Congratulations — you’re going to study abroad! It will be an experience of a lifetime, and while that inevitably includes some challenges, planning ahead is key to a smooth transition. Here are five ways to prepare for your semester abroad.
1. Start learning the language
Learning just a few phrases before stepping foot in a new country can go a long way. You certainly don’t have to be fluent (that might be one of the reasons you’re studying abroad to begin with), but being able to greet people and say “thank you” can make your adjustment to life abroad that much easier. Bonus points if you learn a new alphabet!
2. Figure out finances
Do some research on your destination before you go. Do they mostly use cash, or will cards be accepted? If you will be using a card regularly, find out what the foreign transaction fee is. A small fee can add up over time, so you might want to look into a card that has no international transaction fees. Check out these blog posts for a deeper dive into spending abroad:
Once you’ve settled on cash versus card, be sure to look at USAC’s interactive budget sheet for your program (located in the Program Fees & Deadline section on the website) so there aren’t any surprises down the road.
3. Plan how you’ll stay connected abroad
Staying connected with friends and loved ones while you’re studying abroad is important, especially during moments of homesickness. Is Wi-Fi readily available in your city, or will you need to purchase a sim card or E-sim card for your phone? International roaming fees can add up, so it’s worth checking out your options before you go. If you’re exploring your host city, calling taxis, and checking maps often, you might find that you use more data abroad than at home. When complications arise or if you’re simply planning for the unexpected (such as getting sick or seeking a mental health counselor), read through the options available to you as an enrolled student on USAC’s Health and Safety section.
4. Make a bucket list
If you have a thousand and one things on your bucket list, spend some time identifying your priorities. While hopping on a plane every weekend to visit surrounding cities or countries can be cool, don’t forget to explore locally. Some of your best experiences might be discovered just across the city or right around the corner from your dorm. Look at the USAC Instagram or TikTok account for inspiration!
5. Plan your wardrobe
This isn’t just about fashion — some countries frown upon certain types of clothing, such as revealing shoulders or knees. Some sites, like temples, might even have requirements for the length of clothing or to cover certain parts. Think about the expected weather, too. Will you need a coat and boots to survive a Scotland winter? Are you going to wish you’d brought more breathable clothing for humid Thailand? Read through this packing guide for other ideas.
