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Studying abroad can be the adventure of a lifetime. Not only are you provided with an opportunity to expand your classroom learning, but also to gain a type of life experience that you couldn’t get by sitting at home. And even if your school doesn’t currently offer a study abroad program, you can take matters into your own hands by applying to a summer or winter school program during the school breaks.
And where better to study than Europe? Whether you want to immerse yourself in the Bavarian culture of Munich or enjoy the long sunny days in Barcelona, you’ll have a huge choice of exciting cities where you can learn, laugh, and live like a local. But for a truly amazing study abroad experience, it’s important to make sure you’re fully prepared. Here are a few simple tips to ensure a smooth experience in Europe:
Apply for a Student Visa
As you’re coming from outside the EU, it is likely that you will be required to apply for a student visa before setting off on your travels. Fortunately, if you have all the necessary paperwork handy, this can be a much easier experience than it sounds. You’ll need to present your health insurance documentation, a health certificate, accommodation details, and proof of financial resources to the relevant embassy. You’ll also need to show that you’ve been accepted by a recognized study establishment, so be sure to wait until you have that acceptance letter in your hand before trying to secure your visa and travel.
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Know What’s Expected
If you’ve secured a scholarship, you probably did a lot of research on how to apply for scholarships to study abroad. What students often overlook is researching exactly what’s expected of them in order to keep their place on the course. Before jumping in head first, take a few moments to double-check the requirements laid out by the college or university, and by the local Government. While it’s one thing to break the rules back in the US, things can be more complicated when you’re away from home. It’s important to know what criteria you need to meet from an education and immigration perspective.
Look for Job Opportunities
The cost of living in some European countries can be higher than in the United States. While the US ranks 15th in the world, Denmark, Luxembourg, Ireland, Sweden, Finland, and the United Kingdom all rank higher. While this shouldn’t pose a problem for international students at a day-to-day level, if you’re keen to travel and explore Europe then a bit of pocket money might be handy. Under a student visa, you are permitted to work in a relevant field if your employer applies for a work permit. If you’re keen to work, starting your search before you leave home can give you a head start when you arrive in Europe.
Pack Wisely
Remember: they have shops in Europe, too! While you may have forgone the likes of Walmart and Target, what you will find are Aldis, Carrefours, and an H&M in practically every big city. So when you’re packing to study abroad, try to only pack the essentials, plus some comforting snacks to remind you of home (imported guilty pleasures like Twinkies and Chex Mix don’t come cheap in Europe). If you’ve been accepted into dedicated student accommodation, you should have all the bulky things like pots and pans waiting for you. If you’ve arranged private accommodation, pick up the bulky items once you’re there.
Be Prepared for a Different Social Scene
The student scene in Europe may be quite different from what you’re used to. It’s important to remember that, while the legal drinking age in the US is 21, it’s a lot lower in Europe. Each country has its own rules, but the minimum age to purchase alcohol in many European countries is 18. And in places such as France, Spain, and Italy, there are no age-related rules around private or public consumption. Drinking can be a big part of the student scene in this part of the world, so prepare to be invited to bars, pubs, and clubs with your classmates, and know that it’s OK to decline an offer if this isn’t your idea of fun.
…And Relax!
Yes, there’s a lot to take into account when you’re getting ready to study abroad, especially if you’ve never been away from home before. But it’s worth it. Studying abroad offers an experience you’ll never forget, and helps you to learn more about your chosen subject from global leaders and professors.
Anita Sambol
With years of experience as a content strategist and creator, Anita has a ‘super-power’ of being a clear human voice for brands when talking to their audience. One of the projects she currently enjoys the most is being a content associate to EU Business School, where she’s also including her own experience from student and business life.
