Preparing to study abroad is no small feat. With so many aspects to consider, it can be challenging to ensure all requirements are met without a handy checklist. Fortunately, we have taken the time to compose a comprehensive list of everything you need for your study abroad journey! Here is our ultimate guide for what needs to be completed in order for you to have a smooth and successful experience.
Research at universities
Before starting your search for universities, it is important to determine what program of study best matches your goals. Doing this will enable accurate shortlisting of appropriate universities. Assess each university’s requirements and eligibility criteria to verify that they are a good fit for your profile and ambitions. This way, the universities that are shortlisted will strongly align with your aims and objectives.
Test scorecards
If you are an international student whose mother tongue is not English, IELTS, and TOEFL are the primary tests to demonstrate your language proficiency when studying abroad. Additionally, some universities may also require GRE\GMAT scores in order to be eligible for the program of your choice. If you are requested to submit additional exam results, it should be done before any application deadlines. Other than the application deadlines, these test itself has a deadline with an expiration date, typically two years from the date of the test.
Verification of financial support
A bank statement is a key document necessary for visa applications, outlining an individual’s current financial solvency such as proof of funds can demonstrate whether someone can sustain themselves while studying abroad and paying tuition fees. Should your parents support the costs, the statement should reflect this accordingly. When preparing for a student visa application, ensure you possess either a banking record, fixed deposit certification, a scholarship certificate, or a loan approval notice as evidence of enough resources.
Transcripts and Other Documents
Transcripts are essential for students applying to higher education programs. Academic scores and grades need to be collated and converted into a readable format before they can be sent off to universities. After transcripts, you need to submit a Curriculum Vitae(CV), Letter of Recommendation (LORs), Statement of purpose (SOP), Passport, Student Visa, and other documents as required by your specific University of choice.
Complete the application
Within a few taps and clicks, you can complete your entire application process, from submitting the documents to paying the application fees. Then you wait.
Offer letter
The offer letter issued by the university is vital as it serves as a confirmation of admission. This document is imperative for obtaining a student visa, making it an essential part of the study abroad checklist. It’s important to retain one copy for future reference and carry the original along with photocopies when joining the educational institution.
Lookout for the Accommodation
And as soon as you receive the acceptance from the university. This is when you start considering accommodation options – well before your move. International students have a few choices when selecting housing: living on-campus or off-campus or with a host family.