by Debra Menager

Created on: September 01, 2009   Last Updated: September 08, 2009

Anticipation can be half the fun, but with something this exciting, how can you wait? You decided to study abroad, you applied and were accepted! Obviously, the best half will be after you go: exploring and enjoying totally new and foreign experiences. Now all it seems you can do is wait. But you really do have more. Anticipate.

You are less likely to miss a wonderful opportunity if you already know it exists well before you leave. Learn more about where you are going. Discover more possibilities to explore, asking for more information and learning who to contact or what to do to open up these opportunities.

Time will move quickly. Starting early can save money, and may allow extra options; make the most of what and where you will be. Don't hesitate to ask questions and look for answers. Then ask more. As you move ahead, what you know you need, and what you learn you may want may change. Things like buying plane tickets early are obviously ways to save money. Other early preparations save time, or avoid possible delays and costly frustrations.With all the possibilities to explore, your wait won't really be that long. Anticipate and have fun!

Start Travel Preparations Early:

Beyond lowering your airfare, some other early plans seem obvious. Schedule and finish your travel physical and inoculations. Depending upon the country, there may be a series of shots, with a required interval between them. Forms may need to be sent and received before you arrive at the college you will be attending.

Your college program will probably include overseas insurance, health care and evacuation plans in case of emergency. But it doesn't hurt to ask early: check details on what is provided, what procedures are required, and what you and your family will be expected to do or provide (forms, fees, additional options). You may want extra time to complete, or add to, these arrangements.

You will need a passport, but you may also need to apply for a student visa (permission from the country to stay and study, in addition to that obtained from the college). Don't expect your counselor or others at your college to make all the arrangements - ask early what details your college usually covers, and what you should expect to do on your own.

Give plenty of time, and double check that your applications are being processed if you have not heard after a lengthy wait. Ask your school officials for an idea on what to expect, and how long to wait before inquiring about your application. What seems

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