Going Abroad: A Dream with Responsibility
Going abroad to study might seem like a dream come true; however, it isn't just an easy walk in the park. You need to know how to start your applications and what to do before your departure. With many questions like 'Where should I apply to study abroad?', 'When is the best time to study abroad?' It is common for students to be anxious about the foreign college preparation process.
Preparing yourself to study abroad is not easy as it may seem. So, here is the list which can help you prepare strongly for your application process.
1. Selecting the right Country
With the number of expats on the rise and the reputation they have in the world today, studying abroad is a promising experience. There's often a lot of noise when choosing the right country for yourself.
Some questions which may help you in this process could be, "What course do I really want to pursue?' 'What do I want to do after my program?', 'Where do I want to settle long-term'?
It can be challenging to answer all these questions without losing focus since so much will be going on at any given time. To overcome this, you can approach your counsellors, and they will help you out in this process.
Points to Remember
Choosing the right country for your studies is important, as the cost of living, quality of education, and job prospects vary from country to country.
Check out some surveys regarding the best country for education, like Project Atlas 2019 and some more.
Talk to a few students from your desired country to know more about the quality of living and education there.
2. Documentation and Processes
Being prepared for such a big event in your life is a crucial thing, even if it does not seem like one. Planning everything out and knowing how to execute it is absolutely one of the most sincere things an individual can do. Documents are a significant part of the process of applying to any foreign university or school.
The first and the most important document needed would undoubtedly be your previous results. You need to make sure that these well-off institutions have something to count on when they let you into their academic hold.
Another essential document is a proof of language proficiency. It is not uncommon to have to learn a new language when you move to a foreign country for studies. Be it your proficiency in the universal language- English- or your acquired ability to speak their regional or national language, German, for example- provide them with the proof that you can mix up and communicate with other people there.
Points to remember:
Some of the most common tests that are used for admission in other countries are IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, etc.
Visa and Passport process should be started around six months before your leave date.
Do not use random middlemen to fasten your documentation process, as it can lead to negative consequences in the future.
3. Manage your expenses
Let's get honest here: expense management while studying abroad often feels like a challenge. It takes a lot of preparation to take care of yourself over there. There are emotional and financial preparations that need to be taken care of.
However, you can live a decent life without going too tough on your pockets with proper planning and mindful spending. Initially, you need to open an account in a local bank which gives maximum student benefits. Then, clear your priorities and differentiate your needs from your wants to avoid unnecessary and unplanned expenses.
Points to remember
Shared accommodation, students discount cards, and passes for local transport are some smart ways to save a big amount.
Utilise the resources at the library to cut the cost of study materials. If you need to carry any books, prefer to buy used ones or arrange softcopies.
Cooking food is more affordable than eating outside every day. Just learn some easy recipes and cooking hacks to save your time and effort.
Find a budget broadband plan, discover all the available financial aid and scholarships, and get health insurance if possible.
Not all places to relax and enjoy are expensive. You need to explore your place and find affordable alternatives for recreational activities.
4. Research Your Destination's Local Culture, People, and Customs:
Go online to look up statistics about your destination country. Being aware of their demographics will help you understand what you can expect when you get there. Again, this is useful for better familiarising yourself with your study abroad country.
Try to find out what these people eat and wear so that when you arrive, it won't come as a shock to see the locals outside wearing traditional garbs or bringing home groceries on a Chinese rickshaw instead of a shopping cart.
Points to remember:
It's always a great idea to know more about your host country.
Some countries might have more traditional approaches and customs like South Korea. Hence, it's better to know their daily gestures and routines before arrival.
You are going to a new place not just for education but also to experience new things. Hence head out and try out new cities in the vicinity.
(Additional tip)
If compromising on your wants and sticking to a reasonable lifestyle ever make you feel dissatisfied or cheerless, remember that a future built upon limited resources will always be worth more. However, it is a good idea to do something for part-time income as long as it does not distract you from your studies at all.
Conclusion:
Studying abroad is an amazing experience, both for the student and for the family. It can also be a bit overwhelming. Before going overseas, do prepare yourself as much as possible to get the best out of this opportunity.
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