Student Guide
DBGS
Navigating Your Study Abroad Journey
- Guide to Choosing Where and What to Study Abroad?
- Before applying, consider the following points:
- Academic goals & language: English vs. non-English programs
- Budget: Tuition fees, cost of living, scholarships
- Visa/work opportunities: Post-study work permits, part-time jobs
- Institution quality: Rankings, accreditation, graduate outcomes
- Lifestyle fit: Culture, safety, weather, and diversity
Higher Education Application Steps
- Eligibility Check: Ensure you meet academic and language entry requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc.)
- Required Documents: Keep a check list of docs required before applying.
- Academic transcripts & certificates: The certificates must be neatly and clearly scanned before uploading them.
- Valid passport: Validity of the passport must be at least be 1 year from the date of the visa stamping.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement: Check on the content and grammatical errors and spell checks to be done before hand.
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs): 3 Recommendation letters are required, 2 can be from your school / college and the third one can be from the Employer if you are show casing your experience.
- CV/Resume: (if applicable)
- Language proficiency scores: Score card must be clear and be valid.
Student Visa / Study Permit
- Core Visa Requirements (vary by country):
- Letter of Acceptance from a recognized institution
- Proof of Funds: Bank statements, scholarships, or sponsor letters
- Medical checks (in some cases)
- Language proficiency
- Visa application fees & biometrics
Common Student Visas:
Country | Visa Type |
Canada | Study permit |
USA | F-1 / M-1 (To study vocational or technical programs in the U.S.) |
UK | Student Route (Tier 4) |
Australia | Subclass 500 |
New Zealand | Fee-Paying Student Visa |
Germany | Student Visa / APS (if required) |
Ireland | Long Stay D Visa – Study |
Pre-Departure Checklist
- Valid visa and passport
- Confirmed accommodation and airport pick-up
- Currency exchange and international card
- Health insurance or proof of coverage
- Academic and travel documents (hard + soft copies)
- Emergency contact list
Arrival & Immigration Procedures
- Have your visa/study permit approval letter, Letter of Acceptance, and financial proof ready
- Be prepared for questions about your studies and finances at immigration
- Follow customs and health protocols (especially post-COVID)
Registration with Institution & Local Authorities
- Attend orientation and complete university check-in
- Register with local authorities (if required, e.g., in Germany or the UK)
- Open a local bank account and obtain student ID
- Apply for local SIM card and transportation pass
Academic Life & Campus Culture
- Understand grading systems and attendance policies
- Take part in clubs, networking events, and career fairs
- Seek academic help early if struggling (tutors, writing centres, advisors)
- Respect academic integrity: no plagiarism or cheating
Work Opportunities
- Work variations on student visa
Country | Work Limitations on study visa |
Canada | Up to 20 hrs/week during term; full-time during breaks |
USA | On-campus only (first year), then CPT/OPT |
UK | 20 hrs/week during term; full-time during breaks |
Australia | 48 hrs per fortnight during term |
New Zealand | 20 hrs/week during term |
Europe | 20 hrs/week during term |
Note: Rules vary by visa type and institution.
Health Insurance & Wellbeing
- Most countries require health insurance for international students
- Mental health resources are usually available on-campus
- Emergency numbers and medical centres should be saved on your phone.
Accommodation & Living
- Options: On-campus housing, homestay, private rentals
- Research area safety, public transport, and lease terms
- Budget monthly expenses (housing, food, transport, personal)
Post-Study Options
- Post-study work visas (e.g., PGWP in Canada, OPT in the U.S., Graduate Route in the UK)
- Pathways to Permanent Residency for eligible graduates (country-specific)
- Plan your next steps early in your final year
Bringing Dependents (If Applicable)
- Some countries allow dependents (spouse/children)
- Additional visa requirements and financial proof will apply
- Spouse work rights vary by country and education level
Visa Compliance & Legal Responsibilities
- Keep your study permit/visa valid (renew before expiry)
- Maintain full-time enrolment
- Report address or program changes to authorities if required
- Follow local laws and school policies to avoid penalties or deportation.
Need Support with Your International Education Plans?
Services offered by our qualified immigration specialists include:
✅ Application & documentation support
✅ Visa guidance & interview prep
✅ SOP/LOR drafting help
✅ Post-arrival and PR planning
