Abroad‌ ‌study‌ ‌planning‌ ‌tips.

Studying abroad is an exciting experience filled with mixed adventures. At times it means leaving home for the first time, at times it is a chance to strengthen skills, meet new people from other cultures, and study at a world-leading university. It is one of the most prominent things you can do as a student. And for a hugely positive experience, You have to be specially prepared. There is a vast list of Do’s and Don'ts you should keep in mind, out of which you cannot afford to miss some. To help you through this challenging period, here is a list of a few tips for surviving your living abroad.

1. Choose the Right Accommodation

Finding preferred accommodation is a decisive part of your student life abroad, and it can have a significant impact on your spending if not chosen correctly. There are many reasons why we want an ideal accommodation, be it by budget, locality, utilities, ease of booking, a variety of facilities, etc. It is important to deeply research, read all the reviews available on the internet, and check those ratings. Keep in mind that, whichever the student housing you choose will be your home for years, where you will eat, live, sleep, socialise, make friends, study, and which will define your student experience abroad. As your accommodation is going to be your second house, it has to be comfortable and home-like to you. Hence out of many student accommodation in the city, it is a task to choose the ideal accommodation.

2. Have All the Necessary Documentation

Studying Abroad means traveling to another country. For that, you will need to have a passport, visa and all necessary documentation. Passports can take time to process, so it is suggested to coordinate as early as possible. Moreover not only these but there are also many other documents that you need to carry along while studying abroad.

Tip: Carry a pen with you on the plane and keep your passport handy.

1. Valid Passport/ID
2. Acceptance letter of University
3. Accommodation contract and documents
4. Passport photos (preferably 4-5)
5. Insurance documents
6. Bank details along with bank statement (might be used to prove your home address)
7. Bank debit card
8. Student Finance documents
9. NHS medical card
10. Visa information
11. Medical prescription

3. Get Your Bank Account

One of the greatest issues you might deal with while studying abroad is your bank. Make sure you inform them and specify the dates about place and time you are studying abroad. This way, you will decrease the chances of having trouble when your ATM card or credit card declines suddenly. You might also need to create a new bank account in the city you are planning to live in.

4. Know the Culture

Studying abroad naturally has some responsibility on the students. As you will be living within a different culture, it is important that you know the local cultural norms. This might be the way you dress, the way you talk, and the way you interact with the localites. It is important for foreign students to practice sensitivity throughout their journeys, as your behavior might offend others otherwise. A great first step to know the local culture is to know the local language. You'll be surprised and pleased with the pleasant response to your Spanish or Italian greeting versus a casual "hello.

5. Keep Your Valuables Safe

You will likely be carrying a few of your most prized possessions, those might be your laptop, smartphone, iPod, your passport, some expensive jewelry, or money. It is important that you keep your eyes on your belongings.

All in all, just have an open mind and throw away all the preconceived notions that you hear from other people. Your own preparations and your preferences will be more helpful for you. Thus, prior planning can make your precious experience more hustle-free and convenient if you follow the given tips.

For any abroad accommodation related queries feel free to reach out to AmberStudent our study abroad accommodation partner.