Studying abroad is more than just time spent in another country for academic purposes.
It’s a life-changing experience that allows you to not only earn a globally acceptable certificate but also enjoy new cultures and perspectives.
It is an idea that many students admire, however, very few get to witness it.
Some students do not achieve their dream of studying abroad simply because they do not know where to start from, and the guidelines to follow.
If you want to study abroad (in any country of your choice), below are the steps you should follow.
From choosing the right study abroad destination, applying for and securing admission, and getting your student visa, to making the most of your time overseas.
What are the benefits of studying abroad?
The benefits of studying abroad extend beyond the classroom:
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It is an opportunity to gain broader perspectives
Studying abroad will expose you to different worldviews and educational systems that will broaden your perspective.
It is an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and adapt to new environments.
You’ll learn new cultures and adapt to new ideas increasing your intellectual and personal development.
Furthermore, you’ll learn to navigate unfamiliar situations, communicate across cultural boundaries, and see the world better.
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It presents global networking opportunities
There is no better way to build a strong global network than studying abroad.
While studying abroad, you can build a global network of friends, professors, and professionals.
These connections can be valuable for both your personal and professional development; offering support and opportunities long after your studies.
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You’ll enjoy an excellent education
Many universities abroad offer specialized programs and world-class facilities that might not be available at home.
Studying in a different academic system will give you new approaches to your field of study, increasing your educational experience.
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It increases your career opportunities
Studying abroad can set you apart in a competitive job market and open doors to global career opportunities for you.
Many employers value the experience gained abroad and will pick students with international exposure for employment.
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It is also an opportunity to explore the world
Studying abroad is also about adventure and discovery.
You’ll have the chance to travel to new cities and visit new places and attractions.
This sense of adventure adds excitement to your academic journey and creates lasting memories.
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It enhances global competence
Studying abroad helps you gain the skills to work in international settings and understand global issues better.
You’ll be better positioned to perform in a more diverse environment.
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Improved job opportunities
The skills and experiences gained while studying abroad plus global awareness can make you stand out in the job market and open up international career opportunities (for you).
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Better academic opportunityÂ
Many study abroad programs are affiliated with top universities and institutions that rank top globally.
As a student of these institutions, you’ll have access to unique courses, research opportunities, and distinguished faculty that may not be available at your home institution.
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Opportunity to learn new languages
Surrounding yourself with a new language is one of the most effective ways to learn it.
While abroad, you can learn different languages from fellow students. It’s an opportunity to practice and master foreign languages.
There are many more benefits of studying abroad – they are countless.
You need the following requirements to study abroad.
Requirements to study abroad
Preparation is important if you want to achieve your dream of studying abroad.
Here are the key requirements to consider when planning to study abroad:
1. You need the right academic qualifications
Depending on what level of program you are going for, you need the following:
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: If you are going for undergraduate programs, you need a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.
- Bachelor’s Degree: If you are going for postgraduate programs, you need a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) from a recognized institution.
- Transcripts and Grades: To study abroad, you must provide your academic transcripts and have the right GPA (which varies by program and institution).
2. You need to prove your language proficiency
- English Proficiency: If your program is in an English-speaking country, take tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE.
- Other Languages: For programs in non-English-speaking countries, you also need to take language proficiency tests (in other relevant languages) E.g., DELF for French and TestDaF for German.
3. Take a standardized test and get a good score
- SAT/ACT: This is required for some undergraduate programs in some countries; like in the USA.
- GRE/GMAT: This is usually required for graduate programs in fields like business, engineering, and the sciences.
4. You also need to provide other application documents
You need the following documents to get admission abroad.
- Application Form: Your desired institution will provide their application form for you to fill out before offering you admission.
- Personal Statement/Essay: A statement of purpose or essay is also important. It should detail your academic and career goals and reasons for choosing the program.
- Letters of recommendation: Get letters of recommendation from your past teachers or professionals.
- Resume/CV: Your resume should be very detailed and give an account of your educational background, work experience, and any extracurricular activities.
5. Financial Proof
To study abroad, you need money (except if you’re on a fully funded scholarship). You have to show proof that you have enough funds to sponsor yourself.
You can provide:
- Bank Statements: The amount should be enough to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs.
- Scholarship Letters: If you’re on scholarship, provide proof of the sponsorship or financial aid received.
6. Student Visa Requirements
Your student visa allows you to enter your study destination for educational purposes.
- Student Visa: To apply for a student visa to the specific country where you will be studying, you need the following documents: proof of admission, financial proof, and possibly health insurance.
- Passport: Your international passport must be valid for the duration of your program. (it must have blank pages for visas).
7. Health and Insurance
Health insurance is not a compulsory requirement, however, it is important.
- Health Insurance: In many countries, it is compulsory, and should cover the entire duration of your stay.
- Medical certificate: Some countries also require you to undergo medical checks and submit the result.
8. Housing Arrangements
- Accommodation Proof: To get your student visa in some country, you must present proof of accommodation like a dormitory reservation or rental agreement.
9. Interview
- Admission Interview: You also need to prepare for interviews – like a student visa interview. It can be either in person or via video call. A visa interview is done to ascertain your eligibility for a visa.
With these requirements ready, you can apply for admission to your chosen institution.
How do I get admission to study abroad?
To get admission to study abroad, first, determine your academic goals. What do you want to study? Are there specific programs or courses you’re interested in?
Deciding the program you’re interested in. This is the first and most important decision ahead of you.
Chose your study destination
After deciding on your program, choose where you want to study.
- Choose a country: Before deciding on the country to study, look at the country’s academic reputation, language, culture, living conditions, and opportunities after graduating.
- Choose an institution: To pick an institution, check the one that offers your desired program, and check its rankings, faculty and student reviews.
- Tuition Fees: Check the tuition fees. Compare it to other institutions.
- Living Expenses: You also need to check the cost of living; from accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment in your chosen destination.
- Check for scholarships and grants: If you’re interested in funding opportunities, look for scholarships and grants offered by your desired institutions.
- Do you need part-time work: If you are interested in working while studying, you might also want to check if part-time work is allowed in the institutions under your consideration.
The country/institution that comes out top after all this consideration should be your pick (as study destination).
Your chosen institution must offer your desired program and fit your academic and personal goals.
With the decision on both the country and institution to study made, it’s time to apply for admission.
Check your chosen institution’s admission requirements
- Every university/college has specific admission requirements for international students. You can find them on the school’s official website. They usually include:
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- Academic transcripts
- Standardized test scores (like TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, etc.)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement
- Letters of Recommendation
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Portfolio (if applicable).
- Portfolio: For some programs (e.g., art, design), you’ll submit a portfolio of your work
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How to apply for admission to study abroad
To get admission to study abroad, you must submit an outstanding application.
Preparing your application
Ensure you are prepared.
- Documents: Every document listed in your chosen school admission list must be included in your application package.
- Language Proficiency Tests: If required, take the test and ensure you score high (your score must be higher than your chosen school’s minimum score).
Fill out the application form
- To get started, fill out the admission application form, you’ll find the form on your chosen institution’s website or admission portal.
- Write your statement of purpose (SOP): A good and compelling SOP is important, you’ll attach it to the application form.
- Get letters of recommendation: You also need these letters to attach to your application.
- Pay application fee: There is usually an application fee however, some universities offer fee waivers, so check if you’re eligible.
- Submit your application: Upload all required documents and submit your application before the deadline. You’ll receive a confirmation of submission after submitting your application.
- Follow up: After submitting your application (for admission), monitor your application status through the university’s portal. In addition, check your email regularly for any updates.
- Wait for a decision: It takes several weeks to months to get a decision on your application.
- Approval: If your application is successful, you’ll get approval – be offered admission to study abroad. Accept the offer and get your confirmation of acceptance. You need it for your student visa.
Securing a student visa
After getting admission, apply for a student visa to enter your study country.
To apply for a student visa, check the student visa requirements for the country where you’re studying.
Visa requirements
- Every country has its student visa requirements. Look up the visa requirements for the country you’ll be studying in.
- Documents: You need documents like your university acceptance letter, proof of financial stability, and health insurance.
Fill out the visa form
- Application: To apply, go to the country’s immigration/visa application portal, and fill out the student visa application form.
- Submit visa application document: Attach the student visa requirements (documents) to your application package and submit.
- Visa approval: Upon approval of your student visa, you can enter the country for your academics.
Accommodation and travel arrangements
Before going to your country of study, make arrangements for accommodation.
- On-campus housing: You can stay on campus
- Off-campus housing: There is also the off-campus option.
Travel arrangements
- Flights: Book your flight tickets in advance and avoid delays.
- Packing: Pack essential items. Your study country may have different weather conditions from your home country, so be prepared.
Pre-departure preparations
- University orientation: Some universities and colleges hold pre-departure orientations for their international students. Ensure you attend.
- Country-specific orientation: Just like universities, some countries offer orientation for their students going to study in another country, make sure you attend if it is applicable in your country.
Arrival and settling in
- Airport pickup: Before leaving your country, check if your university offers airport pickup services or make airport arrangements for pick up.
- Initial expenses: Have some local currency for immediate expenses upon arrival.
Settling in
- Registration: Complete university registration and attend orientation sessions.
- Bank Account: Open a local bank account for easier financial management.
- Phone and Internet: Get a local SIM card and set up internet services.
- Be open-minded: Studying abroad is an opportunity to be exposed to different cultures and ideas. Be open to new ideas and methods.
To make the most of your experience:
- Attend all classes and actively participate in academic activities.
- Be a fan of campus resources like libraries, labs, and study groups.
- Clubs and Societies: Join student clubs and societies to meet new people.
- Events: Participate in cultural events and explore your surroundings.
- Travel during breaks: To learn about other countries, plan trips during breaks and long weekends to your host country and nearby regions.