top study abroad consultants in Ernakulam, making it the smoothest experience.
1. Documentation
Studying Abroad means you will be visiting another country; wahoo! However, To do so, you will require a new type of identification, a passport. Passports might take several weeks to process, so it is better to plan ahead of time.
You will be required to present your passport both while leaving the United States and when entering the new nation. You might also need a visa to study abroad; this is dependent on the country you are visiting. We recommend consulting with your advisor to ensure you have everything you need, as well as creating digital and physical copies of your passport and visa. Our best study abroad consultants in Kochi can sort all your documentation needs.
2. Visit a Doctor
Make an appointment with your doctor and obtain a physical before you depart to safeguard your health. Bring a copy of your medical records with you in case of an emergency abroad.
Also, it is very important to understand the host country's immunization requirements and to become inoculated prior to departure. Most programs will advise you on the types of immunizations you'll need (if any) while abroad, but you may also want to contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the most up-to-date disease information.
Also, if you have a significant medical condition that necessitates prescription drugs, you should bring enough to last the duration of your trip (if possible).
3. Get Travel Insurance
It is very important to have a health and accident insurance policy if you are planning to study abroad. These will certainly come to your aid when you encounter an emergency situation or evacuation ( Let’s hope it never comes to that )
The health insurance provider normally covers your abroad matters. But keep in mind that there are a couple of things your travel insurance will cover but the health insurance won't. For example
- Coverage if your flight is delayed/canceled
- Lost luggage
- Stolen personal belongings
- Evacuation in the case of a health emergency or natural disaster
4. Shop Around for an Affordable Plane Ticket
Your mother or grandmother may try to persuade you to buy your ticket six months or more in advance, but while they are giving you the gift of peace of mind, it is actually costing them far more than required. Actually, the best time to buy your ticket is three months before your journey, because this is when the price is usually the lowest.
Your airline travel will be an excellent way to begin your adventure. You can select a window or aisle seat, you might have your own personal TV screen for a movie marathon, and the food isn't as horrible as it used to be. Enjoy!
5. Research Your Destination
It’s very important to research the destination you are about to spend your future days ahead. Making sure that you have an understanding of the culture, history, geography, economy, government, and so on will help you avoid mistakes and enhance your immersion. If you put in the effort, your study abroad experience will be much better and your time spent will be more meaningful.
You can also talk to those who have been there, and look for opportunities to see movies and read about the country and its culture. It would also help with avoiding accidentally upsetting others (for example, pointing with your thumb or not slurping your noodles at dinner!).
The Department of State has brief notes on over 150 countries; they are a fantastic place to start for up-to-date information.
6. Prepare Your Finances
Set up an online bank account if you don't already have one. It's the most convenient way to handle your money while traveling. Most international travelers obtain cash in the local currency using their ATM/debit or credit cards. Also, make sure you have a credit card with no international transaction fees. If you use your credit card for everyday transactions, these can rapidly build up.
You must tell your present bank and credit card issuers of your intention to study abroad. Otherwise, you risk having your account frozen while abroad (they may flag it as fraudulent).
However, make sure to bring the equivalent of $100-$200 in the currency of your host country in case of any emergencies. The airport is a great option to withdraw cash at an ATM right once you land at the destination.
7. Start Packing
When packing for studying abroad, prioritize essentials, check the weather, and pack versatile clothing. Bring important documents, adapters, medications, and a universal charger.
Useful packing tips :
- Try to buy a heap of towels/sheets on arrival and save space on that
- Stick to 3-4 pair of shoes
- Bring power adapters for your electronics.
- Don't pack a blow dryer and flat iron. The voltage differences in most countries (including most of Europe) will cause you issues.
- Make sure to extra pairs if you are using contact lenses/glasses