How to Choose the Right University to Study Abroad?

How to Choose the Right University to Study Abroad?

 

Deciding to go for abroad education is a big decision to make. Even difficult is choosing the right university. It is an extensive process and one should be self-interrogative while choosing. Your university selection will carve your career and will define your future.

Let us dive into a step-by-step approach to choose the right study abroad university.

 

Pick the desired course

The first and foremost thing you need to do is figure out is the exact course you want to pursue. For instance, if you have completed your bachelor’s degree in engineering in computer science, which course would you like to pursue? Is it MS or MBA?

 

You can start by making a list of the degrees you are eligible for, based on your current qualification and academic record. Afterward, rule out the options you don’t want to pursue at all. If it is a selection between MBA and MS, what would you do? Try figuring out your natural inclination in this case.

 

If you are a hardcore computer guy and are keen on subjects such as artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, web development, software security, or something similar, you should perhaps go for MS in a relevant field. If you have an inclination towards the management side of things, a degree such as MBA or Masters in Engineering Management would be better for you.

You can also take the help of your guardians, teachers, and study abroad counselors while choosing the right course for you.

 

 

Pick the study location

Figuring out your desired study destination would help you prepare and plan in a much better way. Which country would you feel the safest while studying? How is the overall study environment and expenses there?

 

Long-term planning is important while choosing a study abroad university. Below are the key things you need to research while choosing your desired study location:

 

• Overall Safety and Health Standards
• Post Study Stay Period
• Friendliness towards international students
• The general economy of the state
• State of Education System and Study Options
• Your network of friends or relatives
• State of the relevant industry

 

 

Check the College Rankings

Once you have figured out your desired course and study destination, it is time to shortlist and do research on specific universities. You can look at the top-ranked universities for your desired course, by looking at the worldwide rankings as well as local rankings. There are several popular global rankings available online, such as US News, QS Rankings, Times Higher Education, etc. Look at the study cost, credits, duration, placements, degree requirements, course content, subjects taught, and all other information available by the university.

 

Compare the Universities

You need to compare different universities on all the parameters. You can also use university comparison tools available online. One such tool is GyanDhan’s University Compare Tool. This is a free-of-cost tool that compares universities within seconds. All you need to do is enter your personal information, academic scores, and current qualifications. You would get a comprehensive analysis, which comprises employment rankings, names of top recruiters, annual intake for the specific department, chances of getting scholarships,  college rankings, living expenses, tuition fees, and annual research funding for your department.

 

Also, while comparing the total cost, consider visa cost, tuition fee, accommodation costs, living costs, travel costs, insurance costs, minimum sum to be maintained in the bank, and compulsory insurance costs (if any).

 

Explore the loans or funding options offered by the university. You must also know about the various loan options available.

While considering the expenses, also assess the long-term return of investment. Paying a few more thousand dollars for a better university that augments your future prospects multifold might be a better option than compromising for a course you can afford now, but without adequate long-term dividends.

 

Do informal research

Every university would make the best information public, without focusing on its shortcomings. With the facility provided by technology, it is now way easier to see beyond marketing. 

 

All universities have social media pages and alumni websites. You can directly contact ex-students and professors. Also try to tap your own network of family and friends, who might have a better understanding of specific universities.

 

Selecting and choosing the right university abroad can either kickstart your career or push you to work even harder. So, contact GyanDhan to kickstart your career.The right tools at the right time will save your time and effort. Make use of the extensive list of universities, categorized country-wise on GyanDhan. Further, compare these universities using the University Compare tool to find the right fit for you.