THINGS YOU SHOULD PREPARE BEFORE LEAVING FOR STUDY ABROAD

After being accepted to a study abroad program, there are things you need to prepare before you go. The excitement might make you feel confused as to what you need to prepare. There are a lot of administrations that need to be prepared ahead of time. So, here is a guide to prepare you before leaving for your study destination country. Make sure to read until the end to have a smooth experience.

• Research your destination 

Prepare for your trip by learning about the culture and politics of the country you’ll be visiting. Make sure you know the country’s president’s name and the currency’s name. If necessary, familiarize yourself with the country’s language to communicate better upon arrival. Knowing the fundamentals before you arrive will make you feel a lot more at ease once you’re on the ground. This will make you less intimidated and more excited when experiencing the culture.

• Notify your bank

When traveling overseas, it is important to call your financial institutions and notify them about your trip. Most institutions have safety measures in place that might result in your bank card being disabled if you don’t notify them long in advance that you’ll be abroad. Check out whether your bank has any international relationships that allow you to transfer money without paying any fees.

• Apply for a passport and visa

When you want to study abroad, you need to have a valid passport and student visa before purchasing a ticket. Passport is an official government document that is issued by your country of citizenship to certify your citizenship and identity, whereas a visa is an official government document issued by a foreign government that permits you to enter the country you are visiting. Apply for a passport through immigration offices available in your country. But, if you already have one, make sure that it doesn’t expire within 6 months of your expected return to your home country or after the program ends. Be sure there are blank pages in your passport if you have traveled abroad previously. After getting your passport, you need to apply for a visa as soon as possible. It is always important to apply earlier because of how long it can take to make or to anticipate any problems.

• Purchase your flight ticket

Finding inexpensive plane tickets has become a game of time and chance these days. The cost of a ticket might vary significantly based on when you want to go and where you buy it. Student travel services may also provide the most flexible and affordable tickets for students going internationally. They also assist students in obtaining ticket discounts.

It is important to come no more than a couple of days before your program’s start date. While having a few additional days may help you to get a head start on adapting to your new surroundings or recovering from jet lag, arriving early may cause issues with immigration.

• Review your flight info

Make sure to check your flight information and that everything is correct. Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to check-in or to hand in your luggage. Verify that your airport transportation is in place and that you have a backup plan in case of weather delays, automobile problems, or illness.

• Pack your belongings

As it is getting closer to your flight, pack everything that is necessary. You need to check your airline regulations about luggage allowances to avoid paying fees, so pack lightly. Here are some tips for packing:

• Bring enough travel-sized toiletries to last the first two weeks, then start stocking up once you arrive.

• Instead of spending room on it when packing, plan to buy an inexpensive towel or bedding when you arrive.

• Bring a maximum of 4 pairs of shoes.

• Take power adapters to have room for all your electronics.

• To assist overcome homesickness, bring a few mementos from home.

• Bring additional sets of glasses or contact lenses if you wear them.

Keep in mind the weather of your destination to adjust your clothing. Consider carrying a notepad or notebook to record your thoughts and reflections on your study abroad experience. Small souvenirs from your home country are excellent gifts for new acquaintances or host families.

Now, you are ready to travel! Though unavoided incidents can always happen, it is always better to anticipate and be prepared when you can. The week leading up to your departure for study abroad will fly by, so instead of hopping from one to-do list to the next, take some time to relax and enjoy this period of your life. While it may be stressful, you’re getting ready for a thrilling and maybe life-changing experience. So, take in the emotions of not knowing what’s ahead and being who you are right now since it’ll all change soon.

References

Dunkle, A. (2021, August 18). Preparing for study abroad: 9 things you need to know. Go Overseas. Retrieved June 12, 2022, from https://www.gooverseas.com/blog/study-abroad-prep-9-things-need-know

Jacobs, E. (2019, October 24). The top 10 things you MUST do before studying abroad. Matador Network. Retrieved June 12, 2022, from https://matadornetwork.com/abroad/the-top-10-things-you-must-do-before-studying-abroad/

Rebecca, M. (2018, June 13). 15 important things to do before studying abroad. GoAbroad.Com. Retrieved June 12, 2022, from https://www.goabroad.com/articles/study-abroad/things-to-do-before-studying-abroad

(2021, October 5). What’s the difference between a passport and a visa? PassportAndVisaServices.Org. Retrieved June 13, 2022, from https://passportandvisaservices.org/difference-between-passport-and-a-visa/

What is the difference between a visa and a passport? (n.d.). OnlineVisa. Retrieved June 13, 2022, from https://www.onlinevisa.com/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-a-visa-and-a-passport/