Students are breathing easy once travel restrictions for going abroad have been lifted post-pandemic. They will now be able to go for offline classes at their designated universities.
Here is a quick look at the things they need to prepare before they start this phase of their lives.
Passport
You must have a valid passport to travel and study abroad. If you already have one, be sure to double check that it has not expired and that it won’t expire within 6 months. Also, make sure that you have blank pages in your passport if you’ve travelled abroad before.
Visa
In addition to a passport, you also need a visa to study abroad in most cases. Different countries have different visa requirements. Therefore make sure to look up your intended study abroad destination’s regulations. The easiest way to do so is to log online. Else, you can also contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the country you plan on going to. Here, you can gather all information about visa requirements and any special travel restrictions. Similar to passports, visa applications can take several months to process so don’t delay in applying!
In case your study abroad trip is during the summer, or under three-months long, you may not need a visa. Most countries will allow students to enter the country for up to 90 days on a tourist visa. However, this isn’t true of all countries. So definitely make sure you check and double check what kind of visa (if any) you’ll need.
Visit a Travel Doctor
In these times of COVID, it is a must to visit your doctor. Be sure to get a physical examination before you leave to ensure you are in good health. Also, bring along a copy of your medical records in case of an emergency overseas.
Furthermore, it’s important to know the host country’s immunisation requirements. You must get immunised before your departure. Most programs will advise you on the types of vaccinations you’ll need (if any) while abroad.
Buy your ticket in advance
Ticket fares can vary greatly depending on when you want to fly and where you are buying your ticket from. Hence, once your decision is made, immediately buy a ticket.
Get Travel Insurance
It is important to have a reliable health and accident insurance policy while you are studying abroad. You may also require coverage for emergency evacuation and repatriation, in case of an unprecedented event.
Your health insurance provider might cover you abroad. But there are a couple of things that travel insurance will cover that health insurance won’t. These can be:
• Coverage if your flight is delayed / canceled
• Lost luggage
• Stolen personal belongings
• Evacuation in the case of a health emergency or natural disaster
Money
There are a few steps to take in regards to finances before heading off:
Set up an online account
If you don’t already have an online bank account, definitely set it up. It’s the easiest way to manage your money while abroad. Most international travellers use their ATM/debit or credit cards to get cash in the local currency.
Inform your bank and credit card companies about your travel plans.You’ll need to notify your current bank and credit card companie(s) about your plans to study abroad.
Pack some extra cash
For the first few days, carry some cash in the currency of the country you are traveling to. If you are unable to obtain the currency at home, the airport is a great option to withdraw cash at an ATM upon arrival.