Choosing to pursue your education abroad is a momentous decision that necessitates meticulous preparation. Through diligent investigation, we have assembled a comprehensive set of enduring guidelines to adhere to. If your commitment to studying abroad is unwavering, it’s essential to delve into this guide thoroughly. By the end, you’ll have access to some of our most invaluable insights and recommendations to optimize your study abroad experience
Strategy 1: Choose an Affordable City
Enrolling in educational institutions in major metropolises like Toronto, London, or New York can quickly become a costly endeavor. These urban centers typically entail a higher cost of living, making it imperative to commence your research well in advance. It might be prudent to explore options in cities that offer a commendable educational experience while also presenting a more budget-friendly lifestyle.
When conducting your research, remember to factor in various expenses, such as:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation costs
- Transportation expenses
- Daily living expenditures
Each of these elements contributes to your overall budget, and whether you are considering studying in Australia, Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom, or the United States, our blog resources can assist you in creating a well-informed financial plan.
Opting for education in a smaller town or community can offer distinct advantages post-graduation. This choice may grant you easier access to housing and job opportunities, with reduced competition once you complete your studies. If your aspiration is to pursue international education, this is certainly a factor worth deliberating.
Pro Tip: If the allure of city life is strong, but you wish to avoid the associated hefty expenses, you can consider living in nearby locations. This strategy enables you to enjoy the perks of a vibrant city while mitigating costs.
Strategy 2: Consider All Your Options
Universities, colleges, and vocational schools each have their own benefits. Really consider which is the best fit for you, depending on your academic and career goals. Below, we’ve outlined the benefits each type of higher education institution can offer international students:
College
College is a popular post-secondary education choice for many international students because many college programs offer’ streamlined pathways to careers in some of the most in-demand fields. In destinations like Canada, college programs are typically shorter and less expensive than university degrees and often have smaller class sizes.
Vocational School
Also known as career, technical, or trade schools, these institutions teach international students applied skills to use in a specialized field of their choice. If you choose to study an in-demand discipline at a vocational school, you’ll be workforce-ready in that field, and equipped with skills to use directly after graduation.
University
University programs serve as a widely acknowledged choice for international students seeking post-secondary education. Universities provide a diverse array of degree programs that can be leveraged for various career paths, and many of these academic qualifications enjoy global recognition and esteem.
Above all, it is crucial to maintain an open perspective and not hesitate to adjust your expectations regarding the level of education you intend to pursue. Frequently, students may feel pressured to opt for a university education when a college or vocational school might align better with their aspirations. Conversely, some students might hastily settle for the first college or university they encounter without conducting thorough research or exploring alternative options. It is essential to engage in candid self-assessment and thoroughly investigate all available avenues as you contemplate the best approach for your study abroad journey
Strategy 3: Plan Far Ahead for Accommodation
It’s no secret that a significant part of the world is grappling with a housing shortage, making it challenging to secure affordable living spaces, particularly for students in major urban areas. Proactively preparing for your accommodation needs can yield substantial time and cost savings in the long term.
Various housing options are available, each with its own alignment to your goals and financial considerations. Below, we’ve provided an overview of different accommodation choices, along with essential details for each:
- On-Campus Accommodation: Situated on or in close proximity to the campus and often inclusive of meal plans. Typically recommended, and in some cases obligatory, for first-year students.
- Off-Campus Accommodation: This includes apartments or houses that may be shared with roommates or other students.
- Homestay: An arrangement where you live with a host family, offering firsthand cultural experiences, opportunities to practice English, and a chance to forge new friendships.
Here are some valuable pointers to bear in mind when searching for housing:
- Scrutinize your lease agreement meticulously, and consider having a trusted friend or family member review it before signing. If possible, visit the space to ensure it aligns with the advertised description.
- Be prepared to provide your first and last month’s rent as part of your moving-in expenses.
- For off-campus rentals, be aware that utility costs may not be included in the rent. Ensure you budget for these expenses when residing off-campus.
- Plan your transportation method, especially if your chosen housing is farther from your educational institution.
Above all, commence your housing search as early as possible. Securing accommodations just a week before your classes begin is often neither practical nor feasible.
Strategy 4: Study the Language in Advance
Whether your classes are taught in English, French, or another language entirely, understanding and practicing a country’s official language is the key to an easier transition. If you’re wondering how to study abroad, one of the trickiest and most important steps is to fully understand, read, and speak the language at an academic level, as well as socially.
Passing your language proficiency test (like TOEFL or IELTS) is not the only reason to learn the language. There’s no shortcut to take here; to get the most out of your education, you will need to be as fluent as possible in English or your language of study. The truth is, if you’re unable to understand or communicate with your professors and classmates, you’ll most likely struggle with your studies.
So, go all-in on learning a language early, and devote significant time and effort to it. Some ways to incorporate learning a new language into your daily life include:
- Downloading a language learning app, and making a habit of using it
- Reading novels, the news, or guidebooks
- Writing a journal or short story
- Keeping a notebook of useful words to add to your vocabulary
- Conversing with others who speak the language
- Putting notes around your home with the names of household objects in the language you’re learning
Strategy 5: Embrace New Cultures
Use the time you have before starting your studies abroad by learning about the culture, customs, and mannerisms in your destination country. Look at it as a way to deal with potential culture shock or homesickness, so that you’re prepared and know what to expect if you’re serious about studying abroad.
Some things to prepare for can include:
- Weather: Check the weather conditions and overall climate of your destination country, and plan the clothes you want to bring accordingly.
- Holidays and festivals: Find out what major holidays or festivals are celebrated, and learn more about their meaning.
- Key phrases and slang: Watching movies or television shows in your destination country’s language can be helpful in learning everyday phrases and slang words.
- Food: Research popular foods in the country you’re studying in, including fast food and home-cooked options.
The more time you spend learning and preparing for your study destination, the more comfortable you’ll feel when you arrive there. We promise!
Studying abroad comes with a series of hard decisions to make, which can feel overwhelming. It might feel like a lot, but if you’re serious about studying abroad, it’s wise to take these goals seriously and begin working on them, one at a time.