Basic Study Abroad Information
If you have decided to study abroad, you should congratulate yourself for making a great decision that is going to help you figure out who you are, help you make great memories, great friends, and have a wonderful time. There are some great study abroad information tips that you should be aware of. It is always important that you know as much about studying abroad before you go so that you can have the best possible time without having to worry about too much. You’re about to take advantage of one of the greatest opportunities of your college career. By studying abroad, you’ll learn more about another culture in the most fundamental way possible – by actually living it.
Know Before You Go
The most basic study abroad information that you need to figure out is where you are going and what course of study you plan to enroll in. You should do as much research about the country, city, and school you are going to be attending so that you know as much as you possibly can before you get there. Knowing the climate, dress code, customs and language for instance is going to give you a chance to be ahead of the game.
In most cases, when one goes to study abroad, he finds himself spending the first few days or even weeks getting used to the surroundings. Factor in this transitory period so that you arrive at least two weeks before classes begin. This should give you enough time to get acclimated with your new surroundings, making it comfortable for you to be there and focus on your studies.
Bring What You Need
Another great study abroad tip is to bring what you need with you instead of having to go shopping as soon as you land. After you have researched where you are going, you are going to figure out which things will be there, and which things you will find yourself needing as time goes on. Make sure to at least make a list of the things you know you can’t live without, and weekly for the last month before you travel, add to the list as needed.
The best way to make sure that you have what you need is to do your research and talk to other people who have are enrolled in the program so that you can be sure you are bringing what you need. You don’t want to bring too much as you may not have enough space to keep everything. On the other hand, you don’t want to bring less than necessary either as things might be different or more expensive in the new place.
New Experiences
The most important study abroad tip that you can get is to simply allow yourself to enjoy the new experiences and to broaden your horizons as much as possible while you are abroad. You should try to get out of your comfort zone as much as possible while you are studying abroad. This means that you should strive to do as many things that you might not do at your home or in your comfort zone. This is important because you’ll find that the more you can do to broaden your horizons, the better off you are going to be in the real world.
This is a great way to make sure that your study abroad trip is the best time it can be, and that you can get all of the experiences out of it that you are supposed to. Remember that when you are studying abroad, you should be doing your best to be sure that you are taking the time to see and do as much as possible. This is because this is the kind of experience that you may never have again, so be sure that you cherish it and really get the most out of it while you can.
What else do I need to do?
Get a Passport –
You can apply for a passport at Any Immigration office nationwide. Please be advised to Apply several months before you leave, especially if you consider how much time it might take you to get a visa. As soon as you receive your passport, make a copy of the front page that has all your identification information, and keep it in a separate place from your passport. If your passport is lost or stolen, the copy will make it easier to get a new one.
Get a Visa-
Do some research and find out if your country of destination requires a visa. If so what kind of visa will you need? Sixty percent of the world’s countries require visas for any length of stay. If you travel, you may need visas for other countries. Apply early for visas. processing time varies widely. Embassy addresses and phone numbers can be found on the internet.
Get your shots
The center for disease control offers the most up-to-date information regarding vaccinations and shots. You should also consult your doctor.
Consider a phone card
Do a little research and find out how you’ll be communicating with your people back home. Phone cards are great but they don’t always work. I recommend the e-kit which combines voice mail, e-mail and phone card with conversions at the cheapest rates.
Get insured
Make sure you have a comprehensive travel insurance. Your coverage should include medical evacuation and repatriation.
Arriving
- You should aim to arrive at the University in time to be ready to start the international orientation program at your selected institution.
- Remember to bring your University acceptance letter, I-20 and F-1 visa along with you on the plane.
- Please be clear that you understand where you are going and what you intend to study. You may be asked by an immigration officer as to what you intend doing in the Preferred Country.
Arriving on your new Campus:
- If you arrive earlier than the arrival date specified by the University, you will be responsible for arranging your own accommodation at your own expense, until your University accommodation becomes available.
- If you arrive on campus within regular office hours please report to the International Student Advisor or Office.
- If you arrive after regular office hours please report to the campus safety office and they will assist you with finding your dorm.
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