student apps
Download these handy apps to help get you through life as an international student. Source: Shutterstock

Thanks to technology, the international student journey is made easier through helpful student apps that help your transition into your new life abroad.

International students have a whole different set of challenges compared to local students, such as language barriers and acculturation, which can cause stress and mental health issues.

For apps that help you communicate better in English, or simply enhance your student experience, check out this list of five must-download apps for international students.

Duolingo


A step up from Google Translate – also a helpful app for international students – is Duolingo. This app doesn’t just translate but also helps you learn a new language through gamified and interactive ways that make it fun.

You can earn virtual coins, unlock new levels, and increase your score while mastering new words, phrases, and grammar.

According to the website, “A study has shown that 34 hours of Duolingo are equal to 1 university semester of language courses.”

Audible

Do you have limited time to read or are merely looking for a new way to brush up on your language skills? Audiobooks are growing in popularity as they’re a convenient way to “read” a book without sacrificing your precious time as a student.

You can listen to audiobooks during your commute to class or use them as an alternative way to wind down after a long day. There are also podcasts on just about every topic imaginable, and both can be accessed via the popular Audible app.

You’ll need an Amazon account to access the app, and if you have a Prime membership, you also gain access to a premium collection of audio content.

Cite This For Me

A common gripe of students everywhere is writing citations and references for their reports at university.

It’s necessary to give proper credit to the source from where you received your material, but it can be time-consuming.

Cite This for Me is one of the most useful student apps as it makes referencing easier by generating proper citations according to the citation style you’re required to use, helping you get it right along the way. The mobile app also lets you cite a book by simply scanning its barcode.

Forest

Are you feeling stressed or are keen to improve your productivity? The calming Forest app aims to help you focus on your work mindfully while keeping you away from distractions on your smartphone.

Whenever you want to focus, you “plant” a tree in the app which will slowly grow as long as you don’t leave the app. If you succumb to temptation, your tree dies!
There are also fun tests and personality quizzes you can take in the app that help you find your perfect study buddy and test your productivity style.

Klook

We know that students’ lives revolve around assignments and exams, but it’s equally essential for students to carve out some time to take a break, too.

This includes making the most of your study abroad experience by carving out some time to explore the city or country you’re currently residing.

Klook – available in several cities around the world – offers discounted tickets for popular attractions, shows and experiences so you can enjoy your weekends on a student budget.

You can also buy discounted train tickets or other transport options through the app, making it one of the most popular student apps.