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Steps to take -

Before you study abroad, there are at least five steps you should take. The following slides will list and dicuss those.

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Decide on the experience you want -

Your study abroad experience should be decided well in advance of ever setting foot on a plane. You should consider things like location, cost, opportunities for travel, and even program length.

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Meet with academic advisers and study abroad office -

An academic advisor can help you map out exactly when a study abroad experience fits into your scholastic program and journey. They can also assist you in ensuring credits will be transferred correctly an count towards your degree.

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Calculate the cost -

There is a lot that goes into studying abroad, so be sure to take time and estimate not only what it will likely cost but also how much you can afford and what the difference is. The remaining amount can be earned through scholarships or perhaps by getting a part-time job.

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Research the location and language -

With any international move, there is bound to be some cultural shock. It's important to research the country, customs, and language in advance to minimize the negative impact. Try to learn even a few words of the native language to help you get around.

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Get domestic affairs in order -

If you'll be gone for a few months, be sure to get domestic affairs in order. For example, find someone to sublet your apartment, make sure the electricity and other bills are planned for, and alert your credit card company you'll be away.

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Documentation you will need -

Now that you've tackled the to-do items, it's important to ensure you have the right documentation. The following slides will lay out what you need to gather.

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Passport -

A valid passport or one with at least six months remaining on it (from the dates you're booking) is needed to go abroad. Be sure to make copies of this essential document in case it's lost or stolen.

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Transcripts from previous degrees -

You will need to prove to some schools the credits or previous degrees you've earned, whether in your home country or abroad. It's best to have these printed just in case.

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Diplomas from previous degrees -

If you're pursuing higher level degrees like a master's degree or PhD abroad, it can also be important to show your diploma of actual graduation. The schools abroad want to confirm you are eligible to attend.

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Personal statement essay -

Many schools will require you to write a personal statement essay explaining your motivations for wanting to not only study abroad but specifically why study at their university.

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Application form for the university -

Paperwork isn't in short supply when it comes to going abroad to study. It's usually required that you fill out an application form for the university abroad in addition to paperwork your home school will have you fill out.

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Language proficiency certification (TOEFL or IELTS for English, or your target country’s language exam) -

In some locations and depending on your level of education, a school might require you to prove your language abilities via a language proficiency exam and certification. 

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Resume/CV -

A resume with your top professional and academic accomplishments is often required when you apply to a program or school abroad. They want to see how your experience aligns with their school and mission statement.

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National test scores (SAT, AP, ACT, GRE, A-Levels, IB diploma, etc.) -

Some programs will require you to have taken a national test and scored at a certain level. Check your specific program if this is a requirement.

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Letters of recommendation -

Schools abroad are taking a risk in letting a foreign student in, so letters of recommendation are often required to help support your case for admission. Consider asking current or previous professors, community leaders, or mentors for a letter.

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Entrance exams for your university -

Entrance to the university abroad may require you to pass an exam to attend their school. It could be anything from a general knowledge exam to something more specific to your area of study.

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Bank statement -

Universities and governments abroad often need proof of finances in the form of bank statements to ensure you won't arrive broke in the new country and cause problems or be unable to get back home when your time there expires.

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Invitation letter from the university -

Once you apply and are accepted, the university abroad will usually present you with an invitation letter. This is needed to fill out other study abroad-related documents and might even be needed if applying for financial aid.

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Non-criminal record -

Other countries want to ensure they aren't signing themselves up for trouble. Thus, before they accept a foreign citizen to live there, they will often require a clean, FBI-approved criminal background check.

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Additional essays required by the university -

When it gets into the final rounds, sometimes universities will require an additional letter or essay to be submitted by the applicant. It usually asks individuals to further explain why they're the best fit or should be considered.

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Vaccination certificate -

It can be very easy for someone to bring a disease from one country to another. Universities and the respective countries will likely require you to have certain vaccinations (and proof of receiving them) before they'll allow you to travel or live there.

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Additional passport photos -

It's always a good idea to carry extra passport-size photos with you when you go to study abroad. You never know when you'll need one to include on an application somewhere.

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Employer references -

If you are an older applicant and already have a job, the university may want employer references. These are usually just another way to learn more about you and can tell whether you'll be successful or not.

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Health check -

Just like with the vaccinations, other countries and schools in those countries will want to ensure you're healthy before you travel and live there. 

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Extracurricular award certificates -

If you've been a part of extracurricular activities, sending along certificates of competition or any awards won while doing it can show that you're an ambitious person who's likely to succeed.

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FAQ: Why should I study abroad? -

Studying abroad can be a completely life-changing event. It will teach you to be adaptable and how to be a creative problem solver. It also can help you learn new language skills and be a more well-rounded professional and scholar.
Sources: (U.S. News & World Report) (Global Admissions)
See also: The pros and cons of living abroad

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