8 Tips to Prepare for Life at University

Studying in a new country can be exciting and life changing, but so much change at once comes with new challenges. As an international student not only are you adapting to academic life, but you’re learning a new culture, system and way of living at the same time.

University teaching styles vary by country. For example, in the U.S. university courses can be tailored to your interests, while in Germany much of the course will be pre-prepared for you to become a specialist.

Additionally, in some countries you’ll be expected to openly debate professors, while others will emphasize independent research and self-study.

Before arriving make sure you research:

• How grades are calculated (exams, coursework, group work)
• Whether or not you can tailor your course
• The academic culture (is it group focuses, or more individualistic)

Completing this research beforehand will help prevent any academic shocks upon arrival and manage your expectations before your course begins.

Passing your TOEFL test is a great way to prepare you for academic life at university, but this is only one part of the picture. You need everyday language to make friends, complete presentations, take part in group projects and make the most of your time at university.

To prepare for everyday English (alongside your studies) listen to podcasts, watch movies, speak to friends in English and watch YouTube videos about the university you’re planning to attend.

Native English speakers often speak faster than you’d expect and many use local dialects that can be a little confusing when you first arrive. But don’t worry, you’ll pick up local dialects faster than you think!

Administrative problems can be a massive stressor as an international student. A missing document or expired visa can cause delays, missed deadlines, and days of unnecessary stress. This is why it’s important to double-check all required documents well in advance of your start date.

As a best practice:

• Make digital and physical copies of all important documents
• Understand visa rules (work limits, travel restrictions, renewals)
• Know how to register with local authorities if required
• Check health insurance requirements
• Create a simple folder (physical or digital) with everything in one place.

Now, this tip might sound simple, but its advice many students forget. Living abroad usually means total independence. If you’ve never managed daily life alone, this can be overwhelming.

Before you move, make sure you can cook basic meals, budget your monthly expenses, do laundry, basic cleaning, and complete simple paperwork.

While these skills may seem boring they will support your daily lifestyle which will in turn help you with your energy, finances, and academic performance.

Living abroad is often more expensive than you expect. Many students report underestimate costs which can cause stress from financial pressure. Before arriving, make sure you conduct an average monthly breakdown of costs. This will include rent, food, transport, textbooks, and social costs.

One way to supplement your finances is by having a part-time job. Many universities offer on-campus jobs designed for students, and cities with high student populations often have jobs suitable for international students. Just make sure you make sure your visa allows you to work!

Once you’ve arrived, start building a monthly budgeting document that records your actual costs. This will help you financially prepare for the year ahead.

As an international student, it’s completely normal to experience culture shock. In the space of a week your routine will have changed, you’ll be surrounded by new people, and what was once “normal” is nowhere to be seen. This is all part of the process.

Culture shock can show up in many ways, including:

• Homesickness 
• Irritation with local habits
• Feeling lonely or misunderstood
• Questioning your decision to move

Remember, this experience is temporary. Once you’ve found a group of friends, built a new routine, and given yourself time to adapt, many of these feelings will start to fade.

When it comes to university you get out what you put in. It’s rare that friendships “just happen.” Instead of waiting to meet people, take active steps to network. Most universities hold societies fairs where you can join societies and sports clubs, while courses offer orientation events to help you meet like-minded students.

These are both great opportunities to connect with international and local students, allowing you to build your support network early on. This community will make all the changes easier, helping you feel at home in a new country.

Universities offer many support services for global students, from academic writing and language support to mental health and counselling services.

As an international student, you’ll also have international student advisors, and later into your course career and internship offices can help you with your post-university plans.

Studying abroad is a fantastic opportunity to push yourself out of your comfort zone, explore new cultures, meet new people, and challenge yourself in ways you never thought possible. That said, preparation is key to success.

While your studies will play an important role in your time at university, you need to prepare your life skills, language ability, finances, and community all before you arrive. The more you prepare, the faster you’ll feel at home and get the most out of your experience.