How to Start Studying Abroad: 10 Essential Research Steps

Start your study abroad research with these 10 steps: set your goals, check your budget, compare countries and programs, and confirm visa rules. This guide shows you where to begin.

Researching study abroad can feel overwhelming. There are many countries, thousands of programs, and rules that change often. Follow these steps in order to stay organized and make a confident choice.

When Should You Start Researching?

Start researching 12 to 18 months before you want to begin your studies. This gives you time to prepare for English tests, gather documents, meet application deadlines, and apply for a student visa. Scholarship deadlines can be even earlier. For example, Chevening scholarship applications for UK study usually close about 10 months before the course starts.

Step 1: Identify Your Goals

Start with why you want to study abroad. Your answer will guide every other choice. Ask yourself:

• What subject do I want to study, and what career do I want afterward?
• Do I want to work abroad after graduation, or return home?
• What level of study do I need: certificate, diploma, bachelor's, or master's?

Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget

Work out how much you and your family can spend each year. Include tuition, rent, food, transport, health insurance, visa fees, and flights. Remember that most countries ask you to show proof of funds for your student visa. This usually means your first year of tuition plus a set amount for living costs.

Step 3: Check Your Academic and English Readiness

Look at your grades and qualifications, and find out what English level you need. Most programs ask for a test such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. Scores are usually valid for two years, so time your test well. If your English is not at the required level yet, look for programs with conditional admission or English pathways.

Step 4: Shortlist Two or Three Countries

Researching every country is exhausting. Pick two or three to focus on. Compare them by cost, language, post-study work options, job market in your field, and lifestyle. ApplyBoard works with institutions in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland, Germany, Malta, Spain, Singapore, Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates. Read our guide on Choosing the Best Country to Study Abroad.

Step 5: Check the Latest Visa Rules

Student visa rules change often, so check them early. In recent years, several popular destinations have made significant updates. For example, Canada has introduced annual caps on study permits, the UK is shortening its Graduate visa from two years to 18 months for non-doctoral applications submitted on or after 1 January 2027, and countries like Australia have updated their financial and screening criteria. Always check the official government immigration website for your destination before you apply.

Step 6: Search and Compare Programs

Instead of opening dozens of browser tabs, use the ApplyBoard Program Search. You can filter programs by country, field of study, tuition cost, intake date, and eligibility requirements, all in one place. Pay attention to:

• Entry requirements and English test scores
• Program length and start dates (intakes)
• Tuition fees and available scholarships
• Co-op, internship, or work placement options
• Whether the program leads to post-study work rights

Step 7: Build Your ApplyBoard Wish List

Keep your research organised with the ApplyBoard Program Wish List. It works like a "save for later" button.

• Search: Browse programs on the ApplyBoard platform.
• Save: Click the heart icon on any program card you like.
• Review: Open your Wish List page anytime to compare your saved programs side by side.

Step 8: Attend Virtual Events and Talk to Schools

Webinars and virtual fairs let you ask admissions teams questions directly. Ask about scholarships, housing, student support, and job outcomes for graduates. Write your questions down before each event so you do not forget them.

Step 9: Learn From Real Students

Talk to people who have already done it. Current students and alumni can tell you what life is really like.

• Alumni: Reach out on LinkedIn. Many are happy to share their experience.
• Student ambassadors: Many schools have student ambassador programs you can contact.
• Social media: Follow ApplyBoard on Instagram and TikTok for stories from international students.

Step 10: Get Expert Advice and Take Action

Once you have a shortlist, talk to an ApplyBoard expert. They can review your profile, check your eligibility, and help you choose the programs with the best chance of success. Then start your applications, and keep track of every deadline.

Your Study Abroad Research Timeline

Frequently Asked Questions

Good research is the foundation of a successful study abroad journey. Take it one step at a time, rely on official sources for important facts, and ask for help when you need it. When you are ready, ApplyBoard is here to guide you from application to arrival.