Applications are a tricky beast. They can feel overwhelming, complex, and seemingly never-ending at times! This is especially true when it comes down to applying abroad. There are so many things to do beyond just the application itself!
It’s easy to get stressed out, thinking that you have to do this, you have to do that, and then suddenly there isn’t enough time! Many schools also have open hours during the week when they can help applicants so visiting the website is another way to gain their assistance.
We gathered some helpful tips here for you to review, both before and after submission. All of these strategies will help make the applications process more seamless and hopefully alleviate stress a bit! Let us begin by looking at how to successfully apply for international studies.
Application types
There are two main types of study visa applicants must complete: Tier 1 (full fee waiver) and Tier 2 (partial fee waivers). Both require different documents and proof of income, but only one requires an invitation letter as proof of accommodation.
Tier 1 visas are almost always given automatically to students with a good degree program, solid academic records, and/or strong personal recommendations. These individuals typically pay around 3,000 USD for their tuition and living expenses per year.
Tier 2 visas are slightly harder to come across and usually cost around 6,500 – 9,000 USD per year.
Make sure you have the right passport
It is very important that your passport is in good condition as it will be seen all across Europe. If it is expired, then you cannot enter any of these countries as a student.
Studies abroad can be expensive so make sure you are able to pay for yourself while you are there!
Also, remember that most universities require at least an undergraduate degree (or higher) before they agree to accept you as a student.
Prepare your application
Before you even begin applying, you have to make sure that everything is in order at home first! You will need to check that your visa applications are valid and current, as well as proof of enough money to fund your studies abroad.
It’s also important to remember all of your deadlines – these can be very close together so it’s good to know what time frame you have before you start looking actively for work overseas.
In addition to this, you should also find out if there are any additional documents or tests needed from home and when they must be submitted. For example, some universities require students to send copies of their passports.
If possible, it’s best to organize all of your applications and test results ahead of time, then pack and repack them once again just before sending off.
Make sure your financial situation is ready to go
It’s great to dream of studying abroad, but making that dreams a reality requires some money. Luckily, you are not alone in this process as most universities offer student visa services.
Most students agree that Student Visa Services play an important role in ensuring that international education opportunities are accessible to everyone.
Some countries require non-EU citizens to apply for a visa through their embassy or consulate, which can be time consuming and expensive. Others may also ask for more than just proof of income while allowing you to live with relatives or in shared accommodations, so make sure to factor those things into your budget.
You should have enough money set aside to cover your room and board costs for the duration of the semester, as well as any transportation fees. Many students find it helpful to do a cost analysis of different programs to determine where offers best fit into their budgets.
Choose your location
When choosing where to apply, consider whether you want an expensive or cheap education, and look at the difference in cost between each school. Also make sure that the country is one that feels right to you and would be supportive of you as an international student.
Some students choose to study abroad via online courses because it costs less money, but this can be difficult to coordinate. It may also not be as helpful if you are not comfortable using computers.
Overall, though, both options have their benefits! They just require different logistics and research.
Choose your program
Choosing an academic field or area of study is another important factor in studying abroad. You want to make sure that you are choosing something that fits you as a student and person!
Some students choose to study business in order to gain more knowledge about marketing, finance, and sales. Others may focus on art and design, human health, or education.
Whatever degree you decide upon, make sure it is appropriate for you and will help you achieve your career goals. The hardest part is deciding if this fit is right for you!
General courses such as psychology can be helpful in developing understanding and relationships, while courses like biology help with overall wellness. Art and music are great ways to develop creativity and self-expression.
- Look into potential courses and colleges: Seek out programmes with a strong reputation that fit your academic and professional objectives. Take into account elements like cost, accessibility, and location.
- Check the criteria for the application: Ensure that you meet the prerequisites for the programmes in which you are interested, and acquire any supporting documentation (transcripts, letters of reference, test results, etc.) that may be required.
- Get your application materials ready. In a compelling essay or personal statement, outline why you want to study abroad and how the programme will help you. Make sure to properly revise and proofread.
- Sending in your application Make sure to adhere to all deadlines and submit your application documents in accordance with the guidelines.
- Get ready for the upcoming steps: Once you’ve been accepted, you’ll need to arrange lodging, apply for a student visa, and make travel and arrival arrangements at your host university. Do your homework and set aside money for these costs.
Meet your potential supervisor
As mentioned earlier, every department has a professor or lecturer that oversees applications and studies abroad. They are usually the person who will be reviewing your application so it is important to meet with them as well!
Most students do not apply online so making an in-person meeting possible is very helpful if you want to ensure success. Many universities offer free advice days where different departments hold information events, this would be perfect time to visit.
Many schools also have open hours during the week when they can help applicants so attending during these times is another way to gain their assistance.
Check your health insurance
It is important to make sure that you are covered while studying abroad, as there will be times when you’ll need medical help or coverage.
Most students choose to study outside of their home country for one main reason: lower tuition fees! However, before deciding where to go, you should check whether your current health insurance plan covers all the necessary courses and if not, find another way to pay for them.
Some countries may offer student visa packages that include healthcare, so it is worth looking into. If this isn’t the case, then at least search for ways to get low-cost healthcare in the area by visiting local hospitals, talking to older students and reading reviews online.
Also, remember to research whether or not an ‘optimal experience’ course requires being medically fit.
Start saving for your trip
Before you even think about applying, you’ll need to start saving money to apply! This will include fees such as application processing costs, international flight tickets, and of course student loans that can be repaid while you are away.
Most students do not have lots of resources so it is important to make use of every opportunity available to save money. Many universities offer scholarships or tuition discounts so check out their websites to see if there are any scholarship opportunities relevant to studying abroad.
Conclusion
After reading this article, you should have a good understanding of how to apply for international studies abroad. If your dreams include studying in another country, then it is time to start preparing!
You have now gone through all the steps necessary to successfully apply for an undergraduate or graduate degree overseas. All the applications can be pretty tedious so there are some great online tools that make the process easier.
With the right planning and preparation, the application process will go more smoothly and quickly which means you can spend your time focusing on other things like finding accommodation and exploring the area.