The dream to study overseas is an infinite dream inspiring millions. It's an exciting dream of new countries, global friendships, and class-of-the-world education. But making it a dream needs more than passion; it needs planning. With millions of students abroad each year at foreign universities, the experience of studying abroad with the selection of wonderful universities is an exhilarating and intimidating one.
This guide will walk you through this complex process from that initial spark to that acceptance letter so eagerly awaited. It is a simple guide via which you can make conscious, transparent decisions.
What should I consider when choosing a university abroad?
The journey begins on the premise that no one "best" university exists for everyone. What is ideal for him/her may not be ideal for you. One size fits all would not fit the other. The correct college is a balance – intellectually, financially, and personally.
Step 1: Define Your Goals and Priorities
You need to know what you want: rankings or brochures. The university selection process for students is a journey about their career. The aspirations about your career, personal interests and what you like in the learning environment should be the most important things to guide your decisions.
Academic goal: What are you passionate about? Which program will give you the skills you need in your dreamed-up career? Do you desire a research-based or a skill-based, practicum program?
Career Objective: What do you want to do after graduation? Think about career opportunities, practice experience and contacts with students.
University Abroad Tips for Parents
Parents usually have some absolutes, i.e., safety, cost, and a tangible ROI. It's important to have these absolutes out on the table early on. Talking it through upfront will avoid misunderstandings and create a sense of what's to come.
Step 2: Shortlist Countries Based on Fit
With your standards in place, you can begin the exciting work of researching. This is where you will begin getting answers to the big question of how to choose a university abroad.
Post-Graduation Opportunities: There are several opportunities following graduation in several countries. Canada's Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) gives graduates a three-year work opportunity, while the UK's Graduate visa provides a two-year opportunity. These are important points for students who intend to enjoy long professional careers. You can refer to the official government websites for Canada's PGWP or the UK's graduate visa to get the full eligibility information.
Language and Culture: Although classes in English are frequent, remember your ability to adopt the native culture and language. Germany and the UAE have very international populations, so this will make it easier.
Cost of Living and Fees: The 2024 Education Data Initiative report pointed out the huge gap in fees. Although the state universities in Germany can be low or no-fee for international students, living in Berlin or Munich won't necessarily be affordable. A chart comparing countries can be a useful tool.
Step 3: University and Program Research
When you have shortlisted a few countries, it's now time to research institutions. Here, you will be making the most important decisions of your life.
Should you select a university by rank or course quality?
This is a relevant question in a choosing overseas universities guide. Whereas institutional rankings such as QS World University Rankings or Times Higher Education are a good beginning, they must never be the sole reference point. A university's overall ranking does not necessarily reflect one program being better than another. Rather, look at a university with a reputation for excellence in your field. Look at the faculty research, the program itself, and the resources provided to the students.
Step 4: Cost Comparison, Scholarships, and Financial Budgets
These are at the top of parents' and students' minds. University foreign study costs more than tuition.
Total budget: Add accommodation, food, transport, health insurance and miscellaneous. It is far more expensive to live in a large city such as London or New York compared to a town in Australia or Germany.
Scholarships and Grants: Foreign students have millions of dollars in scholarship funds available. Look for merit-based scholarships, university and government scholarships in your home country, and need-based grants. The DAAD database is a wonderful resource to consult if you are studying in Germany, but general websites like ScholarshipPortal can be used to locate opportunities globally.
Career Opportunities: Check if part-time work is permitted on your student visa. Subsidized costs can be incurred, and work experience can be gained. For US-bound students, the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program is an extremely useful option for securing a job after graduation.
How can parents help with choosing an overseas university?
Parents can assist by assisting in research and implementing a budget. Shared spreadsheet is best for monitoring deadlines, expenses, and paperwork. Keeping your child involved with the process serves them best in terms of independence and growth.
Step 5: Assess Campus Life, Support, and Safety
Your university experience extends beyond the classroom. Where you live will be what shapes your personal growth and health.
Campus Life: What’s the difference between campus life abroad vs home country? Active campus life with multicultural student groups, athletics, and cultural programs is the standard with most international universities. These are usually a good means of networking and getting involved in your new community.
Student Support Services: Try to locate well-rounded international student support offices that will assist with visa issues, housing, and culture shock. Mental health counseling and career counseling are also a must.
Safety: Parents find this most important. Verify the campus and neighborhood safety, as well as university-specific security and emergency response services.
Step 6: Understand Admission Requirements and Deadlines
Each university and country will be unique. That is why your study abroad university checklist can be helpful.
Standardized Tests: Most institutions need English proficiency tests such as the IELTS or TOEFL. Some institutions also require tests such as the SAT, GMAT, or GRE.
Essays and Letters: Great personal statements and excellent letters of recommendation can make or break an application. Have these ready well in advance.
Deadlines: Country-specific application deadlines also differ widely. Fall intake deadlines in the US are usually in December or January, whereas in Australia, the principal intake is in February, and applications usually close several months prior. Create a shared calendar with your consultant or parents to keep track.
How many universities should I apply to for studying abroad?
It's generally best to apply to a mix of colleges: some "reach" colleges where you're a bit of a long shot, some "target" colleges where you're a good match, and one or two "safety" colleges. The standard approach is to apply to 5-10 colleges.
Step 7: Engage with Students and Alumni
Before you apply, ensure you have an actual understanding of the university. Students on social media such as Reddits R/Studyabroad associated with the discussion, talk to student ambassadors on LinkedIn or associate with virtual open houses.
To ask any questions before applying for a foreign university?
Inquire about student life: What is public transport like? Are good part-time work opportunities readily accessible? How extensive are post-graduation career services for international students? Such information will give a better idea of what life will be like. For US-bound students,
EducationUSA is an official and thorough source of information.
Conclusion
Selecting a university outside your country is perhaps the most important decision you will ever make. But with the right selecting universities for study abroad can be one of the most rewarding things too. Spend time setting your objectives, studying your options carefully, and planning in advance. You may find the best university that will educate you and turn you into a more confident, independent, and globalized individual.
For more updates and expert guidance on your study on foreign tours, be sure to check back with
UniNewsletter. We are committed to providing the resources needed to make our dreams come true.
26-05-2023
American University of Ras Al Khaimah 
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