Study Abroad Checklist: Pre & Post-Departure Tips Every Indian Student Must Know

Studying abroad is an exciting and life-changing journey, but the process—from planning to settling in—can be overwhelming without proper guidance. Whether you’re preparing for university in the US, Canada, UK, Australia, or anywhere else, having a thorough checklist ensures a smoother transition. Here’s a complete pre- and post-departure checklist for Indian students to help make your study abroad experience efficient, stress-free, and successful.

Pre-Departure Checklist for Indian Students

1. Secure Admission & Offer Letter

• Apply to universities well in advance.

• Make sure you meet all admission requirements: SOPs, LORs, entrance exams (GRE, GMAT, IELTS/TOEFL, etc.).

• Confirm your offer letter and accept it within the deadline.

2. Financial Planning & Scholarships

• Estimate your total budget: tuition fee + living expenses.

• Arrange funds through savings, education loans, or sponsors.

• Explore scholarships for Indian students (e.g., Chevening, Fulbright-Nehru, DAAD, etc.).

3. Student Visa Application

• Gather necessary documents: passport, offer letter, proof of funds, academic transcripts, etc.

• Schedule and attend your visa interview (e.g., US F1 visa, Canada Study Permit).

• Double-check your visa approval and keep physical/digital copies.

4. Book Flights & Plan Arrival

• Book your flight tickets as soon as your visa is approved to get better rates.

• Plan to arrive a week or two before your course starts.

• Research airport pick-up options offered by the university or student bodies.

5. Get Your Travel Insurance & Health Check

• Buy international travel insurance that includes medical coverage.

• Get a general health check-up, dental check-up, and required vaccinations.

• Carry prescriptions for any ongoing medications with doctor's note.

6. Find Suitable Accommodation

• Decide between on-campus or off-campus housing.

• Finalize your accommodation before arrival. Websites like UniAcco, AmberStudent, and university housing portals help.

• Ensure you have a rental agreement or university confirmation.

7. Important Document Folder

Create both physical and digital copies of the following:

• Passport and visa

• Offer letter

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• Medical records and prescriptions

• Financial documents (loan/sponsorship)

• Accommodation proof

• Emergency contact details

8. Packing Essentials

Clothing: Pack according to the country’s climate. Electronics: Laptop, adapters, power banks, headphones. Personal Care: Toiletries, hygiene products, basic medicines. Food: Instant food, ready-to-eat items, Indian spices. Others: Stationery, bedsheets, small utensils.

Tip: Do not overpack—buy some things after reaching your destination.

9. Open an International Forex Card or Bank Account

• Carry a Forex card for initial expenses.

• Inform your Indian bank that you’ll be traveling.

• Research how to open a local student bank account once you arrive.

10. Mental Preparation & Cultural Awareness

• Join online groups and forums of Indian students or university communities.

• Learn about local customs, weather, time zones, and lifestyle.

• Be mentally prepared for homesickness and cultural adaptation.

Post-Departure Checklist for Indian Students

1. Arrival & Immigration at the Airport

• Keep your passport, visa, offer letter, and accommodation details handy.

• Answer questions confidently at immigration.

• Know the address of your stay for filling arrival forms.

2. Local SIM Card & Connectivity

• Purchase a local SIM card or activate international roaming temporarily.

• Update your number with family, university, and banks.

3. University Registration & Orientation

• Attend orientation sessions—it helps you understand your course, campus, and local life.

• Complete university formalities: ID card, course enrollment, student account activation.

4. Open a Local Bank Account

• Take your passport, visa, offer letter, and proof of address to a nearby bank.

• A student account often comes with perks like no monthly fees.

5. Apply for a Local ID & Travel Pass

• Get a local identification card or student ID for transport discounts.

• Apply for monthly travel cards/passes in cities with metro systems.

6. Attend Safety & Health Workshops

• Attend university-led safety sessions for international students.

• Know local emergency numbers and health services.

• Register with local doctors/GP clinics if necessary.

7. Set Up Your Accommodation

• Buy essentials like bedding, kitchenware, etc., locally.

• Understand your rental agreement and house rules.

• Set up utilities (gas, electricity, internet) if living off-campus.

8. Start Budgeting Your Expenses

• Use apps like Splitwise, Mint, or Notion to track spending.

• Prioritize essentials and limit eating out or impulse shopping.

9. Build Your Routine & Social Circle

• Get involved in student groups, clubs, and campus events.

• Make friends beyond the Indian community to improve cultural exchange and language skills.

• Create a balanced schedule for study, part-time work, and social life.

10. Part-Time Jobs & Internships

• Check the maximum working hours allowed for students (e.g., 20 hrs/week).

• Apply for on-campus jobs or internships through your university’s career center.

Bonus Tips for Indian Students Studying Abroad

• Stay Updated with Rules: Immigration laws and student visa regulations can change.

• Keep Emergency Numbers Saved: For police, ambulance, embassy, and local contacts.

• Check for Student Discounts: Always ask at stores, cafes, museums, or public transport.

• Call Home Regularly: It helps you stay emotionally grounded.

• Learn Basic Local Language: Especially useful in non-English speaking countries.