Confused about where to study? We’ll help you find the place that’s right for you!
Studying abroad is a life-changing experience and so, before you plunge into the first destination that pops in your mind, sit back and research. It is crucial to weigh all the pros and cons of a country where you plan to further your career. We know it’s overwhelming, that’s why we have this section to help you decide on your next study destination.
That is your foundation to start with – identify your course of preference by listing down your interests and strengths. Research extensively on the modules, program and its duration offered for your preferred subject. And while you’re at it, ensure to explore employment prospects and long-term benefits as well.
Struggling to choose a course? So did many of us!
Each course is a unique mix of many different ingredients — from the subjects covered, to the campus location, to the career it leads to. Whether you’re still considering possible courses, tossing up between two fields of study or have no idea what kind of career you want, we can help find the best course for you and coordinate your university application.
Understand the industries that are open for you to explore employment opportunities once you’ve completed your program. Take into account the countries that have maximum avenues for students undertaking your chosen course. Check how strong is the destination in your industry base and if any level of industrial training is available. For instance, if you wish to make it big in IT, USA is one of the best destinations for you. With the current expansion of IT innovation and growing start ups, IT professional will be in great demand for the next 15 years in USA, Canada & UK. With ease of Visa norms and granting of work permits post the completion on your course, you have a great opportunity to work, earn and even settle in these countries.
Different destinations have different educational structures, which may or may not be in sync with your thought process. Check for the teaching pedagogy followed in the classrooms. For instance, a lot of universities add weightage to practical training over theoretical concepts. Do you think such an approach would work for you? Would you be comfortable working on research papers and assignments every week?
Always look for the entry requirements for the programs available in your desired destination. Does it offer a program at the level you wish to take entry in? Is it a diploma program or a degree? Understand your preference and select accordingly. For instance, several colleges in Canada offer a postgraduate diploma instead of a master’s degree. Similarly, the UK offers two kinds of master’s – taught and research.
Also check for the academic scores required. Do you fulfil the same? Would you be required to take an additional test apart from the English proficiency test? Do think you’d be able to extract time from your schedule to prepare for additional tests such as GMAT, GRE or SAT?
It is essential to consider the overall expense involved in studying at a particular destination. When calculating your costs, don’t forget to consider ancillary expenses such as accommodation, utilities, transportation, etc. Consider the duration of your course as that’ll majorly affect your overall cost of studying abroad. For instance, masters in the UK and Ireland are offered for just one year whereas masters in other countries like Canada and Australia can take up to two years.
Wondering how much money do you need? We’ll help you budget it out!
Did you know that the academic year in universities abroad differ from the ones in India? Consider your current situation – does it allow you to gather everything and apply for the upcoming intake? Applying to a university requires collating all your documents (such as Statement of Purpose, Letter of Recommendation, Curriculum Vitae, Transcripts, etc.), ensure that you have all this in place before your chosen intake begins. If you don’t have enough time for all these formalities, consider going for the next intake.
Your chosen course should be able to help you grow professionally and put you in a state where you can find employment. Consider a destination that offers multiple employment opportunities for your course. For instance, if you’re getting a masters computer science, the US will offer you endless avenues. After all, it is home to tech hubs such as San Diego, San Francisco, Chicago, Boston and Silicon Valley.
Check for the visa entry requirements of the destination you are interested in. Each country has a different set of rules to abide by, and sometimes visa processing may take more time than expected. Also, visa processing costs vary for each country. If you’d require, our counsellors can help you understand the visa processes with ease.
Not a major factor, but something to think about as an Indian student. Lifestyle abroad is going to be extremely different from India. The language, culture, food, way of leading everyday life - everything is going to change. Your way of approaching different situations will also change drastically.
As an Indian student who’ll be spending a lot of money, effort and time, it is natural to calculate the return on investment (ROI). Does the destination offer you the kind of return you’d want on your investment? Does it make you job ready? If you are planning to immigrate to another country, reflect upon the opportunities and monetary benefit. Consider the value of your degree back home especially if you intend to return back. Students going for niche courses must also ponder upon this aspect.
Your AURA counsellor will also talk you through the practicalities of when you can apply to study and when you can commence your course in different destinations. They can discuss your profile in detail and help map your career and personal aspirations to the right country where you can thrive in.
International education system, foreign culture, foreign atmosphere, career opportunities, personality growth, etc. are some of the primary objectives of studying abroad. There are numerous colleges and universities presenting variety of courses related to almost any field. Another effective platform that is promoting education is through e-learning portals which are a growing trend in the field of education.
The process of choosing the right college can be quite overwhelming and confusing, but we promise the end results are exhilarating. Finding the ultimate college can be quite challenging therefore it is important to remember some tips that will help you along the process
This is the first step in figuring out the right college for you, it is important to know the course or program that you are willing to study abroad. After enquiring and learning about education in foreign countries, one must learn about the countries that offer your desired course and if the country is best known for the course. Students can visit the official websites to learn about their program structure, resources provided, etc. to understand if the course suits your list of priority.
Once, you have all the needed information about the country and course, list down your doubts and approach the university/college through an email or contact them by dialling their listed phone number.
Check if the university has an organized faculty that provides expertise knowledge. Research about the program module provided, learn if the subjects will help you career development and growth wise. Explore the possibilities for research projects and the outcome of studying at the university.
Studying abroad is very expensive. Therefore, during the research of universities/colleges, enquire about their fee structure and if they have a financial aid program that you can benefit from. Most universities/colleges offer financial assistance. Try applying for scholarship through endowment committees that can be found through web. Other possibilities are students loans that are provided by banks situated in your home country.
Make sure you go through the requirement and eligibility criteria. This section provides you with information like basic requirements and documents to apply for the course. Since the courses are study abroad programs, students are most likely required to apply for English proficiency test like TOEFL and IELTS. Prepare for the eligibility criteria and consider apply for the higher education abroad.
A student must be aware of other college facilities. Every college/university has extra-curricular activities that are organized for student’s benefit. Participation in sports, debate tournaments, voluntary work, student council, drama, music bands are some activities that are outside the realm of university/college education. Involving in one these activities is not only grade oriented but also improves the student’s personality and communication skills, through these various activities students also get the opportunity to explore the diversity of the country.
With detailed research of the college placements and jobs, students can learn about the possibilities of studying at the college. Applying at a college with higher ratio of placement opportunities will not only prove the overall worth of the college but also secure the individual’s professional background. Attending the course must benefit the student, in terms of knowledge and job opportunities.
Struggling to choose a course? So did many of us!
Each course is a unique mix of many different ingredients — from the subjects covered, to the campus location, to the career it leads to. Whether you’re still considering possible courses, tossing up between two fields of study or have no idea what kind of career you want, we can help find the best course for you and coordinate your university application.
Here’s how to start on finding the right course for you:
Note down a list of your interests and skills, and spend some time reflecting upon it. Highlight the ones that seem promising enough to pursue as a career and eliminate options that fulfil only as a side hobby. A shorter, more focussed list of options will put you in a better position to figure out what courses will suit you the best.
It is important to make a well-informed decision to get the most out of your study abroad ( Choose the Right Country ) experience.
Once done with your selection, look at the qualifications required to pursue it. Do you have them all? If not, would you want to wait another intake until you achieve the requirements, or switch your stream – think about this thoroughly. This could be a tricky choice, but we can help here.
Our experienced counsellors are experts at understanding your study goals and finding the course that best matches your career aspirations. Book a free counselling session to discuss in detail. We’d be more than happy to help.
Course selection, check. Now what? See what the course has to offer in terms of the career you have planned for yourself. Take the time to visit each university or college website to explore not only the subjects included in your course but also to find out the content of each module per subject, along with the duration for which it is being offered. Remember, the course duration also depends on the type of course you wish to pursue.
Your AURA counsellor will work with you to map out a shortlist and dive down deep into the detail of course handbooks and subject choices.
This may seem like a minor point, but trust us, it matters. It is important to know what kind of teaching methodology you are most comfortable with. Do you prefer writing long assignments all through the year or hands-on training befits you? This will also help you narrow your selection to the institutes that offer your preferred course across destinations.
Knowing how much a course will cost and how much you can afford to spend on your education are important factors when deciding what and where to study. Do find out if there are any scholarships available for your course at both government and institute level. If you are able to land one, it can help bring down the cost of your studies considerably. Your AURA counsellor will also talk you through the practicalities of when you can apply to study and when you can commence your course in different destinations.
Your chosen course should put you on a path to a profession you’ll love, but first you need to be clear what it is that you are seeking.
If you are unable to decide, go for courses with broader career prospects, like communications or psychology. The concepts are universal and these can be applied in an array of industries to thrive well.
Remember, your AURA counsellor can always advice you on the course that can get you where you want to be.