If you are going for one semester only, it may not be worth your while to open a bank account in your host country, due to the fees and paperwork involved. This is the most immediate and cheapest method. Purchase a bank check in foreign currency drawn on a bank in the city, or a major city close to where the student is located and send through the mail. Wire the money and it will arrive within 24 hours.
All methods are very effective.
Wiring money is fast, but it is also quite expensive. Your local bank can provide complete details on all three methods. If, for example, you are going to study in Germany but decide to enter via a train from Austria, take a bit of each currency to cover train rides and taxis. If possible, try to get some coins for vending machines, phone calls, or for making change. Some students take most of their money in traveler's checks.