How to Plan and Prepare for Studying Abroad: Step-by-Step Guide

Studying abroad gives students access to world-class education, improves career opportunities, and offers new life experiences. However, planning to study abroad can be overwhelming without guidance. Choosing the right country, university, and college, as well as handling the application and visa process, requires careful planning. This step-by-step guide will help you plan your study abroad journey.

Key highlights:

  • Research and Shortlist Universities, Courses, and Study Destinations
  • Check Eligibility Requirements
  • Analyse and Plan Study Abroad Finances
  • Things to Prepare Before Studying Abroad: Create an Application
  • Application Process for Abroad Study Plan
  • Secure a Student Visa

Step 1: Research and Shortlist Universities, Courses, and Study Destinations

The first step to prepare for a study abroad journey is to shortlist the courses, universities, and the country based on your interests and career aspirations. Choose according to your previous academic qualifications and goals. Consider factors like curriculum, research opportunities, campus life, and employment prospects. After you have decided where to study, you should determine the academic intake. There are usually three popular intakes to choose from.

  • Fall Intake (September to December)
  • Spring Intake (January to April)
  • Summer Intake (May to August)

Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements

After choosing the course and the university, check the eligibility criteria. It could vary according to the course, universities, and countries. Here are the basic eligibility requirements to study abroad.

  • Senior secondary education with a minimum percentage for an undergraduate course.
  • A Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university for graduate programmes.
  • For professional courses like MBA and law, some work experience is required.
  • Proof of language proficiency scores like the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

Step 3: Analyse and Plan Study Abroad Finances

Studying abroad is a significant investment, so understanding the financial requirements is crucial. The cost of studying abroad includes tuition fees, accommodation, travel expenses, living expenses, the cost of learning devices, and other essentials. To support your overseas study plan, explore a loan for education with favourable interest and repayment terms that meet your financial needs.

Here are the average tuition fees and the living expenses of the top study abroad destinations for international students.

Countries Avg. Tuition Fees Abroad (INR) Avg. Cost of Living Abroad (INR)
USA 23.76 lakhs 10.5 lakhs
New Zealand 17.5 lakhs 8.5 lakhs
UK 15.5 lakhs 10 lakhs
Australia 21.40 lakhs 11.5 lakhs
Canada 15.5 lakhs 12.5 lakhs
Singapore 20.5 lakhs 12.5 lakhs
Ireland 15.5 lakhs 9.5 lakhs
UAE 10.5 lakhs 4.5 lakhs
Sweden 11.5 lakhs 8 lakhs
Germany 13.5 k 11.5 lakhs
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Step 4: Things to Prepare Before Studying Abroad: Create Application

Before applying to universities, it is important to collect and prepare important documents for a smooth abroad study plan. International students need the following documents:

  • Transcripts/mark sheets
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Admission Essays
  • Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
  • Resume/CV
  • Work Experience (If required)
  • Portfolio
  • English Language Proficiency test scores
  • Standardised scores of Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT), Graduate Record Examinations (GRE), or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
  • Health Insurance
  • Proof of funding

Step 5: Application Process for Abroad Study Plan

  • Log on to the Official Website: Go to the official website of the university to apply to the chosen course. Register and get your login credentials to fill out the application form.
  • Fill Out Application to Prepare for Study Abroad: Start filling out the application form and provide accurate personal and professional information.
  • Attach all Documents: Ensure you attach all academic, professional, and personal documents along with a passport-sized photograph.
  • Review and Submit: Review your application and make sure everything is correct before applying.
  • Pay Application Fee: The last step for your plan to study abroad is to pay the application fee online. Make sure to take a printout of the receipt.

Also Read: How to Study Abroad After 12th

Step 6: Secure a Student Visa

The next step is to apply for a student visa. Each country has its own visa process, formalities, and certain documents to submit. The top things to prepare for the studying abroad visa application process include:

  • Acceptance letter
  • Copy of the passport
  • Consent letter from parent/Guardian (if under 18)
  • Proof of English certification
  • Proof of funds
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Academic transcripts
  • Vaccination certificate (if required)

By following this plan to study abroad, students can easily navigate the application process and successfully start their education journey. Although studying abroad can be an enriching experience, tuition fees and other expenses can feel overwhelming.

At Avanse Financial Services, we believe that aspirants should focus on academic excellence without financial stress. So, we offer customised education loans for study abroad designed to cover the holistic cost of education, including tuition, living expenses, travel, and other education-related expenses. We provide 100% financing with quick sanctions and flexible repayment options. Connect with us to gain a better understanding of educational loans, or if you have any queries.

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