It can be really exciting getting accepted to study business abroad, but what are the next steps to prepare for this? And how do you know when you’ve had official confirmation of being accepted into a university?  

After applying, you may receive an offer letter; however, that doesn’t secure your university spot. You’ll need to pay a deposit, which is usually around $1,000 to $2,000, to show that you’ve accepted the offer. After that, you’ll receive an acceptance letter that is the final confirmation that you’ve been accepted to the business school. 

Once you receive this, it’s important to understand what you need to do as there are a number of things that need to be done before leaving to study business abroad. Here’s a guide on what you should do after receiving an acceptance letter!

Student Visa

For starters, check if you need a visa in order to study in the country, and if so, start the application process as soon as possible. To find out if you need a visa, look at the government and university’s websites. It may also be helpful to get in touch with your local embassy in the country you’ll be studying in. 

Find out how much time before your studies you can start the visa application process. Many countries only let you start the application three months before your studies begin. But don’t wait too long before applying. Make sure you have plenty of time to go through the entire visa process as there could always be delays.

If you need to apply for a student visa, start getting the documents you need ready, which often includes:

• University acceptance letter
• Your current passport
• Proof of financial support or that you have enough money to pay for your studies and living expenses for one year (some countries will even ask for blocked accounts)
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Proof of accommodation
• Certain medical examinations or test results
• Health insurance
• Travel itinerary

Housing

You’ll also need to figure out where you’re going to live during your studies. Research accommodation options and find out what the best option is for you personally and financially. There are different types of accommodation you can secure as a student, including:

• University student accommodation
• Private student accommodation
• Privately renting a room or flat in the city

To figure out what your best options are, ask the university and student union, in addition to current students and alumni, for recommendations. It might be helpful to reach out to future classmates who may be willing to share bigger properties so you can save money on accommodation.

Many universities also offer services to help you find accommodation. Use these when they’re available to make finding housing easier. And sometimes you’ll need to provide a proof of accommodation when applying for a student visa.

Finance

Another important step after receiving an acceptance letter from a university abroad is to secure the funding and financial aid or scholarships you may be eligible for. Check the school’s website for scholarships, fellowships, sponsorships, bursaries, and grants that are available through them and external organizations. 

Universities often list opportunities offered by the government or business partners of the institution on their website. You can also research government schemes in your country of study and home country and opportunities that are available for specific courses.

If you need to secure a loan, you should research your best options. There are also specialized companies like Prodigy that give loans to business school students. To figure out how much you need to borrow, it’s important to consider tuition fees and the cost of living.

Bank Account

Another area to figure out is how you’ll manage your money safely and without having to pay excessive fees on international transactions and ATMs. There are different requirements you’ll need to meet to open a bank account, and this often depends on what bank you plan to use and what country you’re moving to. 

Start looking at possible bank options to open an account in the country you’ll be studying in. There are often a number of traditional bank options, but there are also new digital options, such as Revolut. And find out what you’ll need to open the account you end up choosing.

Money Remittance 

Once you’ve decided on a bank account, you’ll need to find out how to send money from your home country to where you’ll be studying. There are many services available, such as Wise, or you may be able to ask your current bank to do an international transfer. 

But make sure you understand all of the fees and charges that are involved with whatever route you end up choosing. And when transferring large amounts, be sure to not only pick the option with the lowest transfer fees but the one that gives you confidence with your money.

Phone Number

There are lots of services available to allow you to get a sim card before traveling abroad. When moving to the new country, you’ll likely need to provide a phone number as soon as you arrive, and you could be contacted by immigration officers.

Because of this, it’s best to already have a phone number setup before or as you get there. Keep in mind that WhatsApp calling is not an option as official calls from immigration officers or other agencies will always be to your phone number, not through an app.

Transport

Start getting an understanding of the public transport system in the local area and if you’ll need to use it to get to classes. Many cities have different options like the underground, buses, trains, and trams, so find out the options available in the area before making the move. 

It may be worth looking for student discount tickets or monthly passes if you’ll be using public transport frequently.

Student Perks

Research what student discounts and other perks are available in the location you’re moving to, and register for all of the relevant student discounts that you’re eligible for. For example, Amazon offers a highly discounted price for Amazon Prime for students, or you can usually find discounts on technology, clothes, and other items and services.

By signing up to all of the student perks on offer, you can start making savings wherever possible. 

Planning & Preparing to Study Abroad

Studying business abroad can be a wonderful experience that brings forward a number of new opportunities personally and professionally. But it can be overwhelming, particularly when it comes to getting everything you need prepared for the move and living abroad! 

There are a number of important things you need to do right after receiving an acceptance letter from a business school, so make sure you’re prepared for this ahead of time. This allows you to meet any deadlines and feel more confident about the move.

If you’re interested in studying business abroad, get in touch with Unify to help you with the entire admissions process, from comparing different schools and matching you with programs to finding ways to improve your application and applying to your top schools.