Confirming the offer and next steps
Once your child has their offer, there are a few key things to complete before travel:
Preparation and arrival
Being organised before departure helps your child arrive calm, confident and ready to begin. From packing their bags to settling into accommodation, each step builds reassurance and independence.
They’ll secure their place by paying the confirmation payment and returning their acceptance form. Once confirmed, they’ll gain access to a dedicated Welcome Hub with useful pre-arrival resources.
The CAS is a unique reference number needed to apply for their student visa. It’s issued once offer conditions are met and documents are submitted and it allows them to begin the visa process.
In the US, once your child has accepted their offer the university will issue an I-20 from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). They can then apply for a visa to study in the USA.
For studying in Ireland, your child can apply for a visa online via the Irish Nationalisation and Immigration Service's (INIS) website, AVATS.
In the UK, once your child has their CAS, they start their visa application.
Visa timelines vary by country, so early planning helps avoid stress.
What to do after confirming their place
✔ Arrange accommodation – Students can choose programme-linked or private housing. Living within a reasonable commute of campus is recommended.
✔ Book travel – Flights should be arranged once the visa is approved, allowing time to attend orientation activities.
✔ Organise insurance – While not always mandatory, comprehensive insurance provides protection and peace of mind.
Book accommodation
Living abroad builds independence and resilience. With guidance and preparation, students quickly establish routines that allow them to focus on their studies and enjoy their experience.
We help students find the right place to live while studying. Accommodation options are safe, fully furnished and conveniently located near campus.
- Secure student housing supported by local residence teams and Study Group welfare staff.
- Proximity to campus and local amenities, so students can access university resources and adapt quickly to student life.
- Community of international students, making it easier for your child to feel at home in the new environment.
On-campus or off-campus?
- On-campus accommodation offers convenience and close access to facilities and student life.
- Off-campus accommodation can provide greater independence and flexibility.
Both options are selected with safety, comfort and wellbeing in mind.
Pack their luggage
As one of the most important journeys your child will take in their life. Before they travel, make sure they bring:
- Passport, visa documents and key paperwork
- Academic materials and a laptop
- Prescription medication (with documentation if required)
- Important certificates and emergency contact details
- A few personal items to feel at home
Arrival and orientation
Arriving before term begins allows students to:
- Attend orientation and induction sessions
- Meet classmates and build friendships
- Understand academic expectations and support services
- Settle into their new environment with confidence
Early engagement helps students feel part of a supportive academic community from day one.
Daily life and managing money
Adjusting to daily life abroad is an important milestone. From using public transport to grocery shopping and managing personal schedules, students quickly develop practical life skills that build independence.
Study Group helps students understand local living costs, set realistic spending habits and make informed financial decisions.
Living expenses differ depending on the destination, so students are encouraged to plan ahead to feel financially ready. Common costs may include accommodation, food, transport, study materials and personal spending.
With early preparation and thoughtful decisions, students can maintain a comfortable lifestyle while keeping within their budget.
Learning to handle money responsibly is an important life skill. Students are encouraged to set up a simple monthly budget, keep track of their spending and focus on essential expenses.
Building these habits early helps reduce financial pressure and fosters independence – equipping students for university life and the years that follow.
Settling-in milestones
During the first few weeks, completing practical tasks helps students feel organised and independent:
- Open a local bank account
- Register with a doctor (where required)
- Collect their student ID
- Confirm their timetable
How you can support your child
✔ Encourage early planning
✔ Help manage visa and travel timelines
✔ Support document preparation and packing
✔ Stay connected during their first weeks
With preparation and the right support, your child can begin their international journey feeling secure, confident and ready to succeed.
My advice to other students is to know why you’re coming, know what course you want to study, know what is required of you and make sure you are ready to put that in. Then immerse yourself in the course fully from day one.
Theresa from Nigeria
Studied International Foundation Year in Engineering, Science and Mathematics
Entry requirements
To study internationally, you'll need to meet English language and academic standards. Check out the specific criteria for your destination.
Fees
Tuition fees and accommodation costs vary between universities. Find this information for each university.
Visa information
Find out everything you need to know about applying for a visa in your chosen study destination.