Questions Every First-Time Study Abroad Student Has

Daniela Lago

29 May, 2017

Studying English abroad can be one of the most amazing experiences in your life. Between making the decision of where to go, buying your ticket, and actually starting your adventure in another country, many questions will come up. This can lead to mixed feelings of excitement and fear of the unknown. True, leaving all you know behind to discover a new culture and language can seem like a big step, but we’re here to help answer some of the questions you probably have so you can get the most out of your time abroad. Here are some of the most common questions students ask before embarking on their study abroad journey. Take a look.

What is it like to study abroad?

Studying abroad is amazing, but you need to have the right mind set to enjoy the experience completely. You’ll be on your own in a different country facing a new lifestyle, a new culture, and a new language. Seems like a lot to take in at first, but try to embrace all of it to learn as much as you can during this time. These 3 simple tips will help you adjust faster:

1. Make new friends: Maybe you will feel a bit homesick at the beginning, but if you want to make new friends you need to be open to it. Just be yourself and you will be surprised by how many new friends you will have in the end of this experience.

2. Don’t be afraid to speak another language: The best way you will learn a new language is to speak it all the time – don’t be afraid of making mistakes! Speak with your friends at school and your teachers, ask a stranger for directions, and chat with the staff at the bars and restaurants.

3. Get lost: Don’t be afraid to go out on your own and explore your new city. Once you get to know the place a bit better, you will start feeling more comfortable there. Maybe you’ll get a bit lost walking around in a new location, but that will be more fun than you can imagine!

study abroad tips — Take the time to wander around your city and get a bit lost – who knows what you might find!

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What should I bring in my suitcase?

There are 2 ways to approach packing for your study abroad trip. Either bringing a big suitcase with all you need or take just the essentials and buy whatever you feel is missing once you get there.

A few things to keep in mind:

Traveling light is much more comfortable
Leave some extra space in your suitcase for souvenirs
Bring some keepsakes and traditional food from home to share with your new friends
Check the weather before you go and bring only what you really need for that season

study abroad suitcase — Look up the weather – you don't want to pack snow shoes for sunny weather

How should I prepare for my flight?

Check in 24 hours in advance
Check your passport expiration date and be sure it’s still valid for over 6 months
Pack your suitcase a few days in advance to be sure you won’t forget anything
Leave your house early and plan the itinerary on a virtual map to see how long it will take to get to the airport
For international flights it’s ideal to get to the airport 3 hours in advance

study abroad flight — Double and triple check everything before you leave for the airport

How much money should I bring with me?

If you book your accommodation in advance you should only worry about bringing money for transport, food, going out, shopping, and trips. How much you will spend really depends on your lifestyle and your budget. When you are living abroad you will probably go out more than you did when you were living in your native country, so keep in mind that you will probably spend a bit more as well. The schools usually organize social activities and trips, so be sure to bring enough money not to miss out on anything.