##**Top Tips for Studying Abroad**
– Choose Wisely
– Set up banking in advance
– Get an ISIC
– Set up insurance
– Research the area in advance
– Go to class
– Make the most of it
##Choose Wisely
Choosing a school and program that benefits you is the first step to studying abroad. You may dream of living on [Australia’s](https://www.skyscanner.com/transport/flights/us/au/cheapest-flights-from-united-states-to-australia.html?adults=1&children=0&adultsv2=1&childrenv2=&infants=0&cabinclass=economy&rtn=1&preferdirects=false&outboundaltsenabled=false&inboundaltsenabled=false&ref=home) west coast, but if none of the schools offer courses that you can use towards your degree than it probably isn’t the best choice. Another important factor to consider when choosing your school is your budget; can you afford to live in London for six months to a year? Or, would you be better of basing yourself in Leeds and visiting [London](https://www.skyscanner.com/tips-and-inspiration/free-things-to-do-in-london-in-48-hours) on the weekends? Other things to consider are location (let’s be honest, you are doing this to travel and don’t want to be stuck in the middle of nowhere), safety, and population (it doesn’t need to be big, but where you decide to stay should have a good young adult population.) Remember it’s not a quick visit, this is somewhere where you will be living for a period of time. It should be somewhere you enjoy, can afford, and that will benefit you.
##Set up Banking Ahead of Time
Banking is definitely something you need to look into and plan ahead of time. Some banks don’t accept certain debit cards and most banks will charge you a ridiculous fee for every withdrawal. Trust me, those add up really quickly over a period of six months. To avoid unnecessary fees and stress, speak to your bank ahead of time about possible options. Perhaps they have ‘sister banks’ in the country you are visiting, or maybe they can put you on a specific program while you are abroad. If your bank doesn’t have any options, it might be easier to look into opening a bank account in the country you will be studying in. After all, you’ve worked hard for your money, don’t throw it away on silly things like [withdrawal fees](https://www.skyscanner.com/tips-and-inspiration/the-best-credit-cards-with-no-foreign-transaction-fees).
##Get an International Student Card (ISIC)
The International Student Card or ISIC is a lifesaver for anyone studying abroad looking to save money. The card is accepted around the world and offers discounts to cardholders for everything from train tickets to accommodation to activities and tourist attractions. It is the only globally recognized student card and is a must for everyone studying abroad.
*Note: You can purchase the ISIC online, however you must be enrolled as a full time student to be able to get the card. There is no age limit, just need to be over 12 years old.
Search Skyscanner’s Top Flight Deals
##Get Insurance
[Travel insurance](https://www.skyscanner.com/news/7-great-travel-insurance-companies-protect-your-next-epic-vacation) should be purchased before any type of travel, but especially if you are planning on studying abroad. Anything can happen anywhere and while you may never need to use it, it’s always better to be prepared. Getting sick or injured abroad is bad enough without having to worry about all the additional costs you can rack up by not having coverage.
##Read up on the local culture/area
You will save yourself a lot of stress by reading up on the destination ahead of time. Knowing simple things like the currency conversion, public transportation options, and a rough layout of the city will make everything easier. If you are studying somewhere where English is not the first language, try to learn at least a little bit beforehand. Not only will the locals appreciate it (and be more likely to assist you), but you’ll feel more prepared.
##Go to Your Classes
Classes are probably the least exciting part of this adventure, but you still need to go to them. After all, that’s what you are here for. Classes and attendance may be more lax in this destination but that’s no excuse to slack off. If you end up failing, then what was the point? You may as well have just waited until school was over to travel. Remember, you are paying for this experience so make it count in every way but don’t let it set you back with your education.
##Make the Most of it
Yes, you are actually living in this new destination but remember, it’s not permanent. You only have so much time and who knows when, or even if, you will get to come back. Make the most of your experience and don’t turn down any opportunities. If you are thinking of [booking a flight](https://www.skyscanner.com) to [Rome](https://www.skyscanner.com/tips-and-inspiration/rome-guide) for the weekend, do it. [Renting a car and doing a road trip](http://https://www.skyscanner.com/carhire/?pick_up_date=2017-10-01&drop_off_date=2017-10-02) up the Sunshine Coast? Go for it. A wild pub crawl in Dublin’s Temple Bar? Unless you have an exam the next morning, yes! Don’t ‘leave it for later’, because your time will be up before you know it.
Studying abroad is an incredible experience that will provide you with amazing memories to last your lifetime but there is some planning involved. Using the tips from this study abroad guide will help relieve some of the stress and get you ready to have an amazing time.
##For more travel inspiration
[Student Discount Flight Deals for 2017](https://www.skyscanner.com/tips-and-inspiration/deals/student-discount-flight-deals/)
[How to Visit 10 Cities for less than $500 with Skyscanner](https://www.skyscanner.com/tips-and-inspiration/how-to-visit-10-cities-for-less-than-500-with-skyscanner)
[Skyscanner’s List of Travel Necessities for Your Next Trip](https://www.skyscanner.com/tips-and-inspiration/travel-necessities)
