Are you thinking about studying abroad and want to know how to get important information about obtaining a foreign degree as an international student? Not to worry, you've arrived at the right place.
In this article, we will share ideas and practical tips for studying abroad, and you will undoubtedly find the information useful.
What Should I Know Before Studying in the UK?
You should start researching your study abroad experience 12-18 months before you plan to travel, giving you plenty of time to sort out applications, funding, visas, and other details.
- Choose a Study Location
When it comes to choosing a study abroad location, the world truly is your oyster. A plethora of countries have world-renowned education systems and internationally recognized universities.
Consider whether you want to stay closer to home by studying in Europe, or if you want to spread your wings and travel further afield. Are certain countries well-respected or recognized as a hub for your field of study? If you intend to work abroad after graduation, you should base your decision on where you can easily find work.
Your budget will also determine where you can study; obtaining a degree in some locations is significantly more expensive than in others.
Consider your cultural horizons as well. If you've ever wondered what it's like to live in another country, now's the time to give it a shot.
2. Select Your Course
Generally, the majority of foreign universities offer qualifications comparable to those offered in the UK, such as Bachelors, Masters, and PhDs. Investigate how long it takes to complete them, as this can vary depending on where you study.
Investigate each of your shortlisted programs to determine which one is best for you. You could start by looking at how your potential institutions rank globally in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, then visit university websites and speak with lecturers, tutors, and career advisers.
You should also ensure that the qualification you receive will be recognized in the UK, and if you are currently studying in the UK, that you can spend time abroad while still completing your studies.
3. Look for Funding
Tuition fees for international students vary greatly. Some countries, such as Australia and the United States, charge exorbitant fees for international students, whereas others, such as China, are much more affordable. Some destinations, such as Iceland and Norway, do not charge any tuition.
Discuss funding options with the university of your choice. There are numerous scholarships and bursaries available to assist with the costs, including those from outside organizations.
Funding for international students can be difficult to come by at times, so if you're having difficulty finding assistance or aren't eligible for existing programs, consider crowdfunding or working while studying. To earn money while studying, you must thoroughly research the working rights and restrictions of the place.
4. Submit An Application For Your Program
The earlier you apply, as with courses in the UK, the better. This is especially important when studying abroad because you will have more time to prepare.
The best way to ensure admission to a course is to contact the department directly, as many universities will assist you with the application process. A 2:1 or 2:2 is usually sufficient for entry. Some countries, however, require students to pass entrance exams before being accepted.
If you're going to a country where English isn't the first language, make a note of the level of proficiency you'll need and allow yourself enough time to achieve it. Most universities offer courses in English, but some seminars are held in other languages.
5. Get Your Visa
If you want to study abroad, you must first obtain the necessary visa.
Allow yourself plenty of time to sort this out, and think about whether you'll need to renew it at any point during your stay.
Because immigration legislation changes frequently, the most up-to-date information can be found on the relevant national websites.
Contact the embassy or consulate of the country where you want to study for assistance and advice on completing study visas.
6. Locate A Place To Stay
Many foreign universities provide on-campus housing, but there are less expensive options. Take advantage of any assistance offered by international institutions in finding housing for students from other countries.
You could request that you be put in touch with other international students on your course or in your department to see if you can find shared housing.
Because the majority of your search will most likely be conducted online, make certain that all opportunities are legitimate before signing any contracts. If you can afford it, it may be worthwhile to visit your chosen destination in person to research accommodation options.
7. Make New Friends
Moving to a new country is made much easier if you have made friends before you arrive. Make sure you attend international student events at universities to help foreign students prepare for and integrate into their new surroundings. You will meet other students who are embarking on an adventure abroad by doing so. Some institutions also have buddy systems in place to assist you in settling in. Contact your university's international or admissions office to see what assistance is available.
Make use of social media to connect with other international students who will be attending your chosen university.
Once you've settled in, look into joining clubs and societies that interest you.
8. Budget Management
Saving money ahead of international study is often overlooked, so make a plan and start saving early. Everything, from university and housing costs to leisure activities and personal care, should be budgeted in advance. Use the estimates provided by some university websites to your advantage.
Living abroad can be expensive, so your money may not stretch as far as it does in the UK.
You'll need extra cash to make the most of your free time. You'll also need money to pay for travel home as needed.
Investigate the best credit cards for students and make use of them in an emergency.
9. Arrange For Health And Travel Insurance
There are numerous options for student insurance. Insurance is essential and is frequently required for visa applications, so be prepared to pay a premium for comprehensive coverage - it's well worth it.
Some countries require you to have certain vaccinations before entering. Others, like New Zealand, have very specific healthcare requirements that must be met.
Before you leave, regardless of where you're going, see your doctor for a full medical check-up. You can also arrange for ongoing prescriptions or specific medical needs with your GP if you leave enough time before your departure.
10. Finish All Final Checks
Check that your passport is valid for the duration of your trip. Renewing in a foreign country is possible, but waiting in long lines and filling out forms will not be the highlight of your trip.
Make sure you have all of the necessary documents, as well as duplicates, just in case. Convert your cash into the local currency to avoid arriving with empty pockets. Make a list of local emergency numbers and a note of your new country's address. It may also be worthwhile to purchase a backup mobile phone in case your primary phone is lost or damaged.
What Should I Know Before Studying in the United States?
• Make sure you have a signed, valid passport and, if necessary, visas. Also, before you leave, fill out your passport's emergency information page!
Read the Consular Information Sheets (and, if applicable, Public Announcements or Travel Warnings) for the countries you intend to visit.
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Leave copies of your itinerary, passport data page, and visas with family or friends at home in case of an emergency. Keep your host program updated on your location.
Make sure you have adequate insurance to cover your emergency medical needs (including medical evacuation) while traveling abroad.
• Learn about the local laws and customs of the countries to which you will be traveling. Remember that you are subject to the laws of the country you are visiting!
• Never leave your luggage in public places unattended, and never accept packages from strangers.
• Avoid using illegal drugs or drinking excessive amounts of alcoholic beverages while abroad, and avoid associating with people who do.
• Avoid becoming a target for thieves by wearing conspicuous clothing and expensive jewelry, and avoid carrying excessive amounts of cash or unnecessary credit cards.
• To avoid violating local laws, only exchange money with authorized agents.
• When traveling abroad, avoid demonstrations and other situations that may become unruly or where anti-American sentiments may be expressed.
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