Before applying

1. Research Your Destination and University:

- Learn about your target country, its culture, and the university you'll attend.

- Check the available courses and programmes at your host institution.

- Read reviews and experiences from previous students.

- Ensure your home university accepts your study abroad plan, and check if the courses can be credited towards your degree.

2. Create a Study Plan:

- Prepare and submit a study plan to your home university, ensuring it aligns with their requirements.

- Review course descriptions and credit transfer details.

3. Required Documents:

- Find out which documents your home university requires for studying abroad.

- Complete the application for your host institution in advance.

Before Departure:

1. Travel Arrangements:

- Book your flights 2 months before your exchange semester starts. Arrive at least a week early to settle in.

- Join destination-specific student groups (you’ll receive a link after your application is confirmed).

2. Accommodation:

- Research housing options and connect with potential flatmates.

- Consider staying in a hotel or hostel during the first week to search for long-term housing upon arrival.

3. Documents:

- Ensure your passport is valid for your entire stay abroad.

- Apply for any necessary visas and check visa requirements for your destination.

4. Insurance:

- Secure appropriate travel insurance (health, accident, and possibly trip cancellation).

- Get proof of insurance, as it may be required upon arrival.

- Check if you need an international driver’s license for local transportation.

5. Health Preparations:

- Ensure you have all necessary vaccinations.

- Bring enough prescription medication for your stay or confirm if it’s available locally.

6. Financial Preparations:

- Apply for scholarships or funding to support your studies.

- Obtain a credit card that works internationally. We recommend using online banking and Visa Electron for affordable withdrawals.

- Consider giving a trusted relative or friend power of attorney to manage your finances back home.

7. Notify Authorities:

- Inform local authorities about your temporary move and redirect your mail.

- Register with your country’s embassy in the host country.

During Your Study Abroad Semester:

1. Stay Active and Engaged:

- Take every opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and build friendships.

- Learn the basics of the local language to help navigate daily life and foster connections.

- Attend all classes, participate actively, and explore extracurricular activities.

2. Cultural Immersion:

- Push yourself to interact with locals outside of the exchange student community. Joining clubs or taking up new hobbies is a great way to meet people.

- Be open to experiencing culture shock and adjust by learning about local customs.

3. Practical Assistance:

- If you encounter difficulties, don’t hesitate to contact the university’s exchange coordinator or your home university’s support team.

4. Stay Connected:

- Buy a local SIM card and use communication apps like Skype or WhatsApp to stay in touch with friends and family.

- Maintaining regular contact with home can help ease homesickness.

5. Free Time and Exploration:

- Explore your destination, including its culture, sports, and entertainment options.

- Seek advice from local students, your host university, and travel guides to make the most of your experience.

6. Bring Materials Home:

- Take brochures and course information back to your home university. This may help others interested in exchange programmes and assist with credit transfers.

After Your Study Abroad Semester:

1. Administrative Tasks:

- Fill out feedback forms for both your host and home universities.

- Obtain your Transcript of Records from the host university.

- Write a report of your exchange experience to share with future students.

2. Stay Connected:

- Keep in touch with the friends you’ve made during your exchange; these connections often last a lifetime.

- You may return to visit someday, and reconnecting with familiar faces will make your experience even more rewarding!

3. Share Your Experience:

- Recommend the study abroad programme to other students at your home university. Your insights may inspire others to take the leap!