Top 10 study abroad tips

There are many advantages to studying abroad but embarking on such an adventure requires some serious planning. These are the steps you'll need to take to ensure that your study abroad experience runs as smoothly as possible

International study is one of the most eye-opening adventures you can experience. But why study abroad? Some of the benefits include:

• experiencing a different culture
• gaining independence
• learning a new language and transferable skills
• accelerating your personal development
• acquiring new academic perspectives
• boosting your employability.

'Study abroad is an amazing opportunity academically, professionally, and personally. It is something we believe that all students should consider as part of their university experience,' say Henry Turner, outgoing study abroad officer and Marcus Dowse, head of mobility at the University of Reading.

'It's important to research what opportunities are available so that informed decisions can be made about whether study abroad is the right option for you,' explain Henry and Marcus. Begin this fact-finding mission 12-18 months before you actually travel - doing so will give you plenty of time to sort out applications, funding, visas and more.

'The more time you invest in planning for your study abroad experience, the more smoothly the journey will go,' says Annie Kay, study abroad manager at the University of East Anglia (UEA). 'There's always going to be things you can't plan for, but if you've thought everything through, even changes to your plans won't stress you out too much.

Moving to study and live in another county is a big change and it's important to be prepared for it.'

'The research phase can be really exciting and you can learn a lot about the world and yourself while doing it,' add Henry and Marcus.

1. Decide where to study

When picking a study abroad destination your options are vast. A whole host of countries (such as Australia, China, France, Germany, India, Japan and the USA) boast world-renowned education systems and globally-recognised institutions, so the first step is to narrow down your options.

'This all comes down to your individual goals,' adds Annie. 'What do you want from your study abroad experience?'

Ask yourself:

• Would I like to stay close to home by studying in a neighbouring country (for example those from the UK might opt to study in Ireland or Europe) or would I prefer to spread my wings and go further afield?
• Are certain countries well respected or recognised as being a hub for my area of interest?
• Do I want to work abroad upon graduation? If so, you might want to base your choice on where you could easily find employment.

The budget that you're working with will also dictate where you can study - gaining a degree in some destinations costs considerably more than in others. For example, Australia and the USA are far more expensive than Norway and India.

If you've always wondered what it would be like to live in a particular country, now's the time to try it. If you want to learn a  language, head to where it's natively spoken.

Take a look at our study abroad profiles for some ideas and read up on the best places to study abroad.

2. Choose your course

More often than not you'll find that the majority of foreign universities provide qualifications comparable to those offered in the UK, for example Bachelors, Masters and PhDs. Look into how long they take to complete as this can vary depending on where you study.

Research all of your shortlisted programmes to discover which one's right for you. You could begin by finding out how your potential institutions rank globally in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings or the QS World University Rankings, before visiting university websites and talking to lecturers, tutors, current international students and careers advisers - don't make your decision on rankings alone.

It's also important to check that the qualification you receive will be recognised in your home country or in the country where you plan to build your career. If you're currently studying and you plan to study a semester or year abroad, ensure you can do so and still complete your degree on schedule. Avoid programmes that don't transfer academic credit towards your award.

3. Search for funding

Overseas tuition fees vary widely. Some countries, including AustraliaÌý²¹²Ô»åÌý³Ù³ó±ðÌýUSA, set very high fees for international students while other countries, such as China, are much more affordable. Some destinations such as IcelandÌý²¹²Ô»åÌýNorway don't charge tuition fees at all.

Discuss funding options with your chosen university. There are many scholarships and bursaries available to help with the cost, including those from external bodies.

Sometimes funding for international students is hard to come by so if you're struggling to find support, or you aren't eligible for schemes that are in place, consider other options such as crowdfunding or working while studying. In order to earn while you study you'll need to  research the working rights and restrictions of foreign students.

As well as meeting course fees you'll also need to cover the cost of living. To secure your visa it's likely that you'll need to prove you have enough money to live  while in the country.

4. Apply for your programme

The earlier you apply for your programme the better. This is important when studying abroad, as you'll have more time to prepare for your trip.

The best way to ensure that you get onto a course is to speak directly to the department you're interested in, as many universities help international applicants through the application procedure. A 2:1 or 2:2 are usually adequate entry qualifications. However, some countries require students to pass entrance exams before they're accepted.

If you're heading to a nation where English isn't the first language, make a note of the level of proficiency you need and allow yourself time to reach the required standard. Most universities offer courses in English, but some seminars may be in the native language - so speaking the local lingo will help to ease you into your new surroundings.

5. Obtain your visa

If you want to study abroad you must get the appropriate visa to allow you to do so. The UK is no longer a part of the European Union (EU), so UK students will now need a visa to study in EU countries as well as the rest of the world.

'Do a lot of research when it comes to visas,' advises Annie. 'Consider what kind of visa you'll need, how long it will last, whether you need to register once you arrive in-country, and how much money you might need as proof of funds. Remember that it's your responsibility to maintain your immigration status for your time abroad.'

Give yourself plenty of time to sort this, and also consider whether you'll have to renew it at any point during your stay.

Immigration legislation changes frequently, so refer to the relevant national websites for the most current information.

For help and advice on completing study visas, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you'd like to study in.

6. Find accommodation

'The availability of accommodation abroad will depend on where you study and for how long - not all countries have a comparable 'halls of residence' culture to the UK. However, many institutions will offer places in halls as standard, but this could be different to the UK e.g., shared rooms, shared bathroom facilities, mandatory meal plans etc,' explain Henry and Marcus.

'Those institutions that do not have halls as standard are likely to offer support in how to find private accommodation and should be able to provide guidance about local requirements and customs.'

You could ask to be put in touch with other international students on your course or in your department and see if you can find shared lodgings.

It's likely that the bulk of your search will be done online so make sure opportunities are above board before signing any contracts. If you can afford to do so it might be worth visiting your chosen destination to research accommodation options in person.

If in doubt Henry and Marcus advise you to 'chat with your accommodation office and study abroad team to gain insight about what to do.'

7. Make friends

Moving to a new country is a whole lot easier if you feel like you've made friends before you get there.

'Your host institution wants to make your arrival positive and fun,' say Henry and Marcus.

As such, the majority of universities run international student events to help foreign students prepare for and integrate into their new surroundings. 'For example, they may set up online groups or hold virtual events,' add Henry and Marcus. By attending these you'll meet other students embarking on an adventure abroad. Some institutions also run buddy systems to help you settle in. Get in touch with your university's international or admissions office to see what support is available.

You can also use social media to reach out to other international students who will be attending your chosen university to strike up a connection.

Once in your new home, look into joining clubs and societies of interest where you can meet likeminded people. 'Get involved in whatever welcome events, information sessions and trips that are offered, and put yourself out there,' advise Henry and Marcus.

Learning the native language will also help with making new friends.

8. Manage your budget

Saving money ahead of international study is often overlooked, so create an action plan and begin saving well in advance.

'The months leading up to a student's mobility can often be the most expensive, with costs such as travel, applications for visas, insurance, and accommodation etc., so thorough planning at this stage will allow you to budget effectively,' say Henry and Marcus.

Price everything up ahead of time, from university and accommodation costs to the amount you'll need for leisure activities and personal care. 'Institution websites will normally indicate costs and there are websites  available to compare the differences in living costs (but remember these are subject to change).'

The cost of living abroad can be high, so your money might not stretch quite as far as it does at home.

To make the most of your leisure time you'll need spare cash. You'll also need cash to pay for travel home as and when you need to.

Research the best credit cards for students and use this in an emergency. Speaking of emergencies, make sure you have some money set aside in case any unforeseen circumstances arise.

9. Sort health and travel insurance

There are numerous student insurance options available. Insurance is essential and often a requirement of your visa application, so be prepared to pay extra for comprehensive cover - it's worth it.

Some countries require you to have vaccinations before you enter. Others, such as New Zealand, have very specific healthcare obligations that must be met.

Regardless of where you're heading to, visit your doctor for a full medical check-up before you leave. You can sort out ongoing prescriptions or specific medical requirements with your GP too - just leave enough time to arrange this before your departure.

10. Complete final checks

'It's all about getting your documents in order,' explains Annie. 'Make a list of all the documents you'll need and ensure you have both a hard and an online copy.' Ensure that your passport is valid for your entire stay. Renewing is possible in a foreign country, but waiting in long queues and filling in forms won't be the highlight of your trip.

'There are shops abroad, so don't over-pack; just make sure you've got the right kind of clothing for the weather when you arrive,' adds Annie.

'It's also worth making sure you know your phone will work on arrival - and if it won't, where you'll get a SIM card. Being able to get in touch with people when you're abroad is vital both for practical arrangements and for your own wellbeing.' It might even be worth investing in a spare mobile phone so you remain contactable even if you loose or damage your first phone.

Make sure you convert some cash into the local currency so you're not arriving with empty pockets. Jot down a list of local emergency numbers and make a note of your address in your new country.

Ensure that you know which airport you'll be landing at and what the public transport is like once you touch down.

'Remember that you've already pushed yourself out of your comfort zone by moving to a university in a new and unfamiliar environment, so you are often better prepared and ready for the study abroad experience than you realise,' say Henry and Marcus.