Study Abroad is one of the most important decisions a student takes in an academic capacity. Choosing to study abroad is a big step because the student is now going to be introduced to a new environment, filled with new people from different countries and learn an advanced curriculum which will equip them with the essential skills for future careers. With new courses emerging, there are many more specialities as available which offers students opportunities to really hone in on their area of expertise in their desired career path. Building up to the application to a university and course, there are certain key factors that students need to give attention to.
These factors include:
1. Eligibility based on scores:
Before starting applications, there are a certain set of requirements that the students have to fulfill in order to be eligible to apply for a certain program at a university. These admission requirements are basically admission tests like GRE, GMAT, SAT or ACT depending on the course and program. Another requirement for international students are English Proficiency Tests like TOEFL, IELTS and PTE to prove your ability to communicate in the English language, these are required for students from countries where the primary language isnt English.
2. Finances:
The backbone of all academic endeavours is finance. Finance can put a strain on a students wallet because of the course fees and other variables attached. Universities offer scholarships that help students lower the financial strain. Students can check for available scholarships on the college website and also apply for financial aid provided by various organizations. While some scholarships are based on academic merit, there are some which can be availed of, for admission test scores like GRE or GMAT or other admission tests.
3. Statements of Purpose and Letters of Recommendation:
With each application, students have to submit an SOP or Statement of Purpose and Letters of Recommendation. An SOP adds a personal touch to the application as admission committees in most cases do not get to interact with applicants. Letters of recommendation confirm your academic performance and also let the respective references speak about the student and give their own personal and professional views and perspectives. Students must write their own SOP and get across the emotion and reason behind choosing the course, program and university. In some cases, SOPs also help in securing scholarships.
4. University Analysis:
Choosing one university out of the wide selection of universities can be very tricky and daunting task. To help this selection, students should shortlist 5 universities which are in sync with their career aspirations and then compare these universities on 3 main criteria, to name a few:
- Accreditation: Students should research about what accreditations and awards the universities has won and on what basis has the university won said accolades.
- Rankings: Another comparison point is the rank the university holds, both nationally and internationally. Higher the ranking, better the university. Students can check organizational rankings like that of QS to check the rankings.
- Location: Choosing a location is comparatively easier. The student has to choose which weather conditions to they find favourable and make a decision on that destination.
5. Complete Documentation:
Before submitting their applications, students should ensure that they have all the necessary documentation in place. Along with an SOP and LORs, students should also have complete Application forms, Resume/CV, Attested copies of Marksheets and Certificates and Other Diplomas, IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, GRE, GMAT scores (where applicable), Attested copies of any additional certificates/Proof of extra curricular activities, 2 Passport sized photos, Passport copies. These collectively make a complete application for university. Apart from the university application, there are a lot of similar documentation that is required for the visa application as well. Once you secure an offer from the university, then you go ahead and make the required payments and bookings for the respective intake.For Canada universities, students are required to get a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD 10,200 in Scotia Bank or ICICI Bank, Canada to secure living expenses for a year.
6. Research on Insurance:
In most universities, Health Insurance is included in the tuition fee for the course itself but some universities allow students to get health insurance from their home country if they choose not to opt for the university insurance. The student can inquire about the same on the college website or look at their fee structure.
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