It’s an exciting time for those of us studying abroad next semester – our applications are in and accepted, our deposits have been sent in, and housing is being sorted out! All that’s left to do is wait… and prepare! Here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing to study abroad.
Visas & Passports
A passport is absolutely necessary anywhere you go internationally. Make sure that you have a valid passport from your home country – one that hasn’t expired and won’t expire within the time you intend to study abroad. US citizens can apply for a passport at selected post offices, federal or state courts of records, or at a State Department passport agency. A passport can take anywhere from six to 12 months to acquire, so plan ahead!
You’ll always need a passport to go abroad and you’ll likely need to acquire a visa too. Different countries have different requirements for visas, so contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the country you plan on visiting or check online here to see the country’s requirements. Just like passports, visas can take a while to acquire, so plan accordingly.
Health
Schedule a visit to your doctor before you take off for your destination. You’ll need to get a physical to make sure you’re in good health, as well as any necessary shots for travelling. Acquire a copy of your medical records to bring abroad in case of an emergency.
It’s also important to know your host country’s policies on certain vaccinations and prescription medicines. If you can fill prescriptions in advance, that would be ideal – it’s convenient to have them filled for your entire time abroad so you don’t have to go through the hassle of acquiring medicines abroad. Keep in mind that prescription drugs must be carried in correctly labeled containers while travelling.
Budgeting
Let’s face it – going abroad is expensive. Though there’s no way to avoid the high costs of travel and tuition, there are smaller ways to save when you’re abroad. Make sure you have an online bank account before your travels begin – online banking is a good way to monitor your money easily. Also make sure that your credit card company won’t charge you crazy international fees – if they will, consider switching to a new plan.
Set a budget for yourself at the beginning of the semester and do your best to stick to it. Try to allot yourself a certain amount of money per week for “food,” “fun,” and whatever else you think you’ll be spending your money on. Setting aside a certain amount of money for each aspect of your life will help keep you from overspending.
Always look out for discounts – especially student discounts. Apply for an Internatioal Student Identity Card either online or locally. An ISIC can help you get discounts on courses, hotels, transportation, entertainment – pretty much everything. All you need to acquire a card is a photo, proof that you’re a student going abroad, proof of your identity, and a method of payment.
Communication
Though you’ll be having the time of your life abroad, you’ll probably want a way to reach your friends and family back home. Most students rely on their cell phones and laptops for communication – best for calling, texting, emailing, and video chatting.
Make sure that your cell phone plan will allow you to make calls and send text internationally without charging you crazy fees. Some students opt to purchase a local pay-as-you-go cell phone upon arrival, while others just purchase a local SIM card. Check with your cell phone provider to see your options with your current phone and consider your options from there.
Packing
Pack light. You probably won’t need everything you think you do and probably won’t wear everything you think you will! Leave things like sheets and toiletries at home, as you’ll always be able to purchase these once you arrive. Try to just bring essentials – you can always go shopping when you get to your destination!
Double check with your airline and learn their policy on luggage – you don’t want to be surprised with extra fees at the airport! Consider buying a sturdy traveler’s backpack or rolling duffel, something more comfortable and convenient than a suitcase. You’ll be able to use for the weekend trips you’ll likely take!
Ask your study abroad program for a suggested packing list so you have something to start from. Remember to note the weather of the country you’ll be visiting – this can drastically change what you’ll need to bring.
Keep these things in mind when you’re getting ready to go abroad and you’ll have smooth travels. Happy traveling!