Does a degree from a globally-renowned university appeal to you? Are you unsure of how to prepare for studying abroad? A long process of application, preparing for exams, gathering legal documents, and managing finances while applying for study abroad programs, can be a bit taxing for students and parents alike. Also, the thought of moving to a new country with a language unfamiliar to you may appear daunting. Don’t fret, we have you covered. We are here to guide you all the way to your dream university.
Points to keep in mind before applying to colleges abroad:
- Choice of program
The first question that you need to answer is what program you wish to pursue. It is the deciding factor that determines which colleges offer the relevant programs for you to choose from. While choosing a program, it makes sense to speak to alumni, and seek consultation from career advisors to make an informed decision.
- Location of your college
As you will spend a considerable amount of time in college, it is important to make a list of the colleges that offer your choice of course and shortlist the ones that suit you the best. Exploring the location, gaining knowledge about its culture, lifestyle, safety, connectivity to transport and market, are a few key points to look out for before selecting your college.
- Maintaining financial stability
You need financial stability to survive anywhere. It is easy when you are living in your own country with your family, but it becomes crucial to maintain a financial balance in order to survive abroad as both experiences and expenses are new. Making a list of expenses such as college fee, travel cost, accommodation, groceries, internet, and laundry will help you predict an estimate of all the expected expenditures. Be on the lookout for financial aid, scholarships, and grants to support your plan for studying abroad. From buying groceries to keeping financial backup funds for emergencies, you need to be prepared for everything.
- Placement facility
Make sure that the college you have applied to has good placement opportunities. Landing a job through campus placement can also help you in extending your stay as per the government rules for international students. After all, one of your main purposes of studying abroad is to seek a good recruitment opportunity.
- Learning their language
It is believed that if you wish to win someone’s trust, learn their language. Learning the language of a country you are moving to can open doorways to new opportunities. Making friends, applying for jobs, and navigating through streets become easy if you know the local language.
Documents required
Applying to foreign universities requires proper documentation with timely submission. Here is a list of important documents that you may require to apply to colleges:
- Statement of purpose (SOP): After successfully filling out the application form, you need to write an SOP, stating why you are applying to a particular university. The SOP should detail your achievements and goals. Your purpose should reflect your ideals, beliefs, why you want to study in that particular college, and what you plan to do after completing the program.
- Academic certificates: Keep your school and college certificates such as high school marksheets, and extra-curricular certificates ready for verification. It is advisable to organize them neatly in a folder, ready to be accessed whenever required.
- Entrance score cards: Almost all universities and colleges require you to give certain tests as per entrance criteria. Keep the score cards of entrance tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, GMAT, or ELSAT safely, so that you can submit them without delay.
- Work experience: Some universities ask for prior work experience to know that you possess relevant skills in the desired field. Gather all your work experience certificates before filing your application. This may help you make a good impression on the admission committee.
- Photograph: VISA and admission departments are very critical about the size and quality of your photograph. Make sure that you have your latest passport size photograph, identity, and residential proof for smooth completion of your application.
- Travel documents: Keep your VISA, passport, college acceptance letter, and other legal documentations handy and up-to-date as they can be asked for verification multiple times throughout the application process and also for post admission requirements.
- Recommendation letters: They are must-have documents. Recommendation letters from your workplace or college mentors increase your credibility, and enhance opportunities for college admissions and working abroad.
- Financial documents: Keep your scholarship certificates, loan statements, sponsorship proofs, and any other financial documents ready to be showcased to concerned authorities. It is advisable to apply for an education loan at least 3-4 months prior to the date of fee payment to eliminate any last minute hassle.
- Resume: Add as much experience to your resume through as many internships or jobs as possible to enhance your credibility. A strong resume may help you to secure job opportunities while studying abroad. It will help you be financially independent and you may be able to pay off your loan partially or even completely.
- Health certificates: You should have an updated health certificate to gain a health insurance card. Nowadays, even a vaccination certificate is mandatory as per the requirement of a college. Having a health insurance card will benefit you in times of medical emergencies.
Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity. Allow LaunchMyCareer to guide you through the entire process so that you may enjoy the journey with ease.
To know more, visit LaunchMyCareer now.
