Planning your study abroad journey isn’t just about where you’re going to go and what you want to study. Although it’s a lot of fun to focus on your new country, university, and subject, there’s a few other things you need to think about before you pack your bags.
Visas, English Language Tests and budgets might not be at the top of your list right now, but it’s worth becoming familiar with these slightly less exciting parts of your study abroad preparation to avoid disappointment further down the line.
This guide will tell you everything you need to know about these study abroad essentials so you can tick those boxes and get back to the fun parts. There’s lots to consider, but don’t let this overwhelm you – we’ll outline what you need to think about and when so that you can come back to this guide whenever you need it.
Budgeting
Before you embark on your study abroad adventure, it’s important to know how much money you need to put aside. Studying abroad is a significant financial commitment, but setting a budget will help you to figure out how much you can realistically afford and should be one of the first steps in your journey.
Here are some key expenses to include in your study abroad budget:
Application fees
When you apply to a university abroad, there are a number of expenses that you might encounter in the application process. This could include a submission fee, passport and student visa fee, health insurance, audition fees, and in countries like the USA and Canada, a credential evaluation fee.
The amount you need to budget for these expenses depends on the country, but here are the average costs ($USD):
- Submission fee: $50-$150
- Passport: $30-$160
- Student visa: $50-$500
- Health insurance: $500-$2,000
- Audition fee: $50-$150
- Credential evaluation: $150-$200
Tuition fees
Most universities require students to pay for their tuition. This is likely to be one of your biggest expenses when studying abroad, and you might need to take out a loan to cover the cost.
Countries like the USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Hong Kong have some of the highest tuition fees in the world. For instance, in Australia, international students can expect to pay up to $40,000 AUD per year for an undergraduate degree, up to $42,000 AUD for a doctorate, and up to $52,000 AUD for a postgraduate degree.
On the other hand, countries like Germany, Austria, and Norway are more financially accessible, offering education to students at a low cost. To study in most German universities, students only have to pay an administrative fee that is typically between €100-€350 per semester. However, in order to prove that you can cover your administrative fee and living costs, you must show that you have at least €11,904 in a blocked bank account for each year of your studies when applying for your student visa or residence permit.
Research the cost of your chosen program and what financial aid is available to you at different universities to find out what options best suit your financial needs.
Living costs
Once you know the university and country that you want to study abroad in, you’ll also need to factor in any everyday expenses you might come across. This could include larger costs like accommodation rent, utilities, and internet, but also weekly expenses such as groceries and transport.
Staying in university-owned student housing or accommodation where your bills are included in the rent can be more affordable than off-campus living. Explore any discounts or reward schemes that your university might offer to help cover costs like your weekly food shop or your transport to and from campus.
The cost of living in some countries is significantly higher than others. For example, in the USA, the average monthly living expenses can range from $1,000 to $2,500 USD per month, with cities like New York and San Francisco among the most expensive. In the UK, students might spend between £900-£1300 per month on living costs, or £1300-£1400 if you live in London, the capital city.
Study materials
Depending on your program, you might need to pay for some or all of the materials you need for studying. To prepare for this, review your program syllabus early, identify what items that you need to cover the expenses for, and budget accordingly. For example, in the United States, students typically spend over $1,400 per year on textbooks and supplies.
Your university will likely have resources to help you save on items like textbooks, software, and lab equipment, such as giving you access to campus facilities, library rental, free online materials, or second-hand marketplaces where you can rent or buy what you need at a lower price.
Travel expenses
As an international student, it’s likely you’ll be doing a fair amount of travel between your home country and your study abroad destination. Use sites like Skyscanner, Expedia, and Google Flights to find out how much you could expect to pay for your route, compare the cost of flying with different airlines, and find the best deals. For instance, if you need to fly between London and New York, the average round trip costs around £779.
Remember to book your flights well in advance to avoid paying expensive last-minute fares. Take advantage of student discounts or frequent flyer programs and see if your university has any programs to provide international students discounted flight tickets or cover any connecting transport taken between the airport and campus, such as buses, coaches, and taxis.
Non-essential expenses
It’s important to budget not only for what you need, but what you want as well. Whether it’s shopping, dining, entertainment, nightlife, or hobbies, make sure to set some money aside to spend on yourself and the things you like doing outside of studying.
Track your current spending habits and use this to set a monthly allowance. Consider putting your disposable income in a separate bank account or virtual money pot so this is kept separate from your essential budget. This will help you to easily monitor and control your non-essential expenses.
Emergency fund
Set aside a small amount of money as regularly as possible to give yourself a safety net in case of an emergency. This will help to prevent any unexpected situations disrupting your studies and ensure that you don’t have to rely on loans to cover your expenses. Your university may also provide emergency aid or support services should you need help with your finances during your studies abroad.
If you’re not sure you can afford your study abroad expenses, there are a number of options you can take to help cover some of the costs. Look into fee waivers, loans, grants, scholarships, bursaries, sponsorships, and part-time work options to see where you can reduce or offset your expenses.
For more of our top study abroad budgeting tips read our full guide here.
English Language Tests
What is an ELT?
An ELT (English Language Test) is a test that measures your ability to use and understand the English language. Many universities and colleges require international students to complete an ELT before you apply to study their programs.
Although there are different types of ELTs, each with its own structure, format, and scoring system, you will typically be assessed on your English reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
Common ELTs include:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): One of the most common ELTs, accepted by over 13,000 institutions in over 160 countries. TOEFL tests are taken either in a test center or at home. Tests typically take around 2-3 hours to complete and students can choose to complete it in either US English or UK English. The total possible score is 120 and your results are valid for 2 years after you have taken the test
IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Widely accepted in countries like the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Students can take an IELT test online or on paper, and choose to do so either at home or at a test center. Results are available 6-13 days after you have completed the test. You will receive an overall score of between 0-9, with 0 being the lowest score and 9 being the highest. Results are valid for 2 years after you have taken the test, but your university can choose to accept results for longer, so make sure to check with yours directly
PTE (Pearson Test of English): Trusted by over 3,500 universities and colleges worldwide and accepted for visa applications in countries like Australia, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand. Tests can be taken either at a test center or at home, with results available as little as 48 hours after you have completed the test. Your overall score will be graded between 10-90.
Cambridge English Exams: There are a number of different tests students can take depending on their level of understanding. Two of the most common are the C1 and C2 tests. The C1 Advanced test demonstrates that you understand English at a high level and are prepared to use it both at university and in your professional life. The C2 Proficiency test is for students who have mastered English and use it fluently. Both C1 and C2 tests can be taken online or on paper, and usually take up to 4 hours to complete. Students taking C1 tests will receive a score between 180-199, and 200-230 for C2 tests. Cambridge ELT results don’t expire, meaning your qualification is valid for life.
Duolingo: Accepted by over 5,000 universities globally, and can be taken online at any time and location. The test typically takes around 1 hour to complete and you can receive your results in as little as two days. You will be scored between 10-160, and get a breakdown of the individual scores you achieved in your reading, listening, writing and speaking skills.
Average ELT costs ($USD):
- TOEFL: $180-$320
- IELTS: $200-$250
- PTE: $180-$315
- Cambridge English Exams: $150-$250
- Duolingo: $49
Why do international students need to take an ELT?
Many universities require that students have passed an ELT in order to be admitted to their programs. Since many universities teach international students in English due to its global popularity, your ELT score demonstrates how well you understand the language, and your ability to successfully participate in your studies abroad.
In English-speaking countries like the UK, USA, Australia, and Canada, you will need proof of your English language proficiency to apply for a student visa. This ensures that you can comfortably and confidently communicate while living abroad, making it easier to integrate into the local community and culture.
You should prepare to take an ELT as soon as you have chosen which university and program you want to apply for, and have determined what the language proficiency requirements are.
How to take an ELT
Here’s what to expect when you take an ELT:
1. Choose the right test
First, you need to decide what test is right for you and where you want to study. Research what test is accepted by the universities and visa authorities you are applying to. Check the specific score requirements so that you know what you need to work towards.
2. Register and pay for the test
Details on how to register for your ELT will be on the official website of your chosen test. In most cases, you’ll be able to do this online, but paper application forms may also be available.
Choose a time, date, and (if applicable) a location that is convenient for you. If you would prefer to take your test in-person, many ELT providers have test centers at various locations worldwide, so find the one that is closest to you. You’ll need to pay a fee when you book your test, and the price of each test is different. Check the provider’s website to find out how to pay and what payment methods are accepted.
3. Prepare for the test
Just like with any tests or exams that you take, it’s important to be prepared before you take your ELT. Use official practice materials available on the test website such as practice tests, sample questions, and study guides, or consider enrolling in an ELT preparation course.
Practice the test sections individually to find out where your strengths are and which skills you need to develop further.
4. Take the test
If you’re taking your ELT at a test center, make sure you arrive at the test center well before the scheduled time and have all the necessary documents. This is likely to include a valid passport or driving license, but check with your test provider so that you know exactly what you need.
If you’re taking your test online, make sure you have access to a working computer, webcam, speaker, microphone, strong internet connection, and are located in a quiet and well-lit space.
5. Receive your results
The amount of time it takes to receive your test results will depend on your test provider, with results taking anywhere between 48 hours to 14 days to arrive. Once you have these results, be prepared to submit them to your university or visa authority.
If needed, you might also be able to request that your test scores be sent directly to universities or visa offices by your test provider.
Key resources:
Student visas
What is a visa?
A visa is a legal document that allows you to enter a foreign country. There are many types of visas for different purposes and there are certain rules that you need to follow to obtain your visa. These rules will be different depending on the country you are traveling to.
If you want to study abroad, you will likely need a student visa. This will grant you permission to live and study in the country for the duration of your academic program.
You can apply for your visa through the official government website, embassy, or consulate of your study abroad country, and you should do so as soon as you receive an offer of admission from your university to avoid delays.
Essential documents you need to apply for a student visa
There are a number of documents you will need to have in order to apply for your student visa. These vary by country, but can include:
Visa application form: This can be submitted online or in-person at an embassy or consulate depending on the country’s requirements
Proof of acceptance: You can only apply for a student visa when you have received and accepted an official offer of admission from your university, and you will need to show proof of this in your visa application. This could be in the form of an acceptance letter, email, or an I-20 document
Financial proof: You will need to be able to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to pay for costs like tuition fees, living expenses and travel costs. This could include recent bank statements, scholarship or loan letters, deposit certificates, and proof of income
Passport: To apply for a student visa and enter your study abroad country, you must have a valid passport. In most countries, your passport needs to be valid for at least six months after you graduate
Photographs: You could be asked to submit recent passport-sized photographs that meet the country’s visa guidelines
Academic transcripts and certificates: Submit copies of academic certificates, diplomas, or certificates to provide evidence of test scores, grades, and qualifications that you have received from previous schools and universities
Proof of language proficiency: Some countries will expect you to take a language proficiency test and present your test results as evidence that you can effectively participate in your studies and integrate into the local environment
Personal statement: This is your opportunity to explain why you want to study abroad in that country. Your personal statement should explain why you chose that particular university, program, and country, what you know about each, and what your plans are after graduation
Health insurance: If you need to apply for health insurance to receive healthcare abroad, you may be asked to present proof of your coverage to obtain a student visa
Biometric information: Often international students will need to provide fingerprints, photographs of your face, and a signature. This is done in-person at a Visa application center, embassy, or consulate
The student visa application process
Ready to apply for your student visa? Here is what the application process typically looks like:
1. Accept your university offer: Once you received and accepted an offer to study at your university, you can apply for your student visa
2. Gather your documents: Make sure you have everything you need for your visa application. Consult the government or embassy website of your study abroad country for any required documents specific to that destination
3. Complete your application form: Fill out the online or paper visa application form for your chosen country
4. Pay the Visa application fee: You will be expected to pay for your student visa application, so make sure that you can cover this cost. The fee will vary depending on the country
5. Schedule and attend an interview: Some countries require you to attend an in-person interview at the embassy or consulate. Research and practice common visa interview questions so that you are prepared and know what to expect
6. Attend a biometrics appointment: You may need to book an appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph. This will usually take place at a visa application center
7. Wait for processing: Visa processing times vary, but some countries offer the option to pay extra to speed up the decision. Apply as early as possible to avoid delays, and ensure that you leave plenty of time for your Visa to arrive before you travel abroad
8: Receive your student visa: Once approved, you’ll receive your visa. This will either be stamped in your passport or arrive as a separate document
Student visa support
Many universities have offices or departments dedicated to international students, with resources and immigration advisors available to help you with your student visa application.
This will also be available to you throughout your studies should you run into any issues with your visa status during the semester.
The government, embassy, or consulate websites of your study abroad country are valuable resources for addressing any student visa queries specific to that destination.
Our student advisors are here to help you every step of the way with your university application. We give you a personalized plan that tells you what you need to do and when you need to do it. We’ll make sure you have all the documents you need when it’s time to apply for your visa, and remind you of any upcoming deadlines to help you stay on track of your application.
For more information and guidance on how to apply for a student visa, read our full guide here.
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