Before you start

If you are moving country to commence your studies, you should check that you have completed the following:

• Make sure you have a valid visa for the country you are entering. Check with the relevant consulate in your home country well before departure.
• Your passport should be valid for at least six months longer than then duration of your planned trip. If your passport is due to expire, contact the government of your home country for a new one to be issued before you leave.
• Make sure you have all important documents with you. It is useful to have copies of your documents and either bring them with you or leave them with someone at home.
• Make sure you have accommodation on your arrival in the new country. Usually the partner institutions can assist you with accommodation arrangements. Contact your partner institution to find out what support they offer. They will be able to provide you with information about rents and propose at least temporary accommodation during orientation.
• Check the maximum amount of kilograms that you are allowed to carry on the airline.
• Visit a doctor before leaving. S/he will be able to give you all the information, vaccination and health advice that you require for your destination. If you are on medication of any sort, be sure to bring a healthy supply along with you, as an equivalent medication may not be available abroad.
• If you are planning on driving, it is useful to obtain an International Driver’s License.
• Bring original copies of your academic history including transcripts, educational work and qualification as well as course outlines if you are seeking credit for previous work.
• If you are looking for employment it is a good idea to bring previous employer references.
• Arrange your airport pick up and make sure you have a confirmation for that as well as a contact number in case it doesn’t work out.
• Check customs and quarantine regulations and separately pack items that need to be declared.
• Make sure you pay your study fees in time.
• Don’t forget to register at the embassy of your home country on arrival. This is important for officials from your country to locate you and contact you.