At the beginning of 2023, more than one million Indian students moved abroad to study. Choosing the best course and university to attend as well as completing the application, finding a place to stay, securing a visa, and other requirements can be difficult enough on their own. To study abroad, you will need a variety of documents at various points in the process. This is your go-to guide for obtaining the necessary documents to study abroad.
Essential Documents for Studying Abroad
The list of documents you need to study abroad varies by country and university. However, there are a few essential documents that are absolutely necessary everywhere:
- Official Academic Transcripts
- Application Form
- CV
- Resume
- Letter of Recommendation
- English Language Proficiency Test Scores
- Statement of Purpose
- Test Scores
Academic Record Books
Your current or previous educational establishment issues the academic transcript(s) to verify the courses you took. The documents must be stamped and certified by the authority, which must be done by all students. Requesting academic transcripts may result in a fee from some institutions. Academic transcripts will be sent to you within seven to 174 business days. The information that follows will be included in your academic transcripts. Accreditation of the academic institution.
- Name of the student
- Roll number/identity of the student
- Name of the degree obtained
- List of courses undertaken
- Marks/grades obtained in all the courses
- The total aggregate of the marks/grade obtained
Application Form
Because it contains all of your personal and professional information, this document is the most important. An application form must be filled out completely and accurately. Before submitting your work, always check it twice.
Also Check: Your New Study Abroad Checklist and Preparation Tips
CV
A CV is a document that highlights your academic and professional details. A Latin word that means “course of life” is the source of the CV. Employers and universities abroad require CVs. Your resume should include the items mentioned below:
- Contact information
- Academic history
- Professional experience
- Qualifications and skills
- Awards and honors
- Publications
- Professional associations
- Grants and fellowships
- Licenses and certificates
- Volunteer work
- Personal information (optional)
- Hobbies and interests (optional)
Resume
The distinction between a CV and a resume is frequently misunderstood by students. A resume is a formal document that includes work experience in addition to your academic and professional credentials. It also talks about your major accomplishments and skills.
Recommendation Letter
You are required to submit LORs if you plan to study abroad. There are primarily two types of LORs: Professional and academic LOR. A Professional LOR is written by a former employer, whereas an Academic LOR is written by a school or university teacher or principal. Students typically require two LORs from academic and professional backgrounds, regardless of study level, course, or field.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
One of the most important documents needed to study abroad is a Statement of Purpose, which is a document with information. It includes highlights from your academic career as well as your professional and personal interests. SOP is an important document because it shows the admissions committee your personality and accomplishments. In your SOP, you must explain why you chose the country, university, and course you want to take.
English Language Proficiency Test Results for Study Abroad
Scores on an English proficiency test are required by almost every overseas university. You must demonstrate proficiency in English if English is not your native tongue. Duolingo, IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE are a few of the most frequently taken exams by students. These tests assess students’ language skills in important areas that are necessary for academic study and international communication.
You will be evaluated in the following areas by these tests:
- Writing
- Reading
- Listening
- Speaking
Essays
To demonstrate your seriousness about studying abroad, some colleges may require you to submit a study abroad essay. This essay is a great way to make a good first impression and show the university administration that you are ready and determined to take the specified course in their organization.
