Planning On Studying Abroad? Some Key Considerations

Studying abroad can be an incredible experience, as you aren’t only gaining access to different research facilities and academic essay writing but also have the chance to explore new places. However, this adventure can be daunting, as you have to start fresh somewhere that you may not have travelled to before. With that being said, life is about taking risks and trying new experiences that you might not get the chance to again.

This guide will explore some of the key considerations you need to make before you embark on your journey and begin to study abroad. Whether you’re currently exploring your options or planning for the future, continue reading for more information.

Studying Abroad Considerations

Documentation

When you travel abroad, for studying or not, you are required to have a valid passport that permits you to go to other countries outside of your native. Make sure to double check your passport’s expiration date and get it renewed if it has less than 6 months validity, as it can restrict you from travelling. You also need a valid visa to study in some countries, such as the UK. After you graduate, you can qualify for indefinite leave to remain to stay in the country.

Accommodation

There’s no point studying abroad if you don’t have anywhere to stay while you’re there. You should browse all the available accommodations in your country of choice and ensure that you can get everything sorted before the date of your move. Some options for students can include:

• Homestays
• Student Halls
• Private Apartments/Housing
• Shared Apartments/Housing

Finances

It’s essential that you plan your finances before you travel abroad to study. Knowing the cost of your study fees, accommodation and the cost of living in the country or city you will be living in will help you feel confident about what you spend. You don’t want to be in a situation where you are struggling to feed yourself properly and miss out on experiencing new cuisines. Consider creating a budget so that you know what you can spend each week. 

Culture

You’re bound to experience some level of culture shock when studying abroad, as you have to settle into a completely different country. Experiences will differ from person to person, so there’s no guarantee that you will like or dislike something. Conduct thorough research on the culture and build a support network of students who can help you understand the new customs. It will be very beneficial if you keep an open mind and embrace new experiences while you settle into your new life and study routine.

Language

Language barriers are bound to happen if you’re moving to study in a country that has a completely different language to yours. Learning the basic phrases will be a great start to allow you to interact with locals and show that you respect the country by learning the words for “please” and “thank you”. You can then develop your language skills throughout your stay in your new country.

Laws

It’s important to remember that you’re a guest in another country during your studying, so you should do your research regarding the laws to ensure that you don’t break them and cause a disturbance while living there. Some countries have laws that you might not even think about, for example you aren’t allowed to consume chewing gum while in Singapore. Driving, drinking and legal age laws are all unique to each country, so make yourself aware of these before travelling.

Final Thoughts

As you get ready to plan your studies abroad, remember to conduct careful planning and navigate the rules and regulations to live in your chosen country. Always embrace the challenges, immerse yourself in the new culture and allow yourself to grow in ways you never imagined. This leap into the unknown could be the most enriching chapter of your educational adventure.