How You Can Plan Your Study Abroad Dream During COVID-19

If you were planning to start a degree programme abroad this fall, the COVID-19 pandemic would likely have thrown a wrench in your plans. Perhaps you’re considering your higher education alternatives for the coming year and aren’t sure if studying in another nation is still a viable option.

Read on for answers to all of the questions in your head, whether you’ve just begun your new degree and are having to adjust to the “new normal,” are considering applying in time when the spring semester is just getting started, or are still weighing your options for next year.

Many universities are still accepting international students

Whatever your circumstances, one thing to remember is that studying abroad is still a viable option. The majority of universities, particularly in Europe, allow international students. In addition, visa application centres are beginning to reopen, and the vast majority of institutions have devised contingency plans in the event of other lockdowns, limitations, or travel bans.

It’s also worth recalling that, in a post-COVID world, the global prognosis for the future is mainly favourable. Governments have begun to respond to unexpected issues, and several safety precautions have been developed, such as mass testing and “track and trace” systems.

Obstacles to overseas education, such as movement restrictions, longer visa processing delays, and a volatile employment market, are projected to lessen in the future. To summarise, now is as good a moment as ever to seek higher education overseas and reap the benefits it can offer.

Travel restriction- not a barrier for your study plans

Both present and potential international students are concerned about travel limitations. While many schools offer virtual programmes, the ability to experience a new location, culture, and language is an integral part of the appeal of travelling overseas.

Consult the proper government and embassy websites to stay up to date on all travel limitations and exemptions, so you know whether or not you’ll be able to go to your preferred nation in time for the start of the school year. If you cannot travel during the first semester, you will most likely be able to travel during the second semester.

Many universities, including the University of Glasgow, have adopted flexible start dates and online and on-campus hybrid alternatives, so you don’t have to wait. Make sure you acquire all of the details, so you know what you’re up against. Also, keep in mind that students with student visas may be free from travel restrictions in the country where their university is located.

Take care of accommodation and healthcare prior to your arrival 

Finding a place to live and getting health insurance for students moving overseas should be the top priority.

In your first year, you may opt to live in accommodations such as student flats in Nottingham, halls, studio student apartments in Sheffield or university-owned apartments; this is an excellent opportunity to settle in and meet new people. If that’s the case, be sure they have appropriate health and safety regulations in place before you sign anything. Alternatively, you may discover that having your place is more conducive to your mental well-being at this time. Regardless of whether the option is ideal for you, your university or school should be able to provide you with crucial information to guide you in your search.

When it comes to healthcare, most students will be covered in the event of an emergency. This isn’t always the case, though. Always check the laws of the country you’re visiting. Health insurance will almost certainly be required for anyone travelling into or out of the European Union. It’s also a great idea to find out if you’ll need a COVID-19 PCR test before you fly or when you get to your campus country. Finally, look at the healthcare policies in place at your institution. Are they capable of assisting you if you become ill?

Campus covid-19 measures

Before deciding on a programme, familiarise yourself with the specifics of how it will be taught to ensure that any alterations to standard teaching frameworks will still provide you with the engaging educational experience you need. Knowing the practicalities will help you get settled when you arrive if you’ve already been accepted into a degree programme.

The great majority of institutions have hybrid schedules that include a combination of face-to-face and virtual classes and limited time on campus. Most have also devised backup plans if local or national governments enact additional rules.

Even though covid is still here, you can still pursue your dream of studying abroad

Nobody knows what the “new normal” would look like once the world has wholly grasped COVID-19. Higher education Universities, on the other hand, have demonstrated exceptional adaptability and durability.

A wide range of overseas options is available to prospective students. It’s still feasible to enrol in a course you enjoy, immerse yourself in a new culture, and make lifelong friends.