Prepare to depart
Your place is confirmed and your confirmation document is in hand, now the real preparation begins. The weeks before you leave Kuwait are busy: a visa to secure, finances to organise, somewhere to live to arrange and a suitcase to pack. Tackled one step at a time, it is all very manageable, and your IDP counsellor is here to keep you on track right up to the airport.
Applying for your student visa
Your visa is the priority. Start as soon as you have your confirmation document, as processing times vary by country.
- 1
Gather your documents
Typically your passport, confirmation document (CAS, I-20, CoE or Letter of Acceptance), IELTS results, proof of funds and academic certificates.
- 2
Pay the visa and health fees
This may include the visa fee, the UK Immigration Health Surcharge, the US SEVIS fee or Australia's health cover, depending on your destination.
- 3
Complete the online application
Fill in the official government form accurately and book any required biometrics appointment or embassy interview.
- 4
Attend your appointment
Provide biometrics or attend an interview where required, then wait for your visa decision and travel-ready passport.
Sorting your finances and money transfer
Plan how you will pay tuition and cover living costs before you fly, so you arrive with money you can access.
- Pay any remaining tuition and confirm the university has received it.
- Set up a way to transfer money internationally, comparing bank transfers with services like Wise or Western Union for better rates.
- Carry a small amount of local currency for your first day's transport and food.
- Tell your Kuwaiti bank you are travelling so your cards are not blocked abroad.
- Budget realistically for rent, food, transport and study materials each month.
The practical arrangements
Alongside your visa and money, line up these essentials in good time.
Accommodation
Secure university halls or private housing before you arrive. Confirm your move-in date, deposit and what is included.
Health insurance
Arrange the cover your destination requires, such as the UK health surcharge, Australian OSHC or a private US plan.
Flights
Book once your visa is approved. Choose an arrival date a few days before orientation and check your baggage allowance.
Documents
Carry originals and copies of your passport, visa, confirmation document and IELTS results in your hand luggage.
Packing smart
Pack for your destination's climate and your first few weeks, you can buy the rest after you arrive.
- Weather-appropriate clothing, including warm layers for the UK, Canada or colder regions.
- A power adapter for your destination and chargers for all your devices.
- Any prescription medication with a doctor's note, plus a small first-aid kit.
- Comfortable shoes and a few reminders of home to help you settle in.
- Keep liquids and valuables within airline carry-on rules.
Your pre-departure checklist
A simple sequence to follow in your final weeks before flying.
- 1
Visa approved and passport ready
Confirm your visa is stamped or linked and your passport is valid well beyond your course end date.
- 2
Accommodation and arrival confirmed
Know where you are staying on night one and how you will get there from the airport.
- 3
Money and documents organised
Funds accessible abroad, copies saved to the cloud and originals packed in your carry-on.
- 4
Attend an IDP pre-departure briefing
Join our session to hear practical tips and ask any last questions before you go.
IDP Kuwait runs free pre-departure briefings where past students and counsellors share what to expect in your first weeks abroad, from settling in to staying safe and connected.
Common questions
When should I apply for my visa?
As soon as you have your confirmation document. Some visas can be lodged up to three or six months before your course starts, and early applications avoid last-minute stress.
How much money should I bring on arrival?
Enough local currency for your first week or two, including transport, food and any accommodation deposit not yet paid. Keep the rest accessible by card or transfer.
Do I need health insurance?
Most study destinations require it as part of your visa. Your counsellor can confirm exactly what your country and university expect.
Can IDP help if my visa is delayed?
Yes. Your counsellor can advise on follow-up, deferring your intake if needed and rebooking travel so you do not lose your place.
Continue your journey
Counting down to departure?
Book a free session with IDP Kuwait to check off your visa, finances and travel plans, and join our next pre-departure briefing.