The widespread impact of Covid-19 across the globe is difficult to ignore. This worldwide pandemic has impacted daily life across a significant number of countries, with simple acts of going shopping or travelling to work becoming increasingly difficult and dangerous for the public. The events over the past months have culminated into some of the largest economic challenges the world has ever seen, and many countries find themselves rethinking how various aspects of society can be remodelled in order to move forward.
The education sector is not exempt from this impact. In many countries, Covid-19 forced schools and universities to close for extended periods through the summer months. With academic life only just beginning to recover and get back on its feet, the full extent of the damage to the education sector is still unclear. The changes that institutions, teachers, and students will face in order to adapt to the new world are still being decided.
However, as these realities begin to unfold, international higher education remains a strong and viable option for students all over the world. Institutions are still accepting international students onto study programmes, and are encouraging applications across a range of courses. The best way to keep yourself and others safe as you pursue your international higher education is to plan effectively. Certain requirements will differ between destination countries and institutions, but to get you started here are our top 5 ways to prepare for your studies in light of Covid-19:
Travel
Make sure you adapt your travel plans according to the guidelines of both your home country and destination country. For example, you may need to leave enough time to get to the airport and undertake any extra health checks. You should also plan your travel in accordance with quarantine guidelines from your destination country - if you will be arriving from a country that requires a quarantine period, ensure you factor in this time to self-isolate before your course is due to start.
Accommodation
Make sure your accommodation adheres to the relevant hygiene guidelines and, if you’re required to self-isolate upon arrival in your destination country, offers the means for you to quarantine alone if needed. If this isn’t the case, it may be an idea to book into an alternative appropriate accommodation for the duration of your quarantine period.
Course delivery
Check in with your institution about how the planned delivery of your course may be due to change. For example, some elements may be delivered online or there may be social or introductory events taking place online. Ensure you’ve got these booked into your calendar so you can attend all the elements of your course - both in person and via your computer.
Tourism
Due to Covid-19, many tourist attractions and activities now require you to book ahead if you wish to visit. The same will likely apply to cafes, restaurants and bars. Take the opportunity to research your destination country and make a list of activities and experiences you might like to try. You could even make a few bookings before you arrive!
Test
Wherever you are heading for your studies, it’s a great idea to obtain a Covid-19 test when you arrive if possible. This will provide both you and others with peace of mind about your health and safety. It may also make your transition into your studies far smoother, as in some cases testing is mandatory.
If you’re interested in pursuing international higher education and would like more information about staying safe abroad, get in touch with the Platinum Education team today. We can advise you of your options and guide you on how to keep safe as the world recovers from Covid-19. As the picture becomes clearer over the coming months, we’ll continue to adapt our support to meet the needs of our students.