Studying abroad may prove to be the most memorable thing you do during your time in college. Study abroad opportunities are available to everyone. There are many financing options available, so if you are considering studying abroad, look into it! You may find that it’s the best decision you’ll ever make.
1. Go to an information session and fill out an application
The process to apply for study abroad begins with inquiring about which opportunities are available. You will talk about financing options, possible locations, when a study abroad trip will work best with your college schedule, and which classes will be offered where. Once you decide where and when you want to study abroad, you will fill out an application. You will fill out questions about your dreams and goals as well as a section about why you wanted to apply for study abroad in the specific location that you chose. There are other forms that must be filled out and signed, but for the most part, the application process is not very time consuming. If all goes well, you should be accepted into the program within a couple of weeks.
2. Attend the manditory orientation sessions
These will seem pretty tedious at times, but they will actually help you out a lot. During these sessions you will learn what you need to pack, safety tips for traveling abroad, a detailed description of the classes offered, and any internship opportunities there might be while you are abroad. At these meetings, you will also have the chance to meet your professors and other students going on the trip with you.
3. Buy your airline tickets
Do this as soon as you know when your semester starts and ends. Airfare only increases as time goes on; the longer you wait, the more expensive your tickets will be. Airfare to and from your study abroad destination is most likely not included in the program cost. Student Universe offers discount ticket prices to students and may prove to be a great resource to use when purchasing plane tickets.
4. Get a student visa and make sure your passport is up to date
If your current passport is expired or if you do not already have a passport, you will need to get one before traveling. This can be time consuming because unless you expedite your passport, it can take anywhere from three to six weeks to get it back. Also, check to see if the country you are going to requires a student visa. Your study abroad adviser should be a big help during this process; they will help you fill out the neccessary paperwork. Make sure that you start this process early enough–it can take a month or longer to recieve a visa. Make sure you know in advance what you need to bring with you to your consulate appointment and where you need to go.
5. Enjoy your time left at home!
Once your passport and visa processes are taken care of, you are in the home strech before departing on your journey. Take this time to enjoy being with your friends and family. If you are studying abroad for an entire semester, you won’t be able to see them for about four months. Spend as much time with them as you can, because you will miss them once you are gone. Remember to pack all of the essentials, and most of all, prepare yourself for the adventure of a lifetime!