Over the past couple of decades the number of international students across the world has steadily increased and currently, even small countries like the United Kingdom host hundreds of thousands of such pupils. Still, for many students, especially those from African or Asian countries, the experience of study abroad proves to be a bit difficult due to a few easily avoidable mistakes. However, have no fear. By following our awesome tips for international students, you will not only be able to get your dream degree but will also have an amazing time while doing so.

Budget for everything

Most international students have a pretty tight situation, moneywise. Despite this, the vast majority of kids do not budget on a monthly basis and, because of this, oftentimes find themselves suddenly broke. Therefore, it is best to clearly define how much you plan to spend on necessities like food, rent, transport etc. While budgeting, it is also imperative to leave some money for emergencies, for instance an unexpected sickness, or in case you suddenly need to buy something, for example a new textbook.

Learn the language

It is best for you to have at least a rudimentary understanding about your chosen country’s language, even if the required course is being taught entirely in English. This will not only help you communicate more easily with the locals in your everyday interactions but may also enable you to build a much deeper rapport with your teachers, something that could directly impact your academic result. Knowing a foreign language could even prove to be a valuable skill and may improve your career prospects later in life.

Take part in extracurricular activities

Whether you plan to spend a one semester at a foreign university or three whole years, it is necessary that you take part in at least a few nonscholastic pursuits. These can include playing sports, joining a new society or even just becoming part of any small informal student group. Taking part in such activities is not only fun but would also likely aid you in your later academic pursuits and professional life. Remember, when educational institutions or potential employers consider applicants, they oftentimes like to select people who have a well-rounded personality rather than those who have simply excelled in academics.

Scope out your accommodations

No matter where you plan to live in your selected country, it is best to take a long, detailed look at your chosen apartment or university residence. You can do this by extensively searching on the Internet or calling the institution’s student affairs office. If possible, you can also supplement your knowledge by talking to people or students who have already lived in the accommodations. You can most likely find such persons by submitting your inquiry on the college or university’s message boards. Remember, it is important to check out your desired residence beforehand so you do not face any unexpected problems, such as finding out your apartment is far away from your university and has zero bus stops near it, once the semester starts.

Immerse yourself in the culture

There is more to being an international student than just getting a foreign degree. So explore the cultural sites and festivals of your chosen country .Doing so would not only help you make local friends but would also aid you in increasing your knowledge about the world. Plus, once you get back home you would have tons of incredible stories with which to impress your friends, such as how the British celebrate Guy Fawkes Night or the bizarre ritual of turkey pardoning in the United States.

In summary, studying abroad can be exciting and scary at the same time. For many Pakistani, Bangladeshi or Indian students the transition can prove to be an especially difficult one since it is the first time that many of them have lived apart from their families. However, with a bit of luck and a whole lot of planning, studying abroad can prove to be an incredible experience that can not only enrich you academically and but also help you grow as a person.