Pre-Departure Checklist – FREE Download

Do you want to study abroad? Are you hoping to secure a significant scholarship or study grant? Studying overseas requires a lot of planning and preparation which can be a complex, time-consuming, and expensive undertaking. StudyOverseasNow.com are overseas education consultants that specialize in providing expert advice throughout the consultation and application process. We help students secure the best scholarships at the highest-ranked universities. Book a FREE Consultation with an experienced education & career counsellor to find out what overseas study options are available.

The weeks leading up to your departure overseas will be an exciting, stressful, and busy time. You should be as prepared as possible before embarking on your future studies overseas. If this is your first time living, studying, and working overseas you will need to complete basic tasks which you might not be familiar with. This includes washing, cooking, cleaning, and managing your time effectively. Having parents or a maid to rely on whilst overseas won’t be possible. Make sure to learn your favourite recipes and basic life skills before departing.

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Find below a list of items and the considerations you need factor before studying overseas for the first time. This does not include everything you require but should provide a good start.

• Arrange accommodation prior to arrival even if temporary only {1-2 weeks}.
• Do not miss orientation! Arrive early and take time to settle into your new surroundings.
• Enrol in your units and open a bank account prior to your arrival {if possible}.
• Join the university social media page {s} and meet with fellow students prior to arrival.
• Print hard copies of your visa, university offer letter, and academic documentation. Keep a copy whilst travelling as an immigration official may request these documents upon arrival.
• Bring a copy of your medical documentation and a list of prescriptions you are taking. We strongly advise you to bring a doctor’s letter highlighting any pre-existing health conditions and medications you are taking.
• Undergo a full medical, dental, and optical check-up prior to departure.
• Hardcopy of immunization and vaccine history.
• Hardcopy of your passport
• Passport-sized photographs {each country has its own size requirement}.
• Proof of Student Health Insurance and understanding of the activities NOT included as part of your insurance policy.
• Bring enough money whilst waiting for a bank debit card to arrive. This process can take 1-2 weeks. The student should avoid bringing more than $10,000 in cash due to immigration rules.
• Pack for multiple seasons throughout the year. The climate can vary significantly in parts of Canada, the US, and Australia, you should be prepared at all times.
• Do not bring any “prohibited” items into the country. You could be issued a heavy fine upon arrival.
• Pack items that cannot be purchased overseas. This might include toiletries, snacks, herbs and spices, and your favourite mementoes. Do not pack perishable foods.
• Pack a phrase book, travel guide, and a bilingual dictionary.
• Download a translation app on your phone if your English still requires improvement.
• Save important phone contacts and addresses for your bank, doctor’s surgery, and details of your nearest embassy/consulate in case of emergencies.
• Print a copy of your address and always keep this in your wallet/handbag for use.
• Research your nearest bus, train, and tram stops.
• Locate your nearest doctor’s surgery, optician, and dentist.
• Research mobile phone plans so you can purchase a SIM card upon arrival.
• Book airport collection in advance or download a popular app prior to arrival {Uber, Ola, or Grab}
• Check if you can apply for an international driving license in your country of origin. Obtain translated copies of your documents if a transfer is permitted.
• Bring adapters for your electrical goods and ensure they are compatible overseas {Voltage and Wattage}.
• If you are applying for a part-time job upon arrival bring hard copies of your resume and employer reference letters.
• Join websites like Meetup and find out the activities and events you can take part in whilst overseas.

What NOT to Do

• Do not leave it too late to enrol in your units. You may not receive your desired timetable the longer you leave it.
• Do not miss orientation
• Do not live {exclusively} with people from your own nationality. You should integrate as much as possible.
• Do not bring prohibited items into the country {food, significant amounts of cash, unapproved medication, or weapons}
• Do not arrive in-country too early. Some countries allow entry no more than 28 – 90 days prior to course commencement.
• Understand the quantity of tobacco or alcohol permitted upon arrival to avoid an unnecessary fine.

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I hope you found the information in our blog useful. StudyOverseasNow.com are overseas education consultants that specialize in providing expert advice throughout the consultation and application process. If you would like to study abroad and hope to secure a significant scholarship or study grant Book a FREE Consultation with an experienced education & career counsellor to find out what overseas study options are available. We look forward to helping you start your journey to a brighter future!