Is Studying Abroad Right for You? A Self-Assessment Guide
Studying abroad offers a number of benefits for each student. From enriching their lives with quality education and enhanced career prospects to building confidence, self-reliance and interpersonal skills. It has values that complement the years past the course. International students get a wide array of quality courses to choose from. Factually, about 4-5 lakh indian students move to a foreign country to pursue their programs every year. The skills they learn during their time abroad are highly valued in the job market. It could, literally, change your life.
When a local student graduates, he can bag an annual salary of INR 2,39,167 at the entry-level. While it highly varies as per the job position, degree and college/university of graduation, the most experienced workers can make up to INR 7,75,000 per year. At the same time, an international graduate would be offered an estimated salary of INR 15,50,000 per year. Students who decide to stay back to gain some work experience can attain even better packages. Their initial annual packages could be INR 46,04,838.10 in London, INR 49,28,557.96 in Melbourne or INR 47,18,798.74 in Kansas.
However, while it is a stepping stone for some, it is not as important for someone with a different life path. As much as everyone can benefit from pursuing a course in a foreign institute, they don’t necessarily need it to lead the life they have planned. Well, as long as they have a plan. In case you don’t, ask yourself these questions.
Why do I want to study abroad?
Studying abroad is a rewarding experience. Ask yourself why you want to study abroad. According to IIE’s Student Guide to Study Abroad, students have 3 reasons to study in a foreign institute: To experience another country and its culture, travel, and seek personal growth. Each of them, rightfully reasonable. Studying abroad allows students to travel independently and under a budget. You are already in a distant land; might as well explore everything it has to offer. Half of the students in the survey also mentioned how they chose to study abroad to take a break or simply have fun. A similar percentage talked about its career prospects and marketability. Dive into your thoughts and list your reasons.
Read more: What is foreign education and why is it important to do foreign study?
Am I eligible to study abroad?
It is a myth that students need academic excellence in order to secure admission to a foreign university. While having strong academic records helps your case, it isn’t a necessity. Typically, students with decent academic standing can apply to a graduate or post-graduate program after completing their previous education. The admission criteria for different universities vary. Some universities may require at least 60% or equivalent in 12th grade while some accept 40% as well. However, seeking admission to a top university is competitive and demands better grades. Further, students must obtain impressive scores on their English proficiency tests to improve their chances. You may also consult with a study abroad consultant to understand the availability and requirements of different universities and courses.
Read more: Roles and Importance of an Overseas Education Consultant
What do I want to study?
As a matter of fact, foreign universities offer more courses than colleges in India. Ask yourself if the course you want to pursue or the major is available in the country. If so, what is the quality and credibility of that course? Are you looking for more diverse and creative options? Pursuing a course abroad gives you an edge when looking for intriguing combinations. You can buy a course with your choice of subjects. Coupled with faculty experience, infrastructure and research facilities, the quality is highly unmatchable.
Read more: Best Study Abroad Programs After 12th and Procedure
Where should I go to study? Why do I want to study there?
There are varied study destinations, each with its own benefits. The UK, Canada, Australia, the USA, Ireland. Is there a specific country you would like to explore? Do you have a course in mind that is exceptional in some locations? Do you want to work while you study? Are you open to or desiring to learn a new language? Identify your expectations from the course and goals to decide where you want to go. You may consider seeking the help of a professional in shortlisting or selecting your course, university and location.
Read more: How to Choose from the Best Destination for Study Abroad?
Am I ready to step out of my comfort zone?
No matter where you decide to go and why, you will have to step out of your comfort zone. Especially if you have never travelled overseas before. Studying abroad requires students to experience a distinguished lifestyle they had probably never known of. Packing up your life and moving to a distant country is not a K-drama story. You will be solely responsible for managing your schedule, chores and even finances. Are you ready to spend the next months or years living by yourself? You need to have a certain amount of openness to fully embrace the experience. Research and plan thoughtfully.
What is the program going to cost? Can we afford it or do I need a sponsor, scholarship or loan?
Studying abroad can be expensive. To be fair, they are offering a degree worth much more. As an international student living overseas, you will also be paying for rent, food, utilities, network and WiFi, and more. Study material and travel expenses apart. Sit down with your family or sponsor and understand the budget they have for your higher education. Coupled with scholarships, fellowships and student loans, you can estimate if you can truly afford the course or location you desire to be a part of.
Read more: Student Loans to Study Abroad: A Guide
Also read: Merit-based Scholarships for International Students | Specialised Scholarships for STEM Students Studying Abroad
How long do I want to be overseas? Do I want to stay back after completing my course?
There are multiple types of programs available overseas. International students can choose from full-time, part-time, executive, vocational or certificate courses. Not all courses require you to stay away for too long. Ask yourself how much time you want to invest in the course. What kind of course are you looking for? Are you looking for a skill-based course or wish to indulge in theoretical learning too? Is there any job plan or commitment that needs attention? Or is someone? Plan the type and duration of your course according to your time, finances and other availabilities. After the course, you can either come back home after getting the degree or stay back to gain work experience. Take that into account as well.
Do I want a study abroad education consultant?
More often than not, yes, you do. With an experienced overseas education consultant like Studywise International, you reach your goals faster. They help you manage your finances throughout the process while ensuring you get the best options. With their team of experts, they assist you with the visa process, interview preparation and English test coaching. No more revisiting and reapplying!
Ready to start your journey? Connect with Studywise International for a FREE CONSULTATION today!
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