Your Pre‑Departure Checklist for Studying Medicine Abroad

Preparing to study medicine abroad is exciting—but it involves much more than acceptance letters and tuition payments. Many students focus heavily on admissions but overlook key practical and emotional preparations that can significantly impact their experience overseas. To help you start off on the right foot, here’s a comprehensive pre-departure checklist every international medical student should complete before boarding that plane.

1. Budget Planning That Goes Beyond Tuition

It’s easy to underestimate living costs. Don’t stop at calculating tuition—plan for monthly expenses like housing, groceries, local transport, internet, mobile data, and occasional leisure. Apps like Trail Wallet, Mint, or Splitwise can help you track and manage your spending abroad.

Tip: Always budget a “contingency fund” for emergencies, visa renewals, or surprise academic fees.

2. Set Up Overseas Banking and Payment Options

Check if your home bank offers international transaction support or if you’ll need to open a local bank account. Some students use Wise or Revolut for lower international transfer fees and currency exchange.

Prepare at least one international debit or credit card that works with minimal foreign transaction fees. Also, confirm ATM withdrawal limits and digital wallet compatibility (like GCash or PayMaya in the Philippines).

3. Learn the Basics of Cooking and Eating Well on a Budget

You might not always have access to affordable restaurants, and eating out daily can get expensive. Learn to cook basic, healthy meals that fit your diet and use common ingredients found locally.

Tip: Check YouTube channels or apps like Tasty or Budget Bytes for easy recipes. Pack a few of your favorite spices or pantry staples if allowed.

4. Prioritize Your Mental Well-Being

Studying medicine is intense—doing it far from home adds new emotional challenges. Prepare now by:

• Downloading wellness apps like Headspace, Calm, or Insight Timer

• Creating a realistic study-life balance plan

• Listing contacts for support—family, friends, or student mental health services

• Setting boundaries for social media use and digital overload

5. Secure a Local SIM Card Plan or eSIM Option

A working phone is your lifeline. Research local SIM cards in your destination country or look into eSIM solutions like Airalo or Holafly for fast setup on arrival. Prioritize a plan that includes mobile data, texting, and easy top-ups.

Also: Make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with local networks.

6. Build Your Support System Early

The adjustment phase can feel isolating. Proactively connect with student groups, alumni from your future school, or online communities (like Reddit’s r/studyabroad or r/medschoolph).

Join pre-departure webinars or social chats hosted by your university or student associations. These connections become your lifeline when navigating a new country.

Bonus Tip: Digital Document Kit

Before flying out, scan and store key documents digitally (in cloud storage and a secure USB drive):

• Passport and visa

• University acceptance letters

• Health insurance

• Immunization records

• Medical prescriptions

• Emergency contact list

  
  

Studying medicine abroad is a bold, life-changing step—and being prepared goes well beyond academics. With a solid pre-departure plan in place, you’ll enter your new chapter with confidence, clarity, and a greater chance of success—both in the classroom and in daily life.