Applying for a student visa to study abroad can be a long and tedious process that can take several months. During this waiting period, many students find themselves with a lot of free time on their hands. However, instead of just waiting around for their visa to be approved, there are plenty of productive and enjoyable things that students can do to make the most of their idle time. In this blog, we will explore 10 things that students can do while waiting for their student visa to study abroad, from learning a new language to taking up a new hobby, to volunteering in their local community. These activities not only help pass the time, but can also help students prepare for their new environment and make the transition easier.
Learn a new language or improve your language skills in the language of the country you’ll be studying in.
You can enroll in language classes or use language-learning apps like Duolingo or Babbel. Learning the language of the country you will be studying in can be incredibly helpful for adapting to the new environment. It can help you with daily tasks such as grocery shopping, ordering food, and communicating with locals. Additionally, being able to speak the language can help you make new friends and form connections with the local community.
Research your destination country and learn about its culture, customs, and history.
This can help you prepare for your new environment and make the transition easier. Understanding the cultural norms and traditions of your destination country can help you avoid misunderstandings and culture shock. It can also help you understand the values and beliefs of the locals, which can help you adapt to your new surroundings more easily.
Read books related to your field of study.
Reading books related to your field of study can be a great way to get a head start on your studies and improve your knowledge. It can also help you gain a deeper understanding of the subject and become more confident in your academic abilities. You can start with textbooks or research papers related to your course, and then move on to books that explore the broader implications of your field of study.
Take up a new hobby or skill, like painting, cooking, or playing a musical instrument.
This can help you stay busy and productive during your wait. Engaging in a new hobby or skill can help you stay mentally and physically active, and can also help you develop new interests and passions. Additionally, having a hobby or skill to focus on can be a great way to reduce stress and anxiety during the waiting period.
Volunteer in your local community or participate in community events.
This can help you meet new people and make connections. Volunteering or participating in community events can be a great way to give back to your community, while also making new friends and forming connections. It can also be a great way to develop new skills and gain valuable experience that can be useful in your academic or professional life.
Learn skills like driving, swimming.
Learning new skills such as driving, swimming, or even cooking can be a useful way to spend your time while waiting for your student visa. Not only can these skills be useful in your daily life, but they can also be fun and fulfilling activities that can help you feel more confident and independent. Also, you can take training like accounting training, learning a programming language, barista, etc. that will help you get a part-time job while studying abroad.
Watch documentaries or films related to your field of study or your destination country.
This can help you gain a better understanding of the subject or culture. Watching documentaries or films related to your field of study or your destination country can be an enjoyable and informative way to pass the time. It can also help you gain a deeper understanding of the local culture, history, and social issues.
Spend time with friends and family.
This is a good opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones before you leave. Spending time with your friends and family before you leave can be a great way to create lasting memories and strengthen your relationships. It can also be a great source of emotional support during what can be a stressful and uncertain time.
Connect with other students who will be studying abroad in the same country as you.
You can join online forums or social media groups to meet new people and learn from their experiences. This can help you build a network of friends before you even arrive in your new country. Connecting with other students who will be studying abroad in the same country can be a great way to share experiences and learn from each other.
Take online courses or attend webinars related to your field of study.
This can help you expand your knowledge and skills while you wait for your visa to be approved. Taking online courses or attending webinars related to your field of study can be a great way to stay up-to-date with the latest research and developments in your field. It can also be a useful way to develop new skills and gain new perspectives on your area of interest.
In a Nutshell
In conclusion, waiting for a student visa to study abroad can be a stressful experience, but it doesn’t have to be unproductive or dull. By taking advantage of the free time that comes with the waiting period, students can engage in activities that will help them improve their skills, knowledge, and overall well-being. Whether it’s learning a new language, exploring the culture of their destination country, or connecting with other students, there are plenty of things that students can do to stay busy and productive during their wait. By making the most of their idle time, students can start their study abroad journey on the right foot and make the most of this life-changing experience.