Are you considering studying at an overseas university? Go for it! Research has shown that studying abroad provides students with increased self-confidence, a lasting impact on their world view, and enhanced interest in academic study. And that’s before we’ve even considered the friendships you’ll forge, the lessons you’ll learn and the stories to share in years to come.

By Lim Yan Wen

Choosing a university can be very confusing. Teachers, parents and older siblings always want to give you their worldly opinions, and the whole process can sometimes feel like a life-or-death situation. It’s not, though – and the best advice you can take is to follow your heart. And your budget, of course. If you have the opportunity to study overseas, then seize it. But before you get caught up in courses, colleges, permits and paperwork, check out these seven simple steps to help you on your way.

Step 1: Do your homework

And this is about more than simply getting the grades. Studying abroad is not a decision to be taken lightly and you’ll need plenty of commitment and careful planning. Obviously, one of your first decisions must be the course or discipline you intend to study. Different colleges and universities have strengths in varying fi elds, so your choice of degree will obviously affect your choice of institution.

League tables showing the “best” overall universities do exist, but it’s wise to do your own research. This is because different tables rank universities by various criteria, which means they can be rather subjective. You have to decide what aspects of a university are important to you.

Get hold of prospectuses, email the schools of your choice and find out about teaching styles, assessments, module options and student results for the courses which interest you.

Step 2: Do your sums
Welcome to the world of students, where careful budgeting can make all the difference between living like a pauper or very comfortably.

Try to look at the overall costs before making your final choice. Tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses and airfares may sound obvious, but don’t neglect to consider other outgoings too. What’s public transportation like in the city of your choice? How about entertainment and going out? Buying books for each module can prove costly – and what about computers and stationery?

Studying in a different climate will mean buying warmer clothes, and while this might sound trivial, you don’t want to blow your first term’s budget on coats and sweaters.

Step 3: Pass the tests
Your academic records are important when considering university options and it’s essential to be realistic about where you can apply. Some universities have stricter admissions criteria than others – usually depending on the quality, history and popularity of the school. Check the entry requirements carefully.

If you plan to study in the US, you will most likely be required to take a standardised admission test such as the SAT. Your test scores and academic grades will then be taken into consideration by the university that you are applying to. Speak to the institutions of your choice, then visit www.collegeboard.com for information on sitting the SAT locally.

Many universities do not require Singaporean students to take further tests on the English language. However, some schools, especially US universities may require you to take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or others, the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), both of which can be taken here in Singapore. However, TOEFL waivers may be negotiated for students who have been educated in English for most of your school life. Allow sufficient time in the application process to correspond with the U.S. university about this issue. American universities will probably not accept secondary school English language examination results as proof of your language ability.

Don’t forget that entry to many arts courses – such as design, fine art, music, creative writing or drama – is dependent on the submission of a portfolio, CD or sample of work. Spend lots of time and care in preparing these – at least a few months before the submission deadline. Being successful in the application process is all about careful planning.

Step 4: Check your timing

There is no such thing as “too soon”. You’d be wise to start thinking through your plans at least 12-18 months ahead, gathering together paperwork and financing options as soon as you can. If you intend to apply for scholarships, obtaining early admission is pretty much vital, so it’s a good idea to begin planning as far as two or three years in advance. Financial aid, if this is an option for you, must also be sought early on. Pay close attention to the deadlines set by each university – these will vary according to the country, college and course you have chosen.

Step 5: Sort your paperwork
To keep within the law while you’re studying overseas (thoroughly recommended!), it’s important to apply for the relevant visa. Usually, a student visa can only be issued once you have an offer letter from a university, plus supporting bank documentation to prove you have the necessary funding. Make sure your passport is up-to-date and is valid for at least one year.

If you intend to work part-time whilst overseas for extra income, make sure you’re clued-up on the employment guidelines and restrictions for foreign students in that country. Have all the necessary paperwork on hand, not forgetting important school transcripts, reference letters and banking details.

Step 6: Look at logistics
Once you have an offer from a university, it’s time to start thinking about the big shift in your life. Consider your flights — will you buy an open-ended ticket, or pay-as-you-go? What about if you need to come home, for a holiday or — perish the thought — an emergency?How many belongings will you take and can you have them shipped? Check with the immigration and customs authorities in the country you’ll be fl ying to for a list of restricted or taxable goods — it’s unlikely that you’ll be allowed to take your favourite foods with you.

Once you’ve reached these final stages (congratulations, by the way!), the accommodations offi cer at your university will be able to guide you through the housing process. It’s a good idea to read up on your options in advance, though — would you prefer campus accommodation, for example, or halls of residence in the city? If you’re a mature student, you might even prefer to house-share from the very fi rst term, opting out of the usual freshman antics.

Step 7: Prepare yourself emotionally

Although by now the university will be guiding you through the next stages — registration, accommodation, reading lists — you’re the only person who can truly prepare you for the giant leap ahead. It’s scary and daunting, but with the right attitude, you’ll be flying headfi rst towards a great experience in your life.

Little things can make all the difference when it comes to settling in and homesickness. If you request it, the admissions tutor should be happy to put you in touch with an existing undergraduate, or you could ask about their support programmes for overseas students. Within a few weeks of starting your new life at university, you’ll probably wonder why on earth you were worrying.

If being overseas for long periods of time proves impossible for your budget, career plans or home-loving nature, research the possibility of an exchange scheme, or a single semester abroad. Whatever you decide to do and wherever you end up, good luck, be happy and enjoy!