10 Things to Do Before Studying Abroad: Your Complete Pre-Departure Checklist
You’ve got your acceptance letter, your flights are booked, and your excitement is building. But before you head to the airport, there are a few important pre-departure tasks for international students that can make your transition much smoother.
Whether you’re heading to the U.S., Canada, the UK, or anywhere else, this student departure checklist will help you prepare for studying overseas and avoid those last-minute panics.
1. Organize Your Travel Documents
Before anything else, make sure your paperwork is complete and accessible.
Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay, and a photocopy)
Student visa & related permits
Acceptance letter from your university
Proof of accommodation
Travel insurance policy
Your lease or housing contract
Proof of return
Copies of all documents (both digital and printed)
💡 Tip: Keep these in a waterproof folder in your carry-on bag.
2. Arrange Health & Travel Insurance
One of the most important things to do before studying abroad is to ensure you have the right medical coverage.
Check if your university offers student insurance.
Compare private insurance plans for additional coverage. ( You could save thousands of dollars this way!)
Carry proof of insurance with you at all times.
💡 Tip: Add your insurance card to your phone’s wallet app for quick access.
3. Handle Banking & Finances
Money matters can get tricky abroad if you don’t plan ahead.
Open an online bank account in your host country (if possible, start the process online).
Inform your home bank about your travel dates to avoid card freezes.
Bring some local currency for your first week.
💡 Tip: Consider getting a low-fee international debit/credit card for travel and emergencies.
4. Get All Necessary Vaccinations & Medical Checks
Many countries require certain health documents before entry.
Schedule a full medical check-up before you leave.
Get required and recommended vaccinations (if, for some reason, you can’t get the necessary vaccinations, you will have to get them when you arrive)
Ask your doctor for prescriptions and bring enough medication for at least the time of your stay.
5. Research Your New City’s Essentials
When you prepare for studying overseas, learning about your new environment will save you stress later.
Public transportation options and passes.
Grocery stores, student-friendly cafés, and budget restaurants.
Cultural norms and local etiquette.
💡 Tip: Quickly Google your new city to find some tips before you land to smooth your arrival.
6. Arrange Communication Before You Arrive
Don’t wait until you land to figure out how to contact home.
Unlock your phone so you can use a local SIM card if you are staying for a few semesters.
Research student mobile plans in your destination.
Install communication apps like WhatsApp.
Get an international phone plan in your home country as it can save you for the first few weeks
💡 Tip: Look at OpenPhone plans or Mint Mobile in the United States, as these two services provide cheap phone numbers and plans
7. Finalize Your Accommodation Details
Whether you’re in a dorm, apartment, or homestay, confirm the details before leaving.
Check move-in date and key collection process.
Ask if bedding or kitchenware is provided.
Note emergency contact numbers for your landlord or residence hall.
💡 Tip: If your new housing closes before you land, connect with your roommate or friends, who are going to the same place, to see if they can get your keys for you.
8. Make a Packing Plan
A smart packing strategy will save you from overpacking or forgetting essentials.
Start with the basics: clothes, shoes, documents, and electronics.
Add items from home you can’t easily find abroad (spices, skincare, snacks).
Leave room for items you’ll buy once you arrive.
💡 Tip: Use vacuum-seal bags to save space in your luggage.
9. Learn Basic Local Phrases
Even if your classes are in English, knowing some local words or sayings goes a long way.
Greetings and polite expressions.
How to ask for directions.
Numbers and days of the week.
💡 In the South, People love to say “Y’all” and ask how people are doing
10. Say Proper Goodbyes
This is an often-overlooked part of the student departure checklist.
Spend quality time with family and friends.
Take photos or videos of your favorite places.
Prepare a small scrapbook or keepsake to bring with you.
Your Quick Pre-Departure Checklist
Travel documents & copies
Insurance arranged
Bank accounts & currency ready
Health checks & vaccinations done
City research completed
Communication plan set
Accommodation confirmed
Smart packing finished
Basic phrases learned
Goodbyes made
Final Tip: The more you prepare now, the less overwhelmed you’ll feel when you arrive. Use this checklist as your guide, and you’ll step off the plane ready for your new adventure.
