Studying abroad opens up a world of career and personal growth prospects and can be a life-changing experience for students. It introduces students to diverse perspectives, challenging them to step outside their comfort zones. This equips them with the tools to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. It also requires careful planning and consideration of various factors to ensure a successful and enjoyable journey. If you are planning to study abroad, then here are some key factors to consider.
Academic Goals and Program Selection
The first step is to self-evaluate yourself by answering the questions below.
- What are my primary skills?
- Which field will best facilitate my career success?
- How will my preferred course enhance my knowledge and abilities?
- What are my long-term objectives, and can a particular course help me attain them?
Research and choose a suitable study program, institution, or university that aligns with your academic interests and goals.
Destination Selection
Consider the country and city where you want to study. Factors to evaluate while choosing your study destination include the language spoken, culture, climate, and safety. Make sure to research the reputation of educational institutions in the chosen destination. Most of the international students prefer to study in Canada, and countries like USA, UK, Australia, etc.
Get in touch with Study abroad consultants
Engaging in a conversation with an experienced counselor can be invaluable. When it comes to deciding on studying abroad, there’s no substitute for the expertise of study abroad consultants. It’s crucial to select a trustworthy and knowledgeable team to provide you with the best guidance. Gather all your questions, schedule a meeting with certified Study Abroad Consultants like Kanan International, and seek answers to your inquiries before proceeding further.
Budget and Financial Planning
Managing the finances plays a crucial role while planning to study abroad. Create a detailed budget that includes tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and potential unforeseen expenses. Explore scholarship opportunities, grants, and financial aid to help fund your studies abroad.
Entrance exams preparation
Students are required to take entrance exams with specific requirements to join international universities. It is essential to allocate dedicated time to prepare for the exam. Because it is significant to enhance the chances of securing admission to the university of your choice.
Here are some examples of entrance exams you may encounter:
- English proficiency exams: These include TOEFL, PTE, and IELTS, which assess your English language skills.
- Other competitive exams: Depending on your field of study, you might need to take exams such as GRE, GMAT, SAT, MCAT, or LSAT, which evaluate your aptitude and knowledge in specific subject areas.
Make sure you have your entrance exam scores ready before you initiate the admission process. This approach can simplify the application process and help you progress smoothly toward your goal of studying abroad.
Admission process and selection
Universities receive a pool of applications from the candidates during the admission process. To differentiate yourself effectively, it is important to craft an outstanding profile comprising a CV, Statement of Purpose (SOP), and Letter of Recommendation (LOR). While the LOR typically comes from a faculty member at your previous institution, the SOP is a self-written essay that should encompass the following key elements:
- Academic qualifications
- Academic accomplishments and awards
- Participation in extracurricular activities
- Details of projects you’ve been involved in
- Any published articles, if applicable
- Previous internship experiences, if any
- Motivation for selecting a particular course, university, and study abroad destination
- Short-term and long-term goals.
It’s advisable to apply to multiple universities rather than focusing on a single institution. When your application is successful, you will typically receive an offer of acceptance from the university.
Apply for passport and Visa
After deciding on your dream country to study, understand the visa and immigration regulations of the destination country. Generally, the process of getting a Canadian student visa is easier than other destinations visa procedures.
When applying for a visa, it is vital to consult the official website of the respective country to familiarize yourself with the current visa application procedures and requirements. To prepare for the visa application process, the following documents should be handy:
- Two passport-sized photographs
- An up-to-date passport
- Identification and proof of address documents
- Academic transcripts
- Scores from entrance exams (if applicable)
- Documents related to student health insurance
- Proof of financial resources
Ensuring you have these documents in order can streamline the visa application process and improve your chances of a successful application.
Apply for Health and Insurance
Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay abroad. Research healthcare options in the host country and be aware of any vaccinations or health precautions needed.
Know about Accommodation
When it comes to student housing, there are typically two choices: on-campus accommodation and off-campus accommodation. Many universities abroad offer cost-effective on-campus housing for international students. It is better to check if your chosen university offers this option. If they do, applying for on-campus housing early can help to secure your spot. If on-campus housing is not available, you can independently explore off-campus housing options that suit your budget and preferences. Consider factors like cost, location, and amenities when choosing accommodation.
Improve your Language Skills
If your destination has a different primary language, assess your language proficiency and consider language courses or programs to improve your skills.
Book your tickets to study abroad
The next key step is buying your airline tickets. Even though it might not seem crucial, booking your flights in advance is a wise choice to avoid any potential problems down the road. It is recommended to familiarize yourself with these rules in order to ensure a smooth arrival as each study abroad location has its own specific travel regulations. Consider making an appointment with renowned foreign education consultants to have a better understanding of these rules.
Mentally get ready and have fun traveling
You will surely interact with people who have different views on time and personal limits while you are studying abroad. Prepare yourself to accept and benefit from these differences without passing judgment. These differences, precisely, will aid in gaining a deeper understanding of your own culture.
