In recent times, there has been a rise in the desire to study abroad and it is honestly marked by several factors, to say the least. Few look for good career opportunities or academic programs to enhance their understanding, while others, get interested in the specialized programs for skill development. Whether it is a regular course or online, studying internationally is the preferred choice.
When it comes to understanding the application process, things often get pretty serious trying to accumulate everything in one place. This article therefore aims to solve that problem and assist you in making a list for yourselves. Here we intend to discuss the basic steps and a few key pointers to make a note.
But before we delve into the intricacies, let us answer this for you:
Table of Contents
Why should you Study Abroad?
Although there is no definitive answer to this, studying abroad can have multiple meanings to different people. Some prefer it for reputed institutions, varied cultures, and specialized courses while others believe it to be a gateway for professional excellence. Whatever the reason, it is important to understand that yours might be entirely different from the crowd. Before you decide to embark on a journey abroad, it is essential that you realize and select the criterion that fixes your choice.
As our observation, here we are listing down the top 8 reasons based on why a candidate might decide to study abroad,
1. Academic Reputation:
Majorly students select abroad studies due to the exposure to reputed institutions and the academic development it brings. This is also something that greatly affects your career ahead and should be a concerning factor. The experiential learning programs, industrial opportunities, and future job prospects associated with it make it an ideal choice
2. Diverse Options:
It is not that students prefer only full-time conventional courses. With the digital age growing, we find candidates increasingly interested in opting for non-conventional certificate courses or courses for a professional kickstart ranging from arts to fashion. The opportunity to select the ideal choice acts as a fascination
3. Immersive Culture:
The advantage of immersing yourself in a different culture is to meet new people and understand new customs and traditions. This is also a beautiful way to network with people with diverse backgrounds and also get a hint at the local cuisine, language, and beliefs. For people who love to try different things, this acts as a great option
4. Learning a New Language:
It is not every day that we get to learn something new. However, when you study internationally, irrespective of the fact that English is widely spoken, you get a chance to learn the local language and put it into use. This helps you bond better and create a space yourself in a strange country
5. Personal Independence:
When you decide to study abroad, you also decide to live by yourself. While this may sound overwhelming, it also brings about a great level of independence. Here, you are expected to make your own decisions and handle your finances carefully. This creates a sense of responsibility and helps with your overall development
6. Global Opportunities:
Coupled with an environment of academic excellence, studying abroad also presents a range of networking and global career opportunities. With industries looking for candidates who are well trained, studying in top institutes gives you a head start and helps you secure a position in the job market
7. Career Outcomes:
With the plethora of options available to choose from, the courses are generally designed to prepare you holistically with the help of application-based learning. Recruiters are keen on hiring such talents and multiple unconventional courses can prove extremely beneficial when trying to secure a good job
8. Lifetime Experience:
Having discussed factors that affect your decision, it is also important that you look into your choices of living your academic dreams. Living abroad not only introduces you to a range of options, it also proves fulfilling for your personal experience. Getting to enjoy that time in a different country, is a dream that must be lived
With us discussing the major reasons that influence your study abroad, it is entirely your choice to opt for this. Higher education should not only give you exposure but also the satisfaction that helps you concentrate better. Now that we have listed these down, we will dive into understanding the process that goes behind,
Understanding the Study Abroad Process
While you choose to study abroad, the process involved is intricate and requires a minute understanding of the steps involved. Here, we will guide you with the primary 8 steps that you should keep in mind while you set for your journey,
1. Consultation
When you first decide to study internationally, it is important that you seek expert guidance from advisors and make your plans accordingly. You need to have a clear idea of the steps and processes involved and what better way to stay informed than to take an external help that keeps you relaxed? Although, you should also be aware of the basics yourself.
2. Country, Program and School Selection
Not only seeking advice will keep you on track but you also need to have your own opinions. It is imperative that you select your own program, choice of country, and desired institution for your study abroad. Based on your selection and profile matching, the advisors can help you better
3. Test Prep
Several countries require you to qualify for a standardized test, depending on your choice of program. A few common ones would be the SAT, GRE, and GMAT and in the majority of the cases, you also need to prove your English proficiency by taking IELTS or TOEFL. Therefore, you need to be well prepared
4. Admission Requirements
Along with your academic marksheets/transcripts, you will need a well-drafted Statement of Purpose (SOP), Resume/CV, and Letter of Recommendation as applicable. You should start preparing these requisites beforehand and create appealing documents that help you stand out. This is a critical part of your admissions and along with your standardized test scores, this is also responsible for securing you an admit
5. Scholarships
The decision to study abroad does not only limit itself to having strength but it also requires a steady financial position. Candidates who are unable to support this huge amount on their own can get help through the available financial aid and scholarships that reduce their burden.
6. Loan Requirements
Combined with scholarships, you also can avail education loans through your banks or organizations. This sometimes requires you to clear their eligibility criteria before they pass out the loan. Students who are opting for higher education without a scholarship, majorly prefer taking education loans for easy financial planning
7. Visa Process
Keeping your application documents and admit handy alone will not guarantee you a ticket to your dream country. For any country of your choice, you are supposed to apply for a student visa and only on proper verification and compilation of necessary documents, are you granted a visa. This is quite a stressful process and if taking external help, eases out your concerns comparatively
8. International Adaptation
As you proceed to your dream journey, you must be aware of the basic requirements to sustain abroad. You should arrange your lodging and to an extent available food options as a primary step. You must have some idea about the culture of the country to help adjust better. You should also prepare yourself mentally in terms of social security and independence
Now that you know the basic things to keep in mind and the steps involved before you leap, we encourage you to take the right step with an informed mindset.
Key Considerations
Now that we know why candidates prefer studying abroad and what are the key steps that go behind admissions, it is also important that we consider a few points that can influence your decisions and keep you more prepared,
- Academic Goals:
Before you decide on your study abroad, it is important to consider the specifications of your case. You must select the course that appeals to you most and is suitable for your profile. The choices that you make should be based on its applicability and prospects ahead. It should not be influenced by others
- Financial Planning:
Once you select your courses and the choice of your country, you should always consider looking into the finance basics of it. Each country has its own cost structure. Make sure that you are aware of the tuition cost, living expenses, and budgeting options for secure financial planning
- Cultural Adaptation:
It is important that you are informed and aware of the culture that you are going to experience. It is a wonderful opportunity for you to meet new people, learn the local language, and get accustomed to the culture of the country
- Maintain your Health:
Staying away from home and available facilities is tough. That is why you have to be extra careful of your health and mental well-being. Keep a check of the important contacts and make sure you have easy access in case of medical requirements
- Visa Requirements:
You should be aware of the visa and immigration policies of the chosen country for a quick approach. The whole interview process along with the requirements should be kept handy and you must be updated on the processes that follow. In this case, getting help from an external agency goes a long way and helps you keep calm
- Social Security:
While you live independently, you should be mindful of your surroundings and stay alert. It is important that you understand the culture around you and try to figure out possible ways of getting help if needed. It is also essential for you to keep a check on your personal belongings. Be extra careful when it comes to your official documents.
- Support Resources:
Staying alone is never easy, more so when you are attempting that in a foreign country. You should be familiar with your neighbourhood and try making friends to create a secure atmosphere for yourself. Whether it is your roommate or international student organizations, you should try to create valuable bonds with them.
- Personal Growth and Development:
Now that you have decided to go abroad, it is also suggested that you mix with your surroundings and try developing your personality. With a plethora of opportunities in terms of extra-curricular activities, student communities, and application-based sections, you should completely utilize the opportunity and grab them to your advantage
Role of Trusted Consultants
In this pursuit of study abroad, one of the essential factors is getting to know the right information and contacting the correct sources. In this regard, external academic consultants who can guide you, strategize for you and help you make informed decisions, play a pivotal role.
At Manya, we believe in customized services to help you select the best for you. We have expert advisors who could be valuable in giving you services ranging from securing your admission process to visa completion. If you are an aspiring candidate or have already been involved in this process but need help, feel free to reach out!
Conclusion
Studying abroad is an entirely personal decision and should be an informed one. This guide discusses the reasons that can be vouched for an international study, along with discussing the steps involved in the overall process and concerns regarding it. This can be handy once you decide to embark on this journey and utilize it to prepare yourself.
Make sure to research on your own and understand the processes involved. When you are taking external help, there would be instructions given for smoother functioning, and adhering to timelines would make your work easier. Now that you have an idea of the steps involved, you can prepare beforehand and concentrate more on the requisites as a guide for a successful study abroad journey ahead.