Studying abroad is a massive life changing opportunity for students. It comes with excitement, new opportunities, and the chance to grow. But with that excitement comes the tendency to overlook or underestimate certain things, leading to silly and sometimes costly mistakes.
Students might feel overwhelmed and unsure of the right decisions to make, especially in the early stages of the journey. That uncertainty makes it much easier to commit errors that could affect your experience. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common mistakes students make when studying abroad and how to avoid falling into them. This way you can enjoy your time abroad while being smart about your choices, prepared, and in control.
Here is a list of what will be covered:
- Poor planning
- Overpacking and underpacking
- Taking studies too lightly (or too seriously)
- Not applying for scholarships
- Inadequate budgeting
- Not learning the local language
- Refusing to ask for help
- Neglecting social connections
- Ignoring your health and safety
Let’s dive into each one starting with a classic;
Poor planning
This one goes out to everyone who dreads packing and procrastinates travel preparations. When you are preparing to study in another country, you will have to step up your game, as things won’t always go the way you imagined. Most especially if you have never lived far from home before.
The best way to avoid chaos is always to start early and make a checklist of what you need to do, buy, and arrange. Don’t leave anything out; From visa appointments and flight bookings to accommodation and important documents. Planning ahead is what will allow you to be less stressed and ensures you’re not stuck scrambling at the last minute or risking your entire trip over something avoidable.
Underpacking or overpacking
You should take careful time and consideration while packing because this is more than just a one time trip – It’s a long time move that can shift your entire lifestyle. Pack with intention and research the climate, culture, and average lifestyle in your destination country. What type of clothes will you wear regularly? What items will be easy or hard to find locally?
You don’t want to be the one who packed expensive high heels only to discover it rains constantly. On the other hand, don’t pack so little that you end up needing to buy items you could’ve easily brought from home. Be sure to pack basics for emergencies; A first aid kit, medicine, extra toiletries, and at least one formal outfit. Your family won’t be around to lend you things last minute.
Taking studies too Lightly… or too seriously
Some students forget that they’ve been granted a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and lock themselves in their rooms with notebooks and study materials. That might get you top grades, but outside academics, you will return with little to remember.You won’t have any stories to tell or new experiences, and you won’t be able to say you’ve gone through any significant personal growth.
Others go in the opposite direction – maybe you’re naturally extroverted and the thrill of freedom in a new country leads you to neglect your studies. You start skipping class, putting off assignments, and telling yourself you’ll catch up later neglecting all your responsibilities.
The key is balance. You’re still a student with academic goals to meet, and in many cases, a scholarship to maintain. But don’t let the pressure prevent you from exploring life beyond lectures.
Failing to applying for extra scholarships
Many international students are already on scholarships, so this might seem irrelevant. But don’t underestimate the importance of applying for additional financial support. Small awards, grants, and competitions can make a big difference when your money’s tight.
Sure, your main scholarship might cover tuition and accommodation fees, but what about transport, books, health expenses, or groceries incase prices spike? You can’t always depend on sponsors to cover every single cost. A bit of extra cash can come in really handy – especially when you are met with unexpected or wanted situations.
Inadequate budgeting
While we are still on the topic of money, do you have a financial plan? Most likely you’ve heard the warnings, but budgeting is one of those things that people dont take seriously enough until they run into real problems.
This may also be your first time handling money on your own so you won’t expect it right away but everything adds up and money finishes fairly quickly. From rent and bills to groceries and phone data. Track your income and expenses, set spending limits, and find ways to save. If possible, consider getting a small part time job that will fit into your schedule.
The key is to always have more than you need, and if you don’t, be proactive about finding support or side income. Your future self will thank you.
Not learning the local language
It’s an overlooked step and might seem like a minor detail, but learning the local language of your host country is incredibly useful. You’ll be living there for years – long enough for the basics to come in handy. Even if your courses are in English, life outside the classroom won’t be. You don’t have to be fluent. Just 10 to 15 minutes of practice each day months before leave can make a huge difference. It’ll help you read signs, order food, ask for directions, and build trust with locals. In emergencies, that little knowledge can also save you from panic or isolation.
Not asking for help
Being independent is great. It’s likely one of the reasons you wanted to study abroad in the first place. But pride or fear of seeming weak can hold you back more than anything else. Ask for help when you need it. Whether it’s with academics, mental health, navigating a new city, or handling paperwork – there’s no shame in it. Remember that universities usually have student support centres, counsellors, academic advisors, and mentorship programs.
You’re not expected to figure everything out on your own. Asking for help is a sign of strength and self-awareness, not weakness.
Neglecting to build connections
Loneliness is a silent issue many international students face. It can sneak up on you, especially after the initial excitement wears off. Some students are naturally introverted, while others are more outgoing and will still feel like they don’t quite “fit in” with the people around them. If it is left unaddressed, it can seriously affect your experience and maybe even your mental health in the long term.
At the beginning it will be tempting to only stick with people from your own country. And yes, it’s important to have that sense of your own community but don’t stop there. Make friends with local students. The best way to do that is by joining clubs, attending events and outings.It will be awkward at first but the effort will pay off greatly.
In addition, don’t forget to stay in touch with loved ones from back home. They’re your support system and can help you stay motivated, especially during tough times. A quick call or message now and then can make a huge difference to your emotional wellbeing.
Health and safety
When moving to a new environment – especially a new continent – your body will need time to adjust. It’s not uncommon to fall ill in the first few weeks or months, even from minor things like food, water, or weather changes. Eat clean, stay hydrated, and don’t push yourself too hard. Make sure you know where the nearest clinic is and what the emergency numbers are. Keep them saved in your phone. This is also why having money set aside is essential – medicine and healthcare are expensive, and it’s better to be prepared.
Safety-wise, be street smart. Learn about the area you’ll be staying in and the places to avoid. Most especially if you’re going out late or exploring new locations make sure you have someone who knows about your whereabouts. Most importantly, trust your instincts. If something feels off, don’t brush it aside. Report issues to your university if needed. Your safety and wellbeing come first.
In conclusion
Studying abroad is not just about earning a degree, it is also about growing, evolving, and exploring new versions of the world. Mistakes will happen, but how you prepare for and respond to them will shape your journey. Don’t be too hard on yourself, but do take proactive steps. Start early, plan well, ask for help, stay connected, and keep your long term goals in sight. That way, you won’t just survive your time abroad – you’ll thrive in it. And in the end, you’ll return with more than just a certificate. You’ll return with lessons, memories, and a version of yourself that’s more confident and capable than ever before.
