How to Prepare for a Semester Abroad: A Guide for College Students
Studying abroad is one of the most exciting opportunities a college student can have. It’s an opportunity to experience a new culture, gain international experience, and grow in ways you never even thought about. Preparing for such an adventure takes careful planning. Here are five tips to help you get ready for your study abroad journey.
1. Research Your Destination: Before you travel to another country, it’s important to research the country or city you are traveling to thoroughly. Research the country’s history, language, customs, and political climate. Understand the cultural norms to help integrate better and immerse yourself into the culture. Learn more about the transportation, events, and local community before arriving. Having an agenda will make your travel flow smoothly.
2. Handle the Paperwork Early: Study abroad comes with lots of paperwork including passports and visas so the earlier you start, the better. Check your passport’s expiration date to ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. Many countries require student visas, so once your program is confirmed, start the visa application process. This often involves gathering documents, attending appointments, and paying fees, so make sure to account for time and costs. I personally had to order a new passport which took around a month to receive and there are multiple documents and steps to require a student visa.
3. Sort Out Your Finances: Living abroad can be expensive, so it’s important to get your finances in order before leaving. Create a budget that covers all essentials: tuition, accommodation, food, transportation, and fun. Check out with your bank before studying abroad to acquire a debit or credit card that works internationally. My biggest advice is to save, save, save.
4. Learn the Language: You don’t have to be fluent in the language of the country you are studying in but learning some basic phrases can go a long way. Knowing how to say “hello,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” can make interactions smoother and more pleasant. I used apps like Duolingo and Babbel to get started with the basics. Consider taking language courses before or during your stay or in the first couple weeks of your stay.
5. Pack Smart: Packing for an extended stay abroad is completely different from packing for a vacation. Start by checking the climate of your destination so you can bring appropriate clothing. You’ll likely need a mix of casual, business, and weather-appropriate outfits. Remember to pack any necessary documents (passport, visa, insurance, etc.) and medications you might need. It’s also smart to bring a universal power adapter, especially if the country you’re going to has different power outlets. Try to avoid overpacking as well.
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