Six steps · about twelve months
Your study abroad journey, one step at a time.
Most students start about a year before the intake. Each step below has its own guide: what happens, what to prepare, and what we do for you at that stage.
The journey
Six steps from the first question to the first semester.
Start wherever you are. If you already have an offer, jump to step four.
- Step 1: Why study abroad?Work out what an overseas degree can do for your studies, your career and you — before you commit the time and the money.Read the guide
- Step 2: Where and what to study?Shortlist countries, courses and universities that fit your results, your budget and your goals.Read the guide
- Step 3: How do I apply?Prepare your documents, sit your tests and submit strong, complete applications before the deadlines.Read the guide
- Step 4: After receiving an offerUnderstand your offer, secure your place, prove your funds and apply for your student visa.Read the guide
- Step 5: Prepare to departBook travel, confirm accommodation, arrange your money and pack sensibly so you land ready.Read the guide
- Step 6: Arrive and thriveSettle in, keep to your visa conditions, look after your wellbeing and make the most of study and work.Read the guide
Twelve-month plan
What to do, and when.
Counted back from your intake month. US applications and scholarships often run two or three months earlier.
- 12 months beforeReflect on goals, agree the budget with your family and book a counselling session.
- 11–10 months beforeResearch countries, courses and universities. Start preparing for the English test.
- 10–9 months beforeSit IELTS or another test. Shortlist five to eight universities and list scholarship deadlines.
- 9–8 months beforeCollect transcripts and certificates, renew your passport if needed and brief your referees.
- 8–7 months beforeDraft your statement of purpose and CV. Start organising sponsor funds so the history is visible.
- 7–6 months beforeSubmit applications and scholarship forms — earlier for the USA and scholarship-heavy intakes.
- 6–4 months beforeReceive offers, compare them, accept one and meet its conditions.
- 4–3 months beforePay the deposit through your student file and receive the CoE, CAS, I-20 or equivalent. Police clearance, medicals and insurance.
- 3–2 months beforeApply for the visa and attend biometrics or the interview.
- 2–1 months beforeVisa decision, flights, accommodation and the pre-departure briefing.
- Final weeks beforePack, arrange currency and fly out one to two weeks before orientation.
Not sure which step you are on?
Bring your results and your passport to our Lalmatia office, or send them on WhatsApp. In one free session we will place you on the journey and write down the next three things to do.