Finding a perfect university to study abroad is like searching for a needle in a haystack. With a plethora of options for a diverse range of courses and educational institutions worldwide, it can be intimidating and tiresome to shortlist a university that’s the right cultural fit. But don’t worry! To guide you better in your journey, we have compiled a list of five factors to look for when searching for an ideal university overseas.
Determine the Study Program
Above all, the first step is to identify what subject you want to pursue a degree in. While some students have a clear perspective on the course they want to take up, many are still unsure or indecisive.
If you relate to the latter category, you need to explore your interest and do extensive research about it. Start by analysing what you love doing, measuring your aptitude, and determining the skills you want to acquire. Many universities offer combined programs that allow you to study more than one subject, for example, business and finance. It is excellent for the students who are unsure or want to gain knowledge of diverse topics.
The most common mistake many international students make is choosing the university first and the course second. Don’t fall into the trap! Indeed, everybody wants to pass out from a reputed institution, but selecting the subject based on what is available in a reputed university and not what you are fond of can be challenging and hinder success in your career.
Decide the Location
Since your host country will be your new home, choosing the right location before selecting a university becomes the most crucial aspect of your study abroad journey. While you want to excel in your career, you must also immerse yourself in the new environment to enjoy it thoroughly.
You can migrate to countries like the UK, the USA, Canada, or Australia but prefer a study destination with a great social environment and plenty of career opportunities. Following are some more relevant factors that you should consider before finalising the country.
Benefits for pursuing education in your host country than in your home country
Treatment of international students
Visa policies
The general climate of the country
The location advantage for your career
The economic and political condition in the country
The local culture and the language
Attitude towards certain communities like LGBTQ+
Thoroughly research these critical points, chart out the pros and cons of the countries you selected initially and then finalise the one that seems safe, secure, and comfortable.
Choose the University
The next step is to pick the university that offers your desired course in your chosen location. Enrolling in a top university can be highly beneficial for your career. You might have a chance to secure employment in a leading company and continue living in your host country.
For this objective, you can refer to the below points to compare universities and shortlist the best three that offer your desired course.
The content of the course, structure for flexible modules, and method of assessment
The application requirements, like English language test score, educational certificates, Statement of Purpose, etc.
The style and quality of teaching
Job placement opportunities
Types of financial aids available like scholarships
Affordable student housing options near universities, such as in the UK like Cardiff University accommodation
Facilities for students: societies, clubs, events, etc.
Ask Around and Get Advice
To comprehend if a university is right for you, follow these steps:
Get in touch with the university’s current and former students.
Ask them relevant questions about the usability of the degree, campus life, career prospects, student housing, support groups, city life, student clubs and societies, accommodation, and more.
Clear all your lingering doubts before coming to a decision.
It would be great if you find someone in your social circle. Still, if you can’t, you can contact the alumni and current students of the universities on professional social media platforms, such as Facebook and LinkedIn. Moreover, you can search online for reviews and testimonials for the same.
Determine the Cost of Living
There is no denying the fact that pursuing education abroad can be a pretty expensive affair. And it becomes necessary to calculate the cost of your living before joining the university. So before you plan to move into University of Manchester accommodation or University of London accommodation, estimate the cost for major expenses like tuition fees, student housing, transportation, food, study materials, healthcare, leisure trips, and more.
We hope you get a clear picture of all the tips and factors to consider before choosing the university that could be your home for the next 3-4 years. You can start your research keeping in mind everything we have covered in this article and select a perfect university for yourself. And we hope you get admission to it. Best of Luck!
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Harshita Anand is a postgraduate in English Journalism and a graduate in Hotel Management. She has worked in diverse industries and with people from all walks of life. Her fulfilling experience ignited her interest in constantly learning new things about the world and writing passionately about them.
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