A complete checklist to help you prepare for your move abroad — from documents to banking, packing and arrival.

## 6–12 months before

- [ ] Accept your university offer - [ ] Apply for your student visa - [ ] Research and book verified accommodation - [ ] Arrange travel and health insurance - [ ] Check passport validity (at least 6 months beyond arrival)

## 2–3 months before

- [ ] Confirm accommodation and pay any deposit or bond - [ ] Book your flights - [ ] Arrange initial funds (travel card, cash, international transfer) - [ ] Research opening a local bank account - [ ] Get any required vaccinations or medical checks - [ ] Renew prescriptions and bring enough medication

## 1 month before

- [ ] Pack essentials (see packing list below) - [ ] Make digital and printed copies of all documents - [ ] Download offline maps of your destination city - [ ] Share your travel itinerary with family - [ ] Confirm airport pickup or transfer from your accommodation

## Documents to carry

Keep these in your carry-on luggage, never in checked bags:

- Passport and visa - University offer and enrolment letters - Accommodation confirmation - Travel and health insurance documents - Academic transcripts and certificates - Passport-size photos - Emergency contacts list

## Finances

- Notify your home bank of your travel dates - Set up a multi-currency travel card for initial spending - Research the best local bank for students - Bring enough local currency for the first week - Keep a record of exchange rates and transfer fees

## Packing essentials

Prioritise these in your luggage:

- Universal power adapter - Laptop, phone and chargers - Prescription medication (with doctor's note) - Season-appropriate clothing - Basic toiletries for the first few days - Important documents (printed copies) - A small first-aid kit

You can buy most things locally — don't overpack.

## Phone & connectivity

- Check if your phone is unlocked for local SIMs - Research student mobile plans at your destination - Download communication apps (WhatsApp, Zoom) before you leave - Save important numbers offline

## Health & insurance

- Confirm your health insurance covers you overseas - Know how to access healthcare at your destination - Carry a list of any allergies or medical conditions - Register with a local doctor soon after arrival

## Arrival logistics

- Confirm how you'll get from the airport to your accommodation - Keep your accommodation address written down in the local language - Have backup funds in case of delays - Rest — jet lag is real, so give yourself time to adjust

## Final tip

Preparation removes most of the stress of moving abroad. Work through this checklist step by step, and you'll arrive ready to start your new chapter with confidence.