There are a number of things to consider if you’re thinking about studying abroad, including but not limited to the following
1. Admissions
- Application Requirements: Be aware that application requirements may be different for international applicants. For example, you may need to have your credentials evaluated, or your documents translated into a different language.
- Language Proficiency: Courses will likely be taught in that country’s national language. This will require you to have a certain degree of proficiency in that language. Proficiency is often measured against a set of guidelines, like, for example, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL). Note that different programs may require different degrees of proficiency. For example, a mathematics degree may require a lower level of language proficiency than a medical degree. If your language proficiency is not where it needs to be, consider taking language courses before applying.
- Transcripts & Degree Equivalency: A foreign school might not be familiar with your previously attained degrees. Different countries have established various agencies that can determine whether your degree meets a schools requirements, like, for example, NOKUT in Norway, or the Australian Education International National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (AEI NOOSR) in Australia.
- Application Deadlines: These may differ from the standard United States application timeline, so be sure to check with the
2. Visas & Immigration Support
- Student Visas: You will likely require a student visa when travelling to and living in another country to study. You might apply for the visa when entering the country, or you might need approval before travelling.
- Maintaining Legal Status: Make sure you understand the conditions of your visa. You may be required to take a minimum number of courses, or you may be limited in your ability to work or access public services, for example. Breaching these conditions could compromise your visa status or future immigration prospects.
- Institutional Support: Most academic institutions that accept international students should have an Office of International Affairs, or similarly named department, that can assist you with visa and other immigration related issues.
3. Financial Information
- Tuition & Fees: Be mindful of currency conversions and potential currency fluctuations. These things have the potential to increase the amount you expect to pay.
- Funding Opportunities: You may want to look into scholarships, assistantships, fellowships etc. specifically for students studying abroad. You can find a few such examples here.
- Proof of Funds Requirements: Many countries also want to see that you have the financial means to support yourself. This means being able to cover the cost of tuition, books, living expenses and travel. Proof of funds might take the form of a bank statement or a letter from a sponsor.
- Working as a Student: As a student in a foreign country, your work opportunities will likely be limited. You may be limited to a certain number of hours, during certain periods of the year, or you may only be able to work on-campus. Ensure you’re aware what kind of employment your visa status permits before accepting any job. Working illegally could jeopardize your academic career or a future citizenship application.
4. Life Abroad
- Cultural Adjustment: Which side of the road do people drive on? Should I leave a tip? Am I really expected to eat that?! These questions are expressions of culture shock, “a sense of confusion and uncertainty, sometimes with feelings of anxiety, that may affect people exposed to an alien culture or environment without adequate preparation” (Merriam-Webster’s). People experience unfamiliar cultures differently and sometimes in unexpected ways. Try researching the culture before travelling to help ease the transition.
- Housing: Consider where you will be living while studying. On-campus? Off-campus? With a host family? There are many different options.
- Healthcare: Medical expenses can be costly. Take steps to insure you will not have to pay out of pocket for any unexpected healthcare costs. See if your school offers student health insurance policies. And make sure you’ve filled any necessary prescriptions before travelling.
- Food and diet: While restaurants and grocery stores in North America frequently offer vegan, gluten-free, kosher, or halal options, and common allergens are often appropriately labelled or taken into account; the same might not be the case in foreign countries.
- Community Connections: There may be international student clubs or cultural organizations to help ease your transition to a new country. These can be a great way to meet people and socialize.
6. The Future
- Career Prospects: Will you be returning to your home country, or do you intend to stay in the country of study? What will your career prospects be like? Will your degree be recognized in the country where you intend to live? Are there plentiful job opportunities in your field of study?
- Immigrating: Don’t assume that just because you studied in a country that you’ll be able to live there permanently. Immigrating permanently can be a very complicated procedure and is beyond the scope of this page. Consider speaking with a professional immigration lawyer if this is your intention.
***N.B. This is not legal advice. It is merely a list of things our librarian suggests you think about. If you are seriously considering studying abroad, you should speak with an academic advisor and/or an immigration lawyer.***
