Wether you are an Android or Apple user, you might get lost in the million plus apps available.
So how do you decide which ones are most useful during your time abroad? From getting around to keeping in touch with your family and friends, we suggest the top free apps you will need:
1. Google Maps
The classic Google Maps app may be an obvious one but it deserves a mention, it works everywhere and shows you multiple ways to get somewhere. It also gives you alternatives as to what kind of transportation mode to take to your destination as well as what times they run.
2. Wi-Fi Finder
Who doesn't need Wi-Fi on the go? While it does not always work perfectly, the Wi-Fi Finder app can be a real help to study abroad students that tend to be out and about. It is available in more than 140 countries.
3. Skyscanner
While studying abroad you might want to visit the region and will surely be scouting for cheap flights. The Skyscanner app has a database with over 600 airlines to help you find the best deal. Make sure you subscribe to price alerts.
4. Duolingo.
Duolingo is a fun way to learn another language. As you will be moving abroad you might want to get familiarized with the local language. It allows you to track your progress, tests your speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.
5. Evernote
This app allows you to add notes, images and clip web pages. The Evernote free version allows you to use the app across two devices so you can even store your class notes.
6. Google Translate
This is always a good one to have on hand. Especially if you haven't taken that Duolingo class yet! Just type in what you want to say in Google Translate and show it to the person you are discussing with or try it out loud.
7. Kindle
You will already be submerged with class material to read but you might want to expand your horizons or simply read while commuting or travelling. The Kindle app is connected to amazon and therefore has so many books available including free ones.
8. Citymapper
If you plan to travel to major cities in Europe (like Paris, Rome, Berlin or Barcelona, for example), the Citymapper app is essential. You can plan your journey through the city using all type of transportation routes. Oh! And you even can track the calories you will burn.
9. WhatsApp
This is probably the one app that everyone already has, but it is most useful when you are studying abroad. WhatsApp is how you can keep in touch with your friends for free, set up chat groups with your family back home but also connect with your new classmates. (OK! This app is not free but almost at $0.99)
10. Skype
Skype lets you make video calls to friends and family back home.
11. Hostelworld
Present in 180 countries, it is the place to look for cheap accommodation for your travels. the Hostelworld app presents: pricing, reviews, photos, availability, etc.
12. AroundMe
If you are looking for a café, bar, shop, supermarket, hospital, cinema or bank nearby? AroundMe uses your location data to give you recommendations and shows you how to get there too.
13. Google News
You might still want to keep up with the news in your home country or actually follow what is going on around you. Google News allows you to organize the world new in a way that you see the topics that matter to you.
14. Feedly
Feedly is a news aggregator app. It means it compiles news feeds from a variety of online sources for the user to customize and share with others. That is a great way to staying informed on the topics of your interest.
15. Dropbox
You might need aplace to access your course schedule or other files on the go! If you don't already use it, you will find Dropbox helpful for keeping your life organized.
16. Spotify
Wether you have some commuting to do or want to find the perfect playlist for studying, download Spotify and take your music anywhere. There is a big library of songs to choose from along with ready-made playlists.
17. Wunderlist
Are you a to do lists addict? Wunderlist is an app that works across all of your devices, sends you reminders and allows you to collaborate with other people.