Congratulations! You have been offered admissions to study for a degree abroad. This is a huge achievement indeed. But then, you are about to start making preparations for your departure and you are unsure about what to pack.
You know, one thing that can make your packing easier is if you make a checklist. Once you have a checklist, you do not have to worry too much about forgetting anything important. All you have to do, is check items and activities you have done off the list. How simple!
As a foreign student that is about to start your foreign education, there are some important things to do and things to pack before you finally embark on the journey. These items and activities have to be checked off, as they are very important. So, this article is meant for you if you need a checklist. A study abroad checklist.
Study Abroad Checklist
We will be outlining the important things you must pack and do before you set off on your journey overseas in this article. Come with us.
1. Pack the necessary clothes, toiletries and electronics that you will need
Depending on the weather that the country you are travelling to has, you should pack clothes that correspond to the weather. If you are going to a country whose climate is generally cold, then by all means, pack clothes that will warm you up.
You can pack 2 coats or jackets. You will need your underwears, jeans, belts, flip flops, gloves and scarfs for cold weather, and more. You know yourself best. So pack the necessary clothing items needed for your destination.
While packing toiletries, you should remember to not forget important ones like your toothbrush, nail clips, make-up, your hair shampoo and conditioner, body wash, and drugs if you are on any. If you are a lady, make sure you stock up on sanitary pads or tampons. Shaving supplies might also be necessary.
2. Don’t forget your passport and its validity
Your passport is probably the most important item you can take with you while travelling. And yes, we know that you are probably thinking, “who on earth forgets their passport when travelling to a foreign country?”.
Well, apart from reminding you to take your passport, you should also make sure your passport is still very much valid for your travel and for the duration of your stay. An invalid or expired passport will not be allowed for international travels. This means that you have to make sure that you process your passport way before the time for your study begins.
Also, it is worthy to ensure that your passport is still valid for up to 6 months after your study program is complete. For any passport renewal, you are advised to do it while you are still in your country and immediately you should start the process of passport renewal.
Processing time for the renewal of passports vary depending on the country. Bur renewal processing typically takes up to 6 weeks or more to complete. You should not wait till you are in the destination country before you start the renewal process.
3. Your Student Visa
This is another important item that must be checked off the list. Without your student visa, you will not be allowed to study in a foreign country for a full period. So, make sure you do not forget it! Usually, when you apply for enrollment at a foreign university or higher educational institution for your undergraduate study program, the institution usually helps you to process your student visa. Not all do, but most.
To apply for Student Visa, go to the Embassy of your destination country in your home country, and find out how to apply.
In order to process your Student Visa, the embassy or consulate will probably ask you to bring some documents like University admission letter, your valid passport, financial proof etc. Visit the embassy or appropriate authorities for more details.
4. Make sure you have enough money
Money is essential. It is very important. When you travel abroad for study, one thing you can not do without is money. You need money to survive. So, make sure that your money is always accessible to you. You should carry the local currency of the country you are studying in.
Also, before leaving your home country, tell the bank you will be leaving for a foreign country so that they don’t block your bank account. You should also make sure that your credit card or cash card will not expire during your stay in the foreign country so that you can withdraw cash at the ATMs or your bank’s international branch.
Also, make sure you convert your money to the destination currency’s money before you arrive at the airport. This is because exchange rates at the airport is very expensive. You can convert your money through your bank in your home country or through a travel agent.
5. Get your ISIC
The ISIC is an acronym for International Student Identity Card. This card allows you to get discounts when you purchase products and services anywhere in the world. The organisation operating the ISIC is available in up to 106 countries all over the world.
6. Get Health and Travel Insurance
Many countries demand that foreign students have travel insurance in case of situations such as illnesses, injury or theft. In such cases, the travel insurance will cover up for you. Health insurance is also absolutely necessary. Also, have a full medical check-up before you travel.
Once you have ticked all these items mentioned above off your checklist, you are good to go! Good luck.
