Students going for study abroad need to take into account everything that will help them make the right decision, says Austin Brown
Study abroad is an important aspect of a well rounded off education. You should be well prepared to face many things apart from language and cultural barrier. Below are 10 points which you should take into account before you decide to study abroad:
Research
Choose the right course as per your interest and previous study. The chance of finding the perfect match can be a difficult task as there are thousands of universities across the globe offering similar courses. This will require a lot of research. The research should be based on:
The more research you put in the process the more likely it is for you to get the right choice for you. Once you have decided the course and University you would want to study in, it is likely that you would put more efforts to get into it.
Country Comparison
Choosing the right country for yourself is very important based on below factors which you and your parents would like to keep in mind before you plan to study abroad:
Finances & cost of living
Knowing the tuition fees and living expenses is very important before you decide to study abroad. Before you commit on a course estimate how much you will spend on study abroad. There are various options available to study like public universities, private universities, public colleges and private colleges. The cost of tuition fees will vary for each category of institution.
The living expenses will vary depending upon the country you choose and also the city you decide to study will make a difference.
Scholarships/Bursaries
A lot of scholarships are offered to help students studying abroad. Many universities and colleges and external organisations offer various kinds of scholarships in full and part to funds the studies and/or living expenses of students.
Earning while learning
look at options of ‘Blue Collar Jobs’ which can offer you an opportunity to work part time while you study and can earn money for your pocket money and enjoyment. You’ll earn money while you learn new skills to add to your CV and impress future employers
Placement
Compare universities on the basis of employability support offered to international students and links with Industry for your area of expertise. Universities offer one-to-one appointments with their experienced careers advisers via phone, email or face to face to help you choose the right course and career after completing the course. This support is available to you before you join the university, throughout your studies and after you graduate too. The support given is in form of arranging workshops to help you develop essential job-related skills and make you more appealing to future employers.
Student Services
Universities offer a wide variety of international student services both before you reach and after you register at the university. These services provide support and assistance about visa and immigration policies and also help you while you are settling in a new country.
Student life
Are you interested in Singing or dance or Sports or Art or designIJ Or any other cultural ActivitiesIJ Every university has diverse cultural societies to suit your interest. The Students’ Union offers a huge range of societies, from alternative dance, music to animal welfare and also has course-specific societies where you can meet people who are studying similar subjects to you. Any student can join a society, and new members are always welcomed.
Researching about these facilities is very important before you finalise on the university. Being prepared for a completely different culture and way of living is important and these small but supportive communities can definitely help you settle down and make friends in a new country.
location of University
Depending upon your interest whether you like to stay in a calm small town, like busy city life or a beach town decides on the place before you apply. These factors play an important role in decision making.
Travel documents & Visa
It goes without saying that a current passport will be required in order to enter a foreign country and to return home. However, many countries require a student visa. If your destination country requires a visa, be sure to apply well in advance of your expected departure. Delay in these documents/ visa application might lead to missing important deadlines.
Accommodation
Finding a home which is friendly, comfortable and safe is a very important for you to be happy at the university. There are various types of accommodation available depending upon you requirements and budget. Most of the universities offer student accommodation at the campus or nearby but you can also explore options of staying in private accommodation sharing with your friends which might save you some bucks. Once you decide on the university ensure that you apply for an accommodation well in advance.
(The writer is regional director, International Development, Anglia Ruskin University).