The study abroad mobility scenario includes different public and private services and is a very popular life situation throughout the European Union. Although the process in the EU Member States is similar, different requirements when a student starts studies in another country differences in the education system and, often, language barriers can make this life event difficult. There has been an effort to help students by providing information on different portals, whereas universities have also taken on an active role by offering explanations and help on their websites. However, such sites do not lead a student through a life situation – they usually play an informative and supportive role, but they do not help if a student has to sort out administrative procedures, for example by ensuring recognition of his or her previous acquired education. In general terms, mobility associated with studies in another Member State or Region includes at least some of the following steps:
- Search for a university
- Commencement of the application process in an educational institution
- Certification of previous educational documents acquired (it is often necessary to demonstrate previous academic achievements etc.)
- Submission of documents requested by an institution of higher education (which are similar in many universities, but may differ)
- Payment of the tuition fees (if any)
- Access to different grants and other types of financial support (information may be scattered and incomplete)
- Apply for an academic recognition and certification for their under- or post-graduate studies awarded in a different country than that of destination as a prerequisite of enrolment to an academic institution,
- Dealing with matters related to the relocation – residence permit, search for residence (e.g. university-owned facilities/ residentials), and other practical issues affecting any person when moving to another country.