Key tips for planning and preparing to study abroad

Fri, 10 Jan 20251min read

There are few times in life more exciting than planning to study abroad at a UK university. Careful research, planning and preparation can make all the difference to international students as they get ready to study abroad.

Knowing what to expect and doing the right kind of preparation gives you a distinct advantage when you arrive and sets you up for long-term success in your studies.

To make your life that bit easier we have compiled this study abroad guide with everything you need to know about how to prepare to study abroad.

Research your destination

When planning to study abroad, researching your destination is an obvious first step. But what are the kinds of things you should be looking up?

Here are some study abroad tips on topics that you will want to learn more about:

Understand the culture

Find out more about the culture including what people do differently in your destination compared to your home country. These differences are called ‘cultural norms’ and the way that people expect you to express yourself and be polite is called ‘etiquette’. These ways of interacting with other people differ from culture to culture, and learning more about the cultural norms of your destination will help you to gain a better understanding of how to prepare to study abroad.

Learn the local language

No list of study abroad tips would be complete without including guidance on learning the local language. If the country you are choosing to study in speaks a different language to the one you grew up with, it’s always a good idea to have a good level of understanding, both verbal and written, in that language.

Climate and geography

Something often overlooked but very important is the climate and geography of your host country. Will it be cold or warm? Is it scenic and peaceful or urban and lively? Finding out the answers to these questions will help you make your study abroad packing list. You may also want to know whether or not there are other people from your culture in the area so that you can access cultural events, religious services and food from home.

Take a pre-course before your studies begin

To get the most out of your university experience, it is often a good idea to find out if the university you are attending offers international students any online pre-courses such as the Enhanced Induction, Prepare for Success and English language programmes at Leeds International Study Centre for progression to the University of Leeds. Pre-courses help international students with their language skills and cultural adaptation prior to leaving their home country and arriving in Leeds.

Plan your finances

Another great way to make sure you know how to study abroad is by creating a detailed budget to manage your finances.

Knowing the cost of your fees, accommodation and the cost of living of where you are going to study in the UK will help you feel confident about what you spend, and what you can afford when you are there.

When you're planning to study abroad you can also investigate the possibilities of any scholarships, grants, and financial aid options that you might qualify for. They can go a long way to giving you the comfort you need to study without financial stress.

Organise your documentation

So, you’ve done your research, you have chosen to study at a university in the UK and now it’s time to get your documents in order. First and foremost, number one on the study abroad tips list is to have an up-to-date passport and a valid visa. Without these, you won’t be allowed to study or to stay in the UK.

Many universities offer support with ensuring your passport and visas are valid. Find out more about visa information at Leeds International Study Centre for progression to the University of Leeds.

Before you apply you will also need to have your academic documents ready. Gathering and organising them can take a little bit of time if you don’t have them to hand. Read more about what you will need to do before you arrive at Leeds International Study Centre for progression to the University of Leeds.

Accommodation

Researching accommodation should be a high priority for students who are planning to study abroad. Finding out more about what accommodation options are available to you will help you understand what to expect when you arrive. It’s helpful to think about your preferences, such as whether you are comfortable sharing accommodation or would prefer to live alone, then find out the cost, location and other options to suit you best.

Pack smart

While your study abroad packing list will be personal to you, in general being prepared for things like the weather, different power outlets and document security while travelling will help you feel safe and steady as you embark on your educational journey to the UK.

Our top study abroad packing tips include:

Pack versatile clothing suitable for the climate and culture.
Bring essential electronics and adapters.
Carry important documents securely in your hand luggage.

Prepare for culture shock

Culture shock is a normal phenomenon where someone new to a culture experiences a variety of emotions and feelings as they settle into life in a different country. These experiences vary from person to person, with some taking it in their stride, and others feeling more highs and lows than they are used to. The most important thing to do is build a support network of students and local people who can help you understand the culture and acclimatise. Keeping an open mind and embracing new experiences will also help you settle into your new life more easily.

Make the most of your experience

International students are often very busy and learning a lot at once! Finding time to enjoy life as a student may be last on their long list of things to do. Truly learning how to study abroad means taking the time to be where you are, and savouring what is around you. Whether that’s talking to people from the local culture to deepen your understanding or travelling to new places near to where you are staying.

Why choose the University of Leeds?

Choose to study at the University of Leeds, a Russell Group University where 90% of the research submitted by the University of Leeds was rated ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.

International students can begin their education journey at Leeds International Study Centre for progression to the University of Leeds. Here you will find pathway programmes designed specifically to boost your English language and academic skills to the level required to succeed at the University of Leeds.

Academic excellence

The University of Leeds is one of the UK’s leading academic institutions and in the top 100 globally (QS World University Rankings 2025). Also ranked 23rd in the UK (The Complete University Guide 2025), the University of Leeds has a reputation for academic excellence in a range of areas including Engineering, Business and Law. As a member of the prestigious Russell Group, Leeds is a leader in higher education, leading innovation in research and teaching.

Vibrant student community

For international students planning to study abroad, Leeds is often a top choice thanks to its strong ethos of inclusion, and diverse student body. As the 31st most international university in the world (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024), student life at Leeds is full of excitement. Societies, events, sports, and modern campus facilities all contribute to making studying at Leeds an unforgettable experience.

Supportive environment

International students often require support that is different to domestic students. Embarking on a degree away from home can bring challenges, and the University is here to help with language and visa assistance. International students can also take advantage of a wide range of other support including academic advice, career counselling, mental health services, and disability support.

Global network

International networking is a key part of career growth and at the University of Leeds you can start to lay the foundation for friends, colleagues and contacts around the world. A multicultural and inclusive place to study, Leeds has over 38,000 students from 170 countries around the world. This means you will meet people from many different countries, as you begin to grow your global network.

Now that you’ve prepared to study abroad, it’s time to apply for your degree. Learn more about the entry requirements, fees and visa information for your chosen pathway programme at Leeds International Study Centre for progression to the University of Leeds.

FAQs

Why should I choose to study abroad?

Studying abroad enhances your life experience personally and professionally. Gaining experience of a new culture, seeing global perspectives and learning through a different educational system will give you confidence and a boost when you start your career.

How do I prepare for challenges studying abroad?

Prepare for the differences you may experience by researching your destination, keeping an open mind, and building a support network. You can also take a pre-courses prior to starting your programme to help you adapt.

Is studying abroad in the UK a good idea?

Yes, studying in the UK gives you access to some of the top universities in the world. The UK has a rich heritage, diverse culture and an outstanding educational system recognised around the world.