Almost everyone who has considered going to university has also thought about studying abroad. Studying abroad is a tedious and difficult process but it has numerous benefits such as experience with a new culture and a wider range of opportunities. Most are unsure of the process, however, and do not know where to start.

No fear! teenAGE is here with tips for those who want to “fly out”.

1.       Start early

The entire process from testing to enrollment can take almost a year. So it is best to begin when you are in your second to last year of high school.  You’ll likely come across many hurdles as you go along so don’t expect a quick and easy process.

2.       Know yourself

Start by identifying what you want to do as a career. Identify a program that you’re interested in whether it be biology, business or basket-weaving. Then identify where you want to go. For example the engineering programs at Trinidad and Tobago are heralded as the best in the Caribbean so that is where many Jamaicans choose to pursue their dreams.

3.       Find out how to get in

Some school regions such as the UK or Canada will take students based on the merit of their CAPE. For the United States though you will be required to take one of their standardized exams such as the SAT or ACT for acceptance. These exams are offered in Jamaica on a regular basis and classes are offered to those in need of preparation for the test.

4.      Scholarships, Scholarships, Scholarships

Studying abroad is not cheap. Tuitions are generally higher than those in Jamaica and almost every country’s currency is stronger in comparison to Jamaica’s. So scholarships are a necessity. They can be achieved in numerous ways. Grades are probably the most important factor but other merits can be included such as athletics, disabilities or enrollment in a particular field such as science or technology.

5.      Pick A School

After all those acceptances roll in, it will be time to pick a school to commit to. Make sure to check and double-check that you have all the required documents that the school requests. International students have to go through a strenuous process before they will be allowed to enter the school’s country.

6.     Book Your Ticket

After all is said and done, breathe a sigh of relief and get ready to leave Jamaica. Kiss your mom, say goodbye to your friends and begin to start the new chapter of your life at your foreign school!