We assist with airport pickups, settling-in services like setting up bank accounts and obtaining local SIM cards, ensuring a smooth transition to your new environment. We offer support after you arrive, including airport pickup, accommodation help, and local guidance.
Our commitment to you doesn’t end once you board the flight – in fact, it continues well after you land. Post-Arrival Support is all about helping you settle into your new environment and ensuring you have help when you need it during those crucial first weeks abroad. We understand that the initial transition period can be overwhelming: new culture, new academic system, possibly a new language – all while being away from home. That’s why GSR Global Education remains a reliable support system even after you arrive in your study country.
Through our network of partners and former students around the world, we provide on-ground support and guidance. From practical assistance like finding transportation from the airport, to advice on adjusting to local life, you can count on us. If any unexpected issues come up – lost luggage, trouble finding your accommodation, feeling homesick – we are just a call or message away to assist or advise. Our goal is to make sure you never feel alone or helpless in a foreign land; we want you to feel as comfortable as possible so you can focus on your studies and enjoy your new experiences.
Airport Pickup & Transportation: After a long journey, the last thing you want is to worry about how to get to your campus or accommodation. We help coordinate airport pickup whenever possible. This could mean arranging for a university shuttle service, connecting you with a trustworthy airport taxi or rideshare, or in some cases having a representative or senior student receive you. If an arranged pickup isn’t available, we will provide clear guidance on the best transport options – whether it’s a train, bus, or cab – along with directions to your destination. Knowing this in advance will save you time and reduce anxiety when you land.
Temporary Accommodation Assistance: In case your permanent housing isn’t immediately ready (or if you preferred to find accommodation after arriving), we assist you in securing safe temporary lodging. This might be a short-term stay at a student hostel, hotel, or homestay for a few days. We can recommend budget-friendly, well-located places for initial stay. Meanwhile, we’ll also help or advise you in finalizing a more permanent place. For example, if you need to visit apartments or coordinate with a landlord, we can guide you on the process. The aim is to ensure you have a roof over your head from day one and then transition smoothly into your longer-term accommodation.
Local Orientation: Getting familiar with your new city and campus is much easier with someone pointing you in the right direction. Shortly after you arrive, our partners or contacts (which could be senior students or local representatives) may offer you a mini orientation. This can include showing you around important spots on campus (like the international student office, library, and your department) and in town (nearest grocery store, pharmacy, bus/metro station, etc.). We’ll also remind you of any immediate tasks you should do, such as registering with the local authorities or attending your university’s official orientation program. Having basic knowledge of your surroundings will help you feel more at ease in the first few days.
Bank Account Setup & Mobile Phone: Two practical things you’ll likely need to do soon after arrival are opening a local bank account and getting a local SIM card/phone plan. We guide you on how to open a student bank account – what documents you’ll need (passport, visa, student ID, proof of address, etc.), which banks are student-friendly or have partnerships with your university, and how to set up online banking. Similarly, we advise on choosing a mobile phone provider: which companies have good coverage and student deals in your area, and what kind of plan to choose (prepaid vs. postpaid) to save money. Getting your finances and phone in order quickly means you can pay for things and communicate with ease.
Emergency Support: Unexpected situations can arise – maybe you fall ill shortly after arriving, or you lose an important document. As part of our post-arrival support, we are available to help you navigate these emergencies. We can guide you on how to find a doctor or clinic (and use your health insurance), what to do if you need to report a lost passport or ID, and how to contact your country’s embassy or consulate if necessary. Just knowing that you have someone to call who speaks your language and understands your situation can be a huge relief in stressful moments. We take pride in being that dependable helping hand for our students abroad.
Community Connection: Feeling at home in a new country often comes down to the people you meet. We encourage you to connect with the student community and can facilitate introductions. We might connect you with alumni or current students from your home country who are already studying at your university. Many of our students find it comforting to have a senior student as a buddy/mentor during initial days. Additionally, we’ll inform you about any Indian or international student associations, cultural clubs, or community groups that you can join. Building a social network will help you share experiences, get advice, and ward off loneliness – making your study abroad experience positive both academically and personally.
Part-Time Job Guidance: Once you have settled in and started your classes, you might consider looking for a part-time job to earn extra money or gain experience. As part of our support, we offer guidance on how to search for part-time jobs locally. We’ll remind you of the work regulations on your student visa (e.g., maximum 20 hours per week during term, in many countries) and suggest common student job avenues like campus jobs (library, cafeteria, research assistant positions) or off-campus opportunities in retail and hospitality. We can show you popular local job portals or the university’s career services that list job openings. While securing a job is ultimately up to you, our tips and resources can give you a head start in the process when you decide to pursue part-time work.
Remember, our relationship doesn’t end the moment you depart from India – we continue to care about your well-being and success. Whenever you encounter a hurdle, big or small, know that help is available. If you would like post-arrival support, fill out the form below to let us know. We’ll reach out and make sure you have the guidance and assistance needed to comfortably settle into your new home.