Congratulations on being accepted into a degree program abroad!
This is a significant achievement. As you begin preparing for your departure, it’s natural to feel unsure about what to pack. One helpful way to make packing easier is to create a checklist. Having a checklist ensures that you don’t forget any important items or tasks. Simply check off each item or activity as you complete it. It’s that simple!
This article is specifically tailored for foreign students who are about to start their education abroad and need a study abroad checklist. We will outline the essential things you must pack and do before embarking on your journey overseas. Let’s go through the checklist together.
- Pack the necessary clothes, toiletries, and electronics:
Consider the weather in the country you’re traveling to and pack clothes accordingly. If the climate tends to be cold, pack warm clothes like coats, jackets, gloves, scarves, etc. Don’t forget to pack undergarments, jeans, belts, flip flops, and any other necessary clothing items.
While packing toiletries, make sure important items like a toothbrush, nail clippers, makeup, hair shampoo and conditioner, body wash, and any necessary medications are included. If you’re a woman, be sure to stock up on sanitary pads or tampons. Shaving supplies may also be necessary.
- Don’t forget your passport and ensure its validity:
Your passport is the most crucial item when traveling abroad. Along with reminding you to take your passport, it’s essential to make sure it’s valid for your entire travel duration, including an additional six months. An invalid or expired passport won’t be accepted for international travel. Initiate the passport renewal process well in advance.
- Secure your student visa:
Your student visa is another essential item to cross off your checklist. Without it, you won’t be allowed to study in a foreign country for the full duration. When you apply for enrollment at a foreign university or educational institution, they generally assist in processing your student visa. However, not all institutions provide this service. Visit the embassy or consulate of your destination country to find out how to apply for a student visa. Make sure you have all the required documents, such as the university admission letter, valid passport, financial proof, etc.
- Ensure you have enough money:
Money is crucial when studying abroad. Make sure you have easy access to your funds by carrying the local currency of the country you’re studying in. Before leaving your home country, inform your bank about your travel plans to prevent them from blocking your bank account. Check that your credit card or cash card won’t expire during your stay abroad, ensuring smooth cash withdrawals from ATMs or your bank’s international branch. Convert your money to the destination currency before arriving at the airport, as airport exchange rates can be expensive. You can convert currency through your bank or a trusted travel agent.
- Obtain an International Student Identity Card (ISIC):
The ISIC grants you access to discounts on various products and services worldwide. The organization operating the ISIC is available in over 106 countries. Consider acquiring this card to take advantage of the discounts.
- Get health and travel insurance:
Many countries require foreign students to have travel insurance for situations such as illnesses, injuries, or theft. Travel insurance will provide coverage in such cases. Health insurance is also vital, so make sure to have a full medical check-up before traveling.
Once you have ticked off all these items from your checklist, you’ll be well-prepared for your journey abroad. Good luck, and enjoy your study abroad experience!