How to Study Abroad In 2022: Everything You Need To Know Studying Abroad

For most individuals, it is a daunting task to figure out how to study abroad. With a lot of questions asked by interested persons here are a few options for studying abroad in 2022.

Luckily, there isn’t just a path but multiple paths to studying abroad in 2022.

How to Study Abroad, Everything You Need To Know Studying Abroad

Why Should I Study Abroad?

Not that you need an excuse to fly to a faraway country to get a world-class education. Just in case you aren’t convinced about the need to study abroad, here are our top 10 reasons out of the countless reasons we have put together why you should study abroad.

It will enhance your resume

Employers value international experience since it demonstrates that you have dealt with individuals from many cultures and have a greater level of adaptability while studying abroad.

The fact that you can travel to a new nation while learning new skills to land a decent graduation job, that’s impressive.

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Improve your linguistic abilities

Do you recall learning a foreign language in school? I didn’t think so. Studying abroad can refresh them; you’ll be surprised how much you recall. 

Taking additional language classes while you’re on the road can also help you meet new people.

Learn and study uniquely

When students study abroad, they are frequently exposed to a completely different method of instruction.

 This can be intimidating, but it will also expose you to fresh learning opportunities while studying abroad

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Become Independent

Going to study abroad is frequently regarded as the point at which you become independent of your parents and relatives. This is especially true if you decide to study abroad.

However, living and studying in a different country will help you grow into a self-reliant and adventurous adult who is prepared to excel in your future career.

Traveling internationally

Studying abroad provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore more of the globe, which is a very gratifying and instructive experience in and of itself.

Seeing other parts of the world will undoubtedly have a significant impact on your character and outlook, as well as assist you in preparing for life in a global society.

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Get to know a wide spectrum of people

Your exposure to a variety of individuals while studying abroad will not only help you build people skills but will also provide you with a deeper understanding of others, particularly those from diverse cultures.

You’ll learn more about diverse cultures as a result of this experience.

Cultural sensitivity isn’t simply a trait that politicians are accused of lacking; it’s also a skill that you may learn when studying abroad.

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Develop a global mindset.

You’ll be able to utilize your new global mindset to back up arguments, educate your convictions, and influence your future, whether it’s at your job, school, or play when you study abroad.

Benefit from decreased tuition fees.

This, of course, depends on where you study abroad, but in many regions of continental Europe, Asia, and Latin America, you may study at a prestigious university without going into debt.

Make use of your free time to learn more about the world around you.

Studying abroad should provide you with lots of opportunities to explore in between lectures and lab sessions. 

There’s always a better way to spend your time than going through Facebook, whether you prefer visiting historic landmarks, sampling new foods, or bargaining at local markets.

What Are The Dos And Don’ts of Studying Abroad? 

Studying abroad is a thrilling experience, and you’re about to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trip! So, naturally, you want to know everything there is to know.

After filling out all of your documents, taking care of your passport, and interacting with your selected program on social media, you still want to know what the reality of studying abroad would be like. We know you have a lot of questions, just like everyone else.

So, without further ado, here are the 5 basic do’s and don’ts that we’ve prepared for you!

Do’s:

  • Before you go abroad to study, take a look at your relationships and friendships. Make sure those around you share your desire for independence, adventure, and support.
  • When studying abroad, you are allowed to push yourself out of your comfort zone and try new things—cuisine, sports, hobbies, and so on. There’s a lot to see and do here.
  • Attempt to learn the language of the place you’re visiting. Even if you aren’t as fluent, the local community will appreciate your efforts and will frequently assist you in improving your language skills.
  • While studying abroad, do not be afraid to question your preconceptions. There’s so much to see and do, so keep an open mind about what you’ll find.
  • It is important to set goals for yourself, but don’t be too hard on yourself if they change. Things are always shifting and changing. Focus on flexibility rather than strict goals that provide little opportunity for error.

Don’ts:

  • Don’t get dismayed if they respond to you in English when you’re trying to communicate in the language of your host country. Maintain your practice. It’s the only way to improve.
  • Do not compare your study abroad experience to that of others. It will be a one-of-a-kind experience. Document it, deconstruct it, and direct it in whatever way that makes sense to you.
  • Don’t forget to do the things you enjoy when you’re away from home studying abroad, the things that make you, well, you.
  • No matter where you go in the world, don’t forget your SPF or sunscreen. Always protect your skin and remember that it is necessary for everyone, regardless of race.
  • Don’t be apprehensive about falling in love while studying abroad. Keep your heart open to new experiences, whether it’s meeting new people or meeting new versions of yourself.
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Where Can You Study Abroad for Nearly Free?

You can get a bachelor’s degree while avoiding the student loan burden by studying abroad.

 Let’s have a look at the following categories to discover more about free colleges around the world, particularly those that offer English programs:

Note: All currency conversions reflect foreign exchange rates as of Aug. 30, 2021

Countries that provide free college education:

Have you considered studying in a foreign country? Not only will you benefit from free tuition, but you will also get the opportunity to tour the world and gain new perspectives.

If you travel to one of the following European nations to study, you can obtain a fully free college:

Germany

Germany discontinued charging tuition fees to students, both domestic and international, in 2014. Many American students study in Germany each year because of its tuition-free policy.

While you will not be required to pay tuition to attend college in Germany, you will be responsible for covering your living expenses. 

Rent, food, and other living expenditures account for roughly 725 euros ($850) per month for the average international student in Germany. You must demonstrate that you can pay 861 euros per month (about $1,010) to get a study visa.

If you’re interested, you can learn more through the German Academic Exchange Service.

Iceland

They do not charge locals and international students who attend public universities in Iceland tuition fees. You will only have to pay a minimal registration or administrative charge.

Iceland, like many other European countries, has high living costs. The average monthly housing expense is roughly $800. A month’s worth of food will cost you at least $400.

Visit the website Study in Iceland to learn more about going to college in Iceland.

Norway

International students and local citizens can attend Norwegian public universities for free.

 You may be required to pay a small semester fee, which is presently less than $100, but they will not charge you for tuition.

However, you should be aware that the cost of living in Norway is extremely high before purchasing your ticket.

 The average monthly student budget is over $1,300 and if you don’t budget correctly, you can end up spending what you save on tuition on meals, beverages, and other living expenditures.

Countries with nearly free college:

Aside from the countries listed above that offer free college tuition, there are a few others that offer extremely inexpensive tuition:

Austria

Students from the United States pay roughly $855 per semester to study in Austria.

Austrian living costs are generally greater than those in the United States. Food prices, as well as the cost of manufactured goods, are slightly higher.

France

France’s public universities have some of the lowest tuition fees in the world, and several schools provide waiver programs that reduce international students’ costs to levels equivalent to those paid by students from other European Union nations.

However, living in France while studying will set you back a significant amount of money. Expenses will differ dramatically based on where you live and how you spend your time.

 While student accommodation in a smaller city may be more reasonable, a furnished apartment in Paris will almost certainly be more expensive. Transportation costs are the same way. Dining out can get expensive since a restaurant meal can cost anywhere from $10 to $30.

Luxembourg

Even for foreign students, the University of Luxembourg is the country’s only public university that charges 400 euros (about $470) for the first two semesters and 200 euros (approximately $235) for each semester after that.

Luxembourg isn’t cheap when it comes to living expenses. On the university’s website, you can obtain an idea of your budget by looking at the going prices for bus tickets and basic grocery products. A student’s monthly budget is projected to be roughly $1,770.

Spain

Spanish state colleges charge between $176 to $4,115 per year in tuition for bachelor’s degrees. According to MastersPortal.com, costs for overseas students may be the same or slightly more, ranging from $1,175 to $1,763, or up to two or three times higher.

The cost of living in Spain, like many other European nations, varies greatly depending on where you study and the lifestyle you choose. 

Cities like Barcelona and Madrid may be a little more expensive than smaller towns. In terms of food, the average student will spend roughly $150 per month on meals.

Is it possible to study abroad over the internet?

Absolutely!

Getting a global education doesn’t have to entail globetrotting (though it is a fantastic choice, too!).

 With the rise of digital learning, you may connect with diverse groups, learn about global concerns, and join a global classroom all from the comfort of your own home instead of traveling to study abroad.

If you want to learn about a specific country’s history and culture, study international relations and politics, or become a more well-rounded global citizen, online study abroad may be a good alternative. 

Furthermore, tuition expenses are often lower than on-site alternatives, and you won’t have to pay for airfare, overseas rent, or other expenditures connected with traditional study abroad.

Checklist To Studying Abroad: Things Students Must Do Before Studying Abroad

Preparing for a study abroad program can be stressful and daunting, especially if this is your first time living in another country.

 It’s easy for things to go through the gaps when there are so many applications, deadlines, and plans to study abroad. Possibly you won’t be able to detect an omitted step until it is overdue.

Having a checklist is a useful tool for graphically organizing the tasks you need to completely prepare for your trip to study abroad, from one year before departure to the date of your arrival.

The study abroad checklist below helps to minimize extra stress and ensure a smooth departure;

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1. Research Study Abroad Programs

This should be done a year before departure to make research and comparison of the study program abroad by inquiring about people who have already studied abroad about their experiences, or speak with your academic counselor about the best possibilities for you studying abroad.

It is advisable to consider cost, class credits, courses, location, travel options, and program length while evaluating different programs.

You should begin your research early because you never know when you will be compelled to apply. You don’t want to miss out on the ideal study abroad opportunity simply because the application deadline passed you by!

2. Register for a Language Test

Students who apply to study abroad programs taught in a foreign language may be asked to demonstrate their language skills.

 Therefore, you’ll need to submit a test score with your application for study abroad, so sign up for one as soon as feasible and this should be done one year before departure.

Interestingly, each of these exams is available at locations all around the world regularly.

A few commonly accepted test scores for English are:

  • TOEFL — Test of English as a Foreign Language (most common)
  • IELTS — International English Language Testing System
  • PTE — Pearson Test of English

3. Make an application for a passport

When it comes to making travel arrangements and applying for a visa to study abroad, you’ll need your passport, and the application process for a passport can take several months if not more. So, if you don’t already have one, you should apply for one right away.

Even if you do have a valid passport, you may need to renew it.

It is very important to apply for a passport roughly a year ahead of time to prevent obstacles and costly expedition costs while preparing to study abroad.

4. Fill out an application for programs

Most programs accept students on a first-come, first-served basis, which is why after choosing the program that best fits your interests and your academic goals to study abroad it is important you fill out an application as soon as possible.

Keep an eye on application deadlines because they may come sooner than you think, and ensure to sign up for classes before your program begins.

5. Apply for Financial Aid/Scholarships

The general rules imply that one must apply early for a scholarship or financial aid because It is a well-known fact that studying abroad is costly. You’ll have to pay for housing, meals, travel, and other expenses in addition to your tuition at a foreign university.

 To pay these expenses, many students will need financial aid to ease the burden on them which is why applying for a scholarship or financial aid should be part of your to-do list in your quest to study abroad.

6. Begin your visa application process

Almost every country requires international students to have a visa, and obtaining a student visa is the first and most significant step in preparing to study abroad.

Each country’s application process for a student visa is unique. It could be a long and difficult procedure including a lot of paperwork and interviews, or it could be a simple online application process.

Whichever the case may be, it is of considerable importance to make your application six months before fostering the idea of studying abroad.

7. Get Student Health Insurance

Your primary insurance or school-sponsored insurance may not cover you while traveling, or it may not be appropriate for your needs and budget. It’s crucial to be prepared for anything that may occur during your semester or year of studying abroad.

An international student health plan can cover qualified charges linked to injury and illness, mental health disorders, outpatient prescription medicines, and more.

 Thus, even if your destination country does not need you to show proof of medical insurance. Make sure to read the policy sheet for any student health plan to get the most up-to-date information on benefits and exclusions.

8. Start looking for a place to live

Students who want to study abroad often have the option of living on-campus, off-campus, or with a host family.

On-campus housing fills up rapidly, locating a host family can take months, and finding off-campus accommodation might take months of applying to multiple places and avoiding scammers.

Whichever accommodations you choose, you should start looking about 5 months before arrival.

9. Book Your Flight

Now that all of the time-consuming and tiresome duties have been completed, it’s time to get down to business. Begin by making a flight reservation for your study abroad.

International flights are usually the most economical 3-4 months in advance, but it’s a good idea to start tracking costs as soon as possible. The longer you wait to purchase, the more expensive your flight will be.

10. Apply for a Travel Credit Card

 Note that to study abroad. If you don’t currently have a credit card, you should look into getting one from your local bank, it is advisable to look for travel-friendly credit cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees.

11. Start Budgeting for Your Trip

Budgeting is essential when studying abroad because it is costly.

Consider the cost of lodging and food first. Then budget for activities and side trips to nearby cities or countries using the leftover money. 

The amount you can spend is likely to be determined by the amount of money you receive in scholarships and financial aid, the amount of money you’ve saved for this event, and currency rates.

12. Get to know the language and culture of your chosen destination

If you plan to study abroad in a nation where the people speak a language other than your own, having a basic understanding of the language will be quite beneficial once you arrive.

Review your old notes and brush up on the language if you’ve already studied it. Even people who are comfortable in class can be scared by hearing a foreign language spoken in its original country.

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Take some time to learn about the culture, including the customs and traditions, food, and politeness. Knowing about the culture before you leave will help you avoid culture shock and appreciate your new place.

13. Make a Travel Notification to Your Bank

Many banks will suspend your credit or debit card if they detect suspicious activity, which can include unexpected overseas transactions. This should be done a month before departure. 

 Hence, before you go to study abroad, put a call through to your bank and let them know when you’ll be out of the country and where you’ll be going. That way, you won’t have to call to unblock your card in the middle of your journey.

14. Get ready to travel

Make a packing list for your study abroad trip to help you stay organized a week before you travel.

In case your checked baggage is misplaced or takes longer to arrive, keep the following items in your carry-on:

  • Every single one of your travel documents
  • Toiletries in travel-size containers
  • A change of outfit
  • A small sum of money in the currency of your destination

If you’re staying with a host family, you should also consider bringing a gift for them. They’ll appreciate the nice gesture, and giving them a present is a terrific way to share a bit of your culture with them.

15. Order Money from a Local Bank

To ensure that you don’t run into any money problems once you are at your location, order roughly $100 worth of your destination’s currency. Most banks can accomplish this, and it shouldn’t take more than a week.

16. Make duplicates of all of your travel documents.

Make three copies of your passport, visa, ID card for medical insurance, and any other vital travel documents. Keep one pair in your checked luggage, one in your carry-on, and the third set with your family.

If your documents are lost or stolen, you will still have identification.

17. Download Beneficial Apps

Travel has been drastically revolutionized by technological advancements. Smartphones and apps can assist you in translating, navigating, connecting with locals and other travelers, and locating nearby events.

Here are a few apps to help you plan your study abroad trip:

  • WhatsApp is a messaging app that allows you to communicate with other travelers as well as family and friends back home.
  • Duolingo is a great way to keep your foreign language skills strong.
  • Google Maps – for navigating the public transportation system at your destination
  •  For tracking flight fares for weekend vacations, use Skyscanner.
  • TripAdvisor – for suggestions and reviews on landmarks, restaurants, and other activities

18. Notify Your Family of Your Arrival

After arriving at your desired destination to study abroad, don’t make your family and friends worry about you. To let them know you’ve arrived, call or send a message.

19. Make Friends With Other Students

Participate in student events and gatherings, and communicate with your classmates. Make the most of your trip by making new friends with whom to share your adventures.

20. Have a Great Time!

Last but not least, have fun! Take pleasure in the fantastic experience you’ve just had after months of planning your study abroad.

Conclusions

To study abroad, we must prepare ourselves to get a wealth of experience and perpetrate some research by posing relevant questions.

It is critical to have a checklist as well as a budget that is appropriate for the situation.

It is highly recommended that you conduct research on your intended study abroad destination, learn the cultural heritage, and take note of the dos and don’ts of your chosen country.

With all of this in mind, someone who wants to study abroad but has the financial resources to do so can enroll in an alternative online program with a predetermined destination.

FAQs

Is It a Good Idea to Study Abroad?

If you’re thinking about studying abroad, you should go ahead and do it because it will expose you to new opportunities, people, and cultures. Studying abroad also allows you to travel internationally without having to deal with immigration issues.

I am under the age of eighteen. Is it Still Possible for Me to Study Abroad?

Yes, you certainly can. If you are under the age of 18, your parents or guardians must send a statement stating that they are aware of your plans to study abroad and that they are sponsoring your studies.

Is Working While Studying Abroad a Possibility?

Certainly. They teach in a flexible manner that allows students to achieve the ideal study-life balance while also allowing them to work part-time if desired.

What factors should I consider when deciding on a study destination?

Affordable school costs, the potential of international students working there, a cheap cost of living, the availability of suitable student housing, the percentage of African students who visit that country for their education, and how safe the country is are all variables to consider before studying there.

What Are the Eligibilities for Studying Abroad?

The standards for admission differ from one university to the next. Students must, however, be in at least their second year at the time of leaving. The minimal cumulative GPA ranges from 2.50 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, with higher GPA requirements for more competitive programs. A personal statement or a letter of recommendation may be required as well.

What Is the Cost of Studying Abroad?

It is dependent on the situation. If it isn’t covered by a scholarship, it may be too expensive. This, however, is dependent on the school, the course of study, and other circumstances. According to some research, international students can pay as much as USD$20,600 each year.

Reference

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