Studying abroad is a transformative experience that can broaden your horizons, enhance your education, and provide you with a unique cultural perspective.
Priyanka Nishar
Planning to study abroad, however, is a complex process that requires careful consideration and preparation. In this article, Priyanka Nishar, Founder & Managing Director of Azent Overseas Education helps understand and explore the key things to keep in mind when planning to study abroad, ensuring a successful and enriching experience.
Have you set Clear Goals?
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Before embarking on your journey to study abroad, it's essential to define your goals. Ask yourself why you want to study abroad and what you hope to achieve. Whether it's gaining a global perspective, mastering a new language, pursuing a specific academic interest, or enhancing your career prospects, having clear objectives will guide your decisions throughout the planning process.
Choose the Right Destination
Selecting the right destination is a critical decision. Research countries and cities that align with your goals and preferences. Consider factors such as the language spoken, the cost of living, the political climate, and the safety of the location. Each destination offers a unique cultural experience, so choose one that resonates with you.
What are the education prospects and programs like?
Once you've identified your preferred destination, research universities and programs that offer the courses and academic opportunities you desire. The academic program, especially one which has a flexible curriculum, and the reputation of a university will make a huge difference in the long run. Explore rankings, faculty expertise, and program offerings. Consider factors like class size, academic support, and extracurricular activities to ensure a well-rounded education.
How much is it going to cost you?
Studying abroad can be expensive, so it's crucial to create a comprehensive financial plan. Estimate tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other associated fees. Research scholarship opportunities, grants, and financial aid options available to international students. Sometimes, there are also many local scholarships and renewable scholarships available for students from abroad. Factor in exchange rates and explore part-time job opportunities to supplement your income.
Identify the Visa and Immigration Requirements
Understanding visa and immigration requirements is vital to ensure a smooth entry into your chosen destination. Research the specific visa category for students, gather the necessary documents, and start the application process early. Be aware of any restrictions on working while studying and the conditions for visa extensions.
What are the Career opportunities post study?
While selecting college abroad, this should ideally be given ample consideration by students as work or job offers plays a huge role in starting life after college. Countries like United States, UK and Canada count as favorite educational destinations because of their student friendly policies towards work permits and opportunities.
Understand the importance of Language Proficiency
Language proficiency not only facilitates your studies but also enhances your overall experience. In many cases, you'll need to demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction at your chosen institution. Take language proficiency tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, if required, and consider enrolling in language courses to improve your skills.
While this depends on the country you’re traveling to, it’s a good idea to learn basic phrases, or “survival” phrases of the country’s language. This will allow you to communicate with fellow students more effectively and will help you navigate your surroundings more easily.
To prepare for your study abroad experience, enroll in language classes, ask fluent friends for help, or download apps, like Duolingo, and podcasts to use on your daily commute to school -- every little bit helps.
Be aware of your Health and Safety
Prioritize your health and safety when planning to study abroad. Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage and access to medical services in your destination country. Research any required vaccinations and medications. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and safety guidelines.
Accommodation and Housing
Consider your housing options, whether it's on-campus dormitories, off-campus apartments, or homestays. Investigate the availability of student housing, costs, and proximity to campus. Apply for housing well in advance, especially if your chosen destination is known for high demand in student accommodations.
Are you prepared for the Cultural transition?
Prepare for cultural differences and the potential for culture shock. Read about the customs, traditions, and social norms of your destination country. Understand the local etiquette and be open to embracing new experiences and perspectives. Engaging in cultural exchange opportunities can help you adapt more effectively.
Planning your Travel and Arrival
Plan your travel logistics well in advance. Book your flights and accommodations for your arrival and make transportation arrangements from the airport to your destination. Familiarize yourself with the local public transportation system and have important documents readily accessible.
How can Azent Overseas Education help?
Azent has carved a niche for itself by going beyond traditional consultancy services, providing unwavering commitment to student success, through its innovative approach, and personalized services. At its state-of-the-art experience centres and virtual centres across India, students not only get end-to-end support with application, admissions, visas, loans, but can also experience college campuses through Virtual Reality
Additionally, with our Azent App students can build their profile, narrow down universities, get recommendations based on their profile, complete and track the applications and do much more. The newly launched Live Counselling is a video calling feature available on the Azent App which aims to connect students to the right counsellor in real time. This proprietary tool has been developed in-house and is a one-of-a-kind online service offering that ensures that a student is matched with the best counsellor immediately with just a click of a button.
Prospective students can also avail Azent’s best-in-class training for IELTS at affordable costs.
Azent’s partnerships cover 1500+ Universities across the world to improve student recruitment and match them with the top talent that would thrive in their programs.
Prospective students can log on to https://www.azent.com/ or download the Azent App to avail our best-in-class counselling services.
Finally, remember that studying abroad is not just about academics; it's about personal growth and cultural enrichment. Planning to study abroad is a multi-faceted process that requires thorough research, careful consideration, and meticulous preparation. It is not just an educational endeavor but a transformative journey that can shape your future in profound ways.
(The author of this article is Priyanka Nishar, Founder & Managing Director of Azent Overseas Education)
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