How to choose the right university for study abroad experience: A complete guide

Studying abroad is a dream for many Indian students who want to pursue a world-class education, explore different cultures, and enhance their career prospects. However, with so many options available, finding the best fit for their academic and personal goals can be challenging.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) data, around 2.6 lakh Indian students went abroad in 2020 compared to 5.9 lakh students in 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, a report from Red Seer estimates that 2 million Indian students will be in foreign universities by 2024 as the study abroad sector picks up pace after two years of slowdown. Choosing the right university is crucial for a great study abroad experience. Here's all you need to know from Prateek Swain, CEO, Swadesh Inc.

ASSESSING ACADEMIC REPUTATION

• One of the most important criteria for selecting a study-abroad destination is the academic reputation of the university and the program. Individuals should look for universities that have a high global ranking, accreditation, and recognition in their chosen field of study.
• They can consult reliable sources to compare different universities and programs based on various indicators such as academic quality, research impact, faculty reputation, student satisfaction, and employability.
• If they are interested in studying computer science, they may want to consider universities such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, or Carnegie Mellon University, which are ranked among the top 10 in the world for this subject by QS World University Rankings.

CONSIDERING AFFORDABILITY

• Studying abroad is a valuable investment in one's future, but it also comes with a significant cost. Individuals should consider the overall expenses of studying and living in different countries and cities, including tuition fees, accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, books, and other miscellaneous costs.
• They should also factor in the exchange rate and inflation of the country they are planning to study in.
• Online tools such as numbeo or expatistan can be used to compare the cost of living in different countries and cities. Moreover, individuals should explore scholarships, grants, loans, or other financial aid options that can help them fund their education abroad.

POST-GRADUATION PROSPECTS

• Another key factor to consider when choosing a study-abroad destination is the post-graduation prospects of the country and the program.
• Individuals should research the employment opportunities and post-study work options available in the country they are interested in. They should also check the demand and salary for their field of expertise in the country's job market.
• Online platforms such as LinkedIn or Glassdoor can be used to find out about the latest trends and opportunities in their industry.

QUALITY OF LIFE AND SAFETY

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• Studying abroad is not only about academics; it is also about enjoying life in a new country and culture. Individuals should consider the quality of life and safety of the country they are considering, including factors such as healthcare facilities, transportation system, climate, social environment, recreational activities, and cultural diversity.
• They should choose a country that suits their lifestyle preferences and offers a comfortable and secure living experience.
• If they are planning to study in New Zealand, they may enjoy its high quality of life and safety ratings. New Zealand ranked second in the world in the World Happiness Report 2021, which measures how happy people are based on factors such as social support, freedom, trust, generosity, and health. New Zealand also ranked second in the world in the Global Peace Index 2020.

SUPPORT SERVICES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

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• Moving to a new country for education can be a major transition, and having the right support is crucial for a smooth experience. Prospective international students should look for universities that offer dedicated support services for international students, such as pre-arrival guidance, orientation programs, academic counseling, cultural integration activities, language assistance, career services, and an alumni network.
• They should also check the reviews and feedback from other international students who have studied at the university to get an insight into their experience and satisfaction.

PERSONAL PREFERENCES

Finally, they should also consider your personal preferences when choosing a study abroad destination. These may include:

• The climate and weather of the country
• The culture and customs of the people
• The food and cuisine of the region
• The safety and security of the environment
• The travel and leisure opportunities in the country

These factors may seem trivial, but they can have a significant impact on overall well-being, happiness, and satisfaction during your study abroad journey. You should do some research on these aspects before making your final decision.

CONCLUSION

Choosing the correct country and university for your study abroad experience is a critical decision that requires thorough research and consideration of multiple factors. By assessing academic reputation, affordability, post-graduation prospects, quality of life, safety, and support services, you can make well-informed choices that align with your educational and personal aspirations.

Studying abroad can be a transformative experience that provides not only a world-class education but also valuable life experiences and cross-cultural understanding that can shape your future in meaningful ways.