Preparing to study abroad: a pre-departure checklist

1. Confirm your university arrangements

Check your offer conditions, enrolment instructions, arrival dates, orientation schedule and any actions the institution says must be completed before travel.

2. Follow official immigration instructions

Read the current government guidance for your destination and your personal circumstances. Check the documents you are required to carry, any conditions attached to your permission to travel or study, and the rules that apply to your situation. For individual immigration advice, consult an appropriately authorised adviser.

3. Arrange accommodation

Confirm your booking, address, move-in date, deposit and how you will collect keys. Check the cancellation terms and how to contact the accommodation provider if your travel plans change.

4. Plan your budget

Prepare a budget for initial expenses such as local transport, groceries, bedding, a phone plan and course materials. Check how you will access money after arrival and understand any bank or payment-provider requirements.

5. Prepare travel and essential documents

Check your travel itinerary, baggage allowance and airport transfer. Keep required travel and enrolment documents accessible during the journey, while storing backups securely. Do not place sensitive document images in public cloud folders or send them through unverified accounts.

6. Know who to contact

Save your university’s international student support details, accommodation contact, emergency numbers and the person meeting you, if applicable. Share your itinerary with a trusted family member.

7. Prepare for your first week

Review the campus map, orientation events, local transport and any registration tasks your institution requires. Give yourself time to settle in, ask questions and connect with student support services.

Information is for general guidance only and may change. Always check current details with the relevant university and official government sources.