First and foremost check up on all the necessary formalities, including visas, passports and other documents are in order. It often happens that for countries such as the US you need to prepare in advance, especially in the case your student visa gets denied for any reason. But these formalities also include doing all the necessary things at your house, home city or country, such as making sure that all of your doctors’ procedures, vaccinations, etc. occur well ahead of your departure date. You do not want to be stuck in a situation where your tooth is killing you, but you are in a foreign country where you may not even speak the language!

Also, investigate whether your school will assist you in setting up a bank account, a new phone number, etc., or whether you should do this by yourself ahead of time. You do not want to be paying exhorbitant roaming fees while abroad! Finding a good local bank is also important, especially if you plan to stay in the country for longer and you intend to live there after graduation. Start acquiring a good credit score! Do all of this research in advance so that you save money.

Speaking of cash, find ways of optimizing and tracking your expenses. It is a good habit to have for later in life and having a spreadsheet or some other document is a lifesaver. If your bank does it for you – even better. 

Make sure to spend time with your family and friends back home before you depart, so as not to be struck with home-sickness so badly. It happens incredibly often the first year students at university start losing touch with home, and that can affect your mood, emotions and even self-esteem a ton. Especially if you see your friends drifting apart from you but not each other. A feeling of exclusion can be a real danger!

And remember – most universities have an international student office. Get to know them – they’ll be able to answer most of the questions you have regarding the transition and settling in. These offices also often organize social events for international students to get to know one another and form a community, a home away from home!

Do you have a dream university in mind? Atlas Academy can help you prepare your application and manage your transition.