A Realistic 12-Month Study Abroad Timeline
· 8 min read
Months twelve to ten: decide country and budget. Total cost varies enormously between Germany, Canada and the USA, and that single decision constrains everything after it.
Months ten to eight: take your language and aptitude tests. Book early, because retakes need slots and slots disappear near intake season.
Months eight to six: shortlist universities in three bands — ambitious, realistic and safe. Six to eight applications is usually the right number.
Months six to four: prepare the statement of purpose and recommendation letters. Each university needs a tailored version; generic documents are the most common rejection cause.
Months four to one: financial documents, loan sanction, visa appointment, accommodation and travel. Keep certified copies of everything in one folder.
Put this into practice
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