Tips for Preparing to Study Abroad

A Pre-Departure Check List

​Preparing to study abroad isn't always easy. It can be a confusing process trying to understand what you need and where to find all the relevant information.

We've broken down some of the top things you'd need to know before diving into being an international student. It might be helpful to bookmark this post so that you can visit it again later to make sure you didn't miss anything. 

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finances and Scholarships 

​Now is a good time to save as much as you can. Although school in the UK is significantly cheaper than studying in the U.S., education is an investment.

To financially prepare we recommend looking into credit and debit card options that can be used abroad and discovering which one may be the best fit for you. If you're unsure, professionals at your bank can help you assess your options.

In terms of scholarships, many of our partner universities offer automatic scholarships for international students. In addition, it's possible to find funding outside of what the university offers. Once we get to know each other, we can help you find scholarships that fit your needs. 

Phone Plan

​Since you'll be diving into university life, it's important to have a way to stay in contact with the friends you meet and those at home. Before purchasing a UK sim card, we always recommend checking with your current phone carrier to see if they have any international plans that might be the best for your situation. 

Visas

The Visa process can seem overwhelming. But, we're here to help! Once you've been accepted at a university, don't wait to start the Visa process!

​Don't worry, we'll help you kick things off. 

Know who to ask

​Before leaving on your journey, make sure you identify a point of contact at your university. This should be a person who can help you answer questions leading up to your trip and after your arrival.

​Knowing how to contact this person can offer you peace of mind and save so much time and energy in the long run.

Learn about UK Culture

​If you're coming from the U.S., you might not experience a ton of culture shock. Besides the high amounts of black tea and milk, you'll most likely feel at home.

However, there are quite a few cultural differences that you won't notice until you arrive. Do some research to uncover some of the norms you might not have known about before you're faced with a new culture. 

Choose how you'll remember your experience

​There are so many ways to document your experience abroad, but choosing one will do! Don't put pressure on yourself to create something amazing. But, being able to look back on how you spent some of your days is something you can cherish forever.

​Some ways you can keep track of your experience is by journaling, blogging, jumping into photography, and even videography. What's one unique way you would choose to document your experience?

be over prepared

​The steps you take now to set yourself up for success once you're abroad will go a long way. The more time you put into preparation now, the easier your adjustment will be.

For example, we recommend making copies of every important document you have before leaving home. Bring along paper copies of your passport in case yours is lost and make additional copies of credit cards, addresses, vaccine cards, passports etc., to leave at home with someone you trust.

Overall, the earlier you start, the better!

Questions?

We've got you covered.

Check out our process and learn a little bit more about who we are. 

Sources: 
Wander Her Way and Sojournies