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Study Abroad Checklist Before Reaching Schiller International University
Moving to a different city for studies can be overwhelming. So, imagine the challenge when you decide to move to a different country altogether! This feeling can be easily managed with a study abroad checklist! Whether you already have an offer from Schiller International University (SIU) or are just testing the waters to check everything you will need, our comprehensive step-by-step study abroad checklist can help you begin your higher education journey successfully. We will cover everything from admission requirements and necessary documents to English proficiency needs and visa tips, to ensure a smooth transition to your international university experience.
Admission requirements
If you want to study at SIU, you must start by gaining admission. You will need the following study abroad documents checklist to apply for our bachelor or master programs.
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Passport: A passport with a validity for at least six months beyond your course duration.
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Academic transcripts and certifications: Provide copies of your academic records and certificates.
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Proof of English proficiency: If English isn’t your first language, you will have to prove your English proficiency to ensure that you can follow lectures, participate in discussions, and complete assignments. You can take any of the following English language tests and secure the minimum score required for undergraduate and graduate programs.
Undergraduate programs
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English language test |
Minimum score required |
|
TOEFL IBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language) |
Minimum score of 80 |
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TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication) |
Minimum score of 650 |
|
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) |
Minimum score of 6.0 |
|
Duolingo English Exam |
At least 95 for all programs |
|
Pearson English Test (PTE) |
A GSE score of 59 or higher |
Graduate programs
|
English language test |
Minimum score required |
|
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) |
89 (IBT – Internet version) |
|
TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication) |
Minimum score of 700 |
|
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) |
Minimum score of 6.5 |
|
Duolingo English Exam |
At least 105 for all programs |
|
Pearson English Test (PTE) |
A GSE score of 76 or higher |
Visa requirements
If you reside outside Europe or the United States, you will need to apply for a student visa to study at Schiller International University. Take a look at the checklist for studying abroad in Europe or the USA to secure a student visa.
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Application: You will have to submit a completed online application and pay a non-refundable application fee.
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Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
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Photograph: Provide multiple copies of your most recent passport-size photograph.
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Academic documents: Proof of successful completion of high school, or equivalent, associate degree, bachelor’s degree or master’s degree.
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Financial support: Bank account statements, scholarship letters, or financial aid proof.
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Letter of Acceptance: Offer letter or letter of acceptance from Schiller International University.
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Tuition fees: Receipt of the advance deposit of tuition.
Accommodation arrangements
Your living arrangements are a huge part of your study abroad experience, and making the right choice will make all the difference. You can choose on-campus housing or prefer to live off-campus, based on your preference and budget.
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On-campus: At Schiller, we offer convenient and safe on-campus dorms at our Heidelberg campus. The furnished studio apartment comes with all utilities included to make your stay as pleasant as possible.
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Off-campus: If you prefer more independence, you can choose to live off-campus. Look for affordable accommodation close to campus, public transportation, and local amenities. From student residences and shared apartments to studio apartments to homestays, you have various options to choose from at our campuses in Madrid, Paris and Tampa.
Travel preparations
After you have secured admission, obtained your visa and found a place to live during your studies, it’s time to make the travel arrangements. The following pre-departure travel checklist will help you ensure that you are ready to study at Schiller to begin your study abroad experience.
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Flight tickets: Book your flights as early as possible to get the best prices.
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Packing essentials: Create a packing list tailored to your destination. Depending on the campus you will be studying, pack the following:
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Passport
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Student visa
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Acceptance letter
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Accommodation letter
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Cash and credit/debit cards/Apple or Google Pay
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Health/medical insurance
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Weather-appropriate clothing
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Laptop
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Adapters/ chargers
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Any other gadgets you need for studying
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Emergency information
Culture and language spoken
Depending on the campus where you will be studying, it is important to familiarize yourself with the country, city, local culture, traditions, and customs. If you face any language barriers, Schiller offers Spanish courses in Madrid, French in Paris and German in Heidelberg. You can also try the local cuisine and participate in cultural events to learn more about your new home. It's always a good idea to learn common words and phrases in the local language. For example, the primary languages at Schiller's destinations are as follows:
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Tampa, USA: English
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Madrid, Spain: Spanish
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Paris, France: French
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Heidelberg, Germany: German
Arrival checklist
When you finally land at your chosen destination, the following study abroad checklist will help you settle in your new home and have new life experiences.
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Communication: Get a local SIM card to stay in touch with your friends and family.
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Transport: Look for travel options to reach campus or off-campus housing.
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Finance: Convert your money into local currency and open a local bank account to manage your accommodation, food, transportation, and other living expenses.
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Attend orientation session: Meet other students and learn more about the course at the orientation session. You can also collect your ID card on the same day.
The above-mentioned is the most basic study abroad checklist. You should always make modifications based on your personal needs and preferences. Your main goal should keep a positive attitude to make the most of your study abroad experience at Schiller International University. We’re excited to have you join us soon!
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