Get more information about the basics and the Higher Education Area in several countries!

Checklist to study abroad >
Study in Germany >
Study in France >
Study in Spain >
Study in Italy >

Checklist to study abroad

The wish to discover a different country and culture, the expectation of great experience and the ambition to broaden one's mind and skills: most of the students are thinking about studying abroad, but only a few put that idea into practice. Although, especially with the bologna achievements, it's easy for UK natives to study abroad. But of course there are still a lot of questions to solve and a lot to organise in order to find the easiest and most convenient way.

What is the easiest way?

Beside taking an entire degree abroad you have the possibility to go abroad as a part of a UK degree. For this option, you have a lot of supporting programmes like the EU schemes ERASMUS or LEONARDO, which is a very easy way - because it's organised - to study one or two terms at a European university. You have benefits like eased admission requirements, you’re not in charge for tuition fees and you get help for the organisation. In addition to that you are financial supported. Which cooperation’s are available and how much students can take part of the exchange depends on the university. Another appropriate scheme is IAESTE for students of science, technology and engineering degrees. In case that there are no public supports available for you, you have to organise your studies abroad by yourself.

Where can I get help at my university?

Visit the International Office or Study Abroad Office at your university, which is likely to be the best source of information about what opportunities are available to you. Also fellow students and those of a higher term might be good sources.

Are there any financial supports available?

The cost of education overseas varies a lot between the countries and even regions. Within Europe, education is often heavily subsidised and studies might be much cheaper than in the UK. In opposite to that, the cost for studies in the USA, including application, tests etc., can be enormous. The mentioned programmes support studies abroad as a part of UK degree, but of course there are possibilities of funding also for entire studies abroad. Don't hesitate to get information about sources of financial support at the relevant embassy, consulate or education office and from the universities to which you apply. Also enquire about support from UK sources: sponsors might be the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) and a small number of UK research councils or educational trusts and charities. Unfortunately, the competition for most scholarships is pretty intense and so most of the students who spent entire studies abroad funds it, at least proportionate, by themselves, respectively by their families.

How much time will I need to organise my studies abroad?

In general it is necessary to start as early as possible. Every university has its own specifics. Even within Europe, where the adaptation of a general education system is under way, things still run a little bit different in single countries, regions and institutions.

15 month in advance
Start to research your options: Which university in which country come into question? How is the higher education structured in this country? Do I have to pass language tests? And, in case of studies abroad as a part of UK degree, are my previous Credit Points accepted in the country of your choice? How are the conditions for studying abroad as a part of UK degree at my university? Do I need to ask for time off or can you integrate my stay abroad?

12 month in advance
One year before you start your studies abroad you should have resolved all questions about the structure of the studies and the course of your choice (regard that the taught subjects might differ), acceptance of your previous achievements of study, tuition fees, closing dates and the application procedures. Then you are ready to send your application. Subsequent, you can enquire for opportunities of supporting funding in the UK and the country of your choice.

6 month in advance
Check if there are special formalities that you should pay attention to like visa, which you can find out at the country's embassy or consulate in the UK. If you travel overseas, you should also think about medical care like a health insurance which even might be required at your university abroad or for the payment of a scholarship.

Final 3 month
Take the last three months before your departure to organise personal things. Can you sublet your domicile in the UK? Do you have to abrogate a side job or a subscription?

At the very end
When all formal organisations are finished it's time to say good bye to your friends. The way to do that is up to you, but we recommend a big party on that you can always happily think back while you're abroad!

Find special information at