What Is Pre-Departure Orientation and Why Is It Important?

When students decide to study abroad, they get very excited as it’s a life changing exciting moment. But at the same time, they also feel a little scared which is totally understandable as they don't know what to expect when they reach a new country. That’s why pre-departure orientation is so important.

Pre-departure orientation is a special session or class where students learn everything they need to know before flying to a new country. It’s like a guide that you see in games that helps you understand how the game works, similarly the pre-departure orientation will help you understand how life will be in the UK, USA, Australia, or Canada.

For example:

• What to pack before traveling?
• What rules to follow at the airport?
• How to behave in a new country?
• What to do after landing?
• How to manage money, food, and transport?

These small things may seem insignificant but knowing about these little details become very helpful when you are in a completely new place.

Many students come to our Global Education counselling centre to get this training. Our pre-departure orientation helps students feel more confident and safe. We will teach about the benefits of studying abroad, like learning new things, meeting people from different cultures, and building a better future.

If you want to feel ready and strong before starting your new journey, joining a pre-departure orientation from one of the best consultancy in Kathmandu like our Global Education Counselling Centre is definitely a smart first move to do.

What Topics Are Covered in a Pre-Departure Orientation Session?

When you attend a pre-departure session, you will learn about many helpful things that will make your move to a new country a whole lot easier. 

Here are some important topics that are covered in these sessions:

1. Travel and Airport Tips

You will learn what to carry in your bag, which documents to keep ready and secured, and how to go through airport security. You will also learn how to deal with long flights and layovers.

2. Accommodation Advice

You will learn about student housing options in your destination country. You’ll know information that will make you have insight into whether to choose hostels, shared apartments, or stay with local families.

3. Local Culture and Behavior

Living in a new country means meeting people with different habits. These sessions will teach you how to speak politely, respect their culture, and avoid any possible misunderstandings.

4. Laws and Safety

You will also be informed about the basic rules and laws of the new country. For example, drinking age, driving rules, and what to do in emergencies etc.

5. Money Management

You’ll learn how to open a bank account, use your debit card, and manage your money smartly and properly. You will also learn how to send money to and from Nepal.

6. Health and Insurance

You will learn how medical insurance works abroad and what to do if you get sick.

7. Studying Abroad: What to Expect

These sessions will also give you a clear idea of how colleges and universities work abroad. You will learn how to attend classes properly, how to do assignments properly and efficiently, and follow the rules.

8. Benefits of Studying Abroad

You will also get inspired! In the orientation you will learn how studying abroad will help you grow, become independent, and get better job opportunities and earn more money in the future.

Benefits of Attending a Pre-Departure Orientation

Attending a pre-departure orientation session provides several advantages that can help you feel confident and prepared as you go on your study abroad journey. 

Here are some of the important benefits of attending these pre-departure orientation:

1. Boosts Your Confidence

Pre-departure orientations will help you feel more comfortable about your upcoming life changing moment. You’ll have fewer worries about the unknown because you’ll already know what to expect. This confidence is especially useful when you're far away from home.

2. Helps You Adjust to a New Culture

One of the biggest difficulties students face when studying abroad is adjusting to a different culture. Pre-departure orientations give you the knowledge and skills to adapt there quickly. You’ll learn about local customs, behaviors, and even the benefits of studying abroad, like learning a new language and making friends from many different backgrounds.

3. Increases Your Understanding of the Country’s System

In the pre-departure orientation you’ll get practical knowledge about how universities abroad work, the education system, and what academic life is like. For example, understanding how classes and exams are structured can make your studies more manageable and less stressful, so you can handle doing part-time work stress from study tension.

4. Provides Essential Information for Safety and Wellbeing

You will know about essential information such as emergency contacts, health services, and safety rules which is very important when you're in a new country. Pre-departure orientations make sure you're prepared for unexpected situations and know where to go for help if you need it.

5. Reduces Stress by Addressing Common Concerns

Going abroad for studying can be quite overwhelming. And pre-departure sessions address the common worries students have, such as how to manage money, deal with homesickness, or communicate effectively in a new country. This will help to reduce your anxiety drastically and make the process a whole lot smoother.

6. Informs You About Legal and Financial Considerations

Another benefit of attending a pre-departure orientation is you will properly understand the visa requirements, banking systems, and living expenses in a foreign country which is quite important. Pre-departure orientations provide you with all the details you need to make sure that your documents, funds, and plans are in order, preventing surprises down the road.

7. Guidance from the Best Consultancies

By attending these pre-departure orientation through trusted consultancy like our Global Education Counselling Centre which is known as one of the best consultancy in Nepal, you will get the chance to get advice directly from experts who understand the entire process and have your best interests at heart. This helps make sure that you are well-prepared for your study abroad experience.

Where to Find the Best Pre-Departure Orientation in Nepal

If you’re planning to study abroad, it’s important for you to attend a good pre-departure orientation. As this is where you learn everything you need before leaving Nepal, like what to pack, how to handle culture shock, and how life will be in a new country.

Now the big question is: Where can you find the best pre-departure orientation in Nepal?

1. Global Education Counselling Centre and Study Abroad

One of the top choices for students is our Global Education counselling centre. We are known for providing very helpful pre-departure orientation sessions for countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia. Our experts will guide you through all the steps and make sure you feel confident before flying.

2. Top Consultancy in Kathmandu

If you live in or near Kathmandu, you can research and find top well-rated education consultancies in Kathmandu. These top consultancy in Kathmandu provide pre-departure orientation in group sessions and sometimes even one-on-one guidance. Some well-known consultancies also provide handbooks, travel checklists, and Q&A sessions with students who are already studying abroad.

3. Online Pre-Departure Sessions

Some consultancy in Nepal also conduct virtual pre-departure orientations. This is especially helpful if you are a person living outside Kathmandu or prefer to join from home. These online sessions include videos, live discussions, and even quizzes to help you remember everything important.

4. What to Look for in a Good Orientation Provider

• They should have experienced counselors like in our Global Education Counselling Centre.

• They should provide detailed information about your destination country.

• They should give you resources like checklists, emergency contacts, and travel tips.

• If possible try finding one that's recognized as one of the best consultancy in Nepal with a good success rate of helping students go abroad.

So, if you're serious about your study abroad journey, make sure to attend a pre-departure orientation from a trusted consultancy. Whether you choose a consultancy in Kathmandu like our Global Education Counselling center or attend an online session, the support you get will help you avoid mistakes and make you feel fully prepared.

Final Checklist Before You Fly

You’ve now got your student visa, packed your bags properly with essential supplies, and said goodbye to friends. But before you board that flight, it’s important for you to double-check a few important things. 

This is your final checklist to make sure everything is ready for your new journey abroad.

1. Check Your Important Documents

Keep all important papers in one safe folder or pouch that you carry in your hand luggage (not in the suitcase).

• Passport (with visa stamped)

• University admission letter

• Offer letter or enrollment documents

• Flight ticket and travel insurance

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• Passport-size photos

• Copy of your medical and vaccination records

• Emergency contact numbers

2. Financial Preparation

• Also carry some local currency of the country you're going to as you may need it.

• Keep proof of tuition payment or bank balance (in case asked at immigration).

• Activate international payment on your debit/credit card.

• Also don't forget to keep a backup of your scholarship documents if you're receiving one.

3. Accommodation and Airport Pickup

• Confirm your accommodation details properly and make sure that you know where you're going to stay when you land.

• If your university provides an airport pickup, confirm the date and time.

4. Pack Wisely

Don't pack too much. Focus on essentials:

• Clothes for different weather (check your destination’s climate)

• Laptop, charger, travel adapters

• Toiletries and personal care items (for the first few days)

• Any necessary medications with prescriptions

• Favorite snacks (not necessary, but comforting)

Remember: Airlines have weight limits. Extra luggage can cost a lot so be careful!

5. Learn Basic Information About Your Destination

• Research the time difference between Nepal and the country you're going to adjust yourself properly.

• Learn about basic public transport tips

• Check local SIM card options

• Install apps like Google Maps, WhatsApp, and any required university apps

6. Mental and Emotional Readiness

• Stay calm and positive. It’s normal to feel nervous but know that you got this, you have come this far then you can do much more.

• Don’t forget to stay in touch with your family and friends.

• Try joining social groups or online communities for international students.

Final Thought

The last few days before you fly can for sure feel overwhelming, causing you anxiety, but a good checklist along with attending a good pre-departure orientation will make everything easier and make you more calm and confident for your upcoming life changing moment.