Studying abroad is one of the most eye-opening, mind-bending, life-changing, experiences a student can have.

I know you’re pinching every penny, trying to get through the gauntlet of college life. That doesn’t mean you can’t kill it with an incredible backpacking trip. You need to play it smart, though; finding ways to cut corners and watching your wallet very carefully to maximize this adventure.

That being said, as a study abroad vet, there are a few things I wish I knew before studying abroad.

Study Abroad Checklist

1. Find out if your credits will transfer to your university.

2. Talk to students who have studied abroad.

3. Find ways to finance your trip.

4. Make sure you have all necessary travel documents.

5. Get a physical(Medical)

6. Get insurance.

7. Search out local connections.

8. Make sure you're aware of social customs.

9. Register to vote.

10. Decide what you want to see and do.

11. Find a bank.

12. Know what to do in case of an emergency.

13. Know how to find the embassy.

14. Know the law and stick to it.

15. Learn about food and drink safety.

16. Research local religion.

17. Write down emergency numbers.

18. Pack smart.

19. Prepare to stay in touch with your friends and family.

20. Know that you can't plan for everything.

10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Studying Abroad

1. You Actually Have to Study

2. A Semester Is (Usually) Not Enough Time to Become Fluent in a Second Language

3. American Culture Is Everywhere

4. Culture Shock Is a Real Thing (and It'll Be Roller Coaster)

5. People Will Have Stereotypes About You

6. Dating in a Foreign Country Can Be Overrated

7. There's No Way to Fully Prepare

8. Having Fewer Expectations Will Lead to a Richer Experience

9. The Best Memories Are Unexpected

10. Your Experience Is Up to You

11 Most Common Myths About Studying Abroad

1 - I dont know the native language

2 - Studying abroad is expensive

3 - Only the Rich One’s Can Afford to Study Abroad

4 - Not feeling safe going to another country

5 - Making friends while studying abroad will be too hard

6 - Potential employer don’t value study abroad

7 - Only toppers get scholarships

8 - You’ll graduate late if you study abroad

9 - My Major Isn’t Offered Abroad

10 - Its all about party and fun

11 - Indian Students Get Neglected

Feel any better? Good. Just remember to pack wisely, budget well and embrace your study abroad experience. You got this :)

Since you are here, I would like you to read Studying Abroad - Be Cautious if you have these 7 Habits!

Hope it helps!!

Hello, here are some tips to follow when you decide to go abroad for higher education:

1. Organize before leaving

Before you go, quiz your study advisor, professors, or former study abroad students on what is required of you in the preparation stage. Important things to consider include health insurance, budget planning, homestay arrangements, weather, and airport pickup.

2. Set goals

Don’t take the “study” out of “study abroad.” Remember that your program is, above all, a chance to obtain important skills that will serve you in your future career.

3. Immerse in the local culture

Absorb all you can about their soon-to-be-adopted culture before getting on the plane. Find books, movies, food, and music to inspire you. Research the culture’s prominent writers, singers, athletes, or actors and investigate current events.

4. Have an open mind

Don’t arrive in your adopted country with a head full of stereotypes. Instead, open your eyes, relax, and breathe in the culture. Resist the urge to think or say, “Well, in my country we do things differently,” but go along for the ride instead.

5. Take cues from the locals

Whenever you’re not sure how to behave in a new situation, take a look around you: The locals are your best guides!

6. Learn new things

Don’t block out new experiences. Maybe you’ll be invited to salsa, cooking classes, or a hike in a world-famous national park. By saying yes to as many new experiences as you can, you’ll take home an arsenal of different skills you hadn’t imagined.

7. Deal with homesickness

Try avoiding bouts of homesickness by keeping in regular contact with your family and friends. But don’t forget your new friends and your new environment – there’s so much to discover, and keeping busy is a good way to cope with homesickness.

8. Watch your hip pocket

Resist the initial urge to blow your budget on gorgeous knickknacks, meals out, and traditional handicrafts. Remember, you’ll be in your new home for several months and your pennies need to last. To keep to a reasonable budget, use this time to learn how the locals eat and shop.

9. Expand your social circle

Make an effort to befriend locals. Having at least one local friend will open doors up for you that not only mean a better understanding of your adopted culture but can also lead to invitations to special events, sports games, and typical festivals.

10. Study!

Don’t lose sight of why you are abroad in the first place. There will be times when your workload is high, you feel homesick, or just don’t want to study at all: But put your head down and dive right in!

As a university lecturer who regularly sees many international students and has studied abroad himself, my list of recommendations goes like this:

1. choose your country wisely; does it stand for something in your country that will give you an advantage of reputation? Like studying automobile engineering in Germany, or rocket science in the US. You wouldn’t want to end up with a bachelor in space exploration from Comoros, or a master in diplomacy from North Korea if you want these degrees to mean something.
2. choose your course wisely; you’ll want one that will be recognised both back home and elsewhere you may go in future. One big, but simple criterion is the duration of it, and accreditation can hinge on it. If you want to be absolutely safe, choose a four year bachelor programme, or a two year master programme.
3. choose your university wisely; they have their reputations, and they are listed in rankings that are updated annually. Go for the best one you can afford and get into. It will give you more options in future.
4. choose your city wisely; you’ll get to live there for several years, after all. It should be a place that offers you what you want to experience, and things you enjoy. Can’t live without Mapo Tofu? Make sure it has a China Town. Like your bike? Better check what bicycle use would really be like in that climate and infrastructure, and so on.
5. learn to cook and do housekeeping. The single biggest killer of student experiences is financial hardship, and that is entirely avoidable if you are able to cook your own meals and make your student home a place you enjoy being in. Ask Mum all the questions you can, and make yourself a word document you can email to yourself that includes a comprehensive list of proper ingredients you will need to keep in stock, and utensils for cooking and cleaning you need to own. It’s unbelievable what simple things most students are not able to do, and what a huge difference they could make in their lives. One tip from me already: Once you have a place, invest in a big pot, a 10 kg sack of rice, and a big container of allspice. You’ll be so glad to have them when nothing else is available.
6. make sure you have an international driving license, if you drive.
7. make sure your finances are truly sorted for the entire length of your studies abroad. You’ve got to have reliable money sources, because without those, your studies can come to an end at any time. “Earning on the side” at such a rate as to be able to actually finance your studies is next to impossible, and actually not permitted in a lot of countries.
8. abstain from excessive drinking, pizzas, and drug stuff student life is rife with. Let the party crowd overdo it and see them go down as you venture on successfully. Staying afloat financially and mentally as a student requires some discipline.
9. take it easy on the girlfriend/ boyfriend front. While it is important to have someone, and perfectly possible at a university, beware that it can be a big drain of energy, time, and resources, too if it’s a relationship that is anything less than harmonious and mutually respectful.
10. never lend anybody money, because you will never see it again. You are surrounded by people who are all young and confident, but have no clue what they are doing.
11. join study groups from your course, or, if there aren’t any, start some. Learning in a good group can make all the difference, and it is also a great way to meet the right kinds of people - studious ones who are serious about their education.
12. And here is the biggest insight of them all, and I wish someone had told me that one when I was a student: GO WITH THE FLOW of the programme. It may not seem like it to you at times, but the syllabus and curriculum at any university is usually created by very competent and experienced people who are well aware of the overall picture of the skills you should be acquiring, and you are likely to do so if only you go along and do what they ask you to do. Don’t get impatient, but enjoy the ride. If you have chosen your university well according to the points above, you should be able to take it as it comes and trust that you are getting what you need.

And overall, make sure you stay as happy as possible throughout your studies. When we remember chapters of our lives, we remember how we felt more than anything else.

And you’ll want to create a happy memory.

If you really want to study abroad. Think hard about this decision, really hard.

It is away from your home and family. It is going to be really difficult. It would cost a bit. There would be a lot of legal procedures. Consider all this.

Now, when you have decided that you want to study abroad. Let’s see what you have to know.

1. The course you want to study. I had a bachelors in computers and came to the USA for Management in Information Systems as I wanted to study technology plus business. Talk to people and research what you want to study, there a lot of courses which teach the same thing but different names. While selecting the course, consider the job opportunities in the country/city you have decided to go. Study what you want to and would love to.
2. The country/state/city you want to study at. After deciding the course, look for countries where the course is taught properly and the job market is booming. Even if you don’t want to work after the college degree in a foreign country, it’s good for internships and part-time gigs. Even if the country is zeroed upon, rank the cities too where you want to go. Example, to study computers in the USA it is better to apply to colleges in the West Coast.
3. The university you want to study. The above 2 steps will automatically do this for you. You would have a ranked list to the universities you want to go to. Now, research about scholarships, clubs/alumni relations, research opportunities, job opportunities and networking opportunities the university has to offer. Do talk to seniors/alumni from the university.
4. The entrance exams to be taken. Based on the course and the university you might have to take a few entrance exams and write essays, get recommendation letters, etc. Look what exams need to be taken 1 year before applying, that is almost 1.5–2 years prior to attending the college. Start preparing and smash it! Higher scores are always better. And even if you have low scores don’t be disheartened, you can still make it to the top unis with your essays and extracurriculars.
5. The legal procedure required. OMG! this is the most important. If something goes wrong it might cause unnecessary delays or deportation. Keep in touch with your advisor, online communities, friends regarding this.

And the rest is auxiliary and you will figure out while researching for all this. Good luck! I hope you achieve what you want!

9 Things You Should Know Before Studying Abroad

Intelligent Overseas Education Study Abroad Tips: Before starting a fantastic trip, it is necessary to do some tasks. We’re here to help you prepare for your study abroad experience with our 9 Things You Should Know Before Studying Abroad, comprehensive guide. You’ve discovered a great study abroad program, gotten accepted, and can’t wait to get started. Congratulations! It’s now time to pack for the big vacation. What should I carry if I study abroad? Is travel insurance a must? How should you manage money and phones while going abroad? A passport may take 6-12 months to acquire, so get started right away. Fortunately, our staff has thought about and addressed similar issues previously. Would you please continue reading for our most definitive study abroad preparation tips?

PASSPORT AND VISA APPLICATIONS

Yes, but there is a cost. Having a valid passport is essential for studying and traveling abroad. A valid passport is required if you are returning to the United States within six months. Check your passport for blank pages if you’ve gone overseas. The State Department accepts applications in authorized post offices, federal and state courts of records, and passport agencies. Passport applications take 6-12 months to process. If you are applying for your first passport, remember to include the following items:

• Your certificate of birth
• Two passport-sized photographs were taken recently (You may get them locally at Kinkos, Walgreens, or your nearest photo-printing shop).
• Identification such as a driver’s license that is certified
• Your application for a passport
• Payment

If you’re renewing an expired passport, you may swap it for your birth certificate. If you want to study abroad, you may need a visa. Visa requirements vary per country, so visit the State Department’s website for details. Contact the closest embassy or consulate of the country you want to visit for information on visa requirements and travel restrictions. Visa and passport applications may take months to complete, so don’t delay! A summer or short-term study abroad vacation may not need a visa. Most countries allow students to remain for 90 days on a tourist visa. Make sure to confirm that this is true in all cases.

CONSULT A TRAVEL PHYSICIAN

Ensure your health by seeing your doctor before leaving. Bring a copy of your medical records with you in case of an emergency overseas. Make sure you’re up-to-date on the host country’s vaccination laws. You should also check with the CDC for the most up-to-date illness information. Most programs will tell you what vaccinations you need (if any). An airline ticket’s price depends on the date and location of purchase. You should always keep your prescription medicines handy if you have a medical condition that necessitates them (if possible). To avoid others believing their medication is illegal, people need to put their prescription drugs in labeled containers. You should also have your doctor’s written prescription.

OBTAIN TRAVEL PROTECTION.

An international student must have reliable health and accident insurance, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (but preferably not!). Even if your health insurance protects you while traveling (not all do), travel insurance covers certain things that health insurance does not. For instance:

• If your flight is delayed or canceled, you’ll be covered.
• Bags that have been lost.
• Personal belongings were stolen.
• For disasters and other crises, evacuation is a must.

PURCHASE A PLANE TICKET

Finding inexpensive airline tickets nowadays is a game of chance. A ticket’s price may vary greatly depending on when and where it is purchased. Start with Skyscanner, which will quickly offer you the cheapest flights for your dates. Student travel agencies like Student Universe can help students find the most flexible and inexpensive tickets. They also help students secure ticket discounts – did you know you can get a $26 flight? It’s yours. But, before you purchase a cheap ticket, be sure the dates are flexible. You don’t want to buy a new ticket if you decide to stay longer in another nation! Fortunately, most airlines will let you change your ticket for $100 plus the difference. We also recommend arriving a few days before your program’s start date. It may help you adjust or recover from jet lag, but it may cause issues with immigration.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK ABOUT THE DESTINATION’S TRADITIONS, CULTURE, AND PEOPLE.

Explore your study abroad destination. Everything! You’ll spend less time and have a better study abroad experience. Discuss the nation and its culture with others who have been there. For example, not slurping your noodles at supper might help prevent unpleasant foreigner-follies. An understanding of basic local terms can help you get through the first few days. (If you can pull yourself away from Wikipedia for 5 seconds!) The State Department maintains short notes on over 150 nations.

RENEW YOUR LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY

It will assist you in knowing basic phrases in the local language. Get aid from fluent friends, take courses, or listen to podcasts while driving to school — anything helps!

MONEY

A few financial processes to complete before leaving:

CREATE AN ACCOUNT ON THE INTERNET.

If you don’t already have one, open one online. It’s the easiest way to budget when traveling. Most foreign tourists use ATM/debit or credit cards to get local currency. Be sure to tell your bank and credit card company that you’re going abroad. To study abroad, you must notify your current bank and credit card company(s). Your account may be locked if you don’t travel with it (they might flag it as fraud).

TAKE SOME EXTRA CASH WITH YOU.

To ensure that you don’t run out of cash, you should exchange some of your home currency for your host’s money. It should be easy to find an ATM or bank even on busy days. A great location to obtain cash if you can’t get it at home is the airport.

GET YOUR SUITCASES READY!

Don’t overpack. Check with your airline about luggage restrictions to avoid fines. I suggest just carrying the following:

• One bag.
• Carry-on day bag (e.g., backpack).
• Only a personal item (purse)

That extra luggage will add weight (literally) to your journey home after studying abroad. Me and my tote I travel with a 46-liter Osprey bag. It’s been my go-to luggage for trips ranging from two months up to two years. More packing tips:

• Bring enough toiletries for the first two weeks and stock up when you arrive.
• Instead of wasting space, purchase an inexpensive towel/sheet upon arrival.
• Limit yourself to 3 pairs of shoes.
• Bring chargers for gadgets.
• Neither a hairdryer nor a flat iron, It usually cooks them (including most of Europe). Go inexpensive and leave your beautiful stuff at home.
• Bring a tiny home to ease homesickness.
• If you wear glasses or contacts, you should bring extras.

Your study abroad organization may provide you with a packing list, but consider that many of the items you need will be available abroad. Never bring a winter coat to a country that is sub-tropical or sub-tropical. Bring photos, recipes, and other mementos to help you deal with homesickness. Consider buying a journal or diary to capture your thoughts on your study abroad experience. These are great presents for new friends or host families.

CELL PHONES AND STAYING CONNECTED

How else can you express your joy to your loved ones? Most students use a phone or laptop to communicate. Avoid buying an overseas phone plan. Ever. These programs are unsustainable and costly, mainly if you’ll be gone for a week. Pay as you go and purchase a local SIM card at the airport (the norm in most non-U.S. countries).

Additionally, you may provide the phone number to new contacts, which is local. There’s no avoiding this last hurdle of the trip; we have to give our loved ones the finality they deserve. Think about the pleasure you’ll have! Expect the unexpected! If you bought your phone after 2015, you might not need to unlock it for international usage. There have been recent laws that mandate that the sale of unlocked phones is legal. If your phone isn’t already unlocked, contact your carrier to do so. Texting friends and relatives back home is generally accessible, but phone calls are not. So, if you want to talk, WhatsApp or Skype are ideal. Prepare an account for your parents.

MENTALLY PREPARE YOURSELF.

The quest for sweets is a tough one. Imagine the enjoyment you’ll have! Be ready for everything! It’s inevitable that while studying abroad, you’ll encounter individuals with opposing views on time and Learn to notice the differences without judging them. These distinctions will help you comprehend cultures. People frequently inquire about your home country while traveling. Many questions concern your nation’s foreign policy. Do your homework before you go by reading newspapers and publications. Your friends and relatives may also be interested in your plans. Surviving in a new location distant from home requires robust support systems. No matter how well prepared you are, we hope these tips help you get started.

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When you’ve decided to study abroad, you need to have a plan in place for everything. If this is your first time studying abroad, then it becomes that much difficult simply because it is a new country and the people, culture and the things around are completely new to you. So it is important to follow several life hacks in order to successfully complete your abroad studies. Let’s get started!

1. Travel hacks.

a. Use your student id for getting all kinds of discounts.

b. Do a thorough research of the travel expenses of the country you are going to study before starting the actual journey.

c. Connect with a native person of the country in which you are going to study and clarify your doubts with regards to the travel rules and regulations.

d. Get a local SIM card of the country before moving for your studies.

e. Learn about the exchange rate of the local currency and prepare your cash reserves accordingly.

2. Financial hacks.

a. Learn about the cost of living in your chosen country and take sufficient money with you.

b. Find out about the course fees and the tuition charges of your selected subject and carefully consider whether you are able to afford it.

c. Try to choose a course that has partial or full scholarship.

d. Get a part time job and don’t overly depend on your savings.

e. Find various options for your accommodation and select the one that fits to your budget.

3. Packing hacks.

a. Pack only the necessary things you need during your abroad studies.

b. Try to pack everything in one briefcase.

c. Don’t pack too much clothes and accessories.

d. Avoid packing expensive items.

e. Don’t pack too much cash. Instead, you can have it in your account.

Hope this answer is helpful

A positive student exchange depends on the type of person that you are and the expectations you have for the experience. It can be either a rewarding, life changing opportunity or a lonely and squandered use of your time.

Reflecting back on my experience as a Rotary exchange student to Thailand in 2003-04 I can think of a few characteristics that were common for the most successful exchange students in my class, whose time spent abroad was most certainly well spent.

A developed a sense of curiosity about the world and finding yourself wondering about life beyond the bounds of your hometown.
Exchange students come from all walks of life - urban centers, small towns and rural villages - yet all possess a desire to understand life in a different place. A sense of adventure helps, too.

Being open minded and excited to learn about new cultures, traditions, and languages and are ready to put your comfort zone on the back burner for one year.
With the excitement that comes with being in a new place also will come a moment where you are most certainly pushed outside of your cultural comfort zone. It might be strange food, it might be a whole room of people laughing and you don't understand a single word.

For me it was being dressed up in traditional Thai makeup and costume and walking in a 5K parade, carrying a flag symbolic of I don't even remember with everyone laughing hysterically at a white person in such dress. It will happen to you, embrace it.

Having the character and patience to be an 'ambassador' for your country, town and culture.
When you meet new people in a new place, you will often be the center of attention. As curious as you are to learn a new culture, so will be the people you meet in your host country. As an exchange student you often have to "be on" and ready to answer the same questions about yourself.

You should expect this, and not complain or get tired of answering the same set of questions for different people. As much as you are in a new country to learn, you are also there to teach. This is your opportunity to connect and realize the similarities in human life that exist for all, despite the cultural differences.

A feeling of responsibility to make your own experience a positive and memorable one without feeling it's the duty of anyone else involved.
Not your parents, your program contacts or host family. They very well may help, but it's your duty to find opportunity. When you're bored, it's your job to entertain yourself. When you are frustrated by the language barrier, it's your job to practice. When cultural differences get to you, it's your job to push your mind and reflect on what "right" and "wrong" means.

And the most important rule that an exchange shouldn't forget - have LOTS of fun!

Knowing about a few life hacks for your study abroad journey is really important for you. Studying abroad may be a life-changing experience, allowing you to engage yourself in a new culture, expand your mindset, and enhance your knowledge. However, it also presents a significant number of difficulties.
In this answer, let’s explore some amazing study abroad life hacks that will make your time abroad an amazing experience.

• Travel Hacks

1. Use Public Transport Apps
2. Look for Student Discounts
3. Pack Lightly and Wisely

• Financial Hacks

1. Set up a bank account locally
2. Apps for Tracking Budgets
3. Part time Job Opportunities

• Academic Hacks

1. Time Management Apps
2. Keep Notes App
3. Utilise University Facilities

• Cultural Engagement Hacks

1. Student Organisations
2. Cooking Classes with Locals
3. Language exchange partners or apps

Studying abroad offers a special chance to advance intellectually, culturally, and personally. You can make the most of your experience and guarantee that your time overseas is memorable and satisfying by putting these life tips into effect. These tips can assist you in overcoming the difficulties of studying overseas, from picking up the language of the country to adopting careful spending and accepting cultural immersion.
So gather your belongings and let's go on this life-changing adventure with us. Check our bio now!

There are several well-established steps involved in studying abroad usually. First, understand the right program and right institution that can help you achieve your academic and career dreams. After this, grasp test like the GRE or GMAT if needed, and amass documents including transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, etc. When you have your application documents set, apply for your desired programs and also ensure they need not be late. Once you have received an acceptance letter, ensure you secure your student visa following the provisions of the country of study. Lastly, find a place to stay or better still live with a family, plan on lodging or food expenses and other transport issues before you begin your studies. Also, Try to choose an international admission consultant for your educational journey Admission consultants, their records, reviews of clients, and success stories. Search for the consultants with specialization in your area of study and who have offered their services to the students that have been admitted to the foreign universities of your choice. One of these consultancies is called Invicta Career Consultancy which guides students for admissions to the USA Universities has more than 30 years of experience in preparing students for SAT, IELTS, GRE, and GMAT and helping them get into some of the best universities in the world. There are their student’s feedback and site to look through. All the best !!

Studying abroad is an exhilarating adventure packed with new experiences, but it can also throw a few curveballs your way. To keep things smooth, it’s important to have some clever tricks up your sleeve. From slashing everyday costs to juggling work and study, here are some must-know life hacks that will help you breeze through your new international journey with confidence and flair.

Take advantage of Health Insurance Plan:

Don’t let medical bills catch you off guard! Make the most of your health insurance for check-ups, prescriptions, and emergencies to dodge those pesky out-of-pocket costs!

Look out for Student Discounts:

Many stores, restaurants, and cafes offer student discounts with a student ID. Cultural spots, museums, and tourist attractions often provide reduced or free entry. Student deals also frequently lower prices on electronics. Always ask about discounts, as they might not be widely advertised.

Work part-time:

It eases living costs and lightens the financial load of studying abroad. You’ll gain hands-on experience and polish skills that’ll supercharge your resume and career prospects. Plus, you’ll build valuable connections and expand your network in your field of interest.

Open a Bank account:

Opening a local bank account streamlines daily transactions, like paying bills and shopping, and makes accessing funds easy in emergencies. Some students even juggle two accounts—one for spending and another for savings.

Find a grocery buddy to split expenses: Finding a grocery buddy can be a game- changer for international students. Share the cost, cut expenses, and make shopping more social and fun. It’s a smart way to save money, reduce food waste, and simplify your budget.

Utilize school / public library or buy old textbooks: Utilizing the school or public library for textbooks helps international students save money and buying second- hand textbooks is another cost-effective option, allowing students to obtain necessary resources at a fraction of the price.

Utilize public transport: Grab discounted student travel passes or cards to cut down on fares. Use transit apps or maps to navigate your routes and avoid getting lost.

Ditch expensive gyms and enjoy outdoors: Ditch pricey gym memberships and embrace outdoor workouts! Exploring parks, and green pockets in the city is a budget-friendly way to stay fit and relieve stress. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to soak up your new city and stay healthy—all without breaking the bank.

At SIEC, we make starting your study abroad adventure simple and smooth. Drop by with your dream destination or university, and we'll help you get started. From career advice and counseling to test prep and visa assistance, SIEC is here to support you every step of the way!

Some useful tips to consider before studying abroad:

1. Get your passport ready a year before flying: Bear in mind that the passport must be valid for more than six months at the time of issuance of a visa in certain countries, so it is best to confirm this with the embassy or consulate of the country you intend to travel to in advance.
2. Research the career prospects of the chosen course: If you are studying abroad for the first time, you may be aware that it is a huge financial investment. Your chances of securing an education loan are higher if the degree programme you have chosen is job-oriented. Secondly, It’s suggested that you start studying abroad programs at least one year before your ideal move-in date, either because you already know what you want to study or because you still need to decide.
3. Learn a new language: This is a super helpful tip if you are planning to study in a country whose primary language is not English such as Germany, Italy or France. You will be ahead of all your classmates if you learn the local lannguage
4. Prepare Your Application 8-10 Months Before: You can apply for it once you have selected your preferred study abroad program. Be mindful of the deadlines for submitting your submission. Double-check the criteria or questions that you can answer and prepare them. Set up as many reminders as possible and send them before the last day of the deadline with ample time in advance to prevent last-minute problems that are more likely to arise while you are in a rush (such as internet issues, etc.).
5. Apply for scholarships to study at half the cost or no cost at all: The deadline for applying for a foreign scholarship or financial assistance is another one you can consider. Be sure to review your choices, the application criteria, and the deadline if you need or are interested in getting one. To cover your expenses, such as travel costs, housing, food, etc., this can be a big help.
6. Applying for a visa 6 months prior to date of departure: In the phase, this is the most significant step. A student visa is required by almost every country, regardless of whether they stay there only for one month or for years. The method of issuing visas in each country is different, as with passports, and in some, it may take longer, or it may be more complicated than in others. Always make sure to visit the embassy’s official website or consulate of the country you are going to visit first and apply for a visa within the period specified.
7. Start Looking for Housing Five Months Before: A long and hard phase that can take months is searching for accommodation. It’s suggested to start searching for it with enough time in advance, either because you plan to live on or off-campus with a host family or to look for an apartment for rent. Check for the best local websites for lodging, or contact your university to get information about host families or accommodation on campus. Often take standard safety precautions to prevent rental scams if you choose to rent an apartment.

Nowadays every student's dream is to study abroad. Some make their dreams come true and some lost their path. In all these things if there is a right guidance then every student can achieve or fulfill their dreams.

Here you will find 6 important things that you need to know before studying in Abroad.

• Set the budget for your education
• Research study abroad programs
• Decide where to study
• Determine the right country and the right university
• Documentation & Paperwork
• Check work opportunities for students

You can also check out my student life experience in Australia that will definitely help you.

Successful admission is definitely a milestone for the students who are aspiring for the abroad education. But, the real journey after the admission and you have to prepare your mindset for few things to adopt yourself to the new life without difficulty.

Immediately after the successful admission, you have to focus on VISA process. Apply for VISA and make sure that you will attend the interview with all the documents to support your admission & financial ability.

Followed by, keep your list of documents to complete the immigration & admission process in your host country. Be ready with your precautionary medical kit along with doctor prescription to avoid unnecessary issues.

Prepare your mind that you are going to be alone, needs to take care of every responsibility from managing home to finances, part-time job with full time study. And, also mind that no one would be there to support you or tap you on your back while feeling low.

Accept the fact that managing everything alone in the initial days will be difficult but you will be used to it slowly and it will make you more stringer & responsible.

Research about the local culture, language, people mentality, neighbourhood and surroundings to have the basic idea of your host region and how to handle the situations.

Investigate about the third party scholarship in your host country, their eligibility criteria and apply individually for every possible source to support your self financially, save yourself from financial burden, save your time and energy in part-time jobs and focus your more time on academic excellence.

If you are going to European countries, you must understand the reality that culture is more diverse and its not so easy to adopt & adjust with diverse culture until unless you make some new friends from locals.

Learn the basics of local language as talking to the people in their own language will build relationship easier.

This is an excellent question.

From my own experience of living and studying overseas...

The most important thing is not to limit your learning only to what you study in the class.

At a glance, doing well in your school appears to be the most important thing. But, actually, it is not.

It is more critical and very rewarding to learn something about people around you and their cultures. Your classmates, your neighbors, people you meet - you need to keep interacting with them and keep learning.

Never get yourself into "your native language-only" community.

For any friend you make overseas who speaks your own language, you should make 2-3 good friends with people who don't speak your language.

This cultural learning, perhaps, is the most valuable outcome of your study experience overseas.

On top of the other good advice that has already been given, I might also suggest to keep a few things in mind when thinking about where to study abroad:

- Make sure you either speak the language well enough to take upper level classes in it, or that your host university or program offers classes in your native language. Even if you took 2 years of a language at home, odds are likely that you didn't learn the necessary vocabulary to help you pass that physics class you signed up for abroad!

- That being said, don't be afraid to step outside of your language comfort zone! If you are American and are considering studying in England because you're a British Literature major, that's awesome! But if your major is biology and you want to study in the UK because they speak English... I don't consider that a good enough reason. Why not try somewhere more exotic that you might not get a chance to see once you're a working stiff? There will be universities in non-English speaking countries that offer many classes in English. Most places have local language courses for foreign students, so you might even be able to pick up another language on the side.

Even if you speak a language like Spanish, and have spent a Euro-Trip week in Spain... why go somewhere you've been before? Try South America instead!

- One more thing: Though of course the cultural aspect of study abroad is probably the biggest asset, for a lot of universities (though not necessarily all) grades do still count. I studied abroad in Austria and though some of my American friends were just getting a Pass/Fail grade for the year, I had to get actual grades. The first semester I had a little too much fun and was trying to "live it up" as much as possible and I ended up getting a D in one of my language classes. That stuck with me and brought my overall GPA down from a 3.8 to a 3.5. :( Study abroad definitely isn't meant to be an incredibly intense study session, but in most cases

• Learn the local language
• Know the culture and people
• Travel solo, pick up your bag and walk and explore the city and country by foot, bike, or bus
• At the university, hangout with people from different ethnicity, and racial background
• Start preparing for the job from the day one.
• You’re in an international country among individuals who want to grab a job and stay there as much as you want. Be ahead of them
• Learn to cook(your pocket will say thank you to you)
• Go watch a famous local sport in the stadium(A soccer game for English Premier League in UK, Ice Hockey in Canada, Cricket in India, etc.)
• Keep a journal, you will be making some of the best memories of your life

Thanks for the A2A. Some tips for studying abroad include:

• If you are on an exchange programme, it’s best to go through your university exchange programme. International students are a different category and should apply directly to the host institution.
• Learn the local language and culture. Have local friends.
• Research the student visa policies and laws of your host country. Make sure that you are there to study and not to work.
• Good to find out about the local climate and environment. If you are going to cold and temperate countries, best to invest in cold weather clothing. For warmer countries, you probably don’t need to bring so much clothes but best to follow local conventions for dressing up

Hope this helps and wish you all the best.

You’ve decided to study abroad. Congratulations! You are going to turn a new chapter in your life. The study abroad experience is going to be completely new to you. You are going to immerse yourself in a whole new culture. Isn’t that great? It is for sure.

But before moving to your dream country, you need to be prepared for certain things. In this answer, we will take a look at the key aspects you need to be prepared for before moving abroad to pursue your studies.

1. Best ways to prepare for your abroad studies.

a. Get your visa in advance. Visas can take several weeks to arrive. So getting your visa 2 weeks before the start date of your course will be ideal. This way, you can avoid unnecessary tension.

b. Prepare for the weather of your chosen country. Let’s say that you are in a country where for the most days, you experience sunshine. You’ve decided to move to Canada for your abroad studies. Weather in Canada for the most times of the year, cold and snowy. So researching about the weather and making necessary preparations is the best way to enjoy your abroad study experience in the country.

c. Lifestyle related preparations. This is one of the critical things you need to be carefully prepared for. Consider the place to which you are going and pack things accordingly. From clothes, shoes to specific items that are necessary to live in the city, pack things carefully.

d. Prepare for your accommodation. Wherever you go for your abroad studies, it is necessary to sort out your accommodation before leaving. This’ll lessen your stress considerably. If your university/college offers accommodation facility, then apply for it. If you’ve decided to live in a none-university accommodation, then do a thorough research and choose the one that suits to your requirements.

Other things to consider when preparing to study abroad include.

a. Getting a student and health insurance.

b. Opening a local bank account.

c. Getting a mobile phone with a local simcard.

Hope this answer is informative.

Certainly, making the most of your study abroad experience involves more than just attending classes. Here's an expanded list of suggestions to help you maximize your time abroad:

1. Diversify Your Learning:

o Beyond your regular coursework, explore areas of interest and specialize by taking certificate courses at your university or online. This adds depth to your knowledge and can make you a well-rounded professional.

2. Engage in Student Life:

o Join clubs, associations, or student organizations related to your interests. These groups provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and learn from motivated peers. Building a strong network during your study abroad can benefit your career and personal life long-term.

3. Teaching or Research Assistantship:

o Consider working as a Teaching Assistant (TA) or Research Assistant (RA) for professors. This not only helps you earn extra income but also fosters a close relationship with faculty members, potentially leading to strong recommendations for jobs or further studies.

4. Participate in International Immersion Programs:

o Engage in international immersion programs, which offer unique cultural experiences and enhance cross-cultural skills. These experiences can make you a more globally competitive professional and enrich your personal growth.

5. On-Campus or Off-Campus Jobs:

o If allowed by your visa and university regulations, seek on-campus or off-campus employment. This not only provides additional income but also exposes you to diverse perspectives and cultures, enhancing your interpersonal and cross-cultural skills.

6. Capstone Projects:

o Consider taking on capstone projects or research initiatives that align with your academic and career goals. These projects provide hands-on experience and a chance to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges.

7. Language Proficiency:

o If you're studying in a country with a different language, immerse yourself in the local language and culture. Proficiency in the local language can open doors to a broader range of experiences and opportunities.

8. Travel and Explore:

o Take advantage of your study abroad location to explore the region and neighboring countries. Traveling enriches your cultural understanding and provides memorable experiences.

9. Cultural Experiences:

o Embrace local customs, traditions, and festivals. Attend cultural events, try local cuisine, and engage with the local community to gain a deeper appreciation of your host country's culture.

10. Reflect and Journal:

o Keep a journal to document your experiences, thoughts, and personal growth. Regular reflection can help you make the most of your study abroad journey.

11. Stay Healthy and Balanced:

o Prioritize physical and mental well-being. Exercise regularly, maintain a balanced diet, and seek support if needed. A healthy lifestyle enhances your overall study abroad experience.

12. Stay Open-Minded:

o Embrace the unexpected and be open to change. Some of the most valuable experiences abroad may come from unplanned adventures and encounters.

Your study abroad experience is a unique opportunity for personal and academic growth. Tailor your journey to your interests and aspirations, and make the most of every moment.

Umesh Bhatia
umeshbhatia@edelevate.com

Do your research! Find a program that is in line with your goals. There are many avenues to find a program such as meeting with a study abroad advisor at your university or using a study abroad website that has a database of programs/providers.

When you find a program you think you might be interested in ask as many questions as you need to feel comfortable going on the program. Ask to speak to students who have gone on the program in the past. Past students may bring up things about daily life in another country you never thought of.

Studying abroad is a huge decision and it can be an wonderful experience as long as you are ready for it. I did an internship abroad through Panrimo during the summer of 2012. I debated going abroad for 2 years before I started the intern abroad process. Looking back I'm glad I waited until I was ready to go abroad. I had the time of my life in Prague and cannot wait to go back to visit all of the friends I made while I was there.

Firstly there is no “best country” to study since different people have different priorities when it comes to choosing a country for higher studies.

But, keeping in mind the overall factors which any individual would consider when it comes to studying abroad, I would say that Germany is a good country to study at with fewer expenses.

Advantages of studying in Germany:

1. Germany is the 4th largest economy, hence this country has a stable economy and is one of the powerful nations in Europe.
2. High quality of education
3. Flexible courses
4. A large number of opportunities
5. Fewer tuition fees
6. High quality of life and many more similar advantages

Expenses:

1. Public universities have no tuition fee and have a semester contribution which is usually around 300€. Private universities have high fees.
2. You need to deposit 10,236€ in a blocked account every year until you finish your respective course. You can withdraw 853€ through that blocked account and you can use it for monthly expenses.
3. Accommodation in small cities and towns is very cheap. In big cities it's expensive.

Job:

1. A student can work for 240 half days and 120 full days. You can work full time during semester breaks otherwise part-time.
2. After completing your studies, you can stay in Germany for 18 months to search for a job. If you fail to find a job during that time, you will have to leave the country.

Facts:

1. In Germany, for survival and working, you need German language proficiency.
2. Getting a job, ain't that easy. You need to have a good set of skills, high grades during your studies, etc. to get a job along with German language proficiency.

I hope, I have given a brief idea about what makes Germany a good study destination.

There is no country on this planet which provides guaranteed job offers. Nothing is guaranteed. Though there are many opportunities, but it requires a good profile.

Please subscribe to my YouTube channel.🙏 Here, I upload videos related to studies in Germany, the visa process, etc. It’s a diverse channel.

Thank You.

Probably the #1 most important thing is to understand that you will not get to stay in the US after you graduate. The US requires that you return home after you complete your degree.

You need to understand whether having a degree from a university in the US will help you or hurt you for getting a job in your home country. Generally this will depend a great deal on what your home country is.

The third thing to understand is that education in the US is insanely expensive. You can probably get an education for much less money elsewhere unless you are both: (i) Close to being the very top student in your country; and (ii) Poor. There are a small handful of top universities in the US who give need based financial aid to international students. You need to be exceptional to get accepted to them, and you need to be poor to get financial aid from them. Otherwise, you will need buckets of money to come to the US for your education.

When you apply for your student visa, do not say that you intend to stay in the US after graduation. If you tell them this, then your student visa will be refused.

You should understand that some parts of the US have had an uptick in crime recently. There are a few cities that have decided that police are bad, and who are cutting back on their police presence. This of course means more crime, more gangs, and more violence. As one example, the University of Chicago is a great university and one of the top universities in the US. However, the city of Chicago is run by a mayor who has bought into the fiction that the police are racist and bad. Chicago the city has cut back on the number of police on the streets and has a very badly demoralized police force. This has resulted in three murders recently on or near the University of Chicago’s campus. Similarly when I was a student at MIT (many years ago) I knew one student who was mugged in my dorm. I knew another student who was attacked by two large men but who beat them both up and walked back to his dorm — this particular MIT student (now alumni) had black belts in two different martial arts. I personally was pickpocketed but otherwise never had any problems (I am huge and do not look like an easy target).

Most of the US is safe. If you look at the US as a whole we have one of the highest crime rates per capita in the world. If you do not count five large cities (Chicago being one of the five) the US is a relatively safe country. The violent crime in the US is mostly confined to a small number of large cities. However, if you come to the US to study, you should investigate how safe the area is where you will be studying.

If you are serious about studying, my advice would be to find the most serious of your fellow students and make a pact with them to stay locked up in the library.

In other words, actually study. Don't get caught up in the temptation to play tourist and spend all your time having fun.

In my experience, that is the biggest downfall of students studying abroad ... and yes, back home, too. But back home, we all see routine things as routine things. When in another country, all routine things seem exotic.

In other words, pay attention to studies.
Don't be so much of a tourist.

This helps a great deal.

I thank Trang Trum for the A2A. I hope this is a good answer.

• Get your head down
• Concentrate on your studies
• Make time for socialising, but put your studies first
• Don’t socialise solely with people from your own country. You have an opportunity to experience different cultures and that experience should not be squandered
• If you don’t understand something, speak up and ASK. You’re supposed to be learning - that’s why you’re here
• You’re in a different country. Don’t expect everything to be the same as at home
• Don’t spend all your money at once, but don’t be a skinflint either. Nobody likes a skinflint (trust me).
• If your course doesn’t seem to be what you were expecting or you find yourself not enjoying it, give it time. New experiences can be a shock to the system but frequently people are able to get used to the change after a little time.

If you have already received an admission from a university, congratulations! The first half of this answer is for you. If not, we know that college admissions can be a daunting task and the second part has some tips to make sure you get into the college of your dreams! Don’t let coronavirus halt your education.

Since you’ve already conquered the application part of the process, here are some additional things to keep in mind:

1. Take Advantage of your College Resources

When you do join University, make sure to completely avail all the resources they provide. Often there will be student discounts on books, free subscriptions to top magazines, and libraries with a large number of resources. Interact with people to gain a diverse experience and a better understanding of the world.

2. Keep Some Skills Handy

Make sure you know how to do your laundry, cook some basic meals etc. These skills can save you money abroad, where living expenses are generally high. Learn how to have a budget, and spend wisely

3. Local Culture

Discover the local culture and popular places. If there is another language people speak, try your hand at learning it to enjoy local life more.

4. Have Fun

Studying abroad is a dream for many, and provides a chance to experience quality education and immerse oneself in different cultures. If you do decide to apply abroad make sure to enjoy yourself through the process and the college experience!

There are numerous factors that you should consider before you apply for studying abroad. Here is a brief overview of some of the important things that you should keep in mind:

1. Research Research Research

It is important that you adequately research the course and university where you plan to pursue your education. Check out the top ranking courses for a particular field and make sure the college meets all your requirements. The requirements are different for every country as well as every subject so make sure to start well in advance to be completely prepared for life abroad.

2. See a Career Counsellor

Sometimes it can be overwhelming to figure out which course is the best fit for you or what your true passion is. It might be useful to see a career counsellor who can professionally advise and guide you to ensure you get into your dream college. Choose a career counsellor that places emphasis on early advising and mentorship. It can be beneficial to discuss the courses you plan to take or the top colleges for your stream with an expert. It can save you a lot of stress and worry!

3. Start Early

It can be extremely beneficial to start planning out your study plans as early as you can. This will ensure that you have adequate time to meet visa requirements, give any standardised tests, and even apply for scholarships. These tasks can be time consuming, and it can be a major advantage to keep a track of time.

4. Measures for Covid-19

The pandemic may have you concerned about your plans for higher education. However, a lot of measures have been taken in countries like Canada to benefit international students. Check out your tentative colleges website and your country's official immigration to see the latest updates.

Wishing you all the best for your journey ahead!

GO ABROAD. GO DIRECTLY ABROAD. DO NOT PASS GO,
DO collect some money, but for the love of everything worth living, GO ABROAD. It would do so much more good for your anxiety in the long run.
You have to leave your comfort zone to learn to be comfortable with yourself.

I am an American who studied abroad for a year in Seoul, South Korea at Kyung Hee University during what was supposed to be my senior year of college, from Fall 2011 until Summer 2012. This was my first experience abroad. I have social anxiety as well, and I used to have issues about doing things (i.e., grocery shopping, going to a doctor's appointment, signing up for classes) alone, however, the one thing studying abroad taught me was independence, and loads of survival techniques, especially when I wasn't proficient in the language of the country (Korean).

If you, like me, have trouble doing daily tasks alone, make friends. As a foreigner in a new place, this is usually SO much easier than at home, mostly because you have New Kid allure. Here are some ways to do so:
1. Join the international club at your host university. This was easy for me, as all of the international students were automatically considered members. They will usually have events where everyone is invited to come along, and these are great opportunities to make some friends and become acquainted to other people who share the same experience of being abroad. This will also help broaden your outlook on life, as usually the international club is filled with, well, people from a variety of nations.

2. If you're doing an exchange program through your current university, ask the international coordinator to put you in contact with some students who have already gone to the university where you are planning to go.
Most, if not all, students who go abroad LOVE talking about their experiences abroad, and the things they learned about the new culture, and about themselves as well; however, few people are willing to listen. This is a great way to learn what to expect, as well as a few pointers on basic necessities that might be specific to the neighborhood surrounding that university. Ask them to put you in contact with some of their friends (both local and international) that are still at that university! Networking at its finest.
OH! Also, ask about formatting of research papers, and ask to see the essays and things they've handed in and whatnot-- different countries, even if they use English, have different formatting techniques. This is a GREAT thing to be familiar with before you get there.

3. If you're doing an exchange program NOT through your university, and instead are doing a direct study, you can still contact the international coordinator at the university where you plan to go and ask to be put in contact with other people from your country of origin who have done the same.
Again, this has the same benefits as #2. You can ask the same questions that you would ask the person in #2. The ONLY reason I say "someone from your country of origin" is that there might be some culture shock issues that someone from other countries might not find any issue with at all.
(For example, 3 days after the semester started, I went out to a pub with my American friend and we ordered just alcohol. People stared at us like we were alcoholics. Any time I meet an American who is going to Korea, I am sure to give them a heads-up about those kinds of tiny, relatively insignificant things that I would be up all night cringing about because of how awkward I felt when it happened.)

4. Meet some people from the country where you will be going through: mutual friends, international clubs, Facebook, Quora, etc. before you go.
This is also a great way to feel more comfortable! You have someone local who could help you out with local issues, like for example, where to buy an outlet voltage converter when you realize you've lost yours. (Been there, done that...hahaha)

5. When you're finally in the country where you will be going, try to challenge yourself to going out and doing something you'd never do at home.
This could be something as simple as asking a stranger for directions, or trying to figure out the public transportation, to something way more challenging like, trying to travel within the country, outside your university's area. This is a great way not only to learn how to become independent, but also to realize that you are capable of independence! I can tell you all day that no one judges you negatively, if anything, they will find your "foreignness" and curiosity cute, charming, and refreshing, but you won't believe it until you experience it. I'm telling you, it's the best.

I will edit this if there's anything else I can think of, but I think this is a great start! You want to go out there! I can't promise that studying abroad will solve all of your problems, but it will definitely teach you that you are capable of handling them, and how to develop these mechanisms to do so.

Good luck!

EDIT:
I know, I know, so soon after posting. This next point is so important, I will bold, underline, and italicize it:
I just also wanted to give you another tip: PLEEEAAASSSSSEEE try not to spend your every minute with the friend accompanying you. The only reason I say this, is because constantly being with one person, especially from your country of origin, will limit the experiences you can have. Group events, great. Some excursions, and everyday activities, wonderful... however, you should also work to try to expand your friend circle to include people you can't meet at home. That is the main point of studying abroad, after all. :)

Question: Preparation for studying abroad.

Answer: Here are my little experience to share with you and others on what/how to prepare when you plan to study abroad.

Here they are :

1). Decide where you want to study. For example, in Australia, there are several states and territories. Decide in which state you want to study for climatic reasons and others, such as the size of the cities, the svhools and universities located there. Likewise, for North America. Some places are warmer then others, climatically. Depending on where your present home is, for instance, for climatic reason you may prepare only to stay and study in a warmer region.

So, for Australia, if you don't like cold climatic, you may want to study in the Northern Territory or Queensland, rather than Victoria or Tasmania, or even NZ, the latter of which can be quite cold in Winter. Similarly, in North America.

2). Check out the schools or universities available for you to enrol in, once you have decided on where you want to do your studies.

I suggest you write to the Embassy or High commission of the country you wish to study in and ask for important information regarding studying in the country/state and the application procedures for STUDENT VISA.

They should be able to give you some important information with procedures on how to apply for a student visa, the English test you need to do (e.g., ISLET or others) and other requirements.

Also ask where you can get a list of educational institutions and accommodation. You follow the infornation and start applying.

PLEASE NOTE: In fact and importantly, they may also point you to some Educational Agents in town in your region, for information and help — I suggest, THE AGENTS, which I have mentioned in point 3 below, are the people you SHOULD visit for help, rather than the EMBASSY. It will make life a LOT EASIER for you in all the applications.

3). In some countries, as I indicated above, you can go directly to those AGENTS representing the education institutions for they will handle ALL the applications for you, such as to the educational institutions you may wish to enrol in, the enrolment requirements needed and so on.

As mentioned, they will also be able to help you with the application for your Student visa, the Engish test needed, the health and security check and so on.

(The Agent would be the ONE stop shop for you to go to for information and help). So try to get help from the them for it will be easier for you.

The Educational Agents will also conduct a Road-shows in your city to provide you with ALL the necessary information you need about studying abroad. They will even help you with the applications. Go and see them for help. In my days, there was no such agents, so I had to do all the applications myself.

Personsal preparations — this is also important to know. In case you have not lived abroad before.

1a). Get your essential clothes ready, such as warm clothes — coat, overcoat, jumpers, if you are going to cold countries. Clothes and foot-wear etc, may be cheaper to get if you are coming from the Asian region.

b). Likewise, some stationeries — writing materials, but not bulky stuff like writing pads.

c). A computer (PC) and thumb drives and an external drive, will be very useful and indeed, essential. Assignments are expected to be word-processed.

2a). More personal preparations - If I were you, I would learn a bit about food and cooking — how to prepare drinks, how to cook simple meals, like a little noodle or rice dish if you like them, how to boil eggs, make an egg omelette, how to make sandwishes, how to toast a piece of bread and what are the food you like and how to prepare for them. These food-skills’ preparations are important and useful as you may in time to come need them. Most international students I met over the years had not the faintest idea of how to even cook a simple noodle meal. Learn these before to travel abroad.

While still on food, get use to eating food that may differ from those you are use to eat. Prepare this ‘mentally’ at least, and learn to appreciate other types of foreign food.

2b). Prepare yourself for ‘home-sickness' at least mentally, as you will find this difficult if you are very close to your families and friends and have not left home before and have not experienced it before.

Not sure how you can prepare for home-sickness, except in your mind. It may be easier to overcome that these days with the availability of internet, skype, mobile phone and free chat apps. It was difficult in my days when they are not!

Alrhough you did not ask, here are some tips on how to manage living and studying abroad — some simple tips/suggestions:

a). Get to meet people and get to know them. Prepare not to be shy, but, be friendly, out-going and be interactive. Introduce yourself and be prepared to tell others something about your family and cultural background. Show them some photos.

b). Always be grateful and thankful to people who have befriended and help you. Show appreciation and verbally thank people. Buy some simple gifts in readiness for those who have helped you if you like — show your appreciation. Sometimes a big and genuine will do too.

c). Be well-mannered and not be uncouthed with your behaviour. Ask the locals, politely to teach you the right etiquette or things to do and learn and us them.

d). Observe the local culture and ways of doing things, such as queuing up in shops etc. Ensure you observe personal hygiene. Do lick your knife if you use knife and fork to eat. Be clean, dress appropriately, don’t burp, don't split in public, flush after using the toilet, observe personal hygiene. Say thanks when people open doors for you or serve you in the shops. Never ask people how much they earn — too invasive of personal space.

If you are driving, learn and strictly observe the local traffic laws. An international student I taught at university, was fined $AUD 2000 in a couple of months and lost her driving license for violating the road laws and had accidents.

Hope you have a great time studying abroad, work diligently and learn a lot and be very successful! Best wishes!

ive A lot of knowledge about this because im also struggling with it. Firstly you have to decide which country you want to give like canada new zealand australia england n all. Foremost step is to prepare for an English language test and give it. Some of them are IELTS & PTE. I think that major of the universities and colleges accept IELTS, but there can be some exceptions accepting PTE. I’ve given IELTS in this lockdown and thus i was not able to join any coaching of train myself for this exam, whatever I’ve done to prepare it was from youtube or google, and i was able to achieve 7.5 score (overall) in this test, which i feel is surely a good score because the minimum requirement for entrantance is 6 and 5.5 in some universities.

also, you need to have a percentage of 60+ atleast to get into good unis and colleges but an average of 75+ to get into excellent unis and colleges. After you fulfill the requirements, you need to go to a registered and renowned study visa agent and then provide them with all your documents. You dont need to do exactly what they say. You can inform them about your preferences (if i talk about myself i want to go to canada and my preferred area is toronto, so agents can’t force me to go for vancouver as there are a number of options available in every area, if you don’t fulfill the requirements or the deadlines have passed then you might need to shift) another thing is that you need to be sure with what you are going to do, is it bachelors a diploma a degree or what. Also, be specific with your interested areas of studies because agents can provide you a lot of which you might not be interested in. So, if you want to do bsc in biology for example, then go to an agent and say i want to pursue bsc in biology in canada, toronto specifically. And he will provide you all the available options (unis and colleges) then you have to decide . To decide make sure you google all those names and see there rankings because living here in india we dont know which uni is best. If you want to go for the best, you’ll have to do some research, if you just want to go , excellence doesnt matters then go for what agents say. Then after deciding, agents need to apply for an offer letter to that uni and it can take from 2 days- few weeks . For that there is a fees which is non refundable and it may vary from 90–150 dollars. afterwards you need to wait for an offer letter to come. Once it comes, filing process starts . In canada you need to fill the first year fee from india and that goes along after your offer letter comes. Also you need to make a account in canada in which you have to shift almost 5 lakh rupees which you’ll get back once you reach canada (in installments ) that is for your safety and that money is saved for your expenses (rent, food, etc) the agents need to send your whole application to embassy. And there is a embassy fees . If you are granted a visa, then u can travel to abroad for your studies as a student and it’ll be called a student visa. Once youre granted the visa, still youre not eligible to go first you’ll be emailed about biometrics (fingerprints n all) and then you’ll have to have a medical checkup to make sure you dont have any vulnerabilities or diseases like TB . Minor problems like bp, sugar thyroid etc doesn’t matter. If you qualify all this , then your passport will come along with a sign of acceptance. Then just book your airplane tickets and fly away. Oh i forgot you need to have a valid passport too. (HOWEVER I DONT KNOW HOW THIS PROCESS HAS CHANGED DUE TO COVID AS THERE ARE TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS SO YOURE ALLOWED TO HAVE YOUR ONLINE STUDY HERE AFTER YOU HAVE YOUR OFFER LETTER AND AIP. ONCE THIS BAN GETS REMOVED THEN YOULL BE ABLE TO GO , BUT IF YOUR COLLEGE OF UNI IS PURSUING DISTANCE LEARNING THEN YOULL NEED TO STUDY ONLINE EVEN AFTER LANDING IN CANADA.) this is just a brief summary of the process and nothing is fixed. Canadian govt or universities can change whatever they need to .