Got accepted to study abroad? Plan ahead with a to-do list!
As the saying goes: Failing to plan is planning to fail. Make a personal checklist and start well in advance to avoid any frustration caused by red tape.
Do your research
Each country has its own specific requirements, which also depend on what country you come from. However, there are 3 golden rules that you must comply with to study in the EU country of choice.
You must:
- be enrolled at an accredited institution
- have enough income and be able to prove it
- have an appropriate health insurance coverage
You will need proof of all of these to be able to obtain a local residence permit.
To-do list
Split up your checklist depending on what you need before departure and after arrival. Check the example below.
Before departure
- learn about your rights and obligations such as legal or visa requirements
- check the expiry date on your ID or passport
- enrol in the educational institution and save the proof for later
- arrange health insurance cover
search accommodation possibilities (often through social media channels such as Facebook, Instagram)
- start to learn the local language (think about apps such as DuoLingo as a way in)
- pack toothbrush and photos of family and pets
After arrival
- check if you need a residency permit
- open a local bank account as soon as possible (often mandatory when legally renting accommodation)
- arrange local public transport cards/passes
- download useful local apps
- give yourself a pat on the back when all items completed!
Don't be shy to ask for guidance from your host college or university. They often have departments dedicated to help students coming from abroad.