The Early the better! Earlier is always preferred and advisable especially if you are applying for any year long program abroad. Entry deadline of each program varies so you need to research and understand the deadline as per your interest of region, course and country to avoid any hindrance in starting your program. General Guidelines as the specific tenure of studies is as following:- Academic Year Long Programs Since you require a specific visa for full semester academic programs and in addition to that some relevant test scores as well, there will be lot many formalities involved in compiling the formalities. It is highly recommended to start well in advance with maximum time frame of 4-5 months prior starting of the program. Summer-Programs There is always rush in these programs since not only individual students but even the schools and universities also run these kinds of exchange programs across the world. It’s always advisable to start the process at least 3 months before the starting of program. For Month Long Short Term Program Initiate the process at least 4-6 weeks prior to commencement of the program.