Students choose to study abroad to broaden their horizons, learn different cultures, develop new viewpoints and gain a competitive advantage. Did you know that according to HolonIQ, a research firm in the education arena, currently 5 million students study overseas, and it is further estimated that by 2030 this number is set to touch an 8 million mark? If you aspire to study overseas like a million other students, here’s a brief guide for you.

1. Connect with yourself, know your passion

Some students will have elaborate plans about the course and stream they wish to pursue, and some might still be in the planning stage. If you are still planning which domain to choose, we suggest that you follow your passion to know your natural inclination. Also, please remember that the course you select to study abroad has to align with your previous course perfectly. Apart from this, you can also consider future career opportunities and remuneration. 

2. Passion coupled with the right direction is a recipe to success

Several factors like academic structure, entry requirements, lifestyle preference, recognition of the destination in the global market and more will influence your decision to shortlist your study abroad destination. However, courses in your preferred domain that universities offer should be your top priority. 

3. Application process and planning 

After shortlisting universities, coursework and the destination, you can begin with the university application process. Once you have shortlisted the program, you need to think about what you wish to choose – a Diploma, Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree or PhD program. Also, it is advised to apply to more than one university to increase the chances to secure a seat. 

If you plan to study abroad, you will be required to submit your English proficiency and entrance exams test score. Therefore check out if you need to appear for any entrance exam such as GRE, GMAT, SAT, MCAT, LSAT and/or English proficiency exams such as TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE to qualify for admission. 

4. Rankings reflect the quality of education

Although it is no secret that courses from well-ranked universities hold a global reputation. It is advised to make a well-informed decision based on research facilities, academic modules, student to faculty ratio, recruitment data, and more to suit your requirement when you plan to study abroad. For instance, University A may hold a great reputation for research activities in your preferred domain. However, University B may be known for placements or better employment rates. So, you can opt for a university that suits your requirement. 

5. Plan your accommodation and visa 

It is recommended to plan your accommodation before you travel to your preferred study abroad destination. If you travel abroad without making your accommodation plan, you will not have ample time, and that may force you to select an option that doesn’t meet your requirement. 

Furthermore, consider the processing time required for your student visa, which will vary depending on your study abroad destination. A few important documents to arrange before you apply for a student visa are confirmation of enrolment letter from your respective university, proof of funds to confirm that you can finance your overseas education and academic & entrance exam scorecards. 

So, these are some basic things to bear in mind before planning your study abroad journey. Also, chalking out your financial plan is important as you have to consider many expenses other than tuition fees. You can opt for an education loan in India for a study abroad journey. At Avanse Financial Services, we cover the holistic cost of education, including tuition fees, accommodation costs, living expenses, airfare, study material cost, equipment cost and more. If you want more information, please remember we are just a call away. All the best.