How to Study Abroad - Easy Steps, Requirements & Tips

Many students from India and other countries want to study abroad. It is a big dream for many. Studying abroad helps you get a better education, more career options, and gain a totally new experience. Study abroad destinations like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Germany are some of the top choices for students who want to go for higher education.

But many students don’t know how to study abroad or where to start. There are many things to do – like choosing the right country, course, and university, giving an English test like IELTS, collecting documents, applying to colleges, and also applying for student visa. All this takes time and needs a proper plan.

Sometimes students feel confused or scared because they think it is very hard. But actually, if you follow the steps one by one, it is not that difficult. You just need to start early and stay prepared.

This article will tell you the 10 important steps to study abroad. If you are planning to go to another country for studies in 2025, this guide will help you from the first step till the last.

If you're thinking about finance, check out How to Study Abroad for Free in 2025?

1. Know Why You Want to Study Abroad

Before you apply, you should be clear about why you want to study abroad. Everyone has different reasons. Some students want quality education, some want an international job, and some want to settle abroad after studies.

Here are some common reasons:

• Get a world-class degree
• Learn new things and explore the world
• More job options after graduation
• Better standard of living
• Meet new people and cultures

Also Read: Exams to Study Abroad After 12th

2. Choose the Right Country

The next step is to choose the country where you want to study. Every country has its own rules, education system, fees, and job chances. You should select a country based on your budget, career plan, and comfort.

Over 1.3 million Indian students are currently studying abroad, with Canada as the top choice, followed closely by the United States. Canada is known for its clear PR pathways, while the US provides high-paying roles in tech, finance, and research. Studying abroad can lead to higher salaries, with 41% of employers considering candidates with international experience for higher pay.

Some top countries to study abroad:

• Canada – Easy PR, good part-time work, and safe
• UK – 2 years post-study visa, famous universities
• USA – Top-ranked universities, lots of courses
• Australia – Good weather, PR options, popular for Indian students
• Germany – Low or no tuition fee, best for engineering
• New Zealand – Peaceful, good for business and IT
• Ireland – Tech companies, good for master's students

Choose a country where you feel safe and confident. It is always advisable to check the best countries to study abroad for Indian students in 2025.

Also Read: 6 Popular Study Abroad Destinations

3. Pick the Right Course and University

After you select the country, now you need to choose the course and university. You should pick a course that you are really interested in and that gives you good job opportunities after graduation.

Some popular courses to study abroad:

• Engineering and Technology
• Computer Science / Data Science / AI
• MBA / Business / Management
• Health / Nursing / Public Health
• Arts / Design / Media
• Social Work / Psychology

Now check which universities offer your course and compare:

• Course syllabus
• Tuition fees
• Location and city
• Ranking and student reviews
• Scholarships

Tip: Don’t just follow what your friends are doing. Do your own research.

4. Check Admission Requirements

Every university and country has different admission rules. You should visit the official website of the university and check what all they ask.

Some common requirements:

• Good academic marks (10th, 12th, graduation)
• English test score (like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE)
• SOP – Statement of Purpose
• LORs – Letters of Recommendation
• Resume/CV (for master's)
• Portfolio (for design/arts students)
• Some courses may ask for SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT

If you have any doubt, you can also email the university and ask them.

5. Give an English Proficiency Test

Most universities and embassies need proof that you know English language. So, you need to give an English test.

Common English tests for study abroad:

• IELTS (most popular)
• TOEFL
• PTE Academic
• Duolingo English Test (online test accepted by many colleges now)

IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT: Which Test Do You Need?

English proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL are required for most non-native speakers, while GRE or GMAT is mandatory for specific Master’s or MBA programs. The US often requires GRE/GMAT, while many European countries focus on language scores. Country-wise requirement includes:

• US: Requires GRE for MS programs and GMAT for MBA programs.
• UK, Canada, Australia: Primarily require IELTS/TOEFL; some top B-schools may require GMAT for MBA programs.
• Germany: Requires IELTS/TOEFL; some STEM programs may require GRE.

Note: Many universities in the US (e.g., MIT) are making some of their programs GRE-optional.

But in some cases, you can study abroad without IELTS if your school was in English medium. Then you can submit a MOI certificate (Medium of Instruction). Also, some universities may take a small online interview instead of English test. Check what your university accepts.

6. Collect All Required Documents

Before applying, make sure you have all the important documents ready. This will help you apply fast and avoid mistakes.

Documents needed for study abroad:

• 10th and 12th mark sheets
• Degree or graduation certificate
• English test score (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
• SOP – your story and why you want to study
• LOR – from teachers or college professors
• Resume/CV (especially for PG and MBA)
• MOI certificate (if applying without IELTS)
• Passport (must be valid)
• Passport-size photos
• Work experience certificate (if any)

Scan and save all documents. Some may ask for printed and notarised copies too.

Also Read: Documents Required to Study Abroad: A Complete List

7. Arrange Finances & Scholarships

Understanding your financial requirements can help you plan your budget effectively and identify possible funding options, such as scholarships or part-time work opportunities. 

Before moving abroad, calculate the total cost of studying in your chosen country—including tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, and other essentials.

Look into scholarships like DAAD (Germany) or Chevening (UK) to reduce financial pressure. If needed, explore education loans with favorable interest rates and repayment terms.

Here’s how you can arrange for finances and scholarships:

Estimating the Total Cost of Studying Abroad

The total cost includes tuition of $10,000 to $50,000 (INR 8.5L - 24.8L) per year, living expenses of $8,000-$15,000 (INR 6.8L - 12.8L), and travel. Apart from these, there are other costs involved, including:

• Visa fees: $100 to $500 (INR 8.5K - 42.8K) 
• Health Insurance: $300 to $1,000 (INR 25.6K - 85.6K) per year
• Transportation: $50 to $150 (INR 4.2K - 12.8K)  per month
• Books and Stationery: $200 to $1,000 (INR 17.1K - 85.6K) per year
• Amenities: $100 to $300 (INR 8.5K - 25.6K) per month

Note: The cost may vary with country and program

Also Read: Cost of Studying Abroad for Indian Students in Rupees

Top Scholarships for International Students

Government-funded options like Chevening (UK), DAAD (Germany), and Fulbright (USA) offer full or partial coverage. Universities also provide merit and need-based scholarships, while private scholarships focus on specific fields. 

Other popular options include:

• Commonwealth Scholarships (UK): Offered to students from Commonwealth nations to pursue postgraduate study in the UK
• Erasmus+ (Europe): Offers financial support to students from EU and non-EU countries for studying, training, and exchange programs across EU member states.
• Australia Awards: Provides financial support for undergraduate and postgraduate study in Australia for students from the Asia-Pacific region.
• MIT, Harvard, Oxford, Cambridge Scholarships: Merit-based and need-based scholarships for top academic performers.

Loan and Financial Aid Options to Reduce Expenses

Education loans from Indian banks like SBI and HDFC Credila cover up to INR 50–75 lakh with moratoriums and repayment terms of 5–15 years. Interest rates typically range between 9% and 13%. Some countries and universities also offer grants or assistantships that don’t require repayment, especially for research-based programs.

Unsure how much funds are needed to study abroad? This Expense Calculator will help you factor in all costs, from tuition fees to accommodation, helping you plan your budget accurately!

8. Apply to Universities

Now it is time to submit your applications. Applications are submitted either through individual university portals or centralized systems like UCAS (UK). You can even connect with upGrad experts. They can easily guide you in applying to universities abroad. You will need to upload transcripts, SOP, standardized test scores, and other required documents. 

Missing documents or late submissions can lead to rejection. After applying, monitor your application status, as some universities request additional information before making a decision.

Tips to apply abroad:

• Apply early – don’t wait for last dates
• Fill form properly
• Attach all correct documents
• Pay the application fee (if asked)
• Write a good SOP – tell your reason clearly
• If applying without IELTS, attach MOI or email confirmation

You can apply to 3–5 universities based on your budget and chances.

Application Portals and Deadlines to Keep in Mind

Top universities, like Harvard, use specific portals, like Common App for the US, UCAS for the UK, and UniAssist for Germany. Major intakes for countries include:

• US & Canada: Fall (Aug/Sep), Spring (Jan), Summer (May)
• UK: September and January
• Germany: Winter (Oct) and Summer (April)
• Australia: February and July
• Singapore: August and January

Also Read: UCAS vs. Common App: A Must-Know for International Students

Step-by-Step Guide to the University Application Process 

Start by reviewing university entry requirements. Fill out the application—either via the university website or central portals like UCAS or Common App—then upload the required documents. Strengthen your application with a clear SOP, accurate academic records, and proof of extracurriculars or work experience.

You can create a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) in the following ways:

• Clearly Define Your Goals: Highlight your academic and professional goals, and explain how the program aligns with them.
• Highlight Relevant Experience: Focus on specific experiences, research, or projects that showcase your skills for the program.
• Show Fit with the Program: Demonstrate why the university and the program are the best fit for your aspirations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Application

Late submissions, missing documents, incorrect formatting, and generic SOPs can lead to rejections. Proofread everything, follow each university’s checklist, and avoid using the same SOP or LORs without customization. Other common mistakes to avoid include:

• Weak Recommendation Letters: A vague or generic recommendation letter can fail to highlight your true potential.
• Poor University Selection: Applying to universities that don't align with your academic strengths can reduce your chances of admission.
• Lack of Personalization: Submitting a generic Statement of Purpose can make you stand out less to admissions committees.

How to Track Your Application Status?

Most universities update application status through an online portal or email. If waitlisted, follow instructions precisely. If there’s no response after the deadline (6-8 weeks), send a polite query to the admissions office with your application ID. 

If you receive multiple offers, compare tuition fees, scholarships, course structure, and post-graduation opportunities before accepting. If you have genuine reasons like health conditions, you can request a deferral before accepting the offer. 

Track early and regular deadlines closely, as applying early often improves your chances and gives you more time for visa and funding arrangements. 

9. Accept Offer Letter and Apply for Student Visa

After you apply, universities will send Offer Letters. It can be:

• Conditional offer – need to complete some steps (like IELTS score, final marks, etc.)
• Unconditional offer – final acceptance

Once you accept the offer and pay deposit, the university sends:

• CAS letter (for UK)
• I-20 (for USA)
• Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) (for Australia)

Checking visa timelines and required documents early is crucial. Countries like the US require an in-person interview, while others may focus more on financial proof and documentation. Common rejection reasons include insufficient funds, unclear intent, or incomplete paperwork—avoid these by double-checking all details.

Country-Specific Visa Requirements and Processes 

The US (F-1), UK (Student Route), Canada (Study Permit), and Australia (Subclass 500) each have unique visa processes. Common requirements include a passport, a letter of acceptance from the university, proof of funds, SOP, and biometrics. 

Submit visa applications 6–12 weeks before departure to avoid delays. Processing times vary: the US typically takes 4–6 weeks, Canada 8–12 weeks, the UK around 3 weeks, and Australia up to 6 weeks.

Documents needed for a student visa:

• University offer letter or CAS
• Visa application form
• Tuition fee receipt
• Proof of funds – bank statement or loan letter
• Academic documents
• English score
• Passport
• Medical and biometric tests (country-specific)
• Health insurance (for some countries)

The visa process takes time, so apply early after getting the offer.

Visa Interview Preparation Tips for Success

Be honest, maintain clear intent to return (if required), and avoid planned answers. Nervousness, inconsistent details, or unclear financial proof can cause rejection.

Expect questions on your course choice, university selection, funding, and post-study plans. Practice answering:

• Why did you choose this university?
• What are your future career plans?
• How will you fund your studies?

Avoid robotic responses—speak naturally but with clarity. If asked about returning to your home country, mention family ties, job prospects, or business plans, as weak ties can lead to rejection. The US focuses on intent to return, while Canada and Australia assess financial preparedness and study relevance.

Common Reasons for Visa Rejections and How to Avoid Them

Visas are often denied due to lack of funds, weak home country ties, or inconsistent paperwork. If rejected, check if the country allows appeals: the US does not, but you can reapply; Canada and Australia allow reconsideration requests, while the UK permits administrative reviews.

To improve reapplication chances:

• Strengthen financial proof with updated bank statements and sponsorship letters.
• Clarify study intentions in your SOP.
• Address inconsistencies in your documentation.

10. Get Ready to Fly and Begin New Life

Once you get visa, you need to plan accommodation and living arrangements, and then you are all set to travel and start your study abroad journey.

Before you go, do these things:

• Book your flight
• Arrange accommodation (university hostel or outside)
• Join student groups on WhatsApp/Facebook
• Carry some cash in local currency
• Download maps, transport apps, etc.
• Keep documents and printouts in a file
• Pack clothes and things based on the weather there
• Take some Indian food or snacks you like (optional)

How to Plan Accommodation and Living Arrangements in Abroad?

Choose housing based on your budget and location. On-campus options are often more affordable and safer than private rentals. If staying off-campus, check commute time, furnished vs. unfurnished options, and how to source basic utilities like furniture. Always research the neighborhood’s safety to avoid high-risk areas prone to theft or unrest.

Here’s how you can plan for accommodation:

On-Campus vs. Off-Campus Housing: Which One to Choose?

On-campus housing offers fixed costs, proximity to classes, and added security, but has limited availability. Off-campus housing provides more flexibility but needs to manage rent, utilities, and safety on your own. Use university housing offices, student forums, and platforms like Amberstudent for verified listings.

Budgeting for Rent, Utilities, and Daily Expenses

Start with fixed costs: rent, electricity, internet, transport, and groceries. Allocate 10–15% for unexpected expenses. Save expenses through shared housing, student meal plans, and public transport passes. Many countries offer student discounts on food, travel, and electronics. Make sure to carry a valid student ID.

Finding Safe and Affordable Accommodation Abroad

Use trusted sites like HousingAnywhere, Nestpick, and university-affiliated listings. Check for smoke alarms, secure locks, and safe public access. Do not pay an advance before signing a contract or verifying ownership through official channels.

Also Read: Best Student Accommodation In USA

How to Plan Travel Abroad?

Before leaving, confirm you have all documents, such as passport, visa, and university admission letter. Pack essentials based on climate, including warm clothing, electronics, and chargers. For non-English-speaking countries like Germany, France, Japan,  downloading translation apps or carrying basic phrasebooks can help with communication.

Here’s how you can prepare for departure:

Essential Pre-Departure Checklist for International Students

Carry key documents—visa, passport, university offer letter, academic transcripts, and vaccination records. Buy international health insurance and check for required immunizations based on destination. Pack essentials like prescriptions, adapters, and key academic supplies to avoid early issues.

Packing Tips: Things to Carry and Leave Behind

Pack essentials like weather-appropriate clothes, basic utensils, electronics, and copies of important documents. Check for country-specific restrictions on food, medicines, and electronics. Use space-saving vacuum bags and organize items by category.

Adjusting to a New Culture and Academic Environment

Expect changes in classroom interaction, punctuality, and social etiquette. Use language tools like Google Translate and sign up for language workshops if needed. Join student associations or cultural clubs as they can help with academic support and cultural adaptation. Try to reach 1–2 weeks before classes begin so you can settle and adjust to the new place.

Also Read: Tips to Beat 6 Common Challenges For Indian Students Who Plan To Study Abroad

Conclusion

So these were the 10 essential steps to study abroad. If you plan properly and follow each step one by one, your dream to study abroad can become true. Many students think it’s too hard or too expensive, but it is not. With the right guidance and preparation, you can go to your dream university in 2025.

Studying abroad will change your life. You will get global education, make international friends, and build a better future for yourself and your family.

If you need help in applying to study abroad, selecting best universities, or getting visa, you can contact upGrad Counselling Services.