Choosing the right university is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your Academic life. When it comes to studying abroad, choosing a University in your desired country is the foremost, yet difficult decision to be made. You will have to choose from amongst a number of institutions available in the country. An appropriate choice of university is crucial as your goal of a study abroad journey mostly depends upon your selection of university.
It’s important to choose a place that will challenge you academically and provide you with the opportunity to grow as a person.
There are a few key factors to consider when choosing which university is right for you.
1. Choose a program
First thing first, in order to shortlist appropriate institutions, you will first need to choose a program you would like to pursue. Once you decide or identify the subject of your interest and foresee a career path you would enjoy, you will be able to rule out those not offering your desired program.
In this way, you will have a shorter list and it will be much easier for you to decide on universities.
2. Choose a location
While choosing a university, location is equally important. This is going to be your home for the entirety of your time here, so make sure you’re comfortable with it. You should feel comfortable, safe, peaceful, and homely to achieve what you are there for.
Besides, the language, culture, weather, and job prospects available can be some of the deciding factors. You may also consider friends, relatives, community policies, and support systems for international students that would be helpful when required.
3. Find out University Rankings
A certificate of graduation from a top-ranking university is highly rewarding for future prospects. Remember that with an urge to succeed, you are going to spend a lot of time and money. Therefore, all your efforts should be worthwhile and justifiable.
Further, knowing University rankings will help you know which universities are best. You will also be able to compare the reputation and global recognition of the institutions.
Rankings of universities are made on different grounds such as teaching methods, popularity, research, etc. If you really wish to get into an institution that offers the best program on your desired subject, you may consider university rankings by subject rather than university as a whole.
Some popular rankings used by most international students are
Times Higher Education (THE) and
4. Carefully look into the course content
The process (how) and the content (what) are two significant factors while choosing a university abroad. Despite the same program offered, not all universities have similar course content. Similarly, the teaching techniques and evaluation methods vary too. Ways of assessment should also be carefully considered as it demands student’s full dedication of time and effort.
Regarding the modules, some of you may want to choose electives and majors around the same topic while some might want to choose different electives. Therefore, knowing well about what you will learn and how the learning process will be in specific universities will make it easier for you to pick the right university.
5. Calculate the cost
If you are thinking of going abroad for higher studies, you must be aware that it is going to cost you quite a lot. So, it is wise to check and tally the tuition fees among universities providing the course you opt to pursue.
Likewise, your travel, accommodation, and other daily expenses add up to the tuition cost. Hence, if you calculate all the expenses, it will help you narrow down your choices with affordable ones. Based on your educational background, you can even examine your eligibility and apply for scholarships, grants, and bursaries.
6. Know application requirements
It is necessary for you to know and understand all the requirements to apply to a specific program at a specific university. Application requirements may vary from country to country and university to university. In some instances, degree programs related to the research may require you to submit additional evidence.
Requirements also depend on which country you are applying from and to which country. Language requirements might also be different depending on the country and program you are applying to. If you are looking for UK universities, you might find some that accept applications without language proficiency test scores.
Therefore, application requirements may also help you find the best university to study.
7. Consult with an expert
Preparing for study abroad leads you to rigorous research. You will find yourself going through university websites and student portals, reading reviews, watching testimonial videos, participating in free webinars, and so on. However, no research seems enough because you have so many questions in your mind.
In this scenario, if you have friends studying in universities, you can ask for their experiences and opinions. You can join student groups on social platforms or contact and seek advice from renowned counselors providing education counseling.
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