Studying abroad is one of the scariest, most nerve-wracking yet exciting and rewarding experiences ever. If you are going abroad to study, then you know what that’s about! Leaving home is never easy. Partly because of the people, the memories attached, and just the feeling of being at home. But also, because once you leave something behind, it’s tough to get it back. So, here’s our ultimate study abroad checklist for students!

Here are some things you need to know before studying abroad – tips and tricks

You need to know and decide upon some basic details like

1. Which country do you want to go to for example United States, Canada and Australia.
2. Which university do you want to go
3. Which course do you want to take?
4. The course fees
5. The faculty who will be teaching you
6. The exact location of the university
7. The state and city in which the university is located in
8. The cost of living in that city
9. The weather and climatic conditions of that place
10. The culture of that place
11. If there are any people from your own culture or ethnic background residing in that place
12. The most famous landmarks in the city
13. the languages that are spoken there
14. the most common modes of transport
15. the most famous stores for particular categories like groceries, clothes, books, etc.
16. most accepted and used modes of payment
17. Which phone plan do you have to take, Find out if your local provider has international plans, if not, right upon landing, sort out a local plan and get one immediately, always have a backup in case something happens to your communication networks. In a new and foreign place, it’s important for you to feel safe and secure
18. The cost of wi-fi, electricity, and water
19. The banking, budgeting, financing, currency, and other details
    find out with your bank what their charging fee is, the currency exchange rate between the currency of your country and the one you’re moving to, and the monetary system of the country you’re moving to
20. Always find out the emergency contact details such as the police number, the firefighter’s number, the ambulance number, helpline numbers, etc. Be prepared for all and any emergencies that you may have to face
21. Find out beforehand what electronic devices and applications you may have to need. Check if your course or university has any mandatory electronic possession requirements or if any electrical appliances can make your home life easier
22. Always be prepared for any culture shock that you may have to face. Sometimes the culture in the place you’re moving to may be the exact opposite of the place you’re coming from. For example, while in the US it is considered rude not to tip waiters and waitresses, in Japan, it is considered rude to do so. Read up about the culture beforehand, and always keep an open mind towards things and learn if someone offers to correct you or help you.
23. Make sure to have all your paperwork and documentation ready beforehand and keep them all in one safe place
24. Register with the government and provide them with some basic emergency details so that in case anything happens, they’re always on the lookout for you
25. Organize your flight tickets, visa, passport beforehand. Check with your airlines and learn about their baggage weight policy. If you have extra luggage, confirm with them and pay the extra amount beforehand to save yourself from last-minute stress
26. If you have friends, family, or other known people staying in or close to the place you’re going to shift to, keep them updated on your whereabouts, at least during the first few months until you’re all settled down
27. If you’re freaking out and getting anxious because everything is new, know that it is common and okay to feel that way
28. Be careful with the friends you make, and always remember that making good friends takes time
29. If you’re feeling way too homesick and lonely, try getting to know your neighbours, the people who work in nearby restaurants or grocery stores. Connect with people in parks, libraries, gyms, or other clubs if you decide to join any. Always have some activity to distract you or help you cope with those feelings. Keep a journal, read books, watch movies, connect with your family and old friends back at home, make new connections in your new home city, or develop new hobbies, interests, and skills.
30. While ordering food or during other times, student IDs can save you some money. A lot of places abroad offer discounts for students.
31. Always prefer to go by public transport because it saves you time and money. It also ensures safety.
32. Be prepared for theft, pick-pocketing’s, and creepy encounters. Always keep your belongings safe, have your phone fully charged, and be aware and cautious when in public.
33. Always check for the entry requirements for your course. Check if you get your credits if your college scores and your SAT/ TOEFL/ IELTS/ ACT scores are accepted.
34. Keep a lookout for available scholarships

Create a Study abroad checklist and have it with you at all times. Keep many copies of the same To-Do list if you want to be reminded of what you need to do.

Study abroad checklist

• Passport
• Student Visa
• Finances required bank statements, cash, wallet
• Scholarships
• Required academic documentation and proofs
• Required identity proofs
• Health and vaccines certifications, history records
• International Student Identity Card
• Travel Insurance
• Language test scores, guide books, dictionary
• Maps
• Emergency kit
• Required toiletries
• Required clothing (take into account the weather and pack accordingly)
• Electrical devices, chargers
• Snacks
• Extra bags just in case

 
With this, you’re all set to go! We hope you’ve found this guide useful. Wishing you all the best in your journey! Bon Voyage!