You may be considering moving abroad to study but aren’t sure on how to go about arranging it all. Packing up your things and going to a country that you don’t know can be a daunting thing to do and you may start to feel very overwhelmed. However, by being organised and making the necessary arrangements before you go, then you can make the most of your experience. Studying abroad is an opportunity of a lifetime, so here is the ultimate guide with everything you need to think about before moving abroad for your studies.
Do Your Research
You should research different countries that you are considering moving to for your study and have a look at the different universities that are well-known for offering opportunities for international students. Most universities are happy to have students from abroad on their course, either long term or just for a period.
However, you should choose which university to attend based on your course subject. Different universities tend to specialise in different subjects, so this is an indicator for which university you should apply for.
Find Accommodation
As soon as you have your place confirmed at the university you have chosen, then you will want to secure accommodation. You should do this as soon as possible as student accommodation can fill up very quickly, especially the most luxurious ones.
For example, if you are looking for student accommodation in Porto, then you should be sure to check out the luxury accommodation in the area provided by Collegiate. Their apartments are student-friendly living spaces that are secure, so you can have peace of mind while away from home which is essential. Their rates include all bills as well as Wi-Fi, so that is one other thing to check off your list. They have accommodation in a range of areas across Spain, so if you’re planning on studying in that area you should be able to find a place to stay.
Another example is LIV Student; they provide student accommodation in Dublin and Sheffield. They offer more than 200 rooms and are located fifteen minutes from the city centre and tourist attractions. Each bedroom has a double bed, ensuite bathroom with a shared kitchen and lounge area. There is also a gym. If you have any problems there is a team at the reception desk 24/7 to help you with anything you need. Definitely worth checking out!
Sort Out Your Visa
Depending on where you are coming from, you may be required to get a visa in order to legally be allowed to study in a different country. You should be sure to research this before you move as studying without the correct visa can land you in a lot of trouble. While it can be an overwhelming process, it doesn’t have to be that difficult. You should start the process as soon as you can as it may take a while for your visa to come through. Just do the research, find out what your country requires for documentation and do it step by step.
Learn a Few Phrases
While you are unlikely to be fluent in the language of the country you are thinking of moving to for your studies, you should try to learn a few phrases before you go. This is a great way to feel more confident and prepared and will help you considerably when you arrive. While English is one of the most spoken languages in the world, studying abroad is a great way to broaden your horizons by adding a new language to your skillset.
It can be a bit intimidating to leave your home, your family and friends, and move away for your studies. But it can be a great opportunity to try something new and have something different to talk about on your CV!
