You can find many options when looking for a college to study abroad. At times, students find it difficult to choose from the list as there are too many. If you have no clue as to what to look for when selecting a college for abroad studies, you can take the help of study abroad counselors instead of making a huge decision by yourself and regretting it later.
Here, we will outline a few pointers each international student must consider when selecting a college to make sure they are making the right decision.
1. Shortlist your priorities
It is believed that if a student finds it difficult to pick a college is generally not sure what he is looking for in the first place. To avoid becoming one, you must research and prioritize your requirements. Think about how you want your life to be in the coming years, what and where you wish to be, and most importantly what help can you take to achieve your goal?
Colleges must always be selected on the basis of our preferences. Hence, figure out your personal development goals. Prepare a budget and check if the school’s location or size matters to you the most?
Research how many countries offer students longer visas and the opportunity to apply for a job after program completion. Studying in a foreign university can shape your life.
So, list down your priorities, prepare the pros and cons of each program and university and compare them.
2. Look for courses and teaching staff
You cannot always depend on a university’s ranking when selecting a college for higher education abroad. If you look at the shortlisted colleges on a much smaller scale, you’ll learn more about them. Check if the selected school has a department in your subject of interest.
Another thing you must never miss is how the course content differs between colleges.
For instance, you can find many courses in sustainable business leadership in one college, whereas in the other you have more interesting classes under the international business management program.
These comparisons make it easier for people to make a final decision. For more information on faculty involvement and opportunities, discuss with our consultants.
3. Cross-check the university’s support services and facilities
Your university is going to be your second home far from your home country. You must always check if the selected university supports the library, gym, and other facilities like mental health support, career services, academic advising communities, etc., for a better experience.
Cross-check and confirm if this is the place you want to spend your next 3-4 years?
It is also important to not miss the size of the college. Large colleges imply more name recognition that can also help you with job opportunities in the future. Small-size colleges are also great as it makes it easier for students to form relationships with professors and entertain more personal attention.
4. Ensure your lifestyle matches the location and social scene
Don’t forget to think about life outside of classes. Take a look at what activities or tournaments your selected universities support to keep you busy while studying. If you are interested in a specific sport, check if there are any facilities for the same. Also, the location of your college is vital. What would you prefer – a town, a small city, or a metropolis?
Think about these facts before making a final call.
5. Check if the cost of living and tuition fees lie within your budget
Apart from these, you must also calculate the overall cost, including the daily expenses, tuition fees, and accommodation costs. etc. Prepare a budget for you and cross-check if you can manage the expenses. Look for scholarship options for different universities. You can also take loans or borrow money from friends to pursue higher studies.
You can also apply for a part-time job as long as it doesn’t interfere with your studying.
6. Discover and communicate with current students
You can connect with current students through social platforms and discuss your concerns. Students who are already studying in your desired country can guide you better and recommend as per their experience. Get a realistic idea of what life at your desired college is like.
For more tips on studying abroad preparations, admissions, or counseling, join our intake programs.
