6 things to prepare when you are studying abroad for the first time

When traveling abroad, one vital item is your passport. This invaluable document serves as your identity while you’re abroad, so it’s crucial to have it ready in advance, before university registration or your departure to the study destination.

Furthermore, as an international student, securing a student visa is of utmost importance. Pay attention to the specific requirements for your chosen destination, as each country may have unique criteria.

Feeling overwhelmed by the paperwork? Fear not! The dedicated team of IDP counsellors is ready to lend a helping hand and guide you through the process.

Prior to your arrival in the study destination country, it’s important to calculate the costs involved, including both study expenses and daily living costs during your stay.

If you’re financing your study abroad through personal funds, accurate planning is essential. Ensure that you account for every expense, and don’t forget to set aside some emergency funds for unforeseen circumstances. Rental prices, for instance, can unpredictably increase.

Even if you’re fortunate to have a scholarship covering your study expenses, it’s still important to estimate other costs. You must check whether your scholarship includes accommodation and daily necessities or only focuses on tuition fees.

In addition to budgeting for your study abroad journey, it’s wise to consider where you’ll keep the money and the preferred method of transactions in the future. Typically, international students prefer to carry a small amount of cash for immediate needs, while entrusting the rest to a bank account for larger expenses such as tuition fees or housing rent.

Preparing for your first journey abroad, especially if it entails a long-term stay, can leave you puzzled about what items to bring along. Perhaps you’re torn between carrying your entire room or adopting a minimalist approach with just the essentials stuff.

However, one aspect of that demands extra attention is your clothing selection. Before finalizing your wardrobe and deciding which garments to pack, it’s important to research the climate of your destination country. For instance, if you’re studying in a country with four distinct seasons, be sure to pack a sufficient supply of clothing, including cozy jackets to brave the winter chill.

To ensure a comfortable adventure in your new country, it’s advisable to tackle your packing well in advance. Crafting a detailed checklist of essentials items will simplify the process, leaving no room for overlooked items.

Selecting the right type of accommodation is important, not only for saving money but also for ensuring an enriching experience while studying abroad.

International students have many housing options to consider, ranging from on-campus dormitories to residential houses and apartments.

It's clear that campus dormitories tend to be more budget-friendly compared to the other alternatives, with the added benefit of conveniently walking to your classes.

However, when making this decision, it’s crucial to consider more than just price and proximity. You must also take a look at the available facilities, comfort, and safety measures.

If coming in person is quite difficult because the location is overseas, you can leverage the internet to view accommodations, explore official housing provider websites, or seek assistance from relatives if feasible.

Once you’ve identified your desired residence, waste no time in making a booking to secure your place. It’s vital to have a designated living space arranged prior to your arrival abroad.

If you encounter difficulties in determining the ideal accommodation in your study destination country, don’t hesitate to consult with the IDP team for expert guidance in selecting a suitable place to call home.

Even if your study destination is an English-speaking country like Australia, Canada, England, New Zealand, or Ireland, familiarizing yourself with the local language can prove invaluable. You never know when these terms may come in handy and add a personal touch to your experiences.

For instance, in Canada, where both English and French are spoken, there are popular terms worth knowing, such as 'loonie,' referring to a 1 dollar coin, or 'chinook,' signifying a warm wind from the mountains during winter. Similarly, in Australia, where unique slang and phrases are prevalent, you may encounter expressions like 'g'day' for 'hello' or 'bloke' for men.

By embracing the local language, you'll find stronger connections with residents, whether it's during shopping at the market or simply ordering coffee at a cafe. This effort will make locals feel more at ease conversing with you and may even lead to delightful surprises like discounts or special treatment.

As an international student going into a new territory for the first time, studying abroad can be overwhelming. With numerous preparations required for a smooth experience, you don’t have to face it alone. This is where the IDP counsellor team steps in, ready to assist you!

From choosing a study program and university that fits your career goals, applying for a student visa, to finding a perfect place to live, our counsellors will provide invaluable guidance, ensuring you make the best decision.

Prepare for your study abroad trip with IDP and get guidance from our experienced counselors.

Take the first step today and schedule a free counseling session to embark on a journey that will shape your future!