What Do Most Students Wish They Knew Before Studying Abroad?

The mere idea of studying abroad is enough to excite any student. Still, they soon realise that the actual preparation isn’t just about securing admission to the right university or obtaining a student visa. From adapting to a completely different education system to building a social network in a new country, there are so many things to know before studying abroad that students often wish they had known before boarding the flight. We list a few below.

1. The Actual Cost of Studying Abroad Goes Beyond Just Tuition Fees

Several students aspiring to study abroad only consider the tuition fees for the program they intend to pursue when budgeting. Many underestimate the everyday expenses that make up a significant part of the overall cost of studying abroad.

• Accommodation is your largest expense, particularly in cities that are highly popular among international students. Depending on the rent and utility costs, this can add up rather quickly.

• Hidden costs, including mandatoryhealth insurance, study materials/stationery, public transport, and visa fees, are often overlooked by students during the budgeting stage.

• Fluctuations in currency exchange can significantly impact the overall expenses of living abroad. So can individual lifestyle preferences that affect the spending on food, entertainment, and travel.

2. The Education System Abroad Can Be Very Different

Many international students are taken aback upon arriving abroad by the considerable differences in the style of assessments given at international colleges, the way classes are conducted, and the level of student participation expected.

• Class participation: The education system abroad places a lot of emphasis on presentations, group discussions, and projects at international universities. All of these contribute significantly to students’ final grades.

• Focus on independent learning: Colleges expect students to conduct independent research, analysis, and study in addition to regular classroom lectures.

• Regular assessment: There is no sole reliance on final exams, and students are regularly evaluated through quizzes, assignments, and coursework throughout the semester.

• 3. You Should Start Planning Your Career From Day 1 of Studying Abroad

• Career planning is not something that can be postponed until course completion—many international students find this surprising upon arriving overseas. They tend to focus entirely on academics in the first year of college and later realise that employers value hands-on experience and industry exposure more.

• Network actively: Participate in student networking events, career fairs, and employer workshops right from the first semester of your study program to build valuable professional connections for later.

• Research early: You should ideally start researching the skill set required for jobs in the career path that you intend to opt for after graduation. Also, keep an eye on current and evolving industry trends, as well as emerging career paths relevant to your study program, even before the start of your course.

• Gain practical experience: Several employers abroad value hands-on professional experience and the learning gained from it. Seek opportunities for internships and part-time jobs, but make sure to equally take up campus projects or volunteering activities that can boost your resume.

4. Finding Suitable Accommodation Can Take Longer Than Expected

Booking student accommodation abroad means looking for a place that is both affordable and comfortable. Some students make the mistake of looking for accommodation after arriving in the country. They fail to realise that housing in some cities or locations can be highly competitive, particularly in popular study abroad destinations.

• Start researching ahead of travel: It’s best to begin exploring housing options many months before you intend to travel to the country to start your study program.

• Compare your options: Review all available housing options in the country you intend to study in—on-campus accommodation, shared accommodation, and private rentals. Make an informed choice based on the location, cost, and other factors.

• Double-check before signing the lease: Thoroughly review the lease terms, commuting time to and from the college, and utility costs, in addition to the rent.

5. Social Networking Requires Effort

Homesickness is common among international students who find it difficult to make friends while studying abroad. However, it must be understood that expecting friendships to develop naturally is unreasonable. Building a strong and consistent social circle abroad where you feel a sense of belonging often takes time and effort.

• Initiative is crucial: You need to step out of your comfort zone and start a conversation with your classmates, roommates, and peers. Sometimes that can be the start of a long-term friendship.

• Don’t network only with students from your country. To build a diverse network, start connecting with students from all countries, communities, and cultures. This exposure is also beneficial for both your personal and professional growth.

• Become an active member of student networks: Join student clubs on campus, participate in campus events, and join international student societies. All of these are great opportunities to meet other students with like-minded interests.

While it isn’t practically possible to know everything before you begin your study abroad journey, there are some things you can be prepared for in advance so you don’t regret it later. We share below a study abroad checklist for you to refer to when you get ready to pack up and move overseas for studies:

• Keep your budget realistic. Factor in tuition fees, accommodation costs, utility bills, health insurance, food, transport, and study materials. Also, budget for some entertainment expenses so you can enjoy the new country experience too, while you study there.

• Keep an open mind. It helps you adapt to new surroundings and embrace diverse cultures, which will eventually enrich your study abroad experience.

• Create a support network from day 1. Take the initiative to connect with your peers—classmates, roommates, and other local and international students to ease your transition to the new country and to build a support system that you can fall back on in case of emergencies.

It helps to seek professional guidance for your study abroad journey to reduce the risk of regret or disappointment later. IDP Education, one of the best study abroad consultants, has helped millions of students like you navigate the study abroad arena and gain clarity on the entire experience by offering:

• Personalized student counseling helps students realize their academic and career goals.

• Expert assistance through the exclusive Student Essentials Services (SES) to ensure a comfortable and affordable study abroad experience for students—accommodation, study loans, banking, money transfers, etc.

• Complete and accurate details on the estimated tuition fees and other costs of living in top study abroad destinations — Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Malaysia, the UK, the USA, and Canada

1. How can I prepare for culture shock while studying abroad?

Acquaint yourself with the local customs, cultural traditions, and communication style before leaving. Also, join international student communities, keep an open mind, and build a support network for easier adaptation.

2. What is the biggest thing students wish they had known before studying abroad?

Many international students wish they had researched housing options, total living expenses, and cultural differences earlier to help ensure a smoother transition.

3. What should I do before studying abroad?

Create a realistic budget, secure your study visa, purchase health insurance, and book accommodation before departing for study abroad. Adequate and early planning can help ensure that you don’t miss any critical documents or steps in the study abroad journey.

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