cannot be overstated. It cannot be stressed enough how critical it is
to know your host country, because life abroad becomes more
interesting when you put into context what to expect. Reading books,
news, online information and articles about your host city and country
will provide useful information.
You will know the official language used in the country and arrange
for language classes, if need be. Furthermore, it is a good practice
to know the exact location of your home country's consulate or
embassy. Other preparations that need to be made before travelling to
study abroad include:
·Passports & visa
It is your responsibility to know the entry requirements of the host
country, including passport and visa requirements. If you do not have
a passport, it is important to pursue efforts of getting one the
earliest time possible. If you have one already, make sure the date of
expiry is at least 6 months after the intended journey back home. In
the event that your passport expires before this date, pursue efforts
of renewing it. Some countries require all foreigners to have visa.
Therefore, if you are planning to study abroad, you may be required to
acquire a student visa. Visas often carry certain restrictions. For
example, if you have a full-time study visa, you may not be eligible
for employment.
·Residency permits
While the visa grants you the permission to enter your host country, a
residency permit allows you to stay in the host country. Therefore, if
you are planning to be in your host country for more than 90 days, it
is advisable to obtain a residency permit. Typically, you should apply
for your permit 1-3 days after arriving. To obtain the residency
permit, you will be required to present several documents, including a
letter of acceptance, your bank statement, rental contract (if
available) etc. Additional information pertaining to residency permit
requirements can be acquired from your host country's embassy or
consulate.
·Housing & health insurance
Arrangements for housing vary among different programs. Some programs
provide assistance in finding apartments, while others provide student
housing. It is advisable to consider carefully the available housing
options in order to help you make prior arrangements for independent
or host program accommodation. Furthermore, to get a student visa, you
may be required to have a health insurance plan that covers you over
the time you will be overseas. If you have a plan already, find out
from the insurance carrier if it covers you while overseas. If you do
not have a plan, a cost-effective international student health plan
from a reputable company in the host country can do.
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Imma_Sila
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