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Your First Month Abroad: A Practical Settling-In Guide

Bank accounts, SIM cards, groceries and homesickness – everything nobody tells you about your first four weeks as an international student.

The first month abroad is exciting, exhausting and occasionally overwhelming. Here is how to make it smoother.

Week 1: Essentials

  • Collect your residence permit or register with local authorities
  • Get a local SIM card
  • Open a student bank account

Week 2: Find your routine

Attend orientation, join two or three student societies and locate the nearest Indian grocery store.

Week 3: Work and money

Update your CV to the local format and start applying for part-time roles. Track your spending with a simple budget app.

Week 4: Look after yourself

Homesickness is normal. Keep in touch with family, but also say yes to new experiences. Our alumni network is always just a message away.

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