Moving abroad for studies is not just about getting a degree but it’s a daily challenge, a life changing experience and a transformation. Beyond choosing your course, there is much more you need to be aware of like managing finances, dealing with homesickness, making new friends, adjusting to weather and how things work in a completely new country.
Here’s the thing: no one really talks about the small things that matter a lot like how confusing banking can be or how homesickness can make the student feel anxious. I still remember when I newly moved to the US, I spent $50 for mobile in just 2 days because I didn’t know about their apps or phone packages. Painful, right? So no one tells you about these little things, they hit you when you’re already there and that was something very small but what if you are stuck in something big like a scam or something? This lack of preparation and research about your host country can lead to serious stress and wasted money. However, understanding these things early can help you prepare mentally, avoid feeling lost, and settle in much faster.
In this article, we will discuss 7 things most students (including me) wish they had known before jumping into the plane. Let’s get into it. 
- Budgeting:
It is important to create a practical budget plan and to know your current financial status as a clear budget plan helps you take control of your money instead of wondering where it all went. Before anything else, you need to calculate the total cost for the flight and admission process which includes (visa, ticket and admission fees) and then you’ll need to calculate the tuition fees as these are the first big expenses. But apart from that, have you thought about the daily expenses? as everyone tells about the tuition fees but no one focuses on the daily expenses. This reminded me of something. I made a mistake during my first month of moving abroad as I went to the fancy store which was near my apartment so I spent over $150 for basic home accessories that I could’ve gotten for $50 from dollar stores or student Facebook groups. That sudden decision ate up most of the monthly budget. That time I realized that no one really tells you about the daily expenses or budgeting, so it’s important for you to know how much money you need to put aside for daily expenses like food, transport, grocery and mobile data as with the right planning and strategies you will not only have enough money for utilities but you can also enjoy college life, say yes to sudden plans and still have money for that fancy coffee.
A global survey by IDP showed that rising living costs are actually making students rethink studying abroad altogether. So before you book that flight, make sure to make a proper budget and accommodation plan. Do you want to live alone, in student housing or with other people? Universities often have their own accommodation specifically for their students. This can be not only a convenient option but a great way to meet other students while studying abroad. Whereas, renting an apartment to yourself will allow you more flexibility and independence, allowing you to live the lifestyle most convenient for you but, they’ll be more expensive than other options. However, for this, you can do plenty of online research and browsing. For example, there is a helpful app like Afious which is built specifically for university students. Whether you’re looking for someone to split rent with, want insights on affordable living areas near campus, or need honest reviews on student housing, Afious makes it easier to navigate all that by linking you with real students in your city. It’s like having a student community in your pocket before you even land.
2. Student discounts:
A student ID card is not just an identity but it’s a money saving super power. Everyone knows that student discounts exist but most students don’t have any idea how many places and even online platforms offer them and how much money you can save by using it. As there are many places like restaurants who don’t always advertise student discounts so you have to ask for it. Do you know when I first realized about the power of Student ID cards? When I first moved abroad, I paid full price for everything like transport, grocery and even a gym membership. Weeks later, I found out that one of my friends whose friend circle were paying half the amount of gym just because they asked if a student discount was available. Whereas, I was paying full price without even knowing I could get a student discount. That moment hit me hard and from that day, I put my shyness aside and started asking for the student discount wherever I went.
So no one really tells you about the student discounts as many people don’t know about it just like me. It’s important for you to not hesitate because there are many businesses that offer this scheme for students but they don’t publicise it. So whether you go to any park, movie theatre, coffee shop or a grocery store don’t be shy about asking, “Hey, do you offer a student discount?” It might feel awkward at first, but once you’ll get 30% on grocery shopping or save $40 on a jacket, you will feel great and confident that you asked about it. In fact, a study by Student Beans found that 83% of students are more likely to shop at a retailer if a student discount is offered which highlights the significant impact these discounts have on student spending habits.
Remember that when you reach your host country for education, first of all make a College ID card and take your ID card everywhere you go. As a result, you will be able to save a little amount which can really add up over time and from those savings you can buy anything or cover your weekend plan.
3. Laws and systems:
As international students, everything is new and unfamiliar for you like the rules, people, systems and laws so scammers take full advantage of this and they often carry out scams which are harder for you to recognise. For example, one common scam is that someone pretending to be an agent from government office and asking to pay money as you have any issue with the visa which sounds very serious but its a scam as no real government agency ever ask for money especially on the call so it’s important for you to do little research about how official systems work in your host country. Now you might be thinking that “We are grown ups so how could anyone scam us with fake calls?” Let me tell you, there are some little scams too, like a shopkeeper might charge you more than the actual market price or someone might sell you a fake ticket when there is no event or concert. So understanding about your host country can help you to prevent scams and lose money.
Moreover, preventing scams is not just enough as understanding about the legal laws is also very important as something that is okay and legal in your home country is illegal in your host country? So not knowing the host country’s laws and system can get you into serious legal trouble. For example, in the US, there are some clear visa rules. You can only work on-campus, and even then, only up to 20 hours a week during the semester. Working off-campus without permission can lead to visa issues or even deportation. Shocking, right? Just like this, there are rules for jaywalking, ignoring parking rules or underage drinking. Ignoring these laws can lead to high fines or even visa cancellation as a result, before you move research visa rules for working and understand what’s allowed and what’s not.
4. Unexpected culture shocks:
Culture shocks can be quite stressful and lead to anxiety if not handled well. But it is completely normal and all of your peers are probably feeling the same exact way. Isolating yourself and hoping someone will come along is not productive or helpful. Instead, try to put yourself out there even if it feels awkward at first. We all understand that leaving your home country and goodbyes are tough, But remember, your life hasn’t ended just because you moved abroad but it’s a new beginning. Now it’s your time to make the most of this new chapter, explore opportunities, build memories, and turn this experience into something truly unforgettable. By doing this, you will not only make your studying abroad experience better but also you will quickly adjust in the host country without even realising it.
I still remember when I just moved abroad, I was too shy to start a conversation. I always used to think that “maybe someone randomly invited me to join them for a club or event” But you know what’s painful? No one invited me. One day, I heard that there is a movie night with free pizza on campus. I know it sounds silly but just for the pizza I went and I don’t know how but 2 people near me became my good friends as we were asked to share the pizza so we ate together, laughed and even exchanged Instagram accounts. So this small step made my university experience very exciting as they became my first real friends. Just like this, there are many ways you can make friends naturally and cope with culture shock. For example, join students clubs and societies, avoid saying no to anyone as just a small hangout is the beginning of real friendship or participate in sports and activities. Also don’t forget to stay connected with your friends and family members as it helps you to feel like that you’re not alone and let them know that you’re not only safe but having a fantastic time abroad.
5. Pack light but efficiently:
Let’s be real, you want to take everything with you when moving abroad but sadly you can’t pack your entire cupboard. So you’ll have to make a few sacrifices, especially for girls. That means choosing quality over quantity and packing smartly instead of emotionally. As Taylor Swift said, “It took a while to understand the beauty of just letting go”. which gives the idea that releasing certain things can lead to personal growth and new experiences.
For example, when I moved abroad, I took all my eastern and western outfits and also heavy boots, jackets and coats so my luggage was completely full. I ended up forgetting to pack some essentials. After a few days, I got a fever. At that time I realised I had forgotten to bring my medicine box and even basic things like a thermometer and pain relief tablets. Since I was new, I didn’t know where to find a pharmacy nearby or which brand to trust which turned into a stressful situation. So if no one told you yet, let me tell you that stock up on specific toiletries or medication before you go and instead of taking hair dryers or straighteners pack useful tools such as power banks and charger as what if you get stuck in a completely new country with no phone battery to call a Uber/Lyft or to navigate Google map? You may end up getting lost or stressed in unfamiliar places.
However, it’s not just about being prepared but it will also make your trip from the airport to your residence hall/host home easier. There are many budget airlines that permit passengers to have a backpack for free but charge extra for a carry-on suitcase. Make sure your flight booking includes enough luggage with a checked bag at around 20 kg and a carry-on item as there are some agencies who charge more for checked baggage, and the airline will penalize you if you exceed your allowance. So, pack light but with purpose. Think ahead and prioritize essentials as settling in a new country is hard enough; your luggage shouldn’t make it harder.
6. Download useful apps:
The right apps can make your first few weeks so much easier as there is literally an app for everything like transport, food, bank and even to connect with other students through shared interest. For example, Afious is an app especially designed for College students which helps you to meet like minded people on campus, join student clubs, discover local events, and make real friendships. It’s especially great if you’re feeling a bit lost or shy in a new environment. Additionally, transportation apps can bring you peace of mind when you first get off your flight and need to get from the airport to your accommodation safely and at a reasonable price. And if you don’t cook or are too tired, there are some food delivery apps that offer discounts and schemes like doordash, ubereats and toogoodtogo. Most of the students don’t know what to download until they’re already stuck in that situation. So take a little time and prep your phone before you move abroad so that you don’t end up stressed or stuck later.
7. Understanding weather and climate:
This is one of the most overlooked and important things when moving abroad. You might think that you have researched that it’s winters in your host country but remember this, cold in your country and host country are two very different things. For example, if you are moving from warm country like Italy or Pakistan to a country with harsh winters like US or Canada so you will need to prepare for snow and freezing temperatures like you need to take boots, jackets or coat along with you as if you just pack hoodies or thin layered jacket so you might get sick as a result, you will need to buy expensive jackets in urgent and you may end up losing your monthly budget. So before you move, research the real feel of the weather, not just numbers but also watch student vlogs and at least pack 1 proper winter outfit
A 2024 World Bank report highlights that over 400 million students globally faced school closures due to extreme weather events since 2022. In low-income countries, students lost an average of 18 school days annually, compared to just 2.4 days in wealthier nations. This disruption hampers learning and exacerbates educational inequalities.
Knowing these 7 things is essential for students who are planning to move abroad for International education as getting scammed, culture shock and not availing students discount are the real world lessons that no one tells about until they have gone from the same issue. So instead of getting stuck in an unfamiliar place, start research and make sure you understand these 7 things as being aware of them early on can reduce stress, save money and effort and give you more time to enjoy new opportunities.
The most important thing to remember is that studying abroad is not just about academics and a certificate but it’s an exciting adventure where you’ll face new opportunities, challenges, and personal growth. So isn’t it better to prepare yourself in advance rather than learning things the hard way later? The more you know now, the smoother your journey will be.
Bookmark this blog, share it with a friend who’s also preparing to move, and start ticking off the things no one told you about.