Where to study? We’ll help you get to the place that’s right for your needs!
Pursuing higher studies is a lifelong experience, so before you delve into the first destination that emerges in your mind, sit back and do research. It is vital to check all the positives and negatives of a country where you plan to pursue your career. We know that it’s a herculean task, that’s why we have this article to help you choose your next study abroad destination!
Which course do you want to pursue?
That is your base to start with—identify your course of preference by listing down your interests and strengths. Research extensively on the subjects, program, and duration offered for your preferred .Make sure to explore employment prospects as well as long-term benefits.
How do I choose the perfect course? You are in the right place!
What is the scope of your selected course in your desired destination?
Get a list of the industries that are open for you to explore employment opportunities once you’ve completed your program. Consider the nations that have the most avenues for students undertaking your chosen course. Check thoroughly how strong is the destination is in your industry base and if any level of industrial training is available.
For example, if you wish to make it big in artificial intelligence, the United Kingdom is one of the best destinations for you. With the current expansion of AI projects across the country, there is a growing demand for AI engineers with handsome perks here. New Zealand is good for Civil engineers, with immense job opportunities Ireland is great for students in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, and Australia is the country to be if you are looking for research opportunities.
Does the educational structure of the destination suit you?
Every country has its own educational structure, which may or may not be in line with your thought process. Check for the teaching strategy followed in the classrooms. To exemplify, a lot of universities give weight to practical training over theoretical concepts. Do you believe such an approach would work for you? Would you be comfortable working on research papers and assignments every week?
Do you fulfil the entry requirements?
Always look for the entry requirements for the programs available in your desired destination. Does it offer a program at the level you wish to take entry into? Is it a diploma program or a degree? Understand your preferences and select accordingly. For instance, several colleges in Canada offer a postgraduate diploma instead of a master’s degree. Similarly, the UK offers two kinds of master’s: teaching and research.
Also check for the academic scores required. Do you fulfil the same? Would you be required to take an additional test aside from the English proficiency test? Do you think you’d be able to extract time from your schedule to prepare for additional tests such as the GMAT, GRE, or SAT?
How much will it cost to study at your desired destination?
It is essential to consider the overall expense involved in studying at a particular destination. When calculating your costs, don’t forget to consider miscellaneous expenses such as accommodation, utilities, transportation, etc. Consider the duration of your course, as that’ll significantly affect your overall cost of studying abroad. For example, masters in the UK and Ireland are offered for just one year, whereas masters in other countries like Canada and Australia can take up to two years.
Find out if there are any grants available to study in the desired destination at both the government and institute levels. If you are able to land one, it can help bring down the cost of your studies considerably. Check if you’ll also be able to work part-time while studying so you can manage your daily expenses easily and also gain some professional experience.
Are you wondering how much money you need? We’ll help you sort it out!
Have you decided which intake you want to opt for?
Did you know that the academic year in universities abroad differs from the one in India? Consider your current situation—does it allow you to gather everything and apply for the upcoming intake? Applying to a university requires collecting all your documents (such as a statement of purpose, letter of recommendation, curriculum vitae, transcripts, etc.). Ensure that you have all this in place before your chosen intake begins. If you don’t have enough time for all these formalities, consider going for the next intake.
Confused with what to do when? Our timeline for 2024 intakes is here to help!
Does your destination offer employment opportunities?
Your chosen course should be able to help you grow professionally and put you in a state where you can find a job. Consider a destination that offers multiple employment opportunities for your course. For instance, if you’re getting a master’s in computer science, the US will offer you endless opportunities. After all, it is home to tech hubs such as San Diego, San Francisco, Chicago, Boston, and Silicon Valley.
What are the student visa requirements and policies?
Check for the visa entry requirements of the destination you are interested in. Each country has a different set of rules to abide by, and sometimes visa processing may take more time than expected. Also, visa processing costs vary for each country. If you’d like, our counsellors can help you understand the visa process with ease.
Does your chosen study abroad destination offer you the kind of lifestyle you prefer?
Not a major factor, but something to think about as an Indian student. Lifestyles abroad are going to be extremely different from those in India. The language, culture, food, and way of leading everyday life—everything is going to change. Your way of approaching different situations will also change drastically.
Consider researching the lifestyle of each destination in order to understand if it reflects your aspirations.
What’s the ROI and value of your degree back in India?
As an Indian student who’ll be spending a lot of money, effort, and time, it is natural to calculate the return on investment (ROI). Does the destination offer you the kind of return you’d want on your investment? Does it make you job ready? If you are planning to immigrate to another country, reflect on the opportunities and monetary benefits. Consider the value of your degree back home, specifically if you intend to return. Students going for niche courses must also consider this aspect.
Your counsellor will also walk you through the practicalities of when you can apply to study and when you can commence your course in different destinations. They can discuss your profile in detail and help map your career and personal aspirations to the right country where you can thrive.
If you need end-to-end assistance with course shortlisting, country selection, and university selection, our counsellors are happy to help!
