Thinking of studying abroad but not sure what it entails? We have to admit that the whole process seems a bit daunting. But if you know every step to take and how to prepare everything needed, you'll find yourself studying for a bachelor's or master's abroad in no time.
Here's our comprehensive, easy-to-follow study abroad guide. We'll guide you step-by-step and by the end, you'll have most - if not all - of the information, you need to prepare for your international study experience.
1. Determine how much you want to spend on your education abroad
Studying abroad is a lot of things: exciting, challenging, stimulating, and life-changing, but not necessarily cheap. Sure, some study-abroad destinations are more affordable than others, but you should know early on how much you're willing to spend.
Tuition fees for bachelor's and master's programs vary widely, but there is always something to suit everyone's pocket.
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Masters’s degrees tuition range in the USA - Check
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Masters degrees tuition in Europe - Check
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Masters degrees tuition in Austria - Check
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Masters degrees tuition in the UK - Check
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Masters degrees tuition in Canada - Check
Don’t forget to take into account living costs as well. Depending on the city and country where you’ll live, you can spend anywhere between 300 and over 1,000 EUR per month.
2. Decide what you want to study
Some people know what they want to be from an early age. Others discovered it later, in high school. But for some, the decision remains unclear, even weeks before applying to college.
You can always choose one of the most popular subjects. This usually ensures that you will be in demand in the job market and earn a very good salary. But choosing to study something you don't enjoy solely for financial reasons is not always the wisest decision. With that in mind, here are some of the most popular disciplines out there.
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Business and Management
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Computer Science and IT
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Engineering
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Law
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Medicine
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Nursing
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International Relations
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Psychology
3. Decide where you want to study
Your budget and preferences will have a big impact on where you want to go abroad. However, there are other factors to consider before choosing between the two. Here are some questions and suggestions to help narrow down your search:
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Are you ready to study in a country where English is widely spoken?
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Do you want to work and study at the same time? If so, check out which countries have international student-friendly policies.
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How important are social life and extracurricular activities to you?
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Do you want to live in a big city or in a quiet town?
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Do you like to travel? If so, choose a country that has many opportunities in that direction.
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Try to choose 2 or 3 ideal destinations. Then start comparing the pros and cons of each.
4. Choose your favorite study programs
You have reached the point where you know the country and the subject you want to study. Congratulations! But now, which study program to choose? Each university offers one (or more) study programs in the same major.
Each program has a specific curriculum and different learning goals. You have to be very careful in your selection - you don't want to find out that you applied for the wrong degree in the first half of college. The easiest way to avoid this is to always check the program overview or course listing. See what you will study and how. Some degrees are more theoretical, others more practical.
Most Bachelor's degrees last 3 or 4 years, while Master's last 1 or 2 years. But there are exceptions! Highly specialized professions can take 5, or even 6 years of study. It will also increase your costs, so don't ignore this factor.
full-time or part-time: each approach has its advantages; Part-time study allows you to work on the side and take on other responsibilities. Full-time studies will take less time and allow you to fully benefit from the on-campus experience.
If you want to apply for a degree abroad, StudySpace comes to your aid.
5. Apply to multiple universities
Even with top grades and an impressive personal statement or essay, you shouldn't apply to just one college. It's true, you may be accepted, but what if it is not? That's why you should apply to at least 2-3 universities. You can apply to more universities, but keep in mind that some countries allow international students to apply to a limited number of universities.
Applying to higher education institutions in the same country simplifies this process, but it is common for students to choose universities in different countries.
Check how StudySpace handles your admission process here
6. Pass your English language test if you haven’t already
To study in an English-taught program at a foreign university, you must first prove your English proficiency. Most universities accept one of the following English proficiency certificates:
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IELTS Academic
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TOEFL iBT
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PTE Academic
You will have to pass one of these tests before applying to college. Depending on your current level of English, you can pass the test with just a few days or weeks of preparation. But if your English needs to improve, spend at least a few months preparing.
International English exams assess 4 main skills:
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Speaking
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Listening
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Writing
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Reading
7. Apply for a student visa
Not all students going abroad need a visa. But if you do, do your research the right way. Many documents are required and visa issuance can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months! Therefore, you need to apply early to not miss the start of your study abroad journey.
You need to check if you need a visa early and find out how long it takes for the visa to be issued. Then, depending on the intended start date of your studies, apply for a visa to receive it in time.
8. Choose an accommodation option and make arrangements
It is important to decide where you will live abroad as this will have a big impact, both on your costs and on your experience. Here are the most popular options, along with their pros and cons:
Student dormitories:
They are also known as "student halls" or "university halls of residence". Student dormitories are by far the most affordable option, but you'll often have to share a room with 1, 2, or sometimes more students. Utility costs are usually included in the monthly fee.
Private student dormitories (off-campus) are usually more expensive than college student dormitories. Many students live in a residence hall for a year or two for a popular campus experience, then choose to rent a home alone or with friends.
Not all universities offer student accommodation and often the number of accommodations is limited. The conditions and facilities of each dormitory vary from university to country or from country to country.
Renting a private flat
This is the second most popular accommodation type for international students. Renting is more expensive than living on campus, but you can cut costs by sharing an apartment with other students.
The closer to the city center, the higher the price. Utilities are not always included in the monthly fee; This is something you need to discuss with your landlord. You will have to pay a security deposit equivalent to 2 or 3 months’ rent. This is to cover any potential damage or problems you may create.
Depending on your contract, you will get your deposit (or part of it) back when you move out. Some universities help students find their own apartments and make sure they aren't ripped off or tricked into overpaying. If your university doesn't offer this support, you'll need to do some research first to avoid scams or other problems.
Whichever option you choose, the price will vary greatly. Depending on where you want to live, you can spend anywhere from 100-200 EUR per month to over 700 EUR.
Always pay close attention to the contracts you sign, feel free to negotiate confusing terms, and don't choose the first option. Compare what is available on the market and then decide. Remember that an informed purchaser is an authorized purchaser.
9. Decide how you’ll travel abroad
It's finally time to plan your trip. How will you get to your study destination? Will you be traveling alone? Need to exchange transportation? These are all questions you will need to consider. If you are going to study abroad in another continent or in a faraway country, then flying is the best option.
Sometimes even cheaper, but this varies depending on many other factors. You will need to check how much luggage you can bring as all major airlines have limits. You will have to pay extra for suitcases or additional luggage.
Some students may choose to travel by train or bus. It can be more or less comfortable depending on the distance and time you need to get to your destination. The advantage is that it can be cheaper and there is no baggage limit. However, don't think you can take up half the storage with your stuff. Other visitors certainly won't appreciate it.
For Europeans moving to another European country, driving alone or with family is a reasonable option. You travel with people you love, and they will help you establish your place and get used to your new surroundings.
Tips
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Depending on when you start studying and when you may be able to move into your new place, plan accordingly so that you get there early; ideal if you have a few days to adjust to your new environment.
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Check the ticket change or cancellation policy, especially if you're traveling by air. If you need to change transportation, consider what you'll be doing and where you'll be during the pause/wait.
And that's all! You are ready to go abroad! Excited? You should. You are about to begin one of the most exciting, fun, challenging, and challenging chapters of your life. And in the end, you will become a much better person. Now let's go make some great memories!
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