Studying abroad is a life-altering experience that paves the way for numerous possibilities and opportunities for personal growth, academic development, and cultural immersion. By studying abroad, you can earn a globally recognized degree through which you can leverage lucrative job opportunities worldwide and lead a higher quality of life.
Furthermore, international education gives you great exposure in terms of academics as well as culture. It helps you develop a progressive outlook, adapt to diverse cultures and behavioral patterns, and become adept at handling complex situations.
Therefore, by choosing to study abroad, you are sure to achieve personal as well as professional development and outshine the mob. But, you need to prepare yourself mentally, academically, and tangibly to transition into the international education system smoothly.
In order to resolve your doubts and apprehensions about transitioning into an international student, here’s a blog by MSM Unify to help you streamline your life after college and guide you through the transition process.
Key things to do before starting your freshman year
In this section, you will learn about things you should take care of before embarking on your study-abroad journey. The handy tips listed here will help you prepare for the big move, so keep reading!
1. Have your documents in place
Make a checklist of all the requisite documents and store all the original documents in one folder. Also, for backup, upload soft copies of the necessary documents on your drive.
You will need all these documents for the immigration process, and to complete admission formalities at the university. So, keep them safe and handy.
Here’s a list of essential documents that you must possess:
- Application form
- Original academic certificates
- Entrance exam scores
- Work experience documents
- Recommendation letters
- SOP
- Resume
- Photo Identification
- Passport size photos
- Travel documents
- Health certificates, etc.
Also read: Crucial documents for a smooth study abroad experience
2. Plan your finances in advance
Before moving abroad, you need to manage your finances and contemplate the budget. If you need financial aid, secure student loans or explore other options like scholarships, university grants, etc. in good time.
After managing your finances for tuition fees, plan your budget for accommodation, travel, and other living expenses to remain stress-free during the study abroad journey.
3. Choose an appropriate insurance
You should have travel insurance to combat unforeseen challenges including delayed or canceled flights, loss of luggage or personal belongings, evacuation in case of a health emergency, etc. Also, get reliable student health insurance and accident insurance policies to cover unexpected health issues or mishaps during your stay abroad.
Essential advice for a seamless transition
This section covers vital advice for a seamless transition from the Indian education system into an international educational structure. Also, these tips will help you adapt to the new culture and lifestyle like a pro!
1. Master the language
It is important to master the language that will be used in the education system. Without gaining proficiency in the language, your learning will be impeded, you won’t be able to converse with your teachers and peers, and your confidence might dwindle. So, master the language which will be used for academic purposes. Also, try to learn the local language to interact with the natives and feel accepted in the new environment.
For learning any language, you may use language learning apps like Duolingo or Rosetta Stone, and watch movies or listen to songs in that particular language. Check out how to quickly learn your host country’s language in 10 simple tricks.
2. Make local friends
It is essential to make local friends to get accepted in the new environment, and have a delightful study abroad experience. Local friends can help you understand their culture and support you in times of need. If you have local friends, you can delight in the foreign culture, enjoy the local cuisine, explore places around you, and feel at ease.
Also read: 6 Simple Ways to Make New Friends in College
3. Join support groups for international students
Many NGOs and universities abroad run support groups to help international students settle in the new environment, adapt to the new culture, and cope with academic expectations. So, join these groups, attend their programs, and participate in their activities to get a hang of the new culture and settle down with ease.
4. Join clubs and participate in extracurricular activities
It is best to join campus clubs, cultural clubs, reading clubs, etc., or participate in extracurricular activities to develop connections with other students in the university. Participating in activities beyond classroom learning can help you bond faster with your peers, learn the native language quicker, and transition into the new environment faster.
The bottom line
Studying abroad can be a rewarding experience if you make apt preparations before embarking on the educational expedition. Apart from academics and the admission process, many more critical aspects need to be taken care of for a successful transition into a new ambiance.
In order to ensure a seamless study-abroad journey, and achieve the desired outcomes, contact MSM Unify at the earliest.
MSM Unify is an incredible student platform, where you can explore more than 50,000 programs across diverse disciplines. You may select the course that conforms to your credentials, interests, and requirements from over 1,400 campuses worldwide.
So, join the bandwagon of 145,000+ happy and successful students who conquered the study-abroad journey with the help of MSM Unify!
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