YOU were accepted to study a course in another country. Your excitement levels are about to burst, you can’t wait to experience this new chapter in your life. But, you might also be leaving your comfort zone. You have to keep both your feet on the ground and do some research before starting uni, so nothing can take you by surprise and smash the perfect picture you have in your mind.
Here are some ideas for what international students should look up before starting uni:
Location, Location, Location
It’s always important to research the area in which your institution is located. What’s the weather like? Where’s the nearest airport? How far is it from the capital? Nowadays, universities provide international students with many facilities to make their stay easier and enjoyable. But you also want to do some research for yourself.
Commuting
The university of your dreams may be located in the beautiful countryside or in the craziness of a city. Regardless, it’s important to understand the transport options in order to travel to different places; whether it’s for tourism, the supermarket or a doctor’s visit. Look up local transport options in your student city to understand how to get around.
Student Discounts
This is definitely a must check. Countries encourage people into education by providing certain benefits. For instance, some universities reward their best students with either a tuition fee discount or scholarship so you should find out if this is available to you before you start. Students can get to money off in clothing stores, restaurants, medical centres, and some countries have special transportation tickets. Find out what student discounts you can find in your city.
Work out a budget
You might have your budget planned for the duration of your studies, but you have to think about unforeseen expenses that could come up. It is important to research how to budget before you start and save so you can have more personal experiences like going on a trip, going out for dinner, or buying something for yourself. You’re taking a brave step in your life, leave aside some budget to treat yourself when you feel you deserve it!
Visas and Documentation
This might not be as fun to research about as the others, but it’s important. If you don’t do this accurately, you might compromise your whole experience ahead! Read your acceptance letter carefully and it will tell you all the documents required for the institution to start your studies. Check the country’s embassy or consulate, which you’re travelling to, to provide you with more in-depth information on what papers to have ready before entering the country. You can always send a polite email to your university’s international office if you’re confused.
Future Development
This sounds obvious, but you should check that your course will provide you with the tools you were missing to accomplish your career. Let’s say it’ll improve your scientific thinking, or teach you software that you need to get a job, perhaps you will develop language skills, or learn the law of another land. The point is that you come out a better version of yourself for it. Think about maybe making a 5 or 10-year plan or research the careers options after studying.
